Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus and method provide for the efficient pumping of fluids from an earth formation penetrated by a wellbore, and simultaneously provide for clean out of channels associated with the producing zone of the formation. In one aspect, an endless belt of two plies of material is driven into and from a pool of oil and water via a collection station at the earth's surface. Also within the collection station is a squeezing subassembly. Broad surface contact between the squeezing subassembly and belt coupled with an almost complete absence of scraping action, reduce wear of the belt. In another aspect, a series of drive drums are also positioned within the collection station, two of which sandwich the squeezing subassembly. They provide driving pressure to the belt. In yet another aspect, pluralities of fastener assemblies are used to tie the two plies of belt material together along coincident broad surfaces. Each of these fastener assemblies includes a reduced section that pentrates through the belt into permanent contact with a cap-like wedge that form, with like wedges, a sprocketed tread. Still further, a layer of the belt can be constructed from a high strength plastics material along which the sprocketed tread lays, in association with the second layer formed of a hydrophilic (water absorbing) material such as felt. Such composite belt construction, hence, permits both removal of water and oil from the formation at the same time.

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First Claim