BJ Services Company has launched a new technology that can boost production in underproducing and plugged wells using a combination of electromagnetic wave frequencies to affect downhole molecular bonding. The patent-pending EcoWave™ treatment service transmits high-frequency radio waves and microwaves into the wellbore at low power to remove and inhibit organic deposition and improve reservoir wettability. Results from more than 60 applications in the U.S. indicate near-wellbore damage removal and increased production for up to three months per treatment.

“EcoWave technology is unlike any stimulation treatment in its simplicity,” said Fred Toney, Vice President for Chemical Services, BJ Services. “It requires no chemicals, no pumping equipment and no large crews on location. It relies almost entirely on electromagnetic waves to alter downhole fluid characteristics in flowing and pump-assisted wells. The economic benefits can be significant because lifting costs are reduced, while increasing hydrocarbon production.”

Targeting Undesirable Chemical Bonds

BJ Services’ custom-built EcoWave system includes a frequency generator/amplifier, a portable power source and an antenna. The antenna is deployed inside the tubing or the annulus of the well through the wellhead. As electromagnetic energy is transmitted at low power levels through the antenna and into the wellbore, the proper combination of wave frequencies alters the proton and electron spin cycles of deposits. The directed waves of energy inhibit agglomeration, simplifying the removal of paraffin and related organic deposits from the wellbore. Treatment times range from 30 minutes to two hours.

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