Laser magnet technology sets new benchmark in well cleanout efficiency

Enhancing well performance through precision debris recovery, laser-focused magnets are transforming cleanout operations and boosting production efficiency, Qamar uz Zaman tells OGN

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ON oil and gas drilling, debris retrieval has long posed a persistent operational challenge, particularly in high-risk wells where perforation efficiency directly affects productivity.

Traditional cleanout methods, including the use of conventional magnets, have often delivered inconsistent results, leading to lost productivity and expensive interventions.

Now, a new generation of laser-focused magnets is redefining how operators approach well cleanouts.

The technology, says Qamar uz Zaman, Operations Manager at Innovar Solution Middle East, enables operators to unlock greater well potential through the use of converging shockwaves that enhance debris capture and retrieval efficiency.

FROM CONVENTIONAL CLEANOUTS TO LASER PRECISION

The limitations of traditional magnets became evident during early Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) trials in horizontal wells.

With gun assemblies exceeding 1,000 m and perforation intervals between 150 and 700 m, conventional debris recovery tools failed to capture debris volumes matching the actual gun length.

Initial runs using two conventional magnets yielded inconsistent recovery, with debris weights far below expectations.

Recognising the need for improvement, PDO partnered with RAY International to explore a more effective solution.

The outcome was laser magnet technology, designed to increase precision and retrieval capacity compared to conventional methods.

When trialled with two magnets, the system immediately demonstrated improved results, recovering an average of 28 kg of debris per well, effectively doubling cleanout efficiency.