Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2003-2006
Title: Alex Braun - Innovator in Water Treatment Technologies
Introduction
Alex Braun is a notable inventor based in Calgary, Canada. He has made significant contributions to the field of water treatment, particularly in the context of thermal heavy oil recovery. With a total of 2 patents to his name, Braun's work focuses on innovative methods to enhance water recovery and recycling processes.
Latest Patents
Braun's latest patents include a groundbreaking water treatment process for thermal heavy oil recovery. This invention discloses a method and apparatus designed to treat produced water from a heavy oil thermal recovery unit. The goal is to achieve water recovery and recycle levels exceeding 80%, and potentially reaching 100%, thereby meeting zero discharge criteria. The method begins with capturing waste heat energy from the high-pressure steam separator located downstream of the steam generators. This heat energy is then transferred into a heated separator and reboiler exchanger to distill oil reservoir produced water, recovering both distilled water and a concentrated brine or solid product. The heated separator's concentrated stream is circulated through the reboiler exchanger to maintain a mass vapor content of 1% to about 50% in the stream returning to the heated separator, which helps prevent fouling and scaling. The apparatus comprises a low-pressure waste energy separator, heated separator, and vapor compressor, all working in conjunction with a forced circulation circuit to generate distilled water.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Alex Braun has worked with various companies, including Encana Corporation. His experience in the industry has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative approaches to water treatment technologies.
Collaborations
Braun has collaborated with professionals in his field, including his coworker Steve Kresnyak. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of his inventions and the implementation of effective water treatment solutions.
Conclusion
Alex Braun is a distinguished inventor whose work in water treatment processes for thermal heavy oil recovery showcases his commitment to innovation and sustainability. His contributions are vital in addressing the challenges of water management in the oil industry.