Method and apparatus for obtaining heavy oil samples from a reservoir sample

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus and method to obtain a bitumen or heavy oil sample from an oil reservoir sample, such as a core sample, to enable measurement of physical properties such as viscosity, API gravity, or chemical properties such as sulphur content of the obtained bitumen or heavy oil sample. The analyses performed on the samples obtained in accordance with the invention are effective in assisting oil field operators in making timely drilling and production decisions at the oil reservoir or for routine laboratory extraction of oils and bitumens. The invention also permits the collection of samples from simulated thermal recovery operations and also allows the collection of bitumens and oils for online analysis of live oil physical properties.

1 . An apparatus for extracting substantially pure heavy oil or bitumen from a heavy oil or bitumen containing sample, comprising:
 (a) a cylinder and piston assembly for receiving a hydrocarbon-containing sample, the cylinder and piston assembly having a bottom opening;   (b) means for applying a force to the piston to axially displace the piston within the cylinder;   (c) a filter assembly disposed across the bottom opening for retaining solid particles within the cylinder, said filter assembly defining openings smaller than about 200 microns;   (d) fluid collection means disposed below the bottom opening.