Layne Christensen Company

James Troutt

Neil Mansuy

Robert A Ereth

Millard Lewis

A method and apparatus for enhancing the production of newly developed water wells and existing wells that have suffered a reduction in capacity due to plugging. A gas line directs gas under pressure to a relief valve carried in the production string at a location in the production zone of the well. When the applied pressure reaches the pressure setting of the relief valve, the valve opens to apply air sidewardly in bursts which create shock waves to dislodge built up material from the well screen and the surrounding filter pack and formation fractures. Following each burst, the pressure conditions create a flushing effect which draws water back into the well along with the bacteria and particles that were dislodged. A submersible pump or airlift assembly in the production string then delivers the dislodged materials to the surface.

Method and apparatus for stimulating well production

A method and apparatus for cleaning the producing areas of water wells including screens and the surrounding formations. Chemicals that may be used for cleaning the well are applied through a surge tube and forced from the tube by gas such as carbon dioxide. At the same time, gas is injected into the well through an injection line which terminates below the surge tube. The opposing forces from the chemical application and gas injection drive the chemicals through the screen, gravel pack, and into the formation to dislodge and dissolve materials that tend to plug the well. When the chemical application and gas injection are stopped, the pressure in the well is reduced to draw the dislodged materials into the well. They are removed by a submersible pump or gas lift.

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Burlington, KY, United States of America

James Troutt