Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110030952 | METHODS OF GRAVEL PACKING LONG INTERVAL WELLS - Changing concentrations of brine in a gravel pack carrier fluid gelled with a viscoelastic surfactant (VES) increases the fluid efficiency for gravel packing long interval wells, such as wellbore producing interval greater than about 100 feet (about 30 m). VES-gelled fluids used as gravel packing fluids herein also include surfactants, fluid loss control agents, internal breakers and brine in addition to the grave. The viscoelasticity of fluid system can suspend and deliver high concentration of the gravels while reducing carrier fluid volume. | 02-10-2011 |
20110100630 | Method of Mitigating Corrosion Rate of Oilfield Tubular Goods - Acid-soluble cupric acetate may used in conjunction with potassium iodide to generate cuprous iodide (CuI) as an acid corrosion inhibition aid. A suitable corrosion inhibitor together with the aid protects steel surfaces in an acid environment, for instance, while acid fracturing or matrix acidizing subterranean formations. Cupric acetate monohydrate may be used with an alkali metal iodide salt such as potassium iodide or sodium iodide to generate cuprous iodide in situ in aqueous acid solutions. Use of cupric acetate provides a somewhat delayed reaction rate with potassium iodide to generate the desired product, cuprous iodide, which has very low solubility in acid systems. The method includes delayed and in situ production of cuprous iodide for enhancing performance of commercially available corrosion inhibitors, commonly referred to as intensifying the effect of the corrosion inhibitor (corrosion inhibitor intensifier or simply an intensifier). | 05-05-2011 |
20110303414 | Method for Improving the Clean-Up of Emulsified Acid Fluid Systems - Using a complex emulsion for treating a subterranean formation, such as to dissolve minerals therein (e.g. carbonates, scales, and/or filter cake) to improve permeability, substantially improves post treatment fluid clean-up for improved hydrocarbon production. The complex emulsion is made by mixing an acid aqueous phase with an oil external microemulsion to give an initial product, where the acid aqueous phase is an external phase and the microemulsion is an internal phase. Then the initial product is mixed with a second oil (e.g. xylene, diesel, toluene, kerosene, other aromatics, refined hydrocarbons and the like) containing an emulsifier to make a complex emulsion. | 12-15-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120203219 | FINE DISSECTION ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE - An electrosurgical wand. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are electrosurgical wands including an elongate shaft that defines a handle end and a distal end, a first discharge aperture on the distal end of the elongate shaft, a first active electrode of conductive material disposed on the distal end of the elongate shaft, the first active electrode has an edge feature, a first return electrode of conductive material disposed a substantially constant distance from the first active electrode, and an aspiration aperture on the distal end of the elongate shaft fluidly coupled to a second fluid conduit. | 08-09-2012 |
20120226273 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE WITH INTERNAL DIGESTOR ELECTRODE - An electrosurgical wand is described, for treating a target tissue using electrosurgical energy, which has an elongate shaft with a handle end and a distal end. A first active electrode surface is disposed on the distal end of the shaft and a first digester electrode surface is recessed away from the first active electrode surface and electrically connected with the first active electrode surface. An aspiration aperture is also disposed adjacent the first active electrode surface and fluidly connected with an aspiration lumen, wherein the first digester electrode surface is disposed within the aspiration lumen. | 09-06-2012 |
20130066317 | PLASMA BIPOLAR FORCEPS - An electrosurgical wand. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are electrosurgical wands configured as a surgical forceps including opposed legs that defines respective distal end portions, the legs of the forceps operable to be actuated between an open position and a closed position, an active and return electrode disposed on one of the respective distal end portions, a discharge aperture on one of the distal end portions coupled to a first fluid conduit, and an aspiration aperture through the return electrode on the other of the distal end portions fluidly coupled to a second fluid conduit. In embodiments, the position of the forceps' legs, and the electrical energy applied to the electrodes, is adjusted to provide dissection or coagulation to the tissue. A stop or latch on the forceps' legs may maintain the active and return electrode a fixed distance from one another. | 03-14-2013 |
20130197506 | FINE DISSECTION ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE - An electrosurgical wand. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are electrosurgical wands including an elongate shaft that defines a handle end and a distal end, a first discharge aperture on the distal end of the elongate shaft, a first active electrode of conductive material disposed on the distal end of the elongate shaft, the first active electrode has an edge feature, a first return electrode of conductive material disposed a substantially constant distance from the first active electrode, and an aspiration aperture on the distal end of the elongate shaft fluidly coupled to a second fluid conduit. | 08-01-2013 |
20140200581 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TURBINATE REDUCTION - The present disclosure includes an electrosurgical apparatus for treating tissue at a target site. The apparatus has a shaft with a proximal end and a distal portion, the distal portion comprising a return electrode and electrode support. There is also at least one active electrode on the shaft distal portion, which has a proximal portion and a distal portion and a plurality of aspiration apertures disposed therebetween. These apertures are fluidly connected to a fluid aspiration cavity that is located within the electrode support, and the cavity is connected with a fluid aspiration element that is located along the shaft. The plurality of apertures vary in size and are generally arranged so that the larger sized apertures are disposed towards the electrode proximal portion and the smaller sized apertures are generally located towards the electrode distal portion. | 07-17-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130282417 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A SOCIAL CUSTOMER CARE SYSTEM - The present invention relates to customer relationship management systems integrated with social media and social networks. More particularly, the invention provides a social customer care platform system to allow customer care functions, and in particular to allow customer service agents to identify, prioritize, match and triage customer support requests that may arise through a social network and may be serviced using a social network. It manages and tracks a high-volume of customer interactions and provides for monitoring of Internet social network posts relevant to a business's products or services along with the ability to capture, monitor, filter, make sense of and respond to, in real-time, tens of thousands of social interactions. It comprises role specific user-interface and functionality to match customer service environments, automated prioritization and matching for increased agent productivity, and an automated enterprise workflow to align social media support with existing business processes. | 10-24-2013 |
20130282594 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A SOCIAL CUSTOMER CARE SYSTEM - The present invention relates to social customer service and support systems integrated with social media and social networks. More particularly, the invention provides a social customer care platform system to allow customer care functions, and in particular to allow customer service agents to identify, prioritize, match and triage customer support requests that may arise through a social network and may be serviced using a social network. It manages and tracks a high-volume of customer interactions and provides for monitoring of Internet social network posts relevant to a business's products or services along with the ability to capture, monitor, filter, make sense of and respond to, in near real-time, tens of thousands of social interactions. It comprises role specific user-interface and functionality for social customer service and support environments, automated prioritization and matching for increased agent productivity, and an automated enterprise workflow to align social media support with existing business processes. | 10-24-2013 |
20130282603 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A SOCIAL CUSTOMER CARE SYSTEM - The present invention relates to customer relationship management systems integrated with social media and social networks. More particularly, the invention provides a social customer care platform system to allow customer care functions, and in particular to allow customer service agents to identify, prioritize, match and triage customer support requests that may arise through a social network and may be serviced using a social network. It manages and tracks a high-volume of customer interactions and provides for monitoring of Internet social network posts relevant to a business's products or services along with the ability to capture, monitor, filter, make sense of and respond to, in real-time, tens of thousands of social interactions. It comprises role specific user-interface and functionality to match customer service environments, automated prioritization and matching for increased agent productivity, and an automated enterprise workflow to align social media support with existing business processes. | 10-24-2013 |
20140278785 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A SOCIAL CUSTOMER CARE SYSTEM - The present invention relates to social customer service and support systems integrated with social media and social networks. More particularly, the invention provides a social customer care platform system to allow customer care functions, and in particular to allow customer service agents to identify, prioritize, match and triage customer support requests that may arise through a social network and may be serviced using a social network. It manages and tracks a high-volume of customer interactions and provides for monitoring of Internet social network posts relevant to a business's products or services along with the ability to capture, monitor, filter, make sense of and respond to, in near real-time, tens of thousands of social interactions. It comprises role specific user-interface and functionality for social customer service and support environments, automated prioritization and matching for increased agent productivity, and an automated enterprise workflow to align social media support with existing business processes. | 09-18-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100032210 | Monitoring Drilling Performance in a Sub-Based Unit - In one aspect, a removable module or sub is provided for use in drilling a wellbore, which sub in one embodiment may include a body having a pin end and a box end configured for coupling between two members of a drill string, the body having a bore therethrough for flow of a fluid, and a sensor disposed in a pressure-sealed chamber in one of the pin end and the box end and configured to provide measurements relating to a downhole condition. | 02-11-2010 |
20100326729 | CASING BITS, DRILLING ASSEMBLIES, AND METHODS FOR USE IN FORMING WELLBORES WITH EXPANDABLE CASING - Casing bits include an expander for enlarging an inner diameter of expandable casing at least partially disposed within a body of the casing bits. Drilling assemblies include a casing bit attached to an end of expandable casing, and an expander disposed in proximity to the casing bit and a distal end of the expandable casing. Methods of forming casing bits include positioning an expander in proximity to a body of a casing bit. Methods of forming drilling assemblies include positioning an expander in proximity to a body of a casing bit and a distal end of expandable casing, and attaching the casing bit to the end of the expandable casing. Methods of casing a wellbore include one or both of drilling and reaming a wellbore using a casing bit attached to a distal end of expandable casing, and forcing an expander through the expandable casing. | 12-30-2010 |
20110048739 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MANIPULATING AND DRIVING CASING - An apparatus and methods for manipulating and driving casing. The apparatus includes mechanically responsive elements for gripping an interior of a casing joint, and hydraulically responsive elements for gripping an interior of the casing joint responsive to pressure of drilling fluid flowing through the apparatus. One method comprises manipulating a casing joint by mechanically gripping an interior thereof, hydraulically gripping the interior of the casing joint responsive to drilling fluid pressure, and rotating the casing joint. Another method comprises driving casing by applying weight and torque thereto through engagement with an interior thereof. | 03-03-2011 |
20110127044 | Remotely controlled apparatus for downhole applications and methods of operation - An apparatus for use downhole is disclosed that, in one configuration includes a downhole tool configured to operate in an active position and an inactive position and an actuation device, which may include a control unit. The apparatus includes a telemetry unit that sends a first pattern recognition signal to the control unit to move the tool into the active position and a second pattern recognition signal to move the tool into the inactive position. The apparatus may be used for drilling a subterranean formation and include a tubular body and one or more extendable features, each positionally coupled to a track of the tubular body, and a drilling fluid flow path extending through a bore of the tubular body for conducting drilling fluid therethrough. A push sleeve is disposed within the tubular body and coupled to the one or more features. A valve assembly is disposed within the tubular body and configured to control the flow of the drilling fluid into an annular chamber in communication with the push sleeve; the valve assembly comprising a mechanically operated valve and/or an electronically operated valve. Other embodiments, including methods of operation, are provided. | 06-02-2011 |
20110172922 | Drop/Pump Memory Through-Casing Measurement Logging Tools - The present disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for evaluating an earth formation through a drillstring during tripping of the drillstring. The apparatus may include a logging instrument including a formation evaluation sensor configured to be dropped or pumped into a drillstring at the end of drilling. The logging instrument may be configured to make measurements through a homogenous portion of the drillstring while the drillstring is being tripped. The apparatus may include a memory and processor for logging data for later retrieval. The method may include making at least one measurement indicative of a property of an earth formation using a sensor operatively associated with a logging instrument, wherein the logging instrument is conveyed to proximate to a homogeneous portion of a drilling tubular using the drilling tubular. | 07-14-2011 |
20120043459 | USING LWT SERVICE TO IDENTIFY LOSS CIRCULATION AREAS IN A WELLBORE - The present disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for evaluating an earth formation though a drillstring during tripping of the drillstring, particularly locating an area of circulation loss in a wellbore. The apparatus may include a neutron source and at least one radiation detector, which may be disposed on a logging instrument, configured to be dropped or pumped into a drillstring at the end of drilling. The logging instrument may be configured to make measurements through a homogenous portion of the drillstring while the drillstring is being tripped. The apparatus may include a memory and processor for logging data for later retrieval. The method may include adding a radiation absorbing substance to drilling fluid in the wellbore; exposing the earth formation to neutron radiation; and making a plurality of measurement indicative of radiation measurements of sigma or distinct energy peaks along the wellbore. | 02-23-2012 |
20120097452 | Downhole Tool Deployment Measurement Method and Apparatus - In one aspect, an apparatus for conveying a tool while drilling a wellbore is provided. The apparatus includes a line coupled to the tool, a conveying assembly coupled to the line, the conveying assembly located at a surface and configured to release the line to convey the tool into the drill string and a sub including a passage for the line to pass therethrough. The apparatus also includes a measuring device configured to determine a position of the tool within the drill string by determining a length of the line that is conveyed along with the tool into the drill string. | 04-26-2012 |
20120125632 | Methods and Apparatus for Manipulating and Driving Casing - An apparatus and methods for manipulating and driving casing. The apparatus includes mechanically responsive elements for gripping an interior of a casing joint, and hydraulically responsive elements for gripping an interior of the casing joint responsive to pressure of drilling fluid flowing through the apparatus. One method comprises manipulating a casing joint by mechanically gripping an interior thereof, hydraulically gripping the interior of the casing joint responsive to drilling fluid pressure, and rotating the casing joint. Another method comprises driving casing by applying weight and torque thereto through engagement with an interior thereof. | 05-24-2012 |
20130025358 | Deployment Mechanism for Well Logging Devices - Devices and methods for logging a wellbore condition. A logging-on-demand tool is used which includes a logging tool housing assembly carried by a running string and a logging tool that is retained within the logging tool housing assembly and is selectively movable between a retracted position, wherein the logging tool is retained radially within the logging tool housing assembly, and a deployed position, wherein the logging tool is extended axially from the logging tool housing assembly | 01-31-2013 |
20140014329 | LANDING INDICATOR FOR LOGGING TOOLS - An apparatus for evaluating an earth formation intersected by a wellbore may include a logging tool conveyed into the wellbore through a drilling tubular, a landing indicator associated with the logging tool, and a sensor operatively associated with the logging tool. In use, the landing indicator generates a pressure pulse in the drilling tubular after contacting a travel restrictor positioned in the drilling tubular. After the logging tool is positioned at the target depth, the sensor makes at least one measurement while the logging tool is in the drilling tubular and provides an output indicative of a selected subsurface parameter. | 01-16-2014 |
20140054030 | SPEED CONTROL DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DROP DOWN TOOLS - An apparatus for evaluating an earth formation intersected by a wellbore may include a logging tool conveyed into the wellbore through a drilling tubular, a speed control device associated with the logging tool, and a sensor operatively associated with the logging tool. In use, the speed control device varies an annular flow space between the speed control device and a surface adjacent to control speed. The flow space may be varied using a annular member that flexes between a nominal diameter and a second larger diameter. | 02-27-2014 |
20140111519 | BOREHOLE AND WELL DATA VISUALIZATION - A visualization system for visualizing data obtained in a borehole includes a processor configured to process the data based on user input and instructions and provide output for display on a display device. The system may also include a computer-readable medium configured to store the instructions, the instructions including commands to output values of two or more types of parameters at two or more depth values. The instructions may include commands to provide a perspective top-down or bottom-up fly-through display of the borehole including a zoomed-in image of values closest to a user. The processor may also output a display of a photographic image at each of the two or more depth values based on a correspondence between the values of the two or more types of parameters and the plurality of parameters associated with the photographic image. | 04-24-2014 |
20140158350 | ALL PURPOSE PUMPDOWN INSTRUMENT - An apparatus for flowing a tool string along a wellbore tubular may include a flow restrictor having a diametrically expanded position and a diametrically retracted position. The flow restrictor may include at least one sealing element that sealingly engages the wellbore tubular when in the diametrically expanded position. The apparatus also includes an actuator configured to move the at least one sealing element to at least a position intermediate of the open and the closed position. The actuator may be responsive to a control signal that is generated locally or transmitted from a remote location. | 06-12-2014 |
20140158369 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONVEYING A TOOL ALONG A WELLBORE - An apparatus for flowing a tool string along a wellbore tubular includes a flow restrictor having a diametrically expanded position and a diametrically retracted position. The flow restrictor sealingly engages the wellbore tubular when in the diametrically expanded position. The apparatus also includes a joint connected to the flow restrictor. The joint actuates the flow restrictor between the expanded position to the retracted position while moving between an open and a closed position. | 06-12-2014 |
20150060143 | REMOTELY CONTROLLED APPARATUS FOR DOWNHOLE APPLICATIONS AND METHODS OF OPERATION - An apparatus for use downhole is disclosed that, in one configuration includes a downhole tool configured to operate in an active position and an inactive position and an actuation device, which may include a control unit. The apparatus includes a telemetry unit that sends a first pattern recognition signal to the control unit to move the tool into the active position and a second pattern recognition signal to move the tool into the inactive position. The apparatus may be used for drilling a subterranean formation and include a tubular body and one or more extendable features, each positionally coupled to a track of the tubular body, and a drilling fluid flow path extending through a bore of the tubular body for conducting drilling fluid therethrough. A push sleeve is disposed within the tubular body and coupled to the one or more features. A valve assembly is disposed within the tubular body and configured to control the flow of the drilling fluid into an annular chamber in communication with the push sleeve; the valve assembly comprising a mechanically operated valve and/or an electronically operated valve. Other embodiments, including methods of operation, are provided. | 03-05-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090276186 | Flow cytometer remote monitoring system - Generally, computer implemented remote monitoring system which generates a viewable reduced byte data representation for each one of a plurality of analyzed instrument signals. Specifically, a flow cytometer remote monitoring system which generates a viewable reduced byte data representation for each one of a plurality analyzed flow cytometer signals. | 11-05-2009 |
20110054798 | FLOW CYTOMETER REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM - Generally, a computer implemented remote monitoring system which generates a viewable reduced byte data representation for each one of a plurality of analyzed instrument signals. Specifically, a flow cytometer remote monitoring system which generates a viewable reduced byte data representation for each one of a plurality analyzed flow cytometer signals. | 03-03-2011 |
20110091963 | High resolution flow cytometer - High resolution particle differentiation process and separation system that provides enhanced resolution of particles based upon selected particle characteristics. In particular, the system may include an enhanced resolution flow cytometer. In an embodiment, the invention can include at least one fluid source conduit ( | 04-21-2011 |
20130007903 | EFFICIENT HAPLOID CELL SORTING FLOW CYTOMETER SYSTEMS - A flow cytometer system for sorting haploid cells, specifically sperm cells, may include an intermittingly punctuated radiation emitter, such as a pulsed laser. Embodiments include a beam manipulator and even split radiation beams directed to multiple nozzles. Differentiation of sperm characteristics with increased resolution may efficiently allow differentiated sperm cells to be separated at higher speeds and even into subpopulations having higher purity. | 01-03-2013 |
20130224843 | EFFICIENT HAPLOID CELL SORTING FLOW CYTOMETER SYSTEMS - A flow cytometry system ( | 08-29-2013 |
20140170696 | FLOW CYTOMETER REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM - Generally, a computer implemented remote monitoring system which generates a viewable reduced byte data representation for each one of a plurality of analyzed instrument signals. Specifically, a flow cytometer remote monitoring system which generates a viewable reduced byte data representation for each one of a plurality analyzed flow cytometer signals. | 06-19-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110076712 | LUBRICIOUS MICROFLUDIC FLOW PATH SYSTEM - A flow cytometer having a nozzle assembly which provides a lubricious flow path through which a plurality of particles pass to be entrained in a flow of liquid to provide a faster method for sorting with increased cell quality. | 03-31-2011 |
20110143389 | CELL ANALYSIS APPARATUS AND METHODS - Particular embodiments of the inventive technology relate to ‘off-axis detector’ technology that employs a third detector | 06-16-2011 |
20120301869 | PARTICLE SEPARATION DEVICES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS - A device, system and method for the separation and collection of sperm cells into multiple subpopulations based upon sperm characteristics and for facilitating the collection of multiple subpopulations in limited space. The device can be a redirection device including one or more spaced apart tubes, where each tube has a tube inlet for collecting particles in a flow path, a tube outlet for dispensing the collected particles, and a tube body connecting the tube inlet to the tube outlet for redirecting the particles in the flow path. The device can further include a support for holding each tube in a spaced apart relationship and a securing element for securing the one or more spaced apart tubes to the support. | 11-29-2012 |
20140076986 | NOZZLE ASSEMBLY FOR A FLOW CYTOMETER SYSTEM AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - A method of manufacturing a nozzle assembly may include the step of over molding a nozzle housing, or a portion of a nozzle housing, onto at least one nozzle component, such as an injection tube. Nozzle assemblies and flow cytometers incorporating nozzle assemblies may include any combination of straight smooth injection tubes, improved features for securing a nozzle assembly, improved features for debubbling a nozzle assembly, and aggressive orienting geometries. A method of sorting cells may include the step of magnetically coupling a nozzle assembly with a flow cytometer. | 03-20-2014 |
20140076994 | NOZZLE ASSEMBLY FOR A FLOW CYTOMETER SYSTEM AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - A method of manufacturing a nozzle assembly may include the step of over molding a nozzle housing, or a portion of a nozzle housing, onto at least one nozzle component, such as an injection tube. Nozzle assemblies and flow cytometers incorporating nozzle assemblies may include any combination of straight smooth injection tubes, improved features for securing a nozzle assembly, improved features for debubbling a nozzle assembly, and aggressive orienting geometries. A method of sorting cells may include the step of magnetically coupling a nozzle assembly with a flow cytometer. | 03-20-2014 |
20140078502 | FLOW CYTOMETER NOZZLE TIP - A nozzle tip formed from a cylindrical body defining a longitudinal axis and a frustoconical body adjoining the cylindrical body on the longitudinal axis. The cylindrical body may be in fluid communication with the frustoconical body. The frustoconical body may end in a flat surface with a nozzle exit orifice which is transverse to the longitudinal axis. There may be a cutout at the edge of the frustoconical body and the flat surface. The flow cytometer system may also include a source of electromagnetic radiation for producing a beam incident upon the fluid stream and the particles and a detector for detecting light emitted or reflected from the particles within the fluid stream in response to the beam. | 03-20-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090301132 | OPTIMIZED HEAVIES REMOVAL SYSTEM IN AN LNG FACILITY - An LNG facility employing an optimized heavies removal system. The optimized heavies removal system can comprise at least one distillation column and at least two separate heat exchangers. The heat exchangers can be operable to heat a liquid stream withdrawn from a distillation column to thereby provide predominantly vapor and/or liquid streams that can be reintroduced into the column. | 12-10-2009 |
20100058803 | SYSTEM FOR INCONDENSABLE COMPONENT SEPARATION IN A LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS FACILITY - A liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility that employs a system to remove incondensable material from one or more refrigeration cycles within the facility. One or more embodiments of the present invention can be advantageously employed in an open-loop refrigeration cycle to remove at least a portion of one or more high vapor pressure components that have accumulated in the refrigerant cycle over time. In addition, several embodiments can be advantageously employed to stabilize facility operation in the event of drastic changes to the concentration of the natural gas feed stream introduced into the facility. | 03-11-2010 |
20100218551 | Method for Utilization of Lean Boil-Off Gas Stream as a Refrigerant Source - This invention relates to a system and method for liquefying natural gas. In another aspect, the invention concerns an improved liquefied natural gas facility employing a closed loop methane refrigeration cycle. In another aspect, the invention concerns the utilization of lean boil-off gas. | 09-02-2010 |
20110011127 | Process for Controlling Liquefied Natural Gas Heating Value - Process for efficiently operating a natural gas liquefaction system with integrated heavies removal/natural gas liquids recovery to produce liquefied natural gas (LNG) and/or natural gas liquids (NGL) products. | 01-20-2011 |
20130199238 | LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS PLANT WITH ETHYLENE INDEPENDENT HEAVIES RECOVERY SYSTEM - This invention relates to a process and apparatus for liquefying natural gas. In another aspect, the invention concerns a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility employing an ethylene independent heavies recovery system. | 08-08-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100320754 | REVERSE SLIDING SEAL FOR EXPANDABLE TUBULAR CONNECTIONS - An expandable threaded connection between segments of expandable tubulars that provides a high bearing pressure seal at a specific area along the pin and box members is disclosed. The invention utilizes a “groove” in a surface of the box member and a corresponding “rib” on the pin nose. The radial expansion of the tubulars causes the pin to become shorter in length, thereby causing the pin nose to retract from the back of the box member. As the pin nose retracts, the rib on the pin nose moves backward until a portion of the rib contacts a portion of the groove in the box member. The point of contact between the rib and the groove creates a metal-to-metal seal between the pin and box members. Because the point of contact between the rib and the groove is a relatively small area, the force acting on the point of contact generates a high bearing pressure that is equal to or greater than the internal pressure within the expandable tubulars and, thus, generates a high pressure seal. | 12-23-2010 |
20110005775 | APPARATUS AND METHODS TO PROTECT CONNECTIONS - The present invention generally relates to a method and apparatus for protecting tubular connections. In one aspect, an expandable tubular connection for use in a wellbore is provided. The tubular connection includes a tubular pin member. The tubular connection also includes a tubular box member having an end portion, wherein the tubular pin member is matable with the tubular box member to form the tubular connection. Additionally, the tubular connection includes a sleeve member disposed on the tubular pin member, wherein the sleeve member is configured to substantially protect the end portion of the tubular box member as the tubular connection is lowered into the wellbore. In yet a further aspect, a method for utilizing a tubular connection in a wellbore is provided. | 01-13-2011 |
20110232355 | DYNAMIC LOAD EXPANSION TEST BENCH - A method and apparatus for a testing facility for simulating downhole conditions is provided. The testing facility may include a test bench for expanding tubular members having one or more threaded connections. The test bench may also be operable to simulate the expansion of a tubular connection downhole and to produce expanded tubular connection test samples. | 09-29-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110012015 | Apparatus and Methods for Measuring Formation Characteristics - An apparatus can measure characteristics of a formation surrounding a borehole. The apparatus comprises a tool body including a neutron measurement section including a neutron source and a neutron detector arrangement spaced in an axial direction from the neutron source; and | 01-20-2011 |
20110077867 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING FORMATION AND FLUID PROPERTIES - A downhole tool and method for determining a parameter of a formation as a function of radial distance from the borehole into the formation. The tool comprising a nuclear source for irradiating the formation and a plurality of sensors each independently measuring a density of the formation at a different radial depth into the formation. A processor combines the density measurements for determining the parameter of the formation as a function of radial distance. | 03-31-2011 |
20110168879 | Nuclear Tool - A nuclear measurement tool for determining properties of a formation penetrated by a borehole fluid. The tool comprising: a nuclear source for irradiating the formation and a a plurality of nuclear sensors each operating with a different depth of investigation into the formation. The tool further comprising processing means for receiving the data from the nuclear sensors and based thereon determining the properties of the formation by taking into account the penetration of the borehole fluid. | 07-14-2011 |
20110290011 | IDENTIFICATION OF CASING COLLARS WHILE DRILLING AND POST DRILLING USING LWD AND WIRELINE MEASUREMENTS - Systems and methods identify and/or detect one or more features of a well casing by utilizing one or more downhole measurements obtainable by a downhole component. The one or more features of the well casing are identifiable and/or detectable from the one or more measurements associated with one or more properties of the one or more features of the well casing. The one or more measurements for indentifying and/or detecting a presence and/or a location of the one or more features of the well casing include sonic measurements, nuclear measurements, gamma ray measurements, photoelectric measurements, resistivity measurements and/or combinations thereof. | 12-01-2011 |
20120126105 | NON-ROTATING LOGGING-WHILE-DRILLING NEUTRON IMAGING TOOL - A method and apparatus for obtaining neutron images of a rock formation are provided. The neutron images can be obtained from a tool in a logging-while-drilling system but which need not rotate to obtain neutron data from a plurality of azimuthal orientations. | 05-24-2012 |
20120166087 | Method of Determining Density of Underground Formations Using Neutron-Gamma Ray Measurements - A method of determining the density of an underground formation surrounding a borehole from measurement of gamma rays arising from irradiation of the formation by a nuclear source in a tool body located in the borehole, and measurement of gamma-ray flux in the tool body at two different detector spacings from the source, the method comprising determining a substantially straight-line relationship between gamma-ray flux measurements at each different spacing with respect to the density of the formation for a tool body with no standoff; determining a relationship defining the deviation with respect to tool standoff of the density determined from the measured gamma-ray flux measurements at the two different detector spacings from the density calculated from the straight line relationships; and for a given pair of gamma-ray flux measurements at the different detector spacings, determining the intersection of the relationship defining the deviation with the straight line relationship so as to indicate the density of the formation surrounding the bore-hole; wherein the source is a neutron source and the gamma rays measured in the too! body are neutron-induced gamma rays resulting from neutron irradiation of the formation. | 06-28-2012 |
20130085675 | Applications Based On Fluid Properties Measured Downhole - Downhole drilling fluid measurements are made as a function of time or as a function of depth. A change in the downhole drilling fluid measurements is correlated to a feature of a formation penetrated by a drill bit or to a feature of fluids in the formation. The downhole drilling fluid measurements may include density, photoelectric factor, hydrogen index, salinity, thermal neutron capture cross section (Sigma), resistivity, slowness, slowing down time, sound velocity, and elemental composition. The feature may include fluid balance, hole-cleaning, a kick, a shallow water flow, a formation fluid property, formation fluid typing, geosteering, geostopping, or an environmental correction. A downhole system has a measurement-while-drilling tool or a logging-while-drilling tool and a processor capable of obtaining the downhole drilling fluid measurements and correlating the change in the downhole drilling fluid measurements. | 04-04-2013 |
20140332678 | Neutron-Gamma Density Through Normalized Inelastic Ratio - Systems, methods, and devices for determining neutron-gamma density (NGD) measurement of a subterranean formation that is accurate in both liquid- and gas-filled formations are provided. For example, a downhole tool for obtaining such an NGD measurement may include a neutron generator, neutron detector, two gamma-ray detectors, and data processing circuitry. Neutron generator may emit neutrons into a formation, causing a fast neutron cloud to form. Neutron detector may detect a count of neutrons representing the extent of the neutron cloud. Gamma-ray detectors may detect counts of inelastic gamma-rays caused by neutrons that inelastically scatter off the formation. Since the extent of the fast neutron cloud may vary depending on whether the formation is liquid- or gas-filled, data processing circuitry may determine the density of the formation based at least in part on the counts of inelastic gamma-rays normalized to the count of neutrons. | 11-13-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120042485 | Security Bracket Apparatus and Method - The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box. In certain embodiments, the apparatus has a clamping member that fits over a wall of a meter box, and a lock housing that locks to the clamping member after a box cover has been installed, thereby securing the cover to the box in a manner such that the box cover cannot be installed unless the clamping member has been installed correctly. In various other embodiments, the clamping member consists of a clamp disposed between a clamp actuating member and a fastening shelf. In various other embodiments, the clamp includes a stopping member for indicating when the clamp actuating member is actuated into a fully secured position. Other embodiments relate to a locking bracket and a lock housing wherein the locking bracket generally comprises a clamping member and a fastening lever that attaches to a wall of a meter box base. The lock housing generally comprises a unitary member with a perpendicular flange. The meter box lid is secured to the meter box base when the locking bracket is secured to the side wall (or another wall) and used in combination with the lock housing and a locking shaft. | 02-23-2012 |
20150027176 | Securing Apparatus, System and Method - The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for securing a box cover to a watthour meter socket box and relates to an apparatus, a system and method including a ring comprising an annular body portion and further comprising first and second tab members and a connective member disposed on the first tab member. The connective member comprises a fastening member comprising a fastener body portion forming a head section and a shaft section. The shaft section forms an open end, and the fastener body portion comprises a fastener interior surface defining a cavity extending axially from the open end and into at least the shaft section, and wherein the exterior surface of the shaft section forms a thread member. A receiver member is disposed on the second tab member, wherein the receiver member comprises an interior surface defining a receiving groove adapted to threadably receive the thread member of the shaft section, the first and second tab members being securable by the connective member and receiver member, and wherein the interior surface of the receiver member is configured for receiving a locking member, and the fastener interior surface is configured for interconnection with the locking member. | 01-29-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130187035 | WELL-LOGGING APPARATUS INCLUDING AZIMUTHALLY SPACED RADIATION DETECTORS - A well-logging device may include a housing to be positioned within a larger borehole of a subterranean formation and thereby define a stand-off distance with respect to the larger borehole. The well-logging device may also include at least one radiation source carried by the housing to direct radiation into the subterranean formation, and radiation detectors carried by the housing in azimuthally spaced relation to detect radiation from the subterranean formation. The well-logging device may further include a controller to cooperate with the radiation detectors to determine at least one property of the subterranean formation corrected for the stand-off distance. | 07-25-2013 |
20140034821 | WELL-LOGGING APPARATUS INCLUDING AZIMUTHALLY-SPACED, NOBLE GAS-BASED DETECTORS - A well-logging device may include a housing to be positioned within a borehole of a subterranean formation, and at least one radiation source carried by the housing to direct radiation into the subterranean formation. The well-logging device may also include noble gas-based radiation detectors carried by the housing in azimuthally spaced relation to detect radiation from the subterranean formation. A controller may determine at least one property of the subterranean formation based upon the detected radiation from the noble gas-based radiation detectors. | 02-06-2014 |
20140034822 | WELL-LOGGING APPARATUS INCLUDING AXIALLY-SPACED, NOBLE GAS-BASED DETECTORS - A well-logging device may include a housing to be positioned within a borehole of a subterranean formation and at least one radiation source carried by the housing to direct radiation into the subterranean formation. The well-logging device may also include noble gas-based radiation detectors carried by the housing to detect radiation from the subterranean formation. At least one of the noble detectors is at a first axial spacing from the at least one radiation source, and at least one other of the noble gas-based radiation detectors is at a second axial spacing from the at least one radiation source different from the first axial spacing. A controller may determine at least one property of the subterranean formation based upon the detected radiation from the noble gas-based radiation detectors. | 02-06-2014 |
20140097336 | Apparatus and Methods for Measuring Formation Characteristics - An apparatus can measure characteristics of a formation surrounding a borehole. The apparatus includes a tool body having a neutron measurement section and a density measurement section. The neutron measurement section includes a neutron source and a neutron detector arrangement spaced in an axial direction from the neutron source. The density measurement section includes a gamma ray source and a gamma ray detector arrangement spaced in an axial direction from the gamma ray source. The neutron measurement section and the density measurement section are positioned in the tool body so that the sections overlap in the axial direction and are azimuthally spaced apart in the tool body. The tool body also includes shielding to block a direct signal path from the neutron source to the gamma ray detector arrangement and to block a direct signal path from the gamma ray source to the neutron detector arrangement. | 04-10-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130284807 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTHENTICATING AN OPTICAL PATTERN - A system for authenticating an optical pattern created by exposing a magnetically sensitive material to one or more magnetic field sources. The system includes illumination sources configured to illuminate the optical pattern, sensors configured to generate sensed optical characteristic data when the optical pattern is illuminated, a memory configured to store a reference optical data associated with a reference optical pattern, and a processor configured to access the memory and compare the reference optical data to the sensed optical characteristic data in order to authenticate the optical pattern. | 10-31-2013 |
20140028426 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TAILORING POLARITY TRANSITIONS OF MAGNETIC STRUCTURES - A system and method for tailoring a polarity transition of a magnetic structure is provided that involves printing one or more reinforcing maxels alongside one side or both sides of a polarity transition boundary between a first polarity region of the magnetic structure having a first polarity and a second polarity region of the magnetic structure having a second polarity, where printing reinforcing maxels alongside the polarity transition boundary improves the magnetic field characteristics of the polarity transition. | 01-30-2014 |
20140035707 | System and Method for Magnetization - A system and a method are described herein for magnetizing magnetic sources into a magnetizable material. In one embodiment, the method comprises: (a) providing an inductor coil having multiple layers and a hole extending through the multiple layers; (b) positioning the inductor coil next to the magnetizable material; and (c) emitting from the inductor coil a magnetic field that magnetizes an area on a surface of the magnetizable material, wherein the area on the surface of the magnetizable material that is magnetized is in a direction other than perpendicular to the magnetizable material such that there is a magnetic dipole with both a north polarity and a south polarity formed on the surface of the magnetizable material. | 02-06-2014 |
20140218146 | SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING MAGNETIC FLUX OF A MULTI-POLE MAGNETIC STRUCTURE - A system for controlling flux of a multi-pole magnetic structure includes a movable magnetic circuit where the position of the moveable magnetic circuit relative to the multi-pole magnetic structure determines the flux emitted by the magnetic structure. The moveable magnetic circuit may be configured to have a tipping movement, a translational movement, and/or a rotational movement relative to the multi-pole magnetic structure. | 08-07-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100319930 | Time-Controlled Release Device for Wireline Conveyed Tools - This invention relates to a time controlled release device for down line tools in oil or gas wells. Tools that are lowered into a well for various purposes occasionally become stuck in the well and are not able to be withdrawn using jars and other dislodging techniques. In such a situation it is desirable to provide a controlled release device that will disengage the tool from the line only after a given time period. This allows the operator to continue to exert upward force on the line for a given time period prior to the release device being actuated. | 12-23-2010 |
20110049777 | Belleville Spring Guide System - Apparatus and method are provided for decreasing frictional effects in stacks of Belleville springs and limiting deflection of the springs. In one embodiment, carriers for springs overlap and minimize the effects of lateral forces that are developed as springs in a stack are loaded. Carriers may be used on mandrel guides, in cylindrical guides or without a guide. In other embodiments, maximum load and defection of springs may be provided by the spring carriers. | 03-03-2011 |
20110083851 | Compact Jar for Dislodging Tools in an Oil or Gas Well - This invention relates to a jar used to dislodge tools stuck in a well. The jar includes two housing portions movable with respect to each other. A release collet forms a portion of one of the housings. A release sleeve is carried by a mandrel and is located within the release collet. After a given amount of movement of the housing with respect to the mandrel, the release mechanism is activated and the two housing sections rapidly move with respect to each other. A hammer portion of the mandrel then strikes an anvil in the anvil housing, thus applying an upward force to the tool lodged in the well. | 04-14-2011 |
20110220345 | Dual Acting Locking Jar - A double action locking jar is operable to provide a jarring force in an upward or downward direction. A pair of pressure pistons form a pressure chamber in which a Belleville spring stack is located. A metering orifice in one of the pistons serves to provide a delay mechanism for release of a mandrel within the housing. Two collets are located within the housing for mechanically releasing the mandrel when a tension or compression force is applied to the mandrel. The jar may be mechanically actuated only by allowing the pistons to freely move within the housing without hydraulic resistance. | 09-15-2011 |
20120298365 | Compact Jar for Dislodging Tools in an Oil or Gas Well - This invention relates to a jar used to dislodge tools stuck in a well. The jar includes two housing portions movable with respect to each other. A release collet forms a portion of one of the housings. A release sleeve is carried by a mandrel and is located within the release collet. After a given amount of movement of the housing with respect to the mandrel, the release mechanism is activated and the two housing sections rapidly move with respect to each other. A hammer portion of the mandrel then strikes an anvil in the anvil housing, thus applying an upward force to the tool lodged in the well. | 11-29-2012 |
20130168092 | Double-Acting Shock Damper for a Downhole Assembly - A downhole assembly, including a downhole tool, a downhole force-creating device, and a shock damper. The shock damper includes a hollow housing including an annular shoulder near each end and extending radially inward from the housing. The damper also includes a mandrel located at least partially inside the housing to form an annulus between the mandrel and the housing, the mandrel including an annular shoulder near each end and extending radially outward from the mandrel. A spring is located in an annular cavity formed by the annulus and between both the housing shoulders and the mandrel shoulders. The mandrel is movable relative to the housing to an expanded position in one direction and to a compressed position in the other direction. | 07-04-2013 |
20130277057 | Hydraulic/Mechanical Tight Hole Jar - A jar comprises a housing including an anvil. In addition, the jar comprises a mandrel telescopically disposed within the housing and including a hammer. Further, the jar comprises an annular chamber radially positioned between the mandrel and the housing. Still further, the jar comprises an actuation assembly disposed in the annular chamber. The actuation assembly includes a first collet disposed about the mandrel, a first trigger sleeve disposed about the first collet and adapted to releasably engage the first collet, and a first biasing member adapted to exert an axial force on the mandrel. Moreover, the jar comprises a lock assembly disposed in the annular chamber. The lock assembly includes a second collet disposed about the mandrel, a second trigger sleeve disposed about the second collet and adapted to releasably engage the second collet, and a second biasing member adapted to exert an axial force on the mandrel. | 10-24-2013 |
20140251691 | Method and Apparatus for Improving the Efficiency of a Positive Displacement Motor for Drilling and Oil or Gas Well - A method and apparatus for improving the efficiency of a drill string that includes drilling pipe, a dump valve, a positive displacement motor and a rotary drill bit driven by the motor utilize a dump valve that does not depend upon a pressure loss to maintain the dump valve in a position which closes communication between the drilling string and the annulus between the drilling string and the well bore or casing. The dump valve includes a flow sleeve that is axially moved to close outlet passages to the annulus by the flow of fluid through the outlet passages rather than a pressure drop across the flow sleeve. | 09-11-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100295796 | DRAWING ON CAPACITIVE TOUCH SCREENS - A device includes a memory to store multiple instructions, a touch-sensitive display, and a processor. The processor executes instructions in the memory to detect a touch on the touch-sensitive display, the touch having a path of movement. The processor further executes instructions in the memory to determine a dimension of the touch and to determine locations of the touch along the path of movement. The drawing tool is displayed, on the touch-sensitive display, at a fixed distance outside the dimension of the touch, the drawing tool having a path being associated with the path of movement of the touch. A fixed graphical image corresponding to the drawing tool path is generated. | 11-25-2010 |
20130332838 | CROSS-PLATFORM CONTENT MANAGEMENT INTERFACE - A user device includes a user interface providing access to content from multiple content providers, each of the multiple content providers having a separate subscription associated with the user. The user device receives user input indicating interest in an aspect of particular content available from a first content provider of the multiple content providers and provides, to a network device, an indication of the user interest. The user device receives, from the network device, links to additional content available from a different content provider and related to the aspect of the particular content. The user device presents, via the user interface, the links to the additional content in association with the aspect of the particular content. | 12-12-2013 |
20130332839 | CROSS-PLATFORM SCHEDULE MANAGEMENT INTERFACE - A method includes presenting a user interface providing access to content from multiple content providers and receiving, via the user interface, user input indicating selection criteria for recommending content. The selection criteria include an amount of time available to the user. The method includes providing, to a network device, an indication of the selection criteria and receiving, from the network device, information for providing recommended content options based on the selection criteria. The recommended content options are available from different content providers of the multiple content providers. The method includes presenting, to the user and via the interface, the recommended content options in association with the selection criteria. | 12-12-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090050535 | REACTOR SYSTEM, AND A PROCESS FOR PREPARING AN OLEFIN OXIDE, A 1,2-DIOL, A 1,2-DIOL ETHER, A 1,2-CARBONATE AND AN ALKANOLAMINE - The present invention provides an epoxidation reactor system for preparing an olefin oxide comprising:
| 02-26-2009 |
20090149981 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR CONTINUOUS, ONLINE MONITORING OF A CHEMICAL PLANT OR REFINERY - A near real-time system and method for continuous online monitoring of a plurality of operations in a continuous chemical process facility is described. The method of monitoring the operations is based on a multivariate statistical model developed using off-line, selected process-specific historical process data. Such a model is used by an online monitoring system to monitor the continual operation of a chemical manufacturing facility or refinery in real-time from a remote location. Such real-time monitoring allows for determination of whether one or more of the plurality of operations are operating within their normal operational parameters. This real-time, continuous monitoring system can further be used to predict impending failures or trouble-spots within the continuous production process, or to minimize catastrophic process failures which may occur in a continuous chemical manufacturing process. Process variables, or “tags”, that are most likely related to predicted process failures can be identified by the model system, such that appropriate control actions can be taken to prevent an actual process failure occurrence, which can lead to costly production down times. | 06-11-2009 |
20090286998 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF ALKYLENE CARBONATE AND/OR ALKYLENE GLYCOL - The invention provides a reaction system for the production of an alkylene carbonate and/or an alkylene glycol comprising: an epoxidation zone containing an epoxidation catalyst located within an epoxidation reactor; a carboxylation zone containing an iodide-containing carboxylation catalyst located within an alkylene oxide absorber; and one or more purification zones containing a purification absorbent capable of reducing the quantity of iodide-containing impurities in a feed comprising a recycle gas, which purification zones are located upstream from the epoxidation zone; and a process for the production of an alkylene carbonate and/or an alkylene glycol. | 11-19-2009 |
20090287011 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF AN ALKYLENE CARBONATE AND AN ALKYLENE GLYCOL - The invention provides a reaction system for the production of an alkylene carbonate comprising: an epoxidation zone containing an epoxidation catalyst located within an epoxidation reactor; a carboxylation zone containing an bromide-containing carboxylation catalyst located within an alkylene oxide absorber; and one or more purification zones containing a purification absorbent capable of reducing the quantity of bromide-containing impurities in a feed comprising a recycle gas, which purification zones are located upstream from the epoxidation zone; and a process for the production of an alkylene carbonate and an alkylene glycol. | 11-19-2009 |
20090292132 | REACTOR SYSTEM AND PROCESS FOR REACTING A FEED - A reactor system comprising:
| 11-26-2009 |
20120077997 | EO PROCESS CONTROL - A process for the production of an olefin oxide, which process comprises reacting a feed comprising an olefin and oxygen in a reactor tube in the presence of a silver-containing catalyst, wherein the presence of water in the catalyst bed is controlled such that the ratio of the partial pressure of water (PPH | 03-29-2012 |
20120213679 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF ALKYLENE CARBONATE AND/OR ALKYLENE GLYCOL - The invention provides a reaction system for the production of an alkylene carbonate and/or an alkylene glycol comprising: an epoxidation zone containing an epoxidation catalyst located within an epoxidation reactor; a carboxylation zone containing an iodide-containing carboxylation catalyst located within an alkylene oxide absorber; and one or more purification zones containing a purification absorbent capable of reducing the quantity of iodide-containing impurities in a feed comprising a recycle gas, which purification zones are located upstream from the epoxidation zone; and a process for the production of an alkylene carbonate and/or an alkylene glycol. | 08-23-2012 |
20120277447 | PROCESS FOR IMPROVING THE SELECTIVITY OF AN EO CATALYST - The present invention relates to a process for improving the selectivity of an EO process utilizing a highly selective EO catalyst. In particular, the present invention is an improvement in the initial operation of a process for manufacturing ethylene oxide by contacting ethylene, oxygen, a chloride moderator and a hydrocarbon co-moderator with a high selectivity silver-containing catalyst at a concentration of carbon dioxide of less than about 2 mole percent, wherein the initial operating temperature is determined by optimization of such initial operating temperature at a level higher than the normal low initial operating temperature that is typically selected to obtain a longer operating cycle. | 11-01-2012 |
20120315198 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF AN ALKYLENE CARBONATE AND AN ALKYLENE GLYCOL - The invention provides a reaction system for the production of an alkylene carbonate comprising: an epoxidation zone containing an epoxidation catalyst located within an epoxidation reactor; a carboxylation zone containing an bromide-containing carboxylation catalyst located within an alkylene oxide absorber; and one or more purification zones containing a purification absorbent capable of reducing the quantity of bromide-containing impurities in a feed comprising a recycle gas, which purification zones are located upstream from the epoxidation zone; and a process for the production of an alkylene carbonate and an alkylene glycol. | 12-13-2012 |
20130310584 | OLEFIN EPOXIDATION PROCESS - A process for the production of an olefin oxide, which process comprises reacting a feed comprising an olefin and oxygen in a reactor tube in the presence of a silver-containing catalyst, wherein the presence of water in the catalyst bed is controlled such that the ratio of the partial pressure of water (PPH | 11-21-2013 |