Wayne Reid Dreher, Jr

Title: Wayne Reid Dreher, Jr.: Innovator in Petroleum Recovery and Drag Reduction Technologies

Introduction

Wayne Reid Dreher, Jr. is a notable inventor based in Katy, Texas, with a remarkable portfolio of 15 patents. His work primarily focuses on innovative methods for petroleum recovery and drag reduction technologies, contributing significantly to the field of engineering and energy.

Latest Patents

Dreher's latest patents include groundbreaking technologies such as "In situ combustion for steam recovery infill." This patent describes methods and systems that produce petroleum products from a formation through a steam-assisted process followed by an in situ combustion process. The steam-assisted process utilizes an injector and a first producer to create a steam chamber within the formation while recovering products. The in situ combustion process is initiated by injecting an oxidant into the formation, leading to the ignition of residual products. A combustion front then advances toward a second producer, which may be offset laterally from the first producer. The heat and pressure generated from the in situ combustion effectively sweep the products ahead of the combustion front for recovery.

Another significant patent is for "Disperse non-polyalphaolefin drag reducing polymers." This invention involves a drag-reducing composition that comprises at least one non-polyalphaolefin polymer with an average particle size ranging from about 5 to about 800 micrometers. The non-polyalphaolefin polymer is initially formed through emulsion polymerization, and the resulting drag-reducing composition can be added to hydrocarbon-containing fluids to decrease the pressure drop associated with turbulent flow through conduits.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Dreher has worked with prominent companies such as ConocoPhillips Company and Harris Corporation. His contributions to these organizations have been instrumental in advancing technologies related to petroleum recovery and fluid dynamics.

Collaborations

Dreher has collaborated with notable professionals in his field, including Wendell Peter Menard and Thomas James Wheeler. These collaborations have further enriched his work and innovations.

Conclusion

Wayne Reid Dreher, Jr. stands out as a significant figure in the realm of inventions related to petroleum recovery and drag reduction technologies. His innovative patents and contributions to the industry reflect his expertise and commitment to advancing engineering solutions.