Denholm Pipetech, a subsidiary of Denholm Environmental, has reported a successful trial of its Downhole Scale Remediation (DSR) tool, developed with the Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) as part of efforts to deliver more sustainable wellbore cleaning solutions.

The first well trial was conducted at NZTC’s Technology Testing Hub in Aberdeen to demonstrate the tool’s performance in a well environment and gather operational data for further development and future commercial deployment.

Originally designed for coiled tubing, the DSR was tested using 9-5/8-inch casing-size drill pipe to demonstrate its flexibility. 

Five test segments were completed, with pre- and post-trial camera inspections showing visible cleaning lines on the casing and particles observed downhole, indicating effective cleaning.

Denholm Pipetech said the trial achieved its primary objective of generating operational data and demonstrating the DSR’s potential for coiled-tubing deployment, which could enhance cleaning efficiency and operational flexibility.

Alongside the technology development, Pipetech has continued deploying its established Aqua Milling technology across UK energy infrastructure. 

Over the past six months, the company has used the system to remove wax, hard scale, corrosion and other deposits from pipelines transporting oil and gas from the North Sea to processing terminals in England.

Aqua Milling provides an alternative to conventional jetting systems and can clean pipelines to bare metal, navigate complex bends and cover greater distances from a single entry point. 

The technology has recently been deployed for multinational hydrocarbon producers and exploration and production operators.