Downing Wellhead Defeats Patent Challenge Over Fracking Tech

An SEF Energy LLC unit prevailed in a patent dispute over hydraulic fracturing technology, with a federal tribunal rejecting a challenge to key oil and gas equipment patents.

Intelligent Wellhead Systems Inc. failed to prove that patent held by Downing Wellhead Equipment LLC’s was unpatentable, according to a decision issued Monday by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. Intelligent Wellhead argued 38 claims of US Patent No. 11,560,770, covering hydraulic fracturing system technology, were invalid based on existing technology.

“This is a resounding win for Downing Wellhead and a clear affirmation of the strength and clarity of its continuous ...