Cokebusters in Central & South America – Supporting A Growing Energy Sector

Central and South America have long been significant players in global oil production, with countries like Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia and Argentina holding substantial reserves and refining capacity. Oil refining remains critical to support national growth and at the heart of every refinery are furnace and heater tubes, which must operate efficiently to maintain productivity.

Historically, cleaning and maintaining these tubes presented significant challenges. Early methods, such as steam cleaning, were the norm across the continent. However, advances in technology and the increasing complexity of refinery operations have led to widespread adoption of mechanical cleaning and tube inspection technologies.  At Cokebusters we have been pleased to support South America’s energy industry by offering safer and more efficient tube maintenance services, initially through our partnership with Nexxo and now alongside our partners CR International.

Christian Jander of Nexxo and John Phipps of Cokebusters agree to a working partnership to deliver decoking and inspection services in South America in 2008.

A Brief History of Oil Production in South America

Venezuela – As home to the largest proven oil reserves in the world, Venezuela’s oil industry surged during the 20th century, peaking in the 1970s. Refining capacity grew, and maintaining equipment became essential for meeting demand.

Brazil – With major offshore discoveries like the pre-salt reserves, Brazil has become a leader in oil production, contributing significantly to global markets and fostering modern refinery practices.

Colombia & Argentina – These nations have developed thriving oil industries, with growing refining infrastructure that now relies on advanced maintenance and cleaning methods.

South America’s energy sector has faced ups and downs, from political and economic instability to technological challenges. However, its oil companies have continuously modernised to compete globally, driving innovation in refining and maintenance practices.

Adoption of Advanced Maintenance Practices in South America

South America’s oil companies have progressively transitioned to mechanical cleaning as the preferred maintenance method for furnace tubes. Key reasons for this shift include:

Improved Efficiency – Mechanical decoking and descaling provides a more thorough cleaning, reducing energy costs and extending the lifespan of furnace tubes.

Environmental Benefits – Unlike steam cleaning, mechanical methods produce solid waste that is easier to manage and dispose of, aligning with stricter environmental regulations.

Operational Advantages – Inline inspection following a mechanical clean allows companies to maintain safety standards and optimise maintenance schedules.

Regional Adoption:

Brazil – Petrobras, Brazil’s largest oil company, has heavily invested in mechanical cleaning technologies for its refineries, citing significant cost savings and enhanced reliability.

Argentina – Refineries in Argentina have been early adopters of intelligent pigging technologies, especially for managing the aging infrastructure of older refineries.

Venezuela – While political and economic challenges have hindered progress, private and state-owned operators have started adopting mechanical cleaning for their most critical refining assets.

Our Commitment to Supporting a Cleaner, Safer and More Efficient Energy Industry in South America

The history of mechanical cleaning and tube inspection in South America mirrors the broader evolution of its oil industry. From the limitations of steam cleaning to the rise of advanced maintenance practices, the continent’s refineries have embraced innovation in recent years to overcome challenges and improve performance.

Cokebusters first exported its services to the region in 2008 through a partnership with Nexxo, which began with a job for Enap in Chile.  Demonstrating the diverse operational potential of our specialist Double Pumping Unit, CB4, we even deployed to Codalco Salvadore to pump an entire lake from one side of a mountain to another back in 2010!

In March 2013 a second container built machine, CB3, was deployed to Chile as part of the partnership with Nexxo.

This relationship worked very well for almost 15 years when Nexxo refocussed its services in a different direction.  Since then Cokebusters USA has worked for Ecopetrol in Colombia, Transpetro in Brazil, Repsol in Peru and Pemex in Mexico as they implement inline inspection technologies, significantly improving safety and reducing unexpected shutdowns.  Our Central and South American clients have reported dramatic improvements after adopting mechanical decoking and inspection technologies.

Looking ahead we’re pleased to support CR International in its growing presence with ENAP in Chile and the wider continent.  In fact our newly refurbished Double Pumping Unit, CB6, is due to leave our UK Technology Centre next week bound for Valparaiso.

The trend toward sustainable and efficient refinery operations will likely lead to advanced mechanical cleaning and pipeline inspection being more routinely incorporated into maintenance schedules. By embracing more advanced cleaning methods, Central and South American refineries can ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.

To enquire about our cutting edge mechanical cleaning and pipeline inspection services the region, contact us directly to find out how we can serve you.