Inventors:
John C. Roberts - Oklahoma City OK
Assignee:
Atlas Tool Company - Oklahoma City OK
International Classification:
E21B 4325
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for increasing subterranean fluid production are disclosed. A downhole stimulation apparatus produces elastic wave energy which propagates into the subterranean strata of nearby fluid fields. The wave energy creates gravity separation of the fluids, altering the phase permeability of subterranean formations and causing the fluid to migrate to wells in the field being stimulated. The stimulation apparatus employs an underground casing which provides a sealed vessel in which is supported a tubing string. The casing and tubing string are filled with a working fluid. A pumping unit reciprocates a plunger within the tubing string to cyclically pressurize and depressurize the working fluid, the depressurization of working fluid creating the elastic wave energy.