Patent ID: 6009940
Filing Date: 2000-01-04
Classification: E21B,Y10S

Abstract:
In a well having a wellbore which passes through a permafrost layer, apparatus for producing fluids from a subterranean formation which lies below said permafrost layer, said apparatus comprising:a string of production tubing positioned within said wellbore and extending from a surface of the earth through said permafrost layer and into said subterranean formation and through which said fluids are produced to said surface; anda heating element positioned inside said string of production tubing, said heating element adapted to maintain a temperature within said production tubing at a desired temperature during at least low or no flow of said fluids through said production tubing; said heating element being comprised of a heat trace which is positioned within said tubing and which extends from the surface through at least said permafrost layer to maintain the temperature of said fluids within said production tubing at temperatures which permit said fluids to flow.