Kevin A Harnsberry

Title: Kevin A Harnsberry: Innovator in Hydrocarbon Well Technologies

Introduction

Kevin A Harnsberry is a notable inventor based in Beaumont, TX (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of hydrocarbon well technologies, holding a total of 6 patents. His innovative approaches focus on the removal of elemental sulfur and the regeneration of solvent mixtures used in hydrocarbon extraction.

Latest Patents

Harnsberry's latest patents include methods for utilizing and regenerating solvent mixtures for dissolving elemental sulfur within hydrocarbon wells. One method involves providing a solvent mixture that includes an elemental sulfur solvent fraction with disulfide compounds and an odorant fraction with a lactate ester solvent. This method allows for the injection of the solvent mixture into a hydrocarbon well, effectively dissolving elemental sulfur deposited on well components. The resulting spent solvent mixture, which contains thiols and residual lactate ester solvent, is collected within a spent solvent separator. The process further includes sparging the spent solvent mixture with an oxidizer to oxidize the thiols, producing disulfide compounds and regenerating the solvent mixture.

Another patent focuses on solids removal using solvent blends that comprise a disulfide solvent. This method promotes solids dissolution, particularly when additional solids are present alongside elemental sulfur deposits. The solvent blends may include various solvents such as disulfide, amine, ketone, and ester solvents, and may also involve water. The methods for solids dissolution include identifying additional solids to be contacted by the solvent blend and adjusting the composition of the blend for selective dissolution.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Harnsberry has worked with prominent companies in the energy sector, including ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company and ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company. His work has significantly advanced the understanding and technology surrounding hydrocarbon extraction processes.

Collaborations

Harnsberry has collaborated with notable colleagues, including P Scott Northrop and Paul Scott Northrop. Their combined expertise has contributed to the development of innovative solutions in the field.

Conclusion

Kevin A Harnsberry is a distinguished inventor whose work in hydrocarbon well technologies has led to significant advancements in the industry. His innovative patents and collaborations reflect his commitment to improving extraction processes and addressing challenges in the field.