| CPC E21B 43/2401 (2013.01) [E21B 23/01 (2013.01); E21B 43/14 (2013.01); E21B 43/2405 (2013.01)] | 4 Claims |
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1. A method for transmitting electromagnetic radiation within a wellbore in a hydrocarbon formation, the method comprising:
providing a tool comprising:
a support structure with a longitudinal axis and having a cylindrical shape, the support structure comprising one or more latching mechanisms;
expandable packers mechanically coupled to the support structure, the expandable packers being radially expandable to secure the tool within a lateral of the wellbore;
an electromagnetic source mechanically coupled to the support structure and operable to generate electromagnetic radiation; and
an antenna communicatively coupled to the electromagnetic source and operable to transmit the electromagnetic radiation to a target zone of the subsurface formation, the target zone being separate from the downhole tool, the antenna being at least partially disposed within the casing and rotatable to steer the electromagnetic radiation;
deploying the tool in the wellbore;
operating the electromagnetic source to generate the electromagnetic radiation; and
heating desired areas of the hydrocarbon formation by steering the antenna to direct transmission of the electromagnetic radiation to the desired areas of the hydrocarbon formation such that the desired areas of the hydrocarbon formation absorb the electromagnetic radiation causing the surrounding rock formations to increase in temperature.
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