SLB Monoline™ Fracturing Fluid Delivery Technology Patents Upheld in Jury Trial: $9 Million in Past Damages Awarded for Willful Infringement

On March 27, 2024, a jury decided that SLB Monoline™ fracturing fluid delivery technology patents (US Patents 9,932,800 and 10,385,645) were valid after a week-long trial. The jury found that Nitro Fluids LLC had willfully infringed on both patents and awarded SLB (Cameron International Corporation, a subsidiary of SLB) almost $9 million in past damages. This amount was based on reasonable royalty and lost profits. The finding of willful infringement could potentially increase the damages to as much as $27 million if the jury’s decision is tripled.

Badri Mani, who is the surface production business line director at SLB, expressed satisfaction with the verdict. He mentioned that SLB will continue to invest in new and existing technologies to promote safety and efficiency in the industry. SLB aims to protect its technology investment and ensure the continued development of industry standards through its frac fluid delivery system portfolio.

SLB’s frac fluid delivery system portfolio includes patented technologies like Monoline™ and Monoflex™, which have been instrumental in enhancing the safety and efficiency of customer operations. These technologies have become widely adopted in frac applications within the industry. Despite having other court cases pending to protect its Monoline™ patent rights, SLB is open to discussing licensing agreements for its Monoline™ and Monoflex™ technologies patent portfolios with interested parties.