This inventor holds 3 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Empresa Colombiana De Petroleos Ecopetrol, Ecopetrol S.a.. Active years: 1999-2012.
Location History:
- Floridablanca, CO (1999)
- Piedecuesta, CO (1999 - 2012)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1999-2012
Title: Innovations by Rigoberto Barrero: Pioneering Methods in Crude Treatment
Introduction
Rigoberto Barrero is an accomplished inventor based in Piedecuesta, Colombia. With a remarkable portfolio of three patents, he has significantly contributed to the field of petroleum engineering, particularly in the treatment of heavy and extra-heavy crude oils. His inventive methods focus on enhancing the transport conditions of challenging crude materials.
Latest Patents
Barrero's latest patents showcase groundbreaking techniques aimed at improving crude oil processing. One notable invention is the "Method for the well-head treatment of heavy and extra-heavy crudes in order to improve the transport conditions thereof." This invention details a sophisticated process for dehydrating and removing asphaltenes from heavy and extra-heavy crudes at the well head, specifically at pressures between 414 and 689 KPa and temperatures ranging from 60 to 100°C. The process is divided into two phases: a dehydration phase that incorporates solvent addition, heating, and emulsion breaking, followed by a deasphalting phase utilizing specially designed static mixers and sedimentation devices. The recovery and recycling of the solvent further optimize the improved crude, allowing asphaltenes to serve as fuel for cogeneration, thus meeting energy requirements for both production and the method itself.
In addition, Barrero invented an "On-line and/or batch process for production of fuel mixtures," which creates a liquid blend of coal, asphaltenes, fuel oil, heavy crude oil, surfactant, and water. This process leverages mechanical means such as static mixers and shaking tanks to achieve effective dispersion, illustrating his innovative approach to combining diverse materials for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Rigoberto Barrero has worked with esteemed organizations, including Empresa Colombiana De Petroleos (Ecopetrol) and Ecopetrol S.A. His experiences in these companies have fortified his expertise in petroleum processing and contributed to his inventive endeavors.
Collaborations
Barrero has also collaborated with notable professionals in his field, such as Jorge Luis Grosso and Humberto Vidales. These partnerships have likely aided in refining his patents and expanding the scope of their applications within the petroleum industry.
Conclusion
Rigoberto Barrero stands as a pioneering figure in the field of crude oil treatment, with his innovative patents reflecting a deep understanding of petroleum engineering. His contributions play a critical role in improving the handling of heavy and extra-heavy crude, showcasing the importance of invention in meeting the evolving needs of the energy sector.