Liquid skimming system

Abstract

A skimmer assembly for use in a well has a shielded float/filter assembly with a hydrophobic/oleophilic filter element, which permits selective passage of lighter than water liquids, such as oil or other hydrocarbons, to the inlet of a pumping assembly. The pumping assembly is provided with two pumps: a lower pump for pumping the lighter than water liquid to the surface of the earth, and an upper pump for pumping water in the well to the surface of the earth. Each pump is operated by a common logic valve, to which compressed air is supplied and which regulates the application of compressed air to the upper side of a diaphragm in each pump. The lower side of the diaphragm is forced upwardly by means of a spring arranged within the pumping volume of the pump housing and a backing plate positioned just below the diaphragm. A bias spring between the backing plate and a centrally located inlet valve function to close the valve from the inlet to the pump. The logic valve provides an adjustable pumping cycle and incorporates a poppet valve and a pilot leading to an adjustable metering valve. The skimmer assembly can be left in situ for extended periods of time without deterioration in the pumping operation. Because the pump has its controlling logic built-in, there is no need for complicated above ground pump controls.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.