Patent attributes
A downhole separator separates solids from an inflow of downhole fluid resulting in a cleansed fluid which is directed to the intake of a subsurface pump. The downhole separator has a separator unit which has a sleeve member with a liner member disposed within the sleeve member, the liner member having an exterior surface immediately adjacent the inner surface of the sleeve member. The sleeve member has an opening which is aligned with an opening in the sleeve liner to form an inlet. A vortex guide is disposed inside an inner surface of the liner member. The vortex guide has a helical exterior which is in engaging contact of the inner surface, wherein a single helical passage is formed which extends from the inlet to a second end of the vortex guide.
