Data-driven advancements in multi-string cutting, eliminates pre-milling and significantly reduces rig time for a major North Sea P&A campaign

Wellbore Integrity Solutions (WIS) delivered a disciplined, data driven enhancement program that transformed our multi-string conductor cutting methodology—reducing rig time, improving cut quality, and increasing operational efficiency.

During a large-scale, platform-based plug and abandonment (P&A) campaign, the WIS UK team supported a major North Sea operator in overcoming a key challenge: completing a single run severance of four casing strings—9⅝-inch production casing, 13⅜-inch intermediate casing, 20-inch casing, and the 30-inch conductor. Traditionally, operators would mill a window in the 9⅝-inch casing before performing a triple string cut, adding time, complexity, and operational risk.

Applying a continuous improvement approach, WIS engineered a second generation TruEdge™ insert knife design, building on the proven performance of WIS mechanical pipe cutters. This enhanced design eliminated the need for pre-milling and enabled a reliable quad string cut with reduced cutting time.