G-Edge technique involves an ultra-high-pressure stream of water, occasionally containing abrasives, used to produce clean, accurate cuts in the most challenging materials. Whether it be well decommissioning or well abandonments, high-pressure water jet cutting is a safer, faster, and environmentally friendlier alternative to traditional mechanical cutting.
High-pressure water jet cutting: what is it?
High-pressure water jet cutting uses an abrasive-laden water jet of 40,000 to 60,000 psi to cut through metal, concrete, composite, and other hard materials. Whereas the heat or friction-based processing from traditional cutting tools poses a high risk of thermal distortion, ignition, or structural weakening, the water jet gives you the cold-cut option to ensure this does not happen. This is what makes the method particularly useful in the case of volatile environments like oilfields, where safety and precision are critical.
Applications in oil and gas
Water jet cutting has been widely used in the oil and gas industry. One of its most important uses is in cut-and-cap abandonments. To abandon a well is to seal it permanently and safely. High-pressure water jets can cut casing and tubing horizontally and vertically without harm to neighboring structures. This means a cleaner, more effective abandonment that fully complies with tough environmental and regulatory requirements.
Other applications include:
Pipeline decommissioning
- Platform maintenance and removal
- Surface preparation and cleaning
- Tank cutting and dismantling
- Advantages over traditional methods
Safety: Most mechanical cutting techniques produce sparks, heat, and vibration - all dangers that are fairly catastrophic in high-risk oil field areas. Water jet cutting is also free of sparks and reduces the risk of any accidents.
Accuracy: Water jets can cut to within a millimeter of the desired shape, making them perfect for any job that requires a tight tolerance and minimal material waste.
Eco-friendly: no fumes, toxic residues, or dangerous dust. The water used is frequently recyclable, rendering the technique more environmentally friendly.
Portability: Portability is crucial, and with innovations like those from NuWave Industries, mobile water jet cutting units can travel to the source of the work, minimizing lost production.
Why choose NuWave Industries?
With years of practical experience and dedication to safety and forward-thinking, NuWave Industries is a leader in high-pressure water jet cutting within the oil and gas industry. Their mobility units are engineered to go quickly and work with precision in the field, which is why they are a reliable partner for any operator who helps ensure they perform clean, safe, and compliant work.
This article's author is Jack Paul. For additional information regarding high pressure water jet cutting please continue browsing our website.
