Patent ID: 6056054
Filing Date: 2000-05-02
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A method for increasing the production of hydrocarbons from a production well producing mixture of hydrocarbons comprising a mixture of liquids and gases, and water through a wellbore penetrating a formation having a production zone producing a mixture of hydrocarbons and water, and a selected injection zone, the method comprising the steps of:a) separating, in the wellbore with an auger separator, at least a portion of the water from the mixture of hydrocarbons and water, to produce separated water and a hydrocarbon enriched mixture;b) injecting, by the use of a pump drivingly connected via a drive shaft to a turbine driven by the hydrocarbon enriched mixture, at least a major portion of the separated water into the selected injection zone; andc) recovering at least a major portion of the hydrocarbon enriched mixture.