Zilift's TorqueDrive artificial lift technology was deployed for field trials in Bakersfield, California last year and has exceeded field trial targets having exceeded 150 days running.

According to Zilift the system is an industry first and looks set to transform heavy oil artificial lift operations globally.

The company believes it to be the first known practical demonstration of a magnetic torque converter in a downhole environment.

TorqueDrive is powered by the smallest downhole artificial lift motor to be successfully installed in an oil well worldwide.

Zilift CEO Ian Maclean said he believed TorqueDrive to be the most significant advancement in downhole electrical machine design for 30 years.

"We have designed a product that, among other benefits, significantly reduces lifetime lifting costs and extends economic production life," he said.

As part of these developments the company set up a facility in Bakersfield and created a US entity Zilift Inc, which will be its marketing vehicle for TorqueDrive.

"Our first TorqueDrive variant is well suited to the cyclic steam heavy oil operations in California and, from our base in Bakersfield, we intend to provide clients with installation and 24-hour hands-on service support," Maclean said.

The patented TorqueDrive will undergo further field trials throughout 2014.

Once these are done, Zilift will start manufacturing the system from its base in Aberdeen, Scotland.

It plans to build 40 units a year initially - ramping up to 400 a year as demand grows.

The TorqueDrive comprises a permanent magnet motor, contactless magnetic torque converter and an equaliser section for progressive capacity pump applications.

While it has been designed for heavy oil applications, Zilift believes it will have utility in lower rate light oil wells and also gas well deliquification.