Little Rock, Arkansas Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
Propflow LLC has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for its innovative wellsite wet screening system. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent Application No. 20240165635, titled ‘Wellsite wet screening system for proppants and methods of using same’, introduces a method for processing as-mined, moist sand directly at the drilling site, streamlining hydraulic fracturing operations.
This system employs a vibratory screening mechanism to separate properly sized proppant particles from larger debris. The screened sand is then immediately combined with water and additives in a blending tub to create fracturing fluid, eliminating the need for prior drying or off-site processing.
By handling wet sand on-site, the technology reduces energy consumption associated with traditional sand drying methods. It also minimizes transportation requirements, leading to lower operational costs and a reduced carbon footprint.
PropFlow LLC’s approach offers a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution for the oil and gas industry. By simplifying the proppant preparation process, it enhances the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of hydraulic fracturing operations.