Patent ID: 6536526
Filing Date: 2003-03-25
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A method of retarding temperature loss of fluid being produced in a well having a conduit, a set of perforations in the well into an earth formation, and a string of production tubing extending through the conduit and sealed by a packer to the conduit above the perforations, the method comprising:(a) placing a cable having at least one electrical conductor into the well; (b) providing a fluid of low thermal conductivity throughout a tubing annulus that extends axially from the packer to a wellhead and extends radially from the tubing to the casing; (c) applying electrical power to the cable to cause heat to be generated along at least a substantial portion of the length of the cable for heating the tubing; and (d) flowing well fluid through the perforations and up the production tubing.