1. An Igniter is initiated electrically that in turn initiates the Gas Generator Grain. The Grain burns at a controlled rate increasing the pressure and temperature in the system.

2. Gas pressure acts on the anchoring mechanism to grip the tubing and hold the cutter in place.

3. Gas pressure continues to increase in the Gas Generator Sub forcing the seal discs in the Cylinder to rupture.

4. The chemical (Bromine trifluoride) is then forced through an oil/steel wool mixture in the Catalyst Sub that reacts with the oil and ignites the steel wool.

5. The combination of the chemical and reactant causes the temperature and pressure in the chamber to increase. When the pressure exceeds the hydrostatic well pressure and the strength of the shear washer, the Severing Head Piston moves down to expose the severing orifices. Through these orifices the activated chemical is forced at high pressure to prepare the surface of the tubing and then cut it.

6. After the chemical has been expelled, pressure in the Chemical Cutter equalizes with the hydrostatic. The anchoring mechanisms retract under the action of their respective return springs, releasing the tool from the tubing, so that it can be retrieved from the well.