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Wheelabrator Increases Efficiency at Weatherford by 10 Times

16 June 2008

Weatherford, a global provider of innovative mechanical solutions and services for oil and gas developments, is celebrating an efficiency increase ratio of 10:1, higher production output and an increased environmental responsibility thanks to surface prepa

Based in Aberdeen, Weatherford’s operations entail renting tools to offshore oilrigs, then cleaning and repairing them on return.

 

Jim Liebnitz, Consultant at Weatherford said: “The cleaning process is an essential part of our operation as it is the only way of evaluating any damage and necessary repairs when the tools come back to the plant.

 

“Our existing process was extremely time consuming, first the tools were soaked for twelve hours in an acid dip tank, then after this process was completed it took two workers at least three attempts to clean each component with a high pressure wash gun, before it could even go to the next stage of processing, inspection.

 

Wheelabrator Group was contacted by Weatherford because of its expertise in providing total surface preparation solutions and awarded the contract following a detailed cost analysis. Wheelabrator Group recommended a table wheel blast machine and a front load aqueous degreasing machine.

 

Due to its suitability in cleaning large, heavy and awkward to handle components, a table type wheel blast machine was the ideal solution. Easy access to the machine allows the parts to be loaded onto the table within the blast chamber with minimal effort. The table then rotates under the blast stream from two or three blast wheels allowing maximum exposure and a high production efficiency.

 

Similarly, front load degreasing machines achieve high standards of cleaning combined with reduced cycle times. They are ruggedly constructed to have a high weight carrying capacity and easy load and unload access, making them ideal for heavy-duty components and a perfect match for Weatherford’s needs.

 

Hugh Smillie, Wheelabrator Regional Manager, Scotland said: “Having visited the Weatherford site, it soon became apparent that the existing process was not only time consuming and inefficient but the chemicals being used were corrosive and hazardous to the company’s employees and surrounding environment.

 

“The solution we provided enabled Weatherford to complete a job in 15 minutes, that was originally taking them several hours. The tools are now washed in degreaser and hot soapy water before being blasted on the table machine.

 

“This is a much safer production line, as chemicals have been eliminated and handling has been cut to a minimum allowing valuable labour to be freed up and allocated to other tasks. The waste water now only needs to be changed once a month, prior to our application Weatherford were having to empty the waste every two weeks, so we’re also allowing them to be more environmentally responsible with their waste products.”

 

Before the installation of the Wheelabrator machines, cleaned tools also had to go for further buffing by off site inspectors, to ensure that any tiny cracks were visible and could be repaired.

 

Mr Liebnitz continued: “This additional process incurred further time and cost implications. The Wheelabrator machines are so effective this secondary process has now been completely eliminated.

 

“We are delighted with the service we have received from Wheelabrator, their knowledge and customer service levels have been invaluable. Our efficiency and output has increased ten-fold, hazardous chemicals have been eliminated from operations, and any stray residue is collected in the dust hopper and disposed of in the general waste.

 

“The outcome has been superb and I would have no hesitation recommending Wheelabrator to other companies.”

 

Wheelabrator Group owns, designs, manufactures and provides wheelblast, airblast and vibratory mass finishing equipment for surface preparation and cleaning, and serves a variety of sectors, including the aerospace and automotive industries. Further information can be found at www.wheelabratorgroup.com

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