An advanced cutting tool developed by Sondex has demonstrated its ability to quickly cut tubulars downhole with surgical precision. Named the Downhole Electric Cutting Tool (DECT), the device enables controlled mechanical cutting to sever pipe from the inside without the use of chemicals or explosives. Key benefits of the service include a clean, uniform cut and extreme depth accuracy. Recently, in the Otter field northeast of Shetland, the tool was used to release a hydraulic retrievable pump packer from a 60° deviated well at 6,488 ft (1,978 m). Operated by Westerton Ltd., a UK fishing and milling consultancy, the DECT tool made its precise cut within a 3-in. window of opportunity.
Capable of being conveyed on wireline (with tractor assistance in highly deviated wells), or by e-coil, the DECT tool's cutter is located just above the bottom guide nose so it can make cuts within a few inches of a fish or wellbore obstruction. The cutting head is driven by an electric motor and operates like a milling machine. The operator can adjust the tool's rotating speed and the rate of cutter advance, thus controlling the complete cutting operation depending on the material being cut. Reactive torque is compensated by a three-arm retractable anchor that locks the tool in place during the cut. Avoiding the rough edges and deformation often resulting from explosive or chemical devices facilitates subsequent activities in the workover program.
For more information, visit www.sondex.com.

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