Iranian Wellhead Equipment (WETCO), as one of the pioneering private and knowledge-based companies in Iran’s oil and gas industry, has been contributing for more than two decades in the design, manufacturing, and services of wellhead equipment. This company, established in 2001 in collaboration with the international company ABB, has now become one of the largest domestic producers and reputable suppliers of wellhead equipment in the country.
In an in-depth conversation with Amir Mahdi Javaherdashti, CEO of WETCO, we review the history, products, services, and development path of this company.
The History of WETCO: From International Cooperation to Localization of Knowledge
Amir Mahdi Javaherdashti says:
“WETCO started its activity in 2001 in collaboration with ABB. At first, the design and manufacturing of wellhead equipment and X-Mas Trees were carried out under license and with the transfer of technical knowledge from ABB. In 2005, ABB’s oil and gas division was sold to Vetco Gray. However, in 2006, with the expansion of sanctions, the shares of this division were fully transferred to the Iranian side, and we continued under the name Wellhead Equipment Technology Company or WETCO.”
According to him, this transfer was not a threat but a valuable opportunity, since global experience and international standards were transferred to the Iranian team, enabling WETCO to pursue domestic development with greater strength. Today, the company, having obtained certifications such as API 6A, IPICB, and ISO, has become a recognized brand in Iran’s oil and gas industry.
Wellhead Equipment: The Heart of Oil and Gas Drilling
The CEO of WETCO emphasizes:
“Our identity has been built upon the manufacturing of wellhead equipment. Wellhead equipment is the critical point of connection between an oil or gas well and the surface. These devices not only have a mechanical role in maintaining pressure and controlling flow but also guarantee the safety of drilling, production, and transportation operations. Without standard wellhead equipment, no oil and gas project can be safe or economical.”
The Global Position of Iranian Wellhead Equipment
According to research institutes (MarketsandMarkets, 2024), the global wellhead equipment market is valued at more than $6 billion annually and is expected to grow by 5–7% per year. Major players in this market include Cameron (Schlumberger), FMC Technologies, Baker Hughes, and Vetco Gray. Among them, WETCO has managed to meet the essential needs of Iran’s oil industry independently through domestic capabilities and indigenous engineering.
WETCO Product Categories
1. Wellhead Systems
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Conventional Wellhead:
Suitable for various depths and completions, with pressure capacity up to 15,000 PSI. Due to its simple design, lower cost, and fast installation, it is widely used in oil fields. -
Time Saving Wellhead:
One of WETCO’s innovations for reducing operational time. This model can reduce installation time by up to 17 hours, making it highly valuable for costly onshore and offshore projects. -
Dual Completion Wellhead and X-Mas Tree:
Designed for wells requiring simultaneous production from two layers or two production paths. -
Wellhead & X-Mas Tree with Temperature Class X:
Specially designed for challenging reservoirs with specific temperature and pressure conditions.
2. X-Mas Tree
X-Mas Trees are among the main wellhead devices that control oil and gas flow. WETCO’s X-Mas Trees are produced in accordance with international standards and with PR2 Test and Fire Test approvals, capable of operating in sour (H2S) and corrosive (CO2) environments.
3. High-Pressure Valves
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Gate Valves: Sizes from 2-1/16 inch to 9-5/8 inch, with working pressure of 2,000–15,000 PSI.
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Surface Safety Valves (SSV): With working pressure up to 15,000 PSI, ensuring operational safety.
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Choke Valves: Designed for pressures up to 10,000 PSI to regulate and control flow.
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Check Valves: With working pressure from 3,000 to 10,000 PSI, preventing backflow.
4. Manifolds and Auxiliary Tools
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Choke & Kill Manifold: For pressure control and drilling safety.
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Running & Retrieving Tools: Installation and retrieval tools with pressure capacity of 15,000 PSI.
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Casing Hangers, Tubing Hangers, Spools, and Adapters: Essential complementary components for safe operation.
WETCO Services: Beyond Manufacturing
According to Javaherdashti, WETCO is not merely a producer of wellhead equipment, but a comprehensive provider of engineering services, including:
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Technical consulting for selecting equipment tailored to project conditions.
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Customized design for clients.
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Supply of spare and consumable parts.
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Manufacturing and machining using CNC and advanced equipment.
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Regular maintenance and repair of wellhead equipment.
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Pressure testing including PR2 Test and Fire Test.
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Installation and field services for onshore and offshore projects.
Standards and Certifications: Guaranteeing Quality
The CEO of WETCO explains:
“Our policy has always been high quality. Our products are manufactured in accordance with API 6A, NACE MR0175, ASTM, and ASME standards. In addition, we have obtained ISO9001, ISO29001, ISO14001, and HSAS18001 certifications. These certifications reflect our commitment to quality, environment, safety, and efficiency.”
Furthermore, advanced tests such as PR2 Test and Fire Test are performed on products to ensure stable performance under the toughest operational conditions.
Development Plans and Future Vision
The CEO states:
“We look toward the future. One of our main programs is the production of VR-PLUG TOOL with 15,000 PSI working pressure. We also plan to introduce a new generation of Wellhead & X-Mas Trees with special temperature classes. The Dual Completion Wellhead design project is also part of our development roadmap. Additionally, we have equipped material laboratories to improve corrosion-resistant alloys.”
These initiatives aim to expand market share, reduce operational costs, and further enhance the country’s self-sufficiency in the oil industry.
Customer Orientation and Social Responsibility
Javaherdashti notes:
“For us, the customer is a strategic partner. We are committed to supporting our clients in all stages, from consulting to installation and after-sales service. In addition, environmental protection, energy resource management, and employee safety are always part of our core policies.”
International Presence and Achievements
In recent years, WETCO has actively participated in numerous domestic and international exhibitions. Such participation has not only showcased local capabilities but also led to receiving commendations and approvals from major Iranian oil companies.
Conclusion
Today, Wellhead Equipment Technology Company (WETCO), with more than two decades of experience, is considered one of the main pillars of Iran’s oil and gas industry in the field of wellhead equipment. By combining global knowledge with indigenous capability, the company has successfully fulfilled national needs and reduced dependence on imports.
According to the CEO:
“WETCO is the symbol of Iran’s self-sufficiency in the wellhead equipment industry. We are not only a manufacturer but also a reliable partner for the oil and gas sector.”