Gary Foulds

Title: Innovations by Gary Foulds in Bitumen Production

Introduction

Gary Foulds, an innovative inventor based in Calgary, Canada, has made significant contributions to the field of bitumen production. With a total of three patents to his name, Foulds focuses on improving processes and systems related to heavy hydrocarbon streams. His work aims to enhance the efficiency and environmental sustainability of bitumen froth treatment operations.

Latest Patents

Foulds' latest patents include advanced techniques for bitumen production with solvent recovery systems. One notable patent details the use of heat exchange techniques for bitumen froth treatment operations. This invention describes a method for producing a bitumen product while recovering solvent from a solvent-diluted heavy hydrocarbon stream. The configuration includes an indirect heat exchanger designed to improve performance and mitigate risks associated with exchanger failures. Notably, the system comprises three solvent recovery stages, with the heat exchanger strategically placed to optimize solvent recovery, ensuring that the final product maintains low solvent contents.

Another innovative method developed by Foulds is for separating feed materials containing immiscible phases of different densities. This method addresses the production of solvent-diluted bitumen by introducing paraffinic solvent to bitumen froth. The resultant mixture is allowed to settle within a vessel, creating distinct heavier and lighter phase zones. By positioning a discharge point within the lighter phase zone, the separation process enhances the efficiency of collecting the lighter phases while managing the heavier phases effectively.

Career Highlights

Gary Foulds currently works at Fort Hills Energy L.P., where he applies his expertise to advance the company's operations in bitumen production. His innovative approaches and patented techniques reflect his commitment to developing more efficient methods in the industry.

Collaborations

Foulds collaborates with talented professionals in his field, including coworkers Shawn Van Der Merwe and John Khai-Quang Diep. Together, they contribute to research and development efforts that push the boundaries of existing technology in bitumen processing.

Conclusion

Through his inventive approaches and patented technologies, Gary Foulds has established himself as a key figure in the field of bitumen production. His foresight in developing methods that optimize solvent recovery and phase separation showcases the potential for innovation in the oil and gas industry. As his career progresses, Foulds' contributions will undoubtedly continue to impact the efficiency and sustainability of bitumen treatment operations.