Radio frequency heat applicator for increased heavy oil recovery

A method for applying heat to a hydrocarbon formation comprising the steps of:

• providing a coaxial conductor comprising an inner conductor and an outer conductor pipe;
• providing a second conductor pipe spaced from the outer conductor pipe;
• coupling the inner conductor to the second conductor pipe;
• and
• providing a current choke positioned for choking current flowing along the outside of the outer conductor pipe and the outside of the second conductor pipe;
• and
• applying a differential mode signal to the coaxial conductor;
• the conductor pipes being positioned to irradiate the hydrocarbon formation.

An apparatus for installing a choke comprising:

• a tube having first and second ends and containing at least one perforation;
• a plug located in the tube distal, relative to the first end, from the at least one perforation;
• a charge of a magnetic medium located at least partially within the tube and adjacent to the at least one perforation;
• a piston located in the tube proximal, relative to the first end, from the charge of magnetic media.