Patent ID: 6196313
Filing Date: 2001-03-06
Classification: E21B

Abstract:
A method of producing liquid hydrocarbons and disposing of water from a hydrocarbon and water containing reservoir comprising:providing a casing having an inlet for communicating with the reservoir, an outlet communicating with a water disposal zone, and an outlet for hydrocarbon production;providing a tube within the casing having an upper passageway for connection with a supply of a displacement liquid having a specific gravity less than that of water, an inlet having a one-way valve for allowing entry of reservoir fluid from within the casing, a lower outlet having a one-way valve for allowing egress of water and defining an annular cavity for segregation of hydrocarbons and water; andalternately injection and withdrawing displacement liquid into the tube at a rate that allows substantial segregation of hydrocarbons and water, whereby upon injection displacement liquid into the tube, water is forced to the water disposal zone and hydrocarbons exit at the outlet for hydrocarbon production, and upon withdrawal of displacement liquid from the tube, reservoir fluid is drawn into the casing.