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Hazardous Area Supplement p39 Cables, Glands & Connectors p20 Hydraulic & Pneumatic Equipment p24Corrosion Services & Protective Coatings p34Subsea Equipment & Underwater Inspection p28

December 2014 Issue

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CONTENTS

Crystal Design & Media Ltd and the publication Subsea & Offshore Service magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or the accuracy of information received.All material will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication under copyright and within the editors rights to edit and offer comment.All editorial contributions are to be sent to editor@sosmagazine.biz

StaffEditor: David Sullivan editor@sosmagazine.biz Tel No: +44 (0)1634 568925 Sales Manager: Alex Wettonalex@sosmagazine.biz Tel No: +44 (0)1634 568926Publisher: Crystal Design & Media Ltd

Sales Manager: Jon McIntoshjon@sosmagazine.biz Tel No: +44 (0)1634 568929

Designer: Steve Simmondsdesign@sosmagazine.biz Tel No: +44 (0)1634 568925

When welding is not an option

Industry demonstrates strong demand for Oil & Gas Innovation Centre

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SPE asked to act as leader against industry discrimination

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New intrinsically safe Hygroflex5-EX series

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Time for British subsea stars to shine as entries open for the Subsea UK awards

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Elmeridge subsea cable fully functional after 16 years in service

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Churchill launches the worlds first hydraulic pipe recovery tool

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26Engineering company welcomes new golden age

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ContributorsLesley Davidson Marketing

The Big PartnershipFT Publicity LtdBrowser MediaFifth Ring LtdWordsun LtdAcumen PR

Think PR

Subsea & Offshore Service Magazine is aimed at OEM’s, Contractors, Sub-Contractors, Production Managers, Subsea Equipment Designers & Specifiers and Suppliers within the Offshore & Subsea industry. The magazine has a controlled circulation across the UK and is supported by the website, electronic distribution and subscriptions, making it an ideal tool for products and companies aiming at this lucrative sector.

The unique circulation for each edition is fluid and constantly updated, especially around the offshore exhibitions, giving clients a total awareness.

Welcome to the Subsea & Offshore Service Magazine

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IMI Critical Engineering launches innovative butterfly valve

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Subsea and industrial hydraulic manufacturers

Tel: 0141 810 4511 Fax: 0141 883 3825Email: hydraulics@aph.co.uk Internet: www.aph.co.uk

Represented in the USA by: Air Power Hydraulics IncT: 770 683 7221 F: 770 683 7242

Email: hydraulicsusa@aphusa.com Internet: www.aphusa.com

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Christmas is just around the corner and 2015 will soon be upon us. It has certainly been an interesting year in the subsea sector with individual company growth, new contracts and increased recruitment drives. As 2014 comes to an end, operators can look back on the challenges and opportunities which the market has continued to present.

I am lucky enough to work in Aberdeen, the oil capital of Europe, and have seen first-hand the steady resilience of the sector. Balance sheets for most operators continued to look good at the start of the year and any of the headwinds created by ongoing economic uncertainly had been swept aside.

Spending and investment have yet to be significantly affected but the demand for the top talent is starting to slow. The workforce demand was expected to occur sooner than later but it does raise the question as to whether the air is finally starting to deflate from the bubble.

Yet the positivity in the sector remains, and with good reason. Each morning on my way into work I drive past Westhill. The concentration of subsea expertise in the area has led the town to gain the moniker: ‘SURF city.’ The acronym for subsea umbilicals, risers and flowlines, all of which form a major part of the work undertaken at Westhill, is well deserved.

Westhill is also becoming a new training hub for the sector. In October this year, an Aberdeen headquartered company invested almost £500,000 in a subsea technology training academy which is expected to attract delegates from around the world.

It has been providing several courses to leading subsea companies, including a three-day acoustics course and a one-day introduction to offshore survey equipment course. Not only is the north east of Scotland at the heart of industry, the area is providing training to industry operators.

Mark Flynn, Director, Barclays Wealth and Investment, Aberdeen, comments on the oil and gas sector.

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The activity in Westhill and throughout the UK subsea sector looks set to continue, backed by a wealth of talented staff. Revenue growth may be a mixed bag for operators in the New Year, but the sector has always been well-placed to respond to challenges.

Barclays Wealth and Investment Management use market-leading insights to make sure our advice and solutions help realise our clients’ unique ambitions. We work with them to understand their total wealth situation, using behavioural finance to better understand their financial personality and risk tolerance. The skills and experience of our team in Aberdeen are complemented by the benefits of a global banking model for investment expertise that is delivered locally. It is important nevertheless to appreciate that investments can fall in value as well as rise. You may get back less than you invest.

www.wealth.barclays.com

Mark Flynn, Director, Barclays Health & Investment

BMT Scientific Marine Services (BMT), a subsidiary of BMT Group Ltd, has been selected by Saipem to supply the riser integrity monitoring systems for the Lula Norte and Lula Extremo Sul developments in the Santos Basin Pre-Salt Region, Brazil’s largest sedimentary basin.

Riser integrity monitoring systems measure bending moments and tensile forces in risers in order to provide end users with an understanding of the risers’ condition. Data from these systems are then used to verify riser design models, ultimately leading to long-term improvements in riser design.

The Lula Norte and Lula Extremo Sul projects will feature systems that incorporate BMT’s ROV-Serviceable Subsea Strain Sensor Assembly. This allows for continuous monitoring and data collection, preserving the absolute bending and tension measurement while a single sensor is removed and replaced.

In addition, BMT deploys temporary monitoring systems for performance assessment, acceptance trials and forensic investigations. In combination with its extensive monitoring system experience, BMT provides data management and technical analysis of data acquired by the various permanent and temporary integrated marine and structural integrity systems.

BMT has an excellent track record in supplying 75+ major Platform Integrity Monitoring Systems to operators in the Gulf of Mexico, offshore West Africa, Brazil, Malaysia and West of Shetland.

www.scimar.com

Saipem awards BMT pre-salt riser monitoring contract

Looking for accurate mass measurement across a wide range of flow rates and temperatures?Capable of measuring flow rates from 0.3 to 2,300,000 kg/h and temperatures from -200 to +400 °C, the OPTIMASS range of Coriolis mass flowmeters from KROHNE can provide a solution to almost any application.

Offering outstanding performance, the OPTIMASS range can offer a solution for fiscal measurement and maintains excellent accuracy even in the presence of entrained air thanks to Entrained Gas Management (EGMTM). Offered in 6 materials including Tantalum and Super Duplex, the OPTIMASS can also provide corrosion resistance for almost any process fluid.

KROHNE’s patented “Adaptive Sensor Technology” (AST), intelligently “tunes” each meter independent of external forces and fluid density, producing an inherently balanced meter, which remains stable even in the most demanding processes.

KROHNE – Process engineering is our world.

Please visit our website for further information.

Optimum performance – OPTIMASS technology

Made in Britain

Proserv marks major milestone after being acquired by Riverstone Holdings

Market-leading energy services company Proserv has reinforced its ambitious growth plans after announcing it has signed a definitive agreement to be acquired by major US private equity investor Riverstone Holdings LLC.

Proserv will continue to operate as an independent company under the deal announced today to which Riverstone Global Energy and Power Fund V, L.P., in partnership with Proserv management, has agreed to acquire 100% of the shares of Proserv from Intervale Capital (“Intervale”), Weatherford International (“Weatherford”) and certain minority shareholders.

David Lamont, chief executive officer (CEO) at Proserv, said: “This is the start of an exciting new chapter in Proserv’s successful journey. The leadership team on behalf of the global Proserv workforce, firmly believes Riverstone is the ideal partner, not only because of their sector focus and expertise, but as importantly because of their shared values and vision for the business.

“Riverstone has an impressive track record of backing oil & gas focused companies with their high-profile portfolio including independent operators and energy service companies.”

Proserv was formed by Intervale Capital, a private equity firm focused on the oilfield services industry, through the integration of several specialty services businesses between 2008 and 2014.

Mr Lamont, who will continue as Proserv’s CEO, said: “Intervale has been a strong and supportive partner over the past seven years, working closely with the leadership team to develop and grow Proserv to be the company it is today.”

News In Brief....

De Hoop launches subsea support vessel Deep Helder

The new-build subsea support vessel, named MV Deep Helder, was launched at De Hoop’s Foxhol Yard in Groningen earlier this year.

Deep Helder will be equipped with Survey and ROV systems, an offshore crane and 3 moonpools. The vessel will be ready for operations by July next year. A total of 50 personnel can be accommodated on the vessel.

“Deep Helder will be a cost effective vessel that we plan to operate on Survey (Geophysics, Inspection & Geotechnical) , IMR and light weight trenching, excavation and Mattress Installation projects for our customers in the oil & gas and renewable markets” says Rick Green, DeepOcean’s General Manager of DeepOcean B.V.

Jee Ltd unveils new course schedule and location for 2015 Jee Ltd, a leading independent multi-discipline subsea engineering and training firm, has released its 2015 course schedule, which includes an additional advanced practitioner course and a new training programme in Norway. The new practitioner course on offer – Advanced design and stress analysis of subsea equipment – provides an intensive overview for design engineers working to the rules of API specifications 6A, 16A and 17D, and will help delegates gain an understanding of stress analysis principles and the specialist techniques involved. Jee’s Head of Courses, Jenny Matthew said: “We’re continually developing our extensive training programme and in 2015, in response to industry demand, we are excited to launch a new public courses programme in Norway.

Xodus Group, Saipem and Chiyoda join forces to set up new subsea company

International energy consultancy Xodus Group today announced the launch of a global subsea engineering company in partnership with major oil and gas contractor Saipem and mid and downstream oil and gas giant Chiyoda Corporation.

The new organisation plans to challenge the largest tier one subsea engineering companies for a share of the global market. It will be headquartered in London and have a presence in several cities across Europe, Africa, the Americas, Middle East and Asia Pacific including eight dedicated engineering centres in priority energy locations.

Xodus Subsea engineering services will take a unique approach to technical subsea challenges by bringing together Xodus Group’s front end engineering capability, Saipem’s turnkey Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Installation expertise and Chiyoda’s experience in managing large scale international projects. The company will offer a wealth of technical subsea expertise and also have access to more than 1,000 multidiscipline engineers through the partner companies.

Colin Manson CEO of Xodus Group said: “The launch of Xodus Subsea marks a new era of subsea engineering support to the global oil and gas industry. For the first time operators can choose a subsea engineering company that is backed by world leading contractors without being exclusively tied to them.

We have the global reach, capability and technical prowess to support the world’s largest and most complex subsea projects. We offer integrated subsea services to minimise project risk and deliver the best technical results.”

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Colin Manson

Jenny Matthew

Gulf powers Aston Martin to a record breaking win

Gulf OIl International (GOI), is celebrating another milestone in its long motor racing history after its motorsport partners Aston Martin Racing took a 1-2 victory in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) round in Shanghai on November 2nd.

In doing so, the Gulf-lubricated and liveried Aston Martin Vantage GTEs secured both the Team and Drivers World Titles in the 2014 WEC GTE Am category. It also marked Aston Martin’s 16th WEC win, putting it ahead of Ferrari, Porsche and Audi as the most successful manufacturer in championship history – every one of those wins having been achieved running on Gulf lubricants.

This Technical Partnership sees Gulf working in conjunction with Aston Martin’s factory race team to provide Engine and Gearbox Oils as well as Brake Fluid for its Vantage GTE cars competing on the world stage in Gulf’s famous Orange and Blue racing colours.

CAN seals new contracts in North Sea and North Africa

CAN Group, has been awarded a £4 million contract to provide asset integrity services in the North Sea as the firm also announces international growth.

The Aberdeen-headquartered company has secured work with Fairfield Energy aboard the Dunlin platform, UK Continental Shelf (UKCS).

The three year contract with Fairfield Energy will be led by ENGTEQ, the group’s integrity engineering business stream, that will provide services such as inspection management and data analysis with CAN’s operations division providing inspection execution and ancillary services on the pressure systems and structures in support of the asset integrity programme.

In addition to domestic success, CAN has also been successful in securing scopes in North Africa. The work covers the provision of specialist inspection services and integrity engineering support and will see CAN carry out a variety of structural inspection services including flare and jacket structure inspections and a comprehensive range of advanced NDT inspection techniques at pressure plants on and offshore.

Adam Byrne, operations director at CAN Group, said: “These latest contract awards are a great boost to the company and underline the need for asset integrity services worldwide.

“We have enjoyed a sustained period of demand in the North Sea and, as part of our strategic growth plans, we are increasingly rolling out our services across other geographic markets. The internationalisation of our business has seen CAN move into West Africa, Asia Pacific and North America and we are well placed to make the most of these opportunities.

IWCF initiative to raise the bar for trainer quality

The International Well Control Forum is launching a new training scheme for professionals delivering critical safety courses in the oil and gas sector.

The new project aligns with the OGP 476 recommendations following Macondo, which demand a high standard of instruction for well control training with certification and regular evaluation processes in place.

The three day ‘Train the Trainer’ course will provide an understanding of learning behaviours and the effectiveness of communication activities to help long-term-memory and skill application. This aims to challenge current trainer beliefs and help to further embed positive safety culture in the offshore environment to avoid well-related tragedy.

ROVOP leader named UK Entrepreneur of the Year for global growth

The managing director of rapidly growing subsea specialist ROVOP received prestigious industry recognition after being named as the UK’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2014 for international business growth.

Judges singled out Steven Gray from a shortlist of the nation’s most successful and innovative business leaders, for his outstanding achievement in building an organisation that has experienced exceptional global growth since its inception in 2011. The judges remarked that “Steven maximised his background in law and banking to become a true entrepreneur.”

Turnover at ROVOP has rocketed to a current rate of £25 million, with significant expansion still to come on the back of new contract wins, while the company has surpassed its goal of increasing its team to more than 130 people and continuing to attract new talent.

ROVOP, which is headquartered in Westhill, Aberdeenshire, is an independent company dedicated to providing remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and services to the oil and gas and offshore renewables industries.

Mr Gray reached the UK final after being selected as one of the EY regional winners for Scotland in June. With a background in law, financing and investing, he took advantage of world-class engineering skills in Aberdeen, innovative use of financing methods and created an open company culture to build an exceptional business.

News In Brief....

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Steven Gray at awards

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The newly established Oil & Gas Innovation Centre (OGIC) is already having an impact on accelerating new technologies to support the North Sea oil and gas Industry.

At its official launch hosted by Hydro Group plc in Aberdeen this November, OGIC revealed that it now has its first approved and funded projects coming on stream and is in discussion with more than 50 companies regarding technology development opportunities.

OGIC provides a single access point to the knowledge and capabilities of Scottish universities for the oil and gas industry. It can also part-fund and provide management support to projects with the potential to deliver technology solutions to the exploration, production and decommissioning challenges facing the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS). It effectively links around 2,300 oil and gas operators and service companies to more than 450 academic staff and researchers in Scotland working in oil and gas related areas.

Many of the 100 technology development projects which OGIC aims to support in its first five years will have North Sea applications and export potential. They will share the common characteristics of being genuinely innovative and targeting solutions for real issues in the industry. OGIC’s priority areas are: improving exploration outcomes; well construction, drilling and completions; enhanced oil recovery; asset integrity and life extension; shale gas exploitation; subsea; product optimisation and decommissioning.

The first OGIC project has been approved with research already underway while three projects are in the final stages of approval. OGIC is open for further business and is engaging with the SME community to progress more innovative solutions.

Speaking at the launch, Fergus Ewing, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism, said: “This new innovation centre will transform the nature of collaboration between industry, government and academic partners – providing new ways to deliver industry solutions, taking innovation to the next level. They are part of a cultural shift that brings the innovation and creativity of our academic sector to the heart of our business life and puts business drive firmly into the heart of our academic community.

“The launch of the Oil & Gas Innovation Centre, represents a very positive step in the right direction in ensuring support for operators and supply chain companies – allowing them to maximise the recovery of our significant hydrocarbon resources. We believe that innovation is key to maximising economic recovery from the UKCS and that therefore this must be an integral part of the work of the new regulator, who will require operators to demonstrate how maximum economic recovery can be achieved using innovative solutions and techniques.

In turn, this requires a partnership approach from Government on fiscal policy, given that often innovative solutions such as EOR horizontal drilling tie backs will incur very substantial additional investments. Only through innovation will we reap the maximum value and ensure that the oil and gas sector continues to play a positive role in the Scottish economy,” said Mr Ewing.

Ian Phillips, chief executive of OGIC, said: “OGIC has been established in response to industry need for a matchmaking service to bring innovative ideas and best in class academic resource together to get new technologies to the market quicker than ever before. Innovation is now one of the major priorities for the oil and gas sector locally and globally in order to maximise return from existing assets and to bring new, more challenging reserves into production.

Our track record of innovation in the UKCS over 40 years and our academic strengths are a major competitive advantage at a time of significant challenges in our industry. We aim to drive the delivery of innovations that will contribute to the future success of the North Sea and that will create new export opportunities for our supply chain,” said Mr Phillips.

Doug Whyte, Hydro Group managing director, said: “Innovation and pioneering research is essential in the oil and gas industry and has been at the heart of Hydro Group’s success since its inception three decades ago.

“We’re confident that OGIC’s access to technology support and partnerships with business and research organisations, will greatly benefit our future development. The relationship will hopefully assist in funding for technology and product development, focussing on addressing the needs of subsea systems for application in the oil and gas market,” said Mr Whyte.

The Scottish Funding Council, which provided the initial capital for OGIC, has also welcomed OGIC’s transformation from concept through to delivery body in a matter of months.

Laurence Howells, Chief Executive of the Scottish Funding Council, said: “Having energy at the flick of a switch is something we all take for granted. It happens and carries on happening because of the efforts of the industry, the skill of the engineers and the ingenuity of innovators and researchers. Bringing industry and universities closer together, as part of our £124 million investment in Scottish Innovation Centres, will make a huge difference. Like all Innovation Centres, this partnership is focussed on what industry needs.”

Continued....

Industry demonstrates strong demand for Oil & Gas Innovation Centre

OGIC’s launch and early-stage engagement within the industry innovation space have been strongly backed by leading oil and gas bodies.

Oil & Gas UK operations director, Oonagh Werngren said: “Over the past 50 years, the oil and gas industry has demonstrated an impressive capability for innovation and many new technologies pioneered on the UK Continental Shelf have been exported globally.

Future discoveries and average field sizes will be more technically and commercially challenging so it is vital to encourage and sustain investment in technology to ensure the longevity of UKCS production over the coming decades. The OGIC model of linking entrepreneurs with ideas together with academia is the perfect mix to stimulate innovative technologies that will help unlock the future.”

Neil Gordon, chief executive of Subsea UK, said: “We look forward to working with OGIC to achieve real technological advances in our industry. Research and development in the subsea sector are critical to retaining our world-leading position and a major factor in being able to recover the world’s remaining hydrocarbons and securing energy supply.

Subsea UK, through the National Subsea Research Initiative, provides a focal point for bringing forward the next wave of science, technologies and applications urgently needed to solve the increasingly difficult challenges of recovering oil from under the seabed.

Fortunately there are a raft of niche subsea technology companies in this country who are developing or have developed products and techniques that are addressing these challenges and with whom OGIC can work. These companies are working at the cutting-edge, developing game-changing technology that will help our sector, which currently generates around £9billion per annum, stay ahead of increasing global competition,” said Mr Gordon.

Any companies interested in doing business with OGIC can find more information and contact details on the website: www.ogic.co.uk

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OptaSense, a QinetiQ company and global leader in Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), has been recognised for its contribution to improving the safety of hydraulic fracturing. OptaSense’s DAS Hydraulic Fracture Profiling (DAS-HFP) service has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious World Oil Award in the Best Health, Safety & Environment and Sustainable Development Onshore, category.

The DAS-HFP service is used within hydraulic fracture operations where OptaSense technology is not only used to improve the operational efficiency of hydraulic fracture stimulation but also provides a real-time monitoring capability to verify well integrity.

OptaSense helps operators manage unplanned events such as flow behind casing, casing leaks and ruptures, casing collapse and isolation failures between stimulation stages. This not only has economic value for optimising a hydraulic fracturing program but also delivers significant value for environmental monitoring of fracture fluid break-through into other subsurface formations and freshwater aquifers due to wellbore barrier failure.

Currently the American Petroleum Institute (API) regulatory guidelines state that the internal conduit of the well must be isolated from the surface and subsurface environments. However, conventional technologies are typically limited to pressure measurements at the wellhead and are inadequate for real-time detection and characterisation of most failures other than catastrophic ones.

By contrast, the OptaSense DAS system

provides a means to directly measure and monitor the performance of these barriers from wellhead to toe continuously and in real-time. The system is used to detect, localise and characterise barrier failure. It also detects fluid communication behind casing, casing collapse, and leaks through or between casing strings, many of which are unnoticed by conventional monitoring methods.

The World Oil Award nomination recognises that the real-time data OptaSense delivers provides invaluable information to operators, greatly minimising the environmental cost of a leak, due to early detection.

Magnus McEwen-King, OptaSense Managing Director, said: “It is an honour to be recognised alongside the major service companies in one of the industry’s most prestigious awards. Our DAS-HFP service is just one of several services provided over fibre-optics that improve the efficiency and safety of hydraulic fracture operations. Distributed fibre-optic sensing has the potential to provide monitoring throughout the life of

OptaSense recognised for improving the safety of hydraulic fracturing

Magnus McEwen-King accepting the queens award

the well. The ability to monitor the whole wellbore continuously enables operators to confirm wellbore integrity and better understand, diagnose and correct sources of failure to improve operational effectiveness.”

In this year alone, OptaSense has won two prestigious Queen’s Awards for Innovation and Export and was a finalist for the Royal Academy of Engineering MacRobert award, the UK’s longest running national prize for engineering.

www.optasense.com

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A world-first, international workshop on workplace challenges and discrimination in the oil and gas industry was held in Aberdeen last week. Organised by SPE Aberdeen in co-operation with SPE Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, the participants of the event publicly requested that SPE take a stronger role with regard to the guidelines and practices applied at SPE’s international events and to no longer allow the presence of scantily clad women as ‘poster girls’.

The senior leadership of the operators and service companies in attendance at ‘Breaking the Cycle of Discrimination: Another Perspective on Workplace Challenges in the Oil and Gas Industry’ also indicated their desire for the theme of the Workshop to be structured as a training course, running on the back of the SPE’s international events – ATCE, Offshore Europe, OTC etc. – and in compliance with SPE CEU (Continuous Education Units) scheme, thus ensuring that a larger segment of the industry’s professionals can benefit from the lessons learned during this Workshop.

During the two days of discussions and debates (which strictly abided by Chatham House ‘rules’), worrying findings have emerged - among those the discrimination of women and mid-career professionals holding top rank. A full paper with the Workshop’s main findings will be published by the SPE Aberdeen and made available on its website.

Participants at the Workshop were asked to rank the four

SPE asked to act as the leader against industry discriminationmain areas of concern with regard to the current industry workplace challenges and these were identified as: prejudice and misconception; mid-career management; technical competence versus social bias and multi-cultural awareness. Through this, the attendants clearly indicated that the oil and gas industry worldwide still has a long way to go before it could claim it is ‘discrimination free’.

Mr. Ross Lowdon, the Chairman of the SPE Aberdeen, said: “Discrimination in all its forms is not a topic often discussed, particularly in the oil and gas industry. This conference has changed that and led to a forum for practical advice for the industry. The debate was open, passionate and very frank. We have a long way to go before the industry can be seen as equal. This conference has provided a platform for change, and I look forward to the day my daughter has the same opportunities as I did to create a career for herself in our great industry.”

Ross Lowdon, Chairman, the SPE Aberdeen

RUD Chains lifting capabilities up to 200 tonneRUD Chains Ltd, part of the RUD Group, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of round steel chains, producing top quality chain components and systems for over 140 years.

RUD manufactures a range of lifting and lashing applications that guarantee ultimate safety when lifting and moving heavy loads. Offering over 500 different tested and certified lifting/lashing points for bolting and welding. Their products have been increasing popular across the offshore industry, due to their heavy lift capabilities of up to 200 tonne, and their robust resistance to corrosion.

The WBPG 85-200 tonne hoist ring, is one of RUD’s most popular offshore products at the moment, perfect for many heavy engineering, construction and offshore projects.

RUD are known in the industry as a worldwide manufacturer and supplier for a range of hoist chains used across the offshore industry. RUD hoist chain can be supplied to suit a variety of project sizes from 3 x 9 mm up to 32 x 90 mm.

TECDOS, RUD’s conveyor and drive systems, have been setting high standards across the offshore industry due to their distinctive product features. RUD’s highly wear resistant round steel chains that are used in the applications are extremely robust, offers three-dimensional mobility and has an exceptionally high resistance to corrosion due to the vigorous surface coating that is applied to the chain.

The TECDOS application can be used across a wide range of maritime projects which involve the use of round steel chain drives. So far TECDOS has been used to assist opening and closing of flood gates, lifting and lowering containers, moving

and swivelling port cranes, launching lifeboats to telescoping crane booms to name a few.

RUD Chains offer a wide selection of applications to the offshore sector, providing lifting capabilities from 50 – 200 tonnes, operational to temperatures as low as -45 degrees and much more.

www.rud.co.uk

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A first of its kind subsea training academy was launched in Aberdeen recently in the world-renowned subsea centre of excellence at Westhill.

The subsea technology training academy meets global demand for improved competency in the configuration, operation and maintenance of increasingly sophisticated equipment required in more complex subsea oil and gas projects in deeper waters and hostile locations around the world.

Aberdeen head-quartered company, Ashtead Technology, has invested almost £500,000 in its subsea technology training academy which will attract delegates from around the world.

In a pilot scheme prior to launch, the Ashtead Technology Academy has already delivered several courses to a number of leading subsea companies, including a three day acoustics course and a one day introduction to offshore survey equipment course. The courses, for support engineers and new recruits from the subsea construction sector, have achieved tangible results and excellent customer feedback.

Donald Campbell, Senior Survey Support Engineer at Subsea 7 said: “We have been pleased to support Ashtead Technology in the development of this ground-breaking training academy. Our delegates have been more than satisfied with the professionalism and knowledge of the training team. Also the level of training delivered has met our needs and that of our staff comfortably.”

Tim Sheehan, commercial director of Ashtead Technology, said: “As the subsea industry continues to grow and leading-edge technology evolves to deliver systems to meet more complex challenges in deeper waters, subsea survey, construction and maintenance companies must have the skills and competency to ensure these systems are properly configured, operated and maintained. Ashtead is well positioned and resourced to fill the gap in the market for high quality training that will meet the skills and competences required.

This launch is the result of considerable investment in the best facilities, trainers and training materials by Ashtead Technology. Through our 30 years of experience and expertise in working with specialist subsea technology, we have developed a range of courses which will give delegates the confidence and competence required in working with the latest systems available in the market.”

The Ashtead Subsea Technology Training Academy will be led by Steve Cullen who has joined the company in the newly created position of training manager. Formerly with Subsea 7, Mr Cullen is an electrical and electronic engineer with over twenty years offshore experience in subsea construction, hydrographic survey, fibre optics, remote intervention and drilling operations support. He spent several years in vocational and public sector education and training roles focussing on science technology subjects with particular experience in innovative instructional design methodologies.

The courses available at Ashtead Technology’s purpose-built training facilities will cover the basics and the more complex functioning of offshore survey equipment, acoustic positioning and motion sensing systems, hydrographic and geophysical survey equipment, cable and pipe detection and tracking systems and ROV sensors and multiplexors.

In addition to regular standard courses, Ashtead Technology is able to design tailor-made courses to meet specific needs of individual customers.

Neil Gordon, chief executive Subsea UK, welcomed the investment in the academy. He said: “This will make a significant contribution to our industry. The UK has long been regarded as the centre of excellence for the subsea sector and people are a key part of that success. The Ashtead Training Academy will have a truly international reach and I am confident that it will further bolster our industry’s capabilities leading to a highly competent workforce which remains the global standard.”

www.ashtead-technology.com

International Subsea Technology training academy launched

Ashtead Technology Technicians

Steve Cullen outside the academy

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FoundOcean joins forces with industry veterans in Mexico FoundOcean and Ranger Offshore, Inc. signed a strategic agreement this month, formalizing the already strong relationship that has developed between the two oil and gas sector specialists. Combining complementary resources and a wealth of industry expertise, the partnership will offer clients a competitive, design to installation solution for a range of projects.

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Ranger Offshore provides marine and subsea construction support services including vessel and diver hire; inspection, repair and maintenance (IRM) solutions; and pipeline and offshore construction. FoundOcean will bring its 50 years of grouting experience to the partnership. “FoundOcean boasts an impressive track record, particularly in areas such as pipeline support pipeline support and IRM,” comments industry veteran Bill Lam

of Ranger Offshore. “Combining resources gives our Gulf of Mexico clients greater value, particularly given our mutual commitment to safe, innovative, quality offshore solutions.”

Jim Bell, Managing Director at FoundOcean expands: “Ranger Offshore is highly regarded in the region, and we hope that bringing the two companies together will give clients an invaluable turnkey offshore solution.”

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Oilfield Machinery Limited, Crichiebank Business Centre, Inverurie, Aberdeen, AB51 5NQTel: +44 (0)1467 894147 E-Mail: sales@oilmac.com Web: www.oilmac.com

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• Motor driven & manual hoist chains from 3x9mm to 32x90mm

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Findings from the latest oil and gas Global Workforce Survey, published jointly by OilCareers.com and Air Energi, reveal that efforts to encourage more women into the industry are not yet working. The results also highlight widespread confusion among the workforce as to whether or not internal initiatives are effective.

More than 4,300 employees and hiring managers working in the oil and gas industry took part in the survey that looked at the issues surrounding the lack of women taking on key roles in the sector.

Employees and hiring managers in every region around the world still perceive it as being male-dominated with survey responses highlighting that this masculine perception of the industry is a problem. 48% of employees and 53% of hiring managers reported that a culture created by a male dominated environment was a contributing factor to the gender imbalance.

OilCareers.com managing director, Mark Guest, said: “Given the chronic skills gap in oil and gas, the last 12-18 months has seen many companies waking up to the fact that there is a distinct lack of women joining the industry. Encouraging girls to study Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects at school is something that may impact the industry, but only in the future. There are many women around the world who already have related business, science or engineering degrees and still don’t consider oil and gas as a career option. This really needs to be addressed for the long-term good of the industry.”

Air Energi CEO, Duncan Gregson, said: “Our findings show the masculine image and perception of the industry pervades in every region and this is a crucial barrier in the minds of many women. By addressing this, along with improving the scope and measurement of internal company initiatives, it is possible that we will start see a shift in the number of women coming into oil and gas at all levels of seniority. In short, someone in every company needs to be accountable for these initiatives and have the authority to adapt them if they need to.”

Many companies have chosen to address the gender gap through recruitment quotas, however, not even half (44%) of hiring managers that knew their company had an

active policy to encourage more women into oil and gas roles could say for sure whether or not this policy was effective.

Mr. Guest continued: “Where cultural practices allow, organisations cannot half-heartedly seek to recruit more women on the one hand while at the same time complain of a chronic skills shortage on the other. The industry has to take an all-encompassing view of the situation in order to ever successfully address it.”

The survey also looked into overall hiring activity and salary expectations around the world. 46% of hiring managers thought recruitment levels for permanent staff will remain steady and 48% thought recruitment of contract personnel would remain the same throughout the second part of 2014 compared to the first six months. The findings reflect a more cautious industry overall with fewer hiring managers (38%) expecting salary rates to continue to increase compared to 58% in the workforce survey conducted in the first half of 2014.

These findings come as part of the second OilCareers.com and Air Energi global workforce survey of 2014. Views have been collated from industry professionals across Europe, Africa, Middle East, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Australasia.

The report also includes insight from organisations including Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) and Women’s Global Leadership Conference (WGLC).

Initiatives to bring more women into oil and gas industry still not working says new survey of global workforce

The quick and easy way to the world’s oil & gas jobs

40%of hiring managers agreed44%

49%

64% 40% 30%

Survey respondents highlight the industry gender gap

Oil & Gas companies that have an active policy to address the gender gap by region

49%

35%39%

31%

53%

38%

believe that addressing the gender gap would increase productivity and organisational success

believe that addressing the gender gap would provide access to a wider talent pool at all levels

48%32%31%

believe that addressing the gender gap would reduce the skills gap

What should the industry be doing to address the gender gap?

According to hiring managers, these are the top three factors that signi�cantly contribute to the gender gap:

of employees and hiring managers in every region perceive the industry as being male dominated

58%of hiring managers don’t have or don’t know if they have an active policy to encourage more women into the organisation

Download the full survey results at: www.oilcareers.com/onstream/workforce-survey

of managers have an active policy

of these managers think it’s e�ective

42%

36%

cited a lack of women entering the industry cited an industry culture

created by a male dominated environment 30%

53%55%

cited the logistics requirement i.e. travel, shift and working patterns in the �eld

of employee respondents were male

88%

of hiring manager respondents were male

68%

Salary expectations

52% of hiring managers believe that rates and salaries will stay the same

38% of hiring managers believe that rates and salaries will rise

Just 10% of hiring managers expect rates and salaries to fall

52%10%

38%

Would an increase in the number of women entering the industry increase productivity and organisational success?

of employees agreed

Encourage more girls to take science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects

Focus on transferable skills when recruiting

Emphasis on progression with leadership and opportunities for women

Based on both employee and HM respondents by region

Global statistic combined for hiring managers and employees

Global statistic combined for hiring managers and employees

The quick and easy way to the world’s oil & gas jobs

Duncan Gregson Air Energi CEO

Mark Guest Managing Director Oilcareers.com

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GDF SUEZ and BP discover new central North Sea fieldGDF SUEZ E&P UK Ltd and BP recently announced a new exploration discovery in the UK Central North Sea. The discovery, which spans GDF SUEZ operated block 30/1f (licence P1588) and BP operated block 30/1c (licence P363) was flow tested at a maximum rate of 5,350 barrels of oil equivalent per day. The discovery, referred to as ‘Marconi’ by GDF SUEZ and ‘Vorlich’ by BP, is located in the Central North Sea.

Ruud Zoon, Managing Director of GDF SUEZ E&P UK Ltd said: “This is an encouraging exploration discovery in a part of the Central North Sea that needs

additional volumes of hydrocarbons to open up development options for several stranded discoveries.

The discovery is our third successful well this year and demonstrates a continuing commitment by GDF SUEZ to an active exploration and appraisal drilling programme on the UK Continental Shelf.”

Trevor Garlick, Regional President of BP North Sea said: “As BP marks its 50th year in the North Sea and as the industry looks to maximise economic recovery from the basin, increasing exploration activity and finding new ways to collaborate will be critical to realising remaining potential. This discovery is a great example of both.”

The well was drilled by GDF SUEZ E&P UK Ltd as operator, with the Transocean Galaxy II jack-up rig under a joint well agreement between the two licence groups.

Business and Energy Minister Matthew Hancock said: “We are determined to have set the right fiscal and regulatory regimes to make sure we can get the maximum possible economic extraction of oil and gas from the North Sea. This discovery shows exactly what can be achieved in the North Sea if companies work together to maximise the considerable potential of remaining oil and gas reserves.”

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Nominations have opened for the 2015 Subsea UK Awards. Now in their ninth year, the awards seek to recognise companies and individuals who are leading the way in Britain’s successful subsea sector.

Entries are being sought for the best subsea company of the year, the most promising young person in the sector, the most exciting new enterprise and the individual who has made the most outstanding contribution to the industry in 2014. The awards will also recognise achievements and innovations in technology, safety and exports. Entries closed on 31st October with finalists to be announced in January.

These highly coveted accolades will be presented at a gala dinner, organised by Subsea UK and sponsored by Forum Subsea Technologies and SETS, on Wednesday 11th February 2015 as part of Subsea Expo, Europe’s largest subsea conference and exhibition.

Several hundred business leaders are expected to attend the dinner which celebrates the hard work and outstanding achievements generated across the industry over the last twelve months.

Neil Gordon, chief executive Subsea UK, said: “The awards have become a highly

Time for British subsea stars to shine as entries open for Subsea UK awards

Hazards Asia Pacific 2015 – a process safety conferenceAsia’s process safety community will be gathering at the region’s premier process safety conference, Hazards Asia Pacific 2015, to identify and address safety challenges within the local process industries. The event will take place in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) on 21-23 April.

Hazards AP is the first of the Institution of Chemical Engineers’ (IChemE) Hazards series of events to be held outside of the UK since 1960. The inaugural conference in 2011 was the result of a joint collaboration between IChemE and the Chemical Industries Council of Malaysia (CICM) and has since been recognised as the region’s largest process safety event.

The conference has attracted a diverse range of international safety experts who will be sharing their knowledge and

lessons learned with the aim of preventing future disasters.

These include the chair of Great Britain Health and Safety Executive, Judith Hackitt CBE, chairman of the US Chemical Safety Board, Rafael Moure-Eraso and deputy general manager, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation’s Environment, Safety and Quality Department (Japan), Keiji Kuman.

Other speakers include vice president of GHSE and OE, PETRONAS (Malaysia), Datuk Kamarudin Zakaria and IChemE president and professor of energy engineering at the Imperial College London (UK), professor Geoff Maitland.

The programme will benefit regulators, insurers and academic researchers and is expected to attract operators from the

oil, gas, chemical and power generation sectors.

Topics to be covered include human factors, safety control systems, mechanical integrity, mindset and behaviours, sustainability. Other themes include safety as ‘value’, process safety management for SMEs, logistics and lessons learnt form past incidents/accidents.

For more information about Hazards AP, visit the event website: www.hazardsap.org

anticipated social event in the energy industry calendar. Each year we receive a high calibre of entries demonstrating the strength of the subsea sector in the UK.

The awards shine the spotlight on the expertise, leadership and innovation that the British subsea sector is renowned for and underline the strength of our sector both at home and on the global stage.”

Adventurer, marine biologist and film-maker Monty Halls will deliver the after dinner speech, sharing his experiences from a twenty year career that included a decade as an officer in the Royal Marine Commando’s as well as leading a number of high profile global expeditions.

Last year’s dinner, attended by over 800 guests from across the international energy industry, saw Bibby Offshore named company of the year in recognition of its continued growth and investment in people. VerdErg’s John White was named the recipient of the outstanding contribution award, marking a subsea career that has spanned nearly four decades.

Subsea Expo, which will be held at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre from Wednesday 11th to Friday 13th February 2015, will see over 200 exhibitors and a packed conference programme attracting over 6,000 delegates.

The challenges facing engineers and procurement professionals in offshore oil and gas exploration are numerous and critical in nature. Precise equipment specification is crucial, as failure during upstream activity such as drilling and subsea production can result in time and cost implications for the operating company; not to mention the associated environmental and health and safety risks.

During deep sea assignments, sealing performance of all mechanical and pipeline assets is fundamental. If compromised, operational stability will be put at risk and down-time for repair work will become detrimental to project delivery timeframes. A commonality of sealing elastomers is that exposure to low temperature during operation can impact on performance. In the subsea oil and gas industry, this translates as seawater temperatures typically ranging between 0°C and 3°C.

The added challenge within offshore exploration is the pressure of the application. High pressures are known to increase an elastomer’s ‘glass transition’ temperature, which in turn decreases the low temperature performance of the seal or O-ring in question. It is important to consider the key benchmarks and tests of the material for low temperature performance:

Upstream sealing performance: The combined impact of low temperature and high pressure

The above are measured via ASTM tests (D1329, D2137 and D7426 respectively) which are conducted at ambient atmospheric pressure. The effect of pressure on a sealing material should be considered if low temperature sealing integrity is critical.

By employing a proven elastomer sealing solution that far exceeds the environmental demands, operators can guarantee operational efficiency. Higher pressure common to subsea deep wells will increase the glass transition of a seal elastomer as pressure decreases its free volume, thereby reducing molecular mobility. Direct laboratory measurements may not be possible, but there are a few published papers that may be consulted which are beyond the scope of this article (Dlubek & et al, 2004) (Mckenna, 1989).

Table 1 demonstrates how high pressure may change an elastomer’s ability to seal at various temperatures. As a generalisation, for every 5 MPa (725 psi) increase in pressure the Tg increases by 1°C.

This shows the theoretical effect of pressure on the glass transition of an elastomer at the rate of 5 MPa to 1°C. Therefore, as the pressure increases so

does the Tg meaning an elastomer’s ability to seal in low temperature decreases with pressure. In high pressure applications such as offshore oil and gas exploration, it is advisable to consider an elastomer sealing solution which has been tested and proven beyond the condition specification.

PPE’s EnDura® range is the most technically advanced of elastomer materials available, developed to bring oilfield sealing technology up-to-date. The physical performance, chemical and temperature resistance of EnDura materials reflect these difficult conditions in which upstream exploration is now being conducted.

Precision Polymer Engineering (PPE) offers several low temperature materials for high pressure oil and gas applications, offering glass transition capabilities down to -40°C and tested to NORSOK, NACE, TOTAL ISO and API standards. PPE solutions all resist rapid gas decompression, oils, fuels, seawater and hydraulic control fluids.

For more information please contact PPE at: www.prepol.com

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Steve Jagels, Precision Polymer Engineering A Unit of IDEX Sealing Solutions

Temperature of Retraction – the temperature at which a stretched elastomer will retract a given percentage.

Brittleness Point – the lowest temperature an elastomer will not break or fracture when struck.

● ●

● Glass Transition or Tg – here a precise analytical instrument called a Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) will measure the specific heat capacity of a material and can indicate the transition of an elastomer from a material with a glass-like composition to one with flexible properties.

Pressure Glass Transition ○C TFE/P

Glass Transition ○C Standard FFKM

Glass Transition ○C Low Temp mFFKM

Atmospheric

5.1 MPa (750 psi)

69.9 MPa (10,000 psi)

137.8 MPa (20,000 psi)

206.8 MPa (30,000 psi)

+2

+3

+15

+29

+43

-30

+46

+32

+17

+6

+5

+11

-3

-17

-29

Table 1: High pressure can impact an elastomer’s ability to seal at various temperatures.

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55 SeriesIntroduction

The SEACON 55 SERIES of underwater electrical dry-mate connectors contain significant design improvements over other industry standard connectors, whilst maintaining compatibility and interchangeability with them.

This connector range is also available in PEEK (Polyetheretheketone) which was selected for its superior chemical resistance, excellent electrical properties, wear and abrasion resistance and light weight. This PEEK series of connectors are not affected by corrosion or cathodic delamination.

Key features include:-

• Industry Standard Compatibility

• Proven Sealing Technology

• Heavy Duty Stub Acme Threads (except shell size 15)

• Pressure Rated Blanking Caps available

Availability

Pressure rated to 10,000 psi (22,500ft/7,000m), the 55 SERIES is available in 5 shell sizes with up to 24 contacts with PBOF (Pressure Balanced

Oil Filled) options. Manufactured from 316L Stainless Steel as standard, other materials are also available upon request including Titanium, Aluminium Bronze and Alloy 625.

Applications

This connector range is suitable for a variety of applications including ROV’s, underwater cameras, diver communications, lights and pan and tilts.

Testing

Please contact SEACON for details: www.seaconworldwide.com

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Elmeridge subsea cable fully functional after 16 years in serviceElmeridge Cables Limited are proud to announce that one of their subsea camera cables is still operating perfectly, 16 years after it was initially installed.

The cable, used for an underwater installation in the Northern Isles of Scotland, was brought to the surface to be re-terminated following damage to a moulding caused by years of rough handling. The cable had been in daily use since 1998, in approximately 30 metres of

seawater, and following the maintenance on the connector was returned to service and is again operating perfectly .

The customer informed Elmeridge that other cable manufacturers have tried to emulate the specifications, but to date the cable has not been duplicated with the same quality as the original Elmeridge product.

Elmeridge Cables are always pleased to

receive feedback and we hope the cable continues to operate for many more years to come.

Further information about Elmeridge Cables Limited and our products can be found on our webite: www.elmeridge.com.

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Prysmian launches new Bicon components Prysmian Group has launched a new website dedicated to Bicon components offering a one stop information portal for the entire range of components.

Prysmian Group’s dedicated components facility manufactures and supplies the

market with products which are widely used in utility, industrial, commercial and specialist power distribution systems. The Bicon product range is the result of over 100 years of cable accessory development and quality engineering and they are the perfect installation accessory for Prysmian and Draka’s vast range of high quality, fully approved cables.

Components and cable accessories also offered for more specialist applications such as utilities power distribution, railway, oil, gas, petrochemical, hazardous areas, wind and solar energy.

The full range of components includes: ● Bicon Cable Glands ● Bicon Cable Cleats ● Bicast Joints & Terminations ● Bicon Connectors and Tooling ● Flexo Modular Power Systems ● Flexo Rail products

Data sheets, technical papers, articles, details of associated Bicon components, approval certificates and stockist information for Bicon products can be found on the website: www.biconcomponents.co.uk

EXIOS is the number one choice for all Ex d cable glandsFor over 60 years HUMMEL AG has provided outstanding solutions for all forms of cable management applications in the form of cable glands, metal circular connectors and box enclosures.

Our new innovative EXIOS range of Ex-d cable glands now offers the highest quality, reliability, ease of installation and above all safety for all hazardous area applications by meeting the very latest ATEX / IECEx Standards. HUMMEL AG continues to invest in its ongoing programme of Ex product development to provide its customers with the best product and safety features We aim to meet our Company motto: Setting Standards HUMMEL AG has a worldwide reputation as a leading manufacturer of electro-mechanical devices and offers the latest

construction, tool making, plating, and assembly within our automated factory processes. Our staffs are trained to the highest standards. EXIOS should be the new choice of specification used primarily on Offshore / Onshore Oil & Gas Exploration

The EXIOS is gaining rapid global recognition as the leading Ex Gland for Dual Seal and Barrier applications. Together with the existing high specification of our premier brand, HSK, HUMMEL can offer cable glands for Exd / Exe / Exi areas in V0 rated plastic, brass, nickel plated, stainless steel. Linked to these items are our approved range of cable gland accessories.

HUMMEL AG offers its customer base the Global Coverage demanded with point of contact in most continents.

See the HUMMEL website for our locations and network of sales agents and distributors.

Quality Management is fundamental to our approach and EXIOS is produced to ISO 9001: 2008 and the very latest flameproof standards globally. www.hummel.com

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Churchill Drilling Tools, the provider of innovative dart activated drilling tools, has launched the revolutionary HyPR™ (Hydraulic Pipe Recovery) system for the rapid and cost-effective recovery of stuck pipe.

Stuck pipe situations cost operators hundreds of millions of dollars a year in wait times. The HyPR™ tool, developed by the Houston and Aberdeen-located company, can cut that cost significantly by enabling operators to get back on track much more quickly.

HyPR™, the world’s first hydraulic pipe recovery tool was premiered at the Deepwater Operations Exhibition in Galveston, back in November this year.

HyPR™ was developed following extensive collaboration between Churchill Drilling Tools, deepwater and Gulf of Mexico drilling teams since 2013.

Churchill Launches HyPR™ The world’s first hydraulic pipe recovery toolWhen drilling challenging wells, stuck pipe situations can be a costly interruption, incurring mobilization wait times and uncertain recovery attempts and delays.

The HyPR™ tool offers the simplest method to recover the drill pipe rapidly and to begin side-tracking right away. It also delivers a clean cut for operators wanting to maximize BHA recovery options.

Churchill Drilling Tools’ director Mike Churchill said: “Churchill has already forged a strong reputation in the Gulf of Mexico, where our dart technology, has been recognized for its versatility, capability and reliability in challenging environments. What is exciting for the Company is that the HyPR™ system is the first product conceived and developed specifically for the GOM market and we are expecting it to deliver significant time savings for operators in the region.”

The HyPR™ system consists of a robust full strength sub, strategically positioned in the drill string. It is severed in around an hour by launching and pumping through a HyPR™ jetting dart, which lands inside the sub.

The dart takes only a few minutes to arrive and, with a relatively short period of pumping, will part easily under a small loading, simultaneously producing a perfect fish-neck for subsequent operations.

The expected mode of use is to set a kick-off plug, before coming out of hole with

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the recovered pipe. However the system also provides excellent jarring and internal wireline access for further recovery operations.

The HyPR™ tool comes in a range of sizes and connections to suit any drill string configuration. It is a natural partner to Churchill’s highly successful DAV™ (Dart Activated Valve), which can be positioned below to allow circulation to first be regained in pack-off situations. It is also compatible with a wide range of drilling jars.

The system contains no explosives or high energy sources and no specialist equipment or personnel are required. The cost-saving benefits are significant for most programs, however it is particularly useful in expensive or remote locations where external assistance is more costly to mobilize.

Mike added: “HyPR™, which has patents pending, is the latest offering from Churchill in our ongoing commitment to deliver innovative systems and solutions for the international drilling sector. With more than a decade of hydro-mechanical design experience, and a range of products used by more than 50 operators worldwide, we are a reliable partner to the drilling industry.”

For more information on the HyPR™ tool please visit Churchill Drilling Tools website:

www.circsub.com

IMI Critical Engineering launches innovative butterfly valve World-leading supplier of critical flow control solutions, IMI Critical Engineering, has expanded its high-specification product range for the oil and gas sector with the introduction of an innovative triple eccentric butterfly valve for turbo-expander applications by IMI Remosa.

A technically proven solution which can significantly cut refinery infrastructure costs, its role is to isolate the turbo-expander unit from the fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) operation.

By isolating the turbo-expander in this way, the FCC process can be kept running while the turbo-expander undergoes maintenance, radically cutting downtime. Developed by IMI Remosa, in conjunction with IMI Orton, world renowned for the Tri-X butterfly valves, it provides a highly reliable and cost-effective solution for both new plant and upgrades.

For further information visit: www.imi-critical.com

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Industry Leaders Full Page A4 Subsea & Offshore.indd 1 11/19/2014 10:55:05 AM

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Engineering Company welcomes new golden ageOn 11th November 1964 Air Power & Hydraulics Ltd was registered in Glasgow and now celebrates 50 years service to industry. APH began as a one-man band in Maryhill where Kal Bookman stocked a range of US manufactured pneumatic equipment.

In 1968 the company moved to Hillington Estate, and began building small power units for the agriculture industry.

From 1967 APH had begun buying in and selling on hydraulic cylinders, and soon after Ian Paterson joined the company in 1973, he designed APH’s first own-manufacture Hydraulic Cylinder. In 1975 APH designed a hydraulic cylinder for subsea use to meet the growing demand of the oil industry in Scotland. These were to be known as the CEPAC Cylinder and the company has since manufactured tens of thousands of these cylinders.

APH was one of the first cylinder manufacturers to use Electronic Rod Position Indication by incorporating linear transducers. There was a high demand for this spec, classed as ‘Smart’ cylinders, especially for remotely operated subsea vehicles. A further innovation by APH was the integration of valve systems into hydraulic cylinders, now in universal use.

1991 saw the introduction of the small all-stainless steel PENCYL cylinder range. The all stainless steel construction – perfect for marine and subsea applications also made these cylinders ideal for clean applications such as the food industry.

APH specialise in products for the oil and gas industry, main customers are European based, but the Company have worked on projects all over the world and for the future are already expanding into other areas such as renewables. APH’s global presence has also expanded with the establishment of the sister company Air Power Hydraulics Inc based in Georgia, USA, which is steadily gaining momentum.

The Company is celebrating 50 years in business and looking back and forward, APH is most proud of the Company’s commitment to creating apprenticeships and jobs for the local community in addition to all the team continually learning and being given further training opportunities.

For more information visit: www.aph.co.uk or www.aphusa.com

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ATR brings next generation compressors to the Norwegian marketATR Group is set to introduce new state-of-the-art compressor technology to the Norwegian market following a £7 million (GBP) investment in its rental fleet.

The company’s Power Solutions division is one of the only organisations supplying the DNV 2.7-2 NORSOK Z-015 and ATEX standard Zone II compressors to the Norwegian sector and has invested in an initial 20 units for use across its network of North Sea clients.

The investment comes after 18 months of sustained growth across the Aberdeen-headquartered group as it meets a

growing market demand for equipment and services.

John Cooper, director of ATR’s Power Solutions division, said: “The inspection, repair and maintenance market in Norway is as buoyant as it is elsewhere with a sustained programme of rig fabric maintenance underway in addition to numerous barge campaigns and other activity.

Within this environment operators are looking for increased flexibility and we are seeing a trend towards a move away from the older style compressor in favour

of higher specification equipment capable of operating across hazardous and non-hazardous areas.”

www.atrgroup.co.uk

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Industry leaders in controlled bolting solutions continues impressive growth

much looking forward to the rest of HTL’s journey to becoming a true global leader in our field.”

An exclusive HTL partner programme has been introduced to strengthen worldwide presence for the HTL brand. HTL already has an impressive partner network across the globe, the aim is to continue to develop long term partnerships with companies that share HTL’s commitment to supply cutting edge solutions to a diverse range of bolting challenges with class leading customer service.

By combining HTL’s extensive product portfolio and services with an impressive global network it’s clear to see why HTL are the industry leaders in controlled bolting solutions.

www.hiretorque.com +44 (0)1670 700000 sales@hiretorque.com

progression took place earlier this year which saw the company relocate to an impressive 65,300 sq ft facility in Cramlington, Northumberland now known as HTL’s world class corporate headquarters.

As a sign of our continued investment substantial new product development is planned to firmly establish HTL’s place in the market by designing the most innovative torque tooling in the industry. By bringing together knowledge and expertise spanning across two decades, HTL will increase the development and manufacture of their own premium range of hydraulic torque tooling.

As HTL’s journey progresses it is expected that career opportunities will continue to be presented, creating employment prospects for the North East as well as posing global partner openings.

Stephen Jones, Managing Director of HTL comments:

“Here at HTL we are on an exciting journey of growth, we recognise that this wouldn’t be possible without the success of HTL as a controlled bolting equipment manufacturer and supplier in a number of markets. This is a direct result of our people, our commitment to providing 100% customer satisfaction and our loyal customers support. I am very

HTL, a Northumberland based torque tooling manufacturer and supplier are continuing to grow as global leaders in the controlled bolting industry.

HTL stock one of the largest rental fleets of premium quality controlled bolting equipment in Europe, servicing both the UK and global customer base. Known for their unparalleled customer focus, HTL are able to offer a unique customer experience whilst providing an exceptional product and service portfolio. The company aims to provide the highest quality equipment and an unmatched service at an affordable rate.

A 38% increase in HTL’s workforce in 2014 is a clear indicator that HTL’s growth strategy is continuing to perform. Developing and recruiting a skilled local workforce is a key component to propel the company’s future success in the markets they serve.

The family owned company have unlocked valuable bolting expertise by appointing knowledgeable and dynamic individuals to fulfil key positions within the business including: Product Line Manager - Cramlington, Business Manager – Aberdeen and Regional Director – Asia Pacific. As well as strengthening HTL’s strategic team, development has also taken place in business support divisions such as: Marketing, Accounts, Stores and Logistics and Engineering.

The company’s journey to become a true global manufacturer and supplier is just beginning, and significant steps have already been made to construct a sustainable future for HTL. The first phase of the journey to support HTL’s

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Pertamina, Indonesia, Scour Rectification for 17 Offshore Platforms 2013 – 2014

SSCS supplied Type 12 Frond Mats to Pertamina at the end of 2012 for works planned to commence during 2013 and 2014 for scour rectification around 17 of their offshore platforms. Following on from this, it is planned to utilise the SSCS Frond Mats for further platforms over the coming years.

The Frond Mats are being used around exposed piles classed as “high priority” in order to remediate scour and provide permanent protection from the future development of scour.

The platforms are located between 5km and 100km from the Javanese coastline between Cirebon in the east and the Pulau Seribu archipelago in the west, a distance of approximately 200km.

SSCS provided detailed layout designs for each of the 17 platforms, along with product information to allow the selected installation contractor to familiarise themselves with the Frond Mat application.

Following on from this, installation was carried out at the sites throughout 2013 and 2014, and Mats continue to be installed today.

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Installation / Structure

Water Depth

Soils

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Visibility

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Fine Grained Silts & Clays

0.5-1.0 Knots

< 2 Metres

SINOPEC China, Bohai Bay 2006-2014 (ongoing)

Seabed Scour Control Systems Ltd have been supplying Type 12 and Type 25 Frond Mats to major Chinese Oil & Gas operators since 2006, which continue to be installed to rectify scour and provide permanent scour protection for assets such as subsea pipelines and offshore platforms.

Below is further detailed information on the SSCS Frond Mats supplied to the Sinopec owned and operated Shengli Field in Bohai Bay, China approximately 5 miles off the East Coast of Shandong Province for a number of Scoured and Exposed Pipelines.

This ongoing scour protection project started in 2006 since when approximately 1000 SSCS Frond Mats have been installed to protect up to 30 Pipelines and Platform Riser Spools.

SSCS Layout design for Tripod Platforms

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SSCS Frond Mats were first installed in 2006 along each side of a free-spanning 20” diameter pipeline to rectify the existing scour beneath the pipeline and to mitigate further scour propagation. The free-span was approximately 70 metres long and 0.2 metres deep with intermittent touchdown points. Results and Ongoing Works

The post Mat installation ROV General Inspection Survey carried out in 2007 showed that the free-span had been corrected and that the pipeline was again in contact with the re-established seabed and that there was no scour propagation beyond the Mats.

Extracts from the follow up survey dated 03/09/2007

“The 6 o/c position of the pipeline was in contact with the seabed at the edge of the mat, and there were no signs of further scouring observed under the pipeline, going past the mat”. “The ROV then relocated to the west side of the pipeline opposite the first mat, and it was observed that the pipeline was in contact with the seabed at the 6 o/c position, with no freespan seen beyond the mat. The Scour Correction mat appeared to have arrested the scouring of the freespan”. “The ROV then relocated to the west side of the pipeline opposite the second mat, and it was observed that the pipeline was in contact with the seabed at the 6 o/c position, with no

Shell Brunei, Pipeline Freespan rectification and stabilisationfreespan seen beyond the mat going towards the CPRJ-01. The Scour Correction mat appeared to have arrested the scouring on the CRPJ-01 side of the freespan...”

Following the initial successful deployment of SSCS Frond Mats Shell Brunei have since utilised the Mats as part of their annual pipeline survey and maintenance procedures and continue to do so.

The above photographs show the sand bags ready for transportation to the first pipeline site and one of the Frond Mats being deployed.

Results and Ongoing Works

The Frond Mats that have been installed have proven to provide the required protection for the pipelines and riser pipeline

spools at the Shengli Field and as a result SSCS continues to supply Mats each year for continuing works at the Shengli Field and other locations.

ITEM Installation / Structure

Water DepthSoils

Current Velocities

Tidal Range

ITEM 18” to 24” Pipelines

5 - 20 MetresSilty-course sand / silty clay

< 1.3 m/s

1.6 - 2.42 metres

Wave Action10 Year 2 Metres

50 Year 3 Metres

100 Year 5 Metres

Site Data

Moving Forward

SSCS continues to work with these clients throughout SE Asia and China, and have received intent from Petronas and Shell in Malaysia, CNOOC and CNPC in China, along with various other oil & gas majors throughout the region for use of our systems in 2015 onwards.

www.scourcontrol.co.uk

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At the Millennium Corniche Hotel in Abu Dhabi on 09 November 2014 Imenco and Indepth-International successfully held their first ‘in-area’ marketing and promotional event aimed at decision makers and product users in the UAE and wider Middle East oil, LPG and defence markets.

Management teams from both companies were delighted to be in attendance answering a wide variety of product and technical questions from the floor.

The morning and afternoon events allowed existing and potential customers to engage ‘hands-on’ with a range of Imenco mechanical and electronic products. Of particular interest to participants were the Imenco ROV operated semi-automatic shackles, Imenco subsea cameras, especially low light and HD options, and the new

Imenco successfully hold first in-area promotional event in Abu Dhabi

SEA LED 300 and 300L light ranges. Participants could see immediate use for all of these items in local and international markets and projects. Engagement on the day led to quotations being requested for a variety of Imenco products to fulfil and meet existing project deadlines along with meeting requests in the following days to discuss how Imenco products and services could assist in resolving project challenges.

Imenco and Indepth-International’s critical product marketing messages were

readily grasped by the audiences. Every Imenco product is designed with safety and ease of use in mind, saving boat time and increasing cost efficiencies for the operator. All Imenco electronic products carry a unique 3 year warranty.

Technical questions and options were discussed openly at the events with

several customer seeing answers to existing project issues.

For further information on Imenco products and to request a product demonstration email: info@indepth-international.co.uk or uk@imenco.com

The Basking Shark

ROV Operated Shackle

SEA LED 300 Block Floodlight

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The Smart Choice ­ Trusted by some of the biggest names in the subsea industryThe VideoRay Pro 4 helps you get the job done quickly and safely

So ask yourself ­ Why choose anything else?

www.atlantasmarine.com

F: +44 (0)1935 426 522

E: info@atlantasmarine.com

T: +44 (0)1935 426 000

Specialists in the supply ofWorld Class ROVs, Sonarsand Accessories to theSubsea Market.

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Aberdeen based leading subsea installation contractor Bibby Offshore recently hosted Conservative MEP for Scotland, Dr Ian Duncan, as part of a fact-finding mission into the oil and gas industry.

As part of Dr Duncan’s visit, he toured the company’s 50,000 sq ft purpose built state-of-the-art workshop and warehouse facility, The Hangar.

Dr Duncan also met with a number of staff from the company, learning about the achievements and successes that Bibby Offshore has experienced since its inception in 2003, and experiencing first-hand the work that goes on in the oil and gas industry.

David Sheret, General Manager – Global Business Development of Bibby Offshore, said: “Ministerial visits are vital for the continued investment in the development of the energy industry, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to welcome a Member of the European Parliament.

“Bibby Offshore is going from strength to strength and over the last decade we have grown considerably both nationally and internationally. This year alone we have opened a new base in Newcastle and Stavanger, Norway, with our activity in Houston is also increasing significantly due to the growing global demand for the company’s expertise.”

Mr Duncan’s visit also involved a discussion with Oonagh Werngren, Oil & Gas UK’s Operations Director, about the state of the industry, receiving an overview of the opportunities and challenges that the UKCS is facing.

Dr Ian Duncan MEP, said: “As a former analyst at BP, I am incredibly interested in Scotland’s energy industry, and believe it to be one of our economic success stories.

Bibby Offshore hosts MEP fact finding visit Bibby Offshore’s developments and accomplishments illustrate this success wholeheartedly, and being able to talk to the staff during the visit allowed me to witness the fantastic work that goes on in the industry.

“I was hugely impressed with the company’s state of the art workshop and warehouse, ‘The Hangar’. The ability to specialise in so many areas is of crucial importance to the Oil and Gas industry, and Bibby Offshore is setting a fine example.”

Bibby Offshore has grown from 10 employees in 2003 to now employing more than 1,450 people onshore and offshore worldwide, with offices in Aberdeen, Liverpool, Newcastle, Norway, Singapore, Trinidad and Houston. The company has an international fleet of seven subsea support vessels and 17 ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and will continue to add to its fleet to meet demand.

www.bibbyoffshore.comDr Duncan visiting Bibby Offshore

In 2014 alone, Amey PLC have purchased a large number of Cygnus 2 Hands Free ultrasonic thickness gauges to maintain much of the UK’s infrastructure that people rely on every day.

Cygnus Instruments Ltd are the leading manufacturer of multiple echo ultrasonic thickness gauges that are used in many industrial applications worldwide. So far this year, Cygnus have sold over 60 thickness gauges to Amey PLC who provide a wide range of services to the public and regulated sectors.

Mark Harris, Sales Engineer of Cygnus Instruments Ltd has had feedback from many Engineers at Amey PLC who use Cygnus thickness gauges, saying that “We like and trust the equipment for its reliability, simplicity to use, rugged build quality, good backup service and that it simply does what it says on the box. It gives us the readings we need when we need them. We like the Cygnus brand as it’s so well-

Working to maintain much of the UK’s infrastructureknown and trusted in NDT circles.”

A popular choice for many civil engineering and marine based companies is the Cygnus 2 Hands Free thickness gauge. The Cygnus 2 gauge is the smallest, lightest and most convenient multiple echo thickness gauge. With an end-mounted OLED display, it is specifically designed for users who need to perform metal thickness inspections using rope access or with the gauge clipped to their belt.

All Cygnus thickness gauges use the multiple echo technique which provides accurate and reliable thickness measurements, without the need to remove coatings. This technique is often referred to by IACS for ‘firms engaged in thickness measurements on ships’ and the

Designed for hands free metal thickness guaging, used in many belt mounted or

rope access applications

‘Weathering Steel for Highway Structures’ document from the Department of Transport.

www.cygnus-instruments.com

Subsea Torque Verification SystemsZetechtics torque verification systemsallow operators and their clients to checkthe accuracy of torque tool settings whilstsubsea, potentially saving significant timeand financial cost by preventing accidentalover torque on valve stems. This obviatesthe requirement for lengthy retrievals tocheck torque tool settings on deck.

Zetechtics manufacture a wide range ofbattery powered subsea sensors that canbe fitted to subsea equipment for clientapplications, sensor range includes:accurate pressure gauge monitoring, valveactuation counters, simple on/off sensorstate monitoring and the latest dualdisplay measuring both torque and turns.

Subsea Sensors &Display Systems

Subsea Control SystemsZetechtics are well known for quality &reliability and with clients demandinggreater accuracy & repeatability (whencontrolling hydraulic tooling at depth),our Jupiter range of control systemscertainly deliver and frequently exceedour customer expectations.

Quality & reliability you can count on

Zetechtics LtdTel: +44 (0) 1653 602020 Email: sales@zetechtics.com Website: www.zetechtics.com

Zetechtics manufacture Jupiter Subsea Control Systems for the Tooling Intervention Market, Torque Verification Equipment, a range of Subsea Sensors and C- Kore (Jumper & Umbilical Monitoring Device). Zetechtics are market leaders in Subsea Control Systems for Bespoke Applications.

Any Jupiter system can be upgraded to add new facilities at any time. New options are continually being added and can be retrofitted to older systems if required.

Set-up System

Jupiter systems use the same software; no special customized version is required for users application. The software is ‘told’ what to do and how to do it by a single set-up file. Users have free access to all aspects of the Jupiter software set-up and do not require the use of a software engineer to make alterations. Users can allocate individual passwords to any part of the Jupiter set-up system to prevent unauthorized alteration. There are over 450 Jupiter Systems in service worldwide, operating complex, hi-integrity systems such as flowline pull in tools and pipeline repair equipment.

Hardware

The concept behind Jupiter is standardization of hardware & software. Every Jupiter System in operation uses the same compact, low cost hardware core, designed specifically for Subsea Intervention rather than the commonly used modified

COTS components housed in a large 1-atmosphere pressure vessel. This way we reduce complexity and avoid obsolescence problems. Jupiter systems are designed and tested to operate in at least 4,000 meters of seawater.

Software

Powerful Jupiter software has a variety of features and options that the client can choose from and is identical in every system ever supplied. This enables training, set-up and support to be easily managed.

For more information please contact the sales team on: +44 (0)1653 602021 or email sales@zetechtics.com

www.zetechtics.com

Quality & reliability you can count on

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Belzona cold bonding facilitates seperator upgrade

The 1st Stage Production Separator in operation on the Triton FPSO in the North Sea required cost effective upgrade measures to improve performance and operability as well as to maximise throughput. The future projected cases involved significant (greater than 200% of original) increases in total liquids with gas production remaining constant. Peak oil and water cases were stated for each new tie-in.

When welding is not an option

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Original Design Flow Rates Required Flow Rates

Maximum oil-in-water content 1000 ppm by volume 200 ppm by volume

Maximum water carryover in oil 0.033 m3 / mmsm3 (0.25 usg / mmscf)

0.033 m3 / mmsm3 (0.25 usg / mmscf)

Opus, the industry leaders in providing solutions that improve the performance and efficiency of Oil and Gas production facilities, were awarded a contract to review and recommend cost effective upgrade measures. An offshore survey was performed to gain an insight into the conditions within the separator. The information was used in the detailed design of new vessel internals and for preparation of the installation strategy.

Cold Applied Solution Required

As hot work was not permitted on this project due to the work being carried out in-situ offshore, all components had to be supplied ‘piece small’ and assembled inside the vessel. The new droplet separator was longer and slimmer than the original to accommodate both the higher liquid operating levels and provide a solution to the liquid carry over whilst facilitating higher gas capacity, which was part of the reason for upgrading. As with the majority of upgrades, there was not an option to weld to the existing vessel.

Modification in Action

The lower edges of the new baffles were supported on beams which were mounted within the vessel using new stainless steel clips bonded to the carbon steel vessel wall with Belzona 1111. The bonded clips were then coated with Belzona 1391 for galvanic corrosion prevention. This had the effect of creating a solid structure right through the centre section of the vessel. The plate packs were supported on new beams similarly bonded with Belzona.

The weir extensions were bolted in two pieces to the top of the existing weirs and the sealing to the side walls of the vessel achieved by bonding new clips using Belzona. A self adhesive, PTFE gasket was then ‘woven’ between the fixings to complete the assembly.

Due to the high future water content, the existing water outlet nozzle was of insufficient diameter. To solve this, a decision was taken to redirect the existing oil and water outlet nozzles through the weir. This involved modifying the weir plate to allow the outlets to pass through it. The outlets were then directed through short elbow sections towards the outlet. In order to join the elbow and outlet, an interface was machined into the bore of the existing nozzle which would allow the two to connect. The interface was sealed using Belzona products.

The droplet separator housings were supported from below, through new support frames. These were mounted to the webs remaining from removal of the existing droplet separator. A sealing coat of Belzona was applied between its top flange and the vessel shell. Vertical load was then applied, via jacking screws, to ensure that the sealing medium was compressed whilst curing.

Load bearing clips bonded

New internals arrangment, cold bonding areas highlighted in green

(images courtesy of Opus Ltd)

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The coalescing plate packs were designed and fabricated in a modular cell form and supported within the vessel on cross beams, mounted on new clips bonded to the vessel wall with Belzona. The lower rows of cells were fixed to the beams at the time of bonding and remained there while curing to ensure the beams were fixed squarely and positioned correctly.

Following completion of installation, the Opus installation supervisor, with the Company offshore representative, undertook a final inspection of all assemblies to ensure the integrity and issue a Certificate of Conformity.

Separator Inspected in 2011

The separator was opened for inspection in 2011, confirming Belzona’s cold bonding solution to be in excellent condition. Belzona 1111 and Belzona 1391 withstood process temperatures and pressures, and allowed for the separator to be put back into service with no remedial work.

Advantages of Cold Bonding Technology

Since the entire project eliminated the need for hot work, there is no requirement to heat treat the vessel as no additional stress had been added.

The use of the cold bonding technology also offers the opportunity to bond two dissimilar metals without creating a galvanic/bi-metallic corrosion cell. Modifications can be achieved without major shutdown or safety concern. Work can be undertaken during short outage periods and the downtime of the vessel is greatly reduced. Finally, utilization of these high temperature cold curing products enables less expensive materials of construction to be used for fabrication of the unit.

Inspection in 2011

Weir sealing with Belzona

The harsh, corrosive environments of marine & offshore applications can have a significant impact on the lifetime and performance of fan systems. For this reason, leading Spanish fan manufacturer, Sodeca, designed a fan range to withstand such tough conditions. Rugged, robust, high-performance fans complete with durable weather protection. Axair Fans, based in Staffordshire, are the exclusive UK distributor for SODECA and can supply a broad range of specialist systems to fulfil your marine & offshore ventilation requirements.

They have a variety of axial fans available in stainless steel or marine grade finishes such as C3, C4 and C5M according to ISO 12944 which describes the types of paint and paint systems commonly used for corrosion protection of steel structures. CH3 applies to urban and industrial atmospheres and production areas with high humidity while C4 applies to industrial and coastal environments and chemical processing plants. Finally, C5M applies to high salinity found in marine, offshore and coastal areas.

The Axair range also includes HCT/MA, a cased axial fan which is duct mounted in and out and HFT/MAR, which is cased at the beginning of the duct. Both fans have cast aluminium impellers and sheet steel galvanised casing. Performance available from 3100 to 72000m³/h and diameter from 350 to 1000mm.

The HTP is a high pressure cased axial fan with thick, high-protection anti-corrosive painting type C3. Performance available from 19000 to 157000 m³m/h and diameter from 710 to 1250mm. The HBA is a bifurcated fan for high temperature handling up to 150°. It has an anticorrosive finish of C3.

The HTMH is a roof fan, fitted with axial fans. With cast aluminium impellers, sheet steel base plate, casing and hood C4 finishing. Two speed motors with an operating performance from 81700 to 22600 m³/h and a diameter from 560 to 1000mm.

Many of the fans use a class F motor and have an IP55 rating against dust and hosed water. In most cases where the finish is C3 and C4, C5M are available upon request. All motors may not need to be compliant with naval classifications, but can be upon request, including Bureau Verita (BV), Det Norske Veritas (DNV), Lloyd’s Register of Shipping (LR) and many others.

For more information visit the website: www.axair-fans.co.uk

Axair Fans for marine & offshore

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Weld overlay cladding specialist Arc Energy Resources has successfully completed a contract to apply a corrosion resistant surface to the internal bores of two forged wye pieces for Vulcan SFM destined for BP’s Clair Ridge development.

This latest opportunity for the Clair Ridge project involves the supply of two 22” wye pieces, which are required for the convergence of two incoming pipe lines into one outgoing line. Vulcan SFM has supplied wye pieces for many projects as both castings and forgings. In this case the wye pieces were specified as forgings with specific requirements for strength, toughness and weldability. Vulcan SFM carried out the engineering design verification, optimising the shape and using a new proprietary material grade capable of providing the required strength and toughness and giving good weldability. This was especially important given the internal surfaces were to be weld clad with Inconel 625.

This special requirement for cladding led to Vulcan SFM contacting Arc Energy Resources, a leading UK welding engineering specialist with 20 years’ experience in weld overlay cladding of the oil and gas industry.

For the wye piece internal contour, the pre-clad sizing and clad thickness were all carefully considered in the design to allow for the final Inconel layer thickness and adequate sweep on the transition radius to fulfil the pigging requirements.

Ian Nicholls commented that for Vulcan SFM, cladding a wye piece was a new procedure. However, Arc Energy had the knowledge, experience and equipment to complete the work so he was very pleased to build on the established relationship and work with them on this project.

“We had developed a very good relationship during previous projects and received really good support from everyone at Arc Energy Resources - from managing director Alan Robinson, the projects team and the welding engineers” he says.

Commenting for Arc Energy Resources, managing director Alan Robinson says: “For our weld engineers the specification of cladding was fairly straightforward because we are able to handle components up to 15 tonnes, clad bores up to four metres diameter, and clad areas of restricted access within bores as small as 20mm diameter. However, the geometry of the wye piece itself posed a challenge because once finished, an

Arc Energy Resources successfully completes weld overlay of wye pieces for Vulcan SFM

inspection pig has to be introduced into the bore to ensure that it passes a vital ‘radius of transition’ test.”

This is where Arc Energy’s £500,000 investment in two rotating head welding machines proved invaluable. Money well spent says Alan Robinson, as the two rotating head welding machines increase productivity, extend the size and scope of work the company can process, and expand its capacity to handle orders for cladding large and/or complex components, enabling Arc Energy to successfully complete the complex cladding requirements.

The wye pieces supplied by Vulcan SFM for the BP Clair Ridge contract were clad by Arc Energy Resources and delivered in May 2013 and, as Ian Nichols sums up, “It is also worth stressing that the machine finishing of the cladding was carried out and that post clad inspection was perfect and there were no issues at all.”

www.arcenergy.co.uk

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Europe’s largestannual Subsea Exhibitionand ConferenceAberdeen AECC | 11-13th February 2015

ORGANISED BY

Conference Sponsor

Headline Sponsor Principal Media Sponsor Principal Media Partner

Supporting Sponsors

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Europe’s largestannual Subsea Exhibitionand ConferenceAberdeen AECC | 11-13th February 2015

ORGANISED BY

Conference Sponsor

Headline Sponsor Principal Media Sponsor Principal Media Partner

Supporting Sponsors

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Fugro GeoServices, Inc. was founded in 1999 as a division of Fugro USA, part of Fugro N.V, a multi-national group of consulting engineers who supply advice, technical applications and drilling operations worldwide. In 2007, Fugro awarded to BOCONCO Incorporated the building of a new survey vessel, to be named the “Fugro Enterprise.” This vessel is initially conducting three deepwater surveys in the Gulf of Mexico and carries a suite of high-resolution geophysical survey equipment, including Echo Surveyor II, a Hugin 3000 Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, as the primary system.

First founded in 1997, BOCONCO’s offices and shipyard were destroyed by hurricane Katrina in August of 2005 but were completely rebuilt, and the yard delivered its first boat since then in January of 2007. Also in 2007, BOCONCO built the Fugro Enterprise, which was launched on June 1 2007.

The carbon steel vessel’s underwater hull was protected with two coats each of Amercoat 235 multi- purpose epoxy and ABC3 high-performance, tin-free, self-polishing antifouling. The freeboard received two coats of Amercoat 235, and was then

High protection Amercoat 235 and Amercoat 450H glosstopcoated with Amercoat 450H gloss aliphatic polyurethane. These systems will provide the vessel with outstanding weather and antifouling protection.

www.fugro.co.uk

The Fugro Enterprise

Asset Management. With costs rising and managers looking for longer term asset survival, an appreciation of the benefits of Zinga one pack cold applied galvanising system is a worthwhile study. A consideration of coatings as an engineering system rather than just ‘paint’ can save time, money and preserve asset value especially where other development is dependent on the steel infrastructure.

Advantages. Zinga is a long term cost effective alternative to conventional hot dip galvanizing or painting. Of course conventional steelwork preparation followed by blasting to a required profile is also necessary for the application of Zinga; however that’s where the similarity ends! Zinga’s speed into service is unrivalled. With a temperature tolerance of -12oC to +35oC and relative humidity up to 95%, coupled with a drying time of 10 minutes in the summer months, preparation, application and into service use are all possible in the same day!

Where end of life projections exceed 15 years, thus outside of the remit of most conventional coatings, Zinga will come into its own as simple jet washing is all that is needed for Zinga to be re-loaded, significantly reducing through-life costs. No further blasting is necessary.

Zinga has many advantages over other coatings; electro chemically bonding with the metal, it can be welded through without porosity, and produces significantly lower amounts of toxic fumes compared with HDG. Application to damp surfaces with no visible sheen can be achieved and post application it will not delaminate when bent or impacted. Zinga with also ‘throw’ up to 15mm to protect bare steel when attrition damage scores through the coating.

Repair of existing HDG Where hot-dip galvanising needs to be repaired, replaced or built-up in thickness, the surface just needs a sweep-blast at low pressure to roughen the surface, then Zinga can be applied. Treatment by brush, roller or spray gives the maintenance team complete flexibility, and coupled with the virtual ‘all-weather’ benefits above reduces down-time to a minimum.

Zinga has been used on bridges, sub-sea pipe-lines, oil platforms, railway structures, water tanks, electricity pylons, London Underground, Paris Metro, ships, nuclear submarines, nuclear power stations, telecom towers and many other structures.

www.zinga-uk.com

MGDuff Zinga, film-galvanising for steelwork

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Hazardous Area Supplement SO SSUBSEA & OFFSHORE

SERVICE MAGAZINE

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How the recent introduction of the innovative EX25 2D Multi Range Barcode Imager for ecom’s.

i.roc® Ci70-Ex handheld computer (PDA) enables new levels of efficiency and safety for companies and onsite personnel in potentially hazardous locations.

Entrenched working practices can be hard to change, but when it comes to improving safety and efficiency the rewards are usually worth the effort, protecting your people and assets, and improving your bottom line results.

The increasing use of 1D/2D barcodes in the workplace to identify items, pallets, containers, storage locations and even yard locations brings the opportunity to improve safety by reducing the time the people are in a hazardous area, and improving efficiency due to the speed and accuracy of item/location identification and data capture.

However, with some barcode solutions, the operator still has to descend from the forklift to scan the pallet barcode, or has difficulty reading the barcode from a distance for the pallet stacked on the top shelf of the warehouse rack.

Similarly, reading the barcodes on containers located in the laydown area may require the deckhand to be close to the container – adding to the potential risk if the crane is operating at the time.

Damaged barcodes, or those barcodes which are printed on reflective material or indented into metal items, can also cause user frustration when they can’t be scanned – reducing the user experience and leading to manual keying in of the item identifier, resulting in potential human error and lost time.

Likewise, when tracking radioactive sources and explosives, the operator often needs to be close to these items to scan the item barcode, increasing their exposure and personal risk.

And, an intrinsically-safe camera may be needed to take a picture of any damage found on these received items – however the user must remember to manually save these pictures against the correct incoming material and shipment, which can be an onerous task.

With the recent introduction of the EX25 2D Multi Range Barcode Imager for ecom’s i.roc® Ci70 -Ex, these concerns can be relegated to the past.

The ability to quickly and accurately read a wide range of 1D and 2D barcode types - even hard to read barcodes – from any angle up close and from a distance allows you to avoid these issues when you need to identify and track items.

With the protection to operate safely in hazardous areas and offering the flexibility to scan barcodes (and even take a photo) in both poorly lit areas as well as bright sunlight means you can use it without restriction.

Connected to the i.roc® Ci70 -Ex PDA as an integrated head module, the EX25 head retains the same streamlined and well-balanced features of the i.roc® Ci70 -Ex, avoiding protruding “add-on” modules which can be difficult to use and can snag on ladders and other infrastructure - potentially causing a safety incident.

User-friendly ‘Aim and Scan’ capabilities further improve the user experience due to the speed and ease of use when scanning barcodes, from any angle and orientation. Setup of new devices is also equally fast and simple using the automated ‘Scan N Go’ capability.

Typical applications for this device include item lifetime track & trace, tool management, temporary equipment control, warehouse inventory management, supply chain logistics, and inspection/maintenance/repair.

Further benefits for the workforce include: reduced user fatigue and improved user experience; improved real-time visibility and control of containers, materials, equipment and inventory; improved accuracy of the item’s cradle-to-grave history; improved decision making and accountability; and higher profitability.

www.ecom-ex.com

Avoiding inefficient and unsafe working practices in potentially hazardous areas

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Hazards trainingCourses to help you, your staff and your organisation improve safety, reduce risk and make the working environment safer.

Managing the Hazards of Flare Disposal Systems27-28 April 2015, Rugby, UK www.icheme.org/flaredisposal

HAZOP Study for the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry12-15 May 2015, Aberdeen, UK www.icheme.org/hazopoil

Gas Explosion Hazards on LNG Facilities5-6 October 2015, London, UK www.icheme.org/lng

Gas Explosion Hazards on Offshore and Onshore Facilities19-20 November 2015, London, UK www.icheme.org/gasexp

Alternative dates and locations available, visit the websites for more information.

Email: courses@icheme.org, tel: +44 (0)1788 534431

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Fire and gas detectionFire and Gas (F&G) detection and control is critical in any industry but perhaps none more so than an offshore Oil/Gas installation. Fortunately, thanks to the technology available, stringent industry regulation and the professionalism of the companies involved in the industry, significant fire and gas episodes are incredibly rare.

The UK Continental Shelf has been a hive of Oil & Gas activity for almost 50 years and has a significant install base of mature assets. Over the years these assets have expanded, developed and/or been modified and so constant review of offshore F&G system installation is critical to ensure optimum levels of detection and protection are achieved.

A Fire & Gas Mapping study is generally the first step and can assess the current layout of detection in use to determine if they remain in the most appropriate position to detect the threat, whether it be gas, flame, smoke, oil mist or any other relevant hazard.

Some of the larger installations in the UK North Sea can have F&G control systems made up of several thousand field devices ranging from the widely recognised smoke detector through to the detection of the highly toxic, flammable and corrosive gas, Hydrogen Sulfide.

The wider control system into which the field devices feed will ultimately determine the action that results if any of the detectors goes into alarm mode. These actions can range from a simple alarm being triggered, fire pumps being started etc right the way through to a plant wide shut down of all system.

Given these implications, it is critical that the initial system design and implementation is fit for purpose. As with most technology based solutions, regular skilled maintenance and as required upgrades are key to ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the overall system.

Servelec Controls have been supporting the Oil & Gas industry for in excess of 40 years and are specialists in the design, engineering, install, commissioning and maintenance of highly complex F&G Detection and Control systems.

For further information contact: chris.stones@servelec-controls.com

The BP Andrew production platform using the Servelec’s Safety and Control

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New intrinsically safe HygroFlex5-EX seriesRotronic has launched a new transmitter for measurement of humidity and temperature in explosive atmospheres. The series is certified to ATEX and IECEx and therefore conforms to the latest international standards (IEC 60079-0/11/18/26/31/7).

The HF5-EX series consists of a robust aluminium transmitter with or without display. The attached probes are cast into a stainless steel tube, and are certified for operation in Zone 0/20. The transmitter itself is certified for Zone 1/21. “Compared to its predecessor, the new explosion-proof device no longer needs an intrinsically safe power supply thanks to a clever circuit design with galvanic isolation,” says Uolf Grass, Product Manager at Rotronic.

The HygroFlex5-EX advantages at a glance:

• Measurement of relative humidity and temperature, optional output of dew point and other calculated parameters • Safe operation in areas with explosion risk • Intrinsically safe electrical construction • No intrinsically safe power supply required • Interchangeable stainless steel probes • Robust aluminium housing

Further detailed information on HygroFlex5-EX and other Rotronic measuring devices is available at: www.rotronic.com or by telephone at: +41 448381144.

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New INTELIHEAT™ Ex rated heating jacket launchedLMK Thermosafe Limited has introduced a revolutionary new hazardous area heating jacket. The ATEX Zone 1 rated jackets are constructed with patented technology using carbon rich semi-conducting heating membranes allowing safe operation even in the presence of potentially explosive gases. They easily wrap around a standard 205L drum or 1000L IBC and run off single phase 240volts.

LMK Thermosafe has a long history of developing and manufacturing ATEX and IECEx certified drum and container heating products suitable for the oil and gas industries. Their designs and production quality have stood the test of time, successfully being used in numerous applications all over the world. This recently earned them the highly prestigious Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade.

The Inteliheat jackets already compliment the unique ATEX certified THERMOSAFE and FARATHERM Induction heaters. The induction heaters have proved their dominance and enduring place in the market; units that are thirty years old are still going strong!

Apart from the ATEX certified heaters, the company has safe-area Digiheat Base Heaters and a huge range of standard Flexible Heating Jackets available from stock.

Everything is designed and manufactured on-site at their Haverhill factory in the UK. This enables LMK Thermosafe to quickly produce custom size heating jackets for special applications if required.

For more information you can contact LMK Thermosafe:

Tel: +44 (0)1440 707141 Email: sales@drumheating.com

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and gas industry.

An IR sensor measures gas using two different wavelengths: one that absorbs gas and the other does not. This allows for easy measurement and high sensitivity to gases. With little chance of being poisoned, the Gas-Pro IR is inherently safer and saves the need of regular and expensive pellistor replacement when used in likely contaminated environments.

Gas-Pro IR measures in %LEL, standing for lower explosive limit, which is the lowest concentration of a gas or vapour in normal air capable of combustion in the presence of an ignition source. Gas-Pro IR has been certified for use in hazardous areas as defined by both ATEX/IECEx and UL.

The Gas-Pro IR carries forward the simple calibration and easy testing that is synonymous with Gas-Pro range. The Gas-Pro IR range now completes Gas-Pro range which gives greater flexibility for sensor selection in a 5-gas multi-gas detector.

www.crowcon.com

Crowcon, the gas detection specialist, has further strengthened its Gas-Pro range with the introduction of the Gas-Pro IR. This latest offering detects methane, pentane or propane using infrared IR sensor technology. The Gas-Pro range, celebrated for its portability and confined spaces functionality, sees the addition of this IR version as the ideal detector for the oil and gas industry.

“The Gas-Pro IR detects potentially explosive gases in conditions where a pellistor-based catalytic sensor may struggle, especially in a low oxygen environment, as pellistors need oxygen to function,” says Richard Dunn, portables product manager, Crowcon. “Also, in some industrial environments, pellistor sensors are at particular risk of being poisoned or inhibited, so leaving workers on their shift unprotected. In such environments, use of IR sensors significantly enhances safety and saves the cost of regular pellistor sensor replacement.”

The infrared measurement gives improved reliability over pellistor-based sensor systems:

• A key advantage of the IR system is its application in low oxygen environments, particularly in confined spaces where the movement of air/gas is naturally restricted. In places such as fuel storage tanks, where an inert gas has been flushed through prior to maintenance, the low oxygen environment (typically, under 5% of the local atmosphere) means a pellistor-based sensor could not be relied on to test the level of fuel vapour.

• Another distinct benefit is that a pellistor-based sensor may be poisoned by low levels (parts per million) of contaminants such as silicone or lead. Other compounds can inhibit them, for example hydrogen sulphide. This is a particular threat in the oil

Crowcon strengthens Gas-Pro range with infrared capability

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Oteac to boost turnover by £600,000 as only approved test station in Aberdeen for fire and safety cylindersOteac has become the only approved test station in Aberdeen for fire and safety extinguishers/products after receiving accreditation from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service.

The providers of specialist safety engineering products and services believe that this schedule of accreditation for the periodic in-service inspection of fire and safety cylinders will result in £600,000 of new business in the next 12 months.

The service centre accreditation (Certificate no 4093) certifies Oteac as a Type B Inspection Body under ISO / IEC 17020 : 1998.

Oteac chief executive, Bill Hogarty, said: “We are one of only a small number of organisations in the fire and safety industry UK-wide to carry this demanding accreditation. This firmly positions us ahead of our competition as it is now illegal for any organisation to carry out this type of testing without the UKAS accreditation.

“To meet the exacting requirements of UKAS accreditation, our stringent procedures, processes and supporting training and competence scheme have been fully audited against the ISO standard.”

As a leading supplier of integrated safety engineering services, Oteac provides fire suppression and detection products and services to its target markets, primarily in the offshore oil and gas industry, from its base in Maryculter, Aberdeen. The company which employs over 70 people has a proven track-record stretching back 30 years.

Oteac is the only approved test station in Aberdeen for fire and safety extinguishers

Practical advice and turnkey solutions from HornbillHornbill is your full turnkey solution for specialist services in the field of process control, instrumentation, electrical systems, high voltage and training.

Established in 1989 with the vision to build long term partnerships with clients through technical excellence and unsurpassed customer care. Today we enjoy an exceptionally high client retention rate, with many of our customers having worked with us throughout the lifetime of Hornbill.

Hornbill has considerable expertise in hazardous area compliance. As a NICEIC Hazardous Approved Company we can design, install, inspect, test and maintain all your hazardous area electrical installations in accordance with BS EN 60079 as well as the DSEAR and ATEX regulations.

At Hornbill, we will provide the practical advice and support you need to ensure that your hazardous area installations comply fully with the entire regulatory framework - at all times. All work and reporting is carried out by our CompEx EX01 to EX10 qualified engineers.

Out training centre, Hornbill Industrial Training is a regional JTL approved assessment centre for CompEx Hazardous area training for EX Foundation, EX01 – EX04 (Electrical & Refresher), EX05 – EX06 (Dust) & EX11 (Mechanical). Training is delivered in our state of the art training facility just off junction 44 of the M4 in South Wales.

Our training team are all experienced within the industry and are recognised by JTL to deliver CompEx training. All courses are delivered in a pragmatic way to aid learning and understanding.

All work and training is fully underpinned by our accreditations:

Hornbill Hornbill is your full turnkey solution for specialist services in the field of process control, instrumentation, electrical systems, high voltage and training. Established in 1989 with the vision to build long term partnerships with clients through technical excellence and unsurpassed customer care. Today we enjoy an exceptionally high client retention rate, with many of our customers having worked with us throughout the lifetime of Hornbill. Hornbill has considerable expertise in hazardous area compliance. As a NICEIC Hazardous Approved Company we can design, install, inspect, test and maintain all your hazardous area electrical installations in accordance with BS EN 60079 as well as the DSEAR and ATEX regulations. At Hornbill, we will provide the practical advice and support you need to ensure that your hazardous area installations comply fully with the entire regulatory framework - at all times. All work and reporting is carried out by our CompEx EX01 to EX10 qualified engineers Out training centre, Hornbill Industrial Training is a regional JTL approved assessment centre for CompEx Hazardous area training for EX Foundation, EX01 – EX04 (Electrical & Refresher) , EX05 – EX06 (Dust) & EX11 (Mechanical). Training is delivered in our state of the art training facility just off junction 44 of the M4 in South Wales. Our training team are all experienced within the industry and are recognised by JTL to deliver CompEx training. All courses are delivered in a pragmatic way to aid learning and understanding. All work and training is fully underpinned by our accreditations:

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Beamex provides the equipment, software and services needed for an effi cient calibration process. The calibration process starts from the planning and scheduling of the calibration work and includes performing of calibrations as well as documentation of results. An effi cient calibration process saves time, automates procedures, is cost-effi cient and assures that the results are reliable. The best-in-class calibration processes are integrated, automated and paperless. Learn more and test how advanced and effi cient your existing calibration process is at: www.beamex.com/calibrationsundercontrol

www.beamex.cominfo@beamex.com

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Penny + Giles has supplied its ICS100 linear potentiometers to provide positional feedback for Xylem Flow Control’s range of electro-hydraulic actuators, which provide a solution for the operation of choke and control valves used in the oil and gas industry; and for water & wastewater transport and treatment applications.

As Xylem’s engineer John Smallshaw explains: “We specialise in the design and manufacture of electro-hydraulic actuation for control valves for both onshore oil and gas pipelines and pumping stations and offshore topside choke pressure and flow control applications, where there is either Zone 0 (constant hazard) or Zone 1 (occasional hazard) risk from explosive petrochemical gas.

“A typical application is to provide an actuator control system to meet the operating parameters of the specified size of valve based on the working stroke, the fail action and operating thrusts for opening and closing the valve against process operating conditions. The process valve must be capable of handling the specified pressure or volume of oil or gas determined by the valve manufacturer,

Penny & Giles potentiometer helps Xylem go with the flow!and the actuator is sized to meet the operating conditions for that particular application. It is our decision to select the position feedback device that will provide optimum accuracy and performance for the system,” he says.

As an example, for Zone 0 applications Xylem would normally use a potentiometer or an alternative intrinsically-safe certified device. The potentiometer is invariably

the easiest and most cost-effective device to apply, however the selection of the feedback device may be determined by the hydraulic operating fluid as the position feedback device is of the ‘in-cylinder’ type and therefore immersed in hydraulic fluid.

The company prefers to work with mineral-based hydraulic fluids as they are generally suitable for use with potentiometers. For systems incorporating water-based fluids such as water glycol, special consideration has to be given to the selection of the feedback device or the

method of mounting the potentiometer. It is possible to locate the potentiometer within a special oil chamber that is mechanically linked to the actuator but operating outside the hydraulic medium.

Typical applications include valve systems installed topside on oil and gas production platforms, helping to control the flow of media as it is being transferred up through the special risers that transport media from the well itself; and on to the pipelines that eventually transport it ashore for storage or processing. Automatic feedback from the potentiometer, delivered via a closed-loop system, allows pressure and flow to be monitored and analysed and the position of the valve adjusted as required.

A nominal 5 volt signal is supplied to the ICS100 from the Xylem positioner controller, which operates on an input signal from a control panel to tell what valve adjustments are needed to maintain the required flow or pressure – 4 milliamps signal is the closed position and the signals between 4 and 20 milliamps represent 0-100%. So if the valve receives a 12 milliamp signal it will recognise the change in voltage as its new 50% position, based on feedback from the Penny + Giles potentiometer.

Summing up, John Smallshaw says “The migration from Penny + Giles’ HLP100 to the new, metric ICS100 was virtually seamless as the models are interchangeable; so when he needs to replace HLPs or supply spares, even after all this time, it is natural to specify the ICS.”

Beamex provides the equipment, software and services needed for an effi cient calibration process. The calibration process starts from the planning and scheduling of the calibration work and includes performing of calibrations as well as documentation of results. An effi cient calibration process saves time, automates procedures, is cost-effi cient and assures that the results are reliable. The best-in-class calibration processes are integrated, automated and paperless. Learn more and test how advanced and effi cient your existing calibration process is at: www.beamex.com/calibrationsundercontrol

www.beamex.cominfo@beamex.com

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Northern Divers (Eng) Ltd of Hull who are currently working on the Humber Gateway project and the Westernmost Rough have, in the past worked extensively in association with Q7 on the Princess Amalia Wind Farm project. This was the second offshore wind farm in the Dutch sector of the North Sea, and was the world’s first to be located at such a distance from the coast as it is actually outside of the 12-mile limit. The construction of the project started back in mid-2006, by installing cables to all windmill via the J-Tube arrangement, the burial of cables between windmills and the installation of main landfall cables, but obviously a constant maintenance schedule is also required.

Northern Divers at Princess Amalia Wind Farm

Managing Director John Sparrowe said: “At Northern Divers we understand the specialist and unique requirements of the off-shore wind farm sector. With the right type of vessel and fully trained experienced crew you can be sure all your requirements and safety needs will be met.”

www.northerndivers.co.uk

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News In Brief....

Saipem awards BMT riser monitoring system for Egina

BMT Scientific Marine Services (BMT), a subsidiary of BMT Group Ltd, has been selected by Saipem to supply the riser integrity monitoring systems for the Total Egina development located 150km off the coast of Nigeria.

Riser integrity monitoring systems measure bending moments and tensile forces in risers in order to provide end users with an understanding of the risers’ condition. Data from these systems are then used to verify riser design models, ultimately leading to long-term improvements in riser design.

The Egina project will feature systems that incorporate BMT’s ROV-Serviceable Subsea Strain Sensor Assembly. This allows for continuous monitoring and data collection, preserving the absolute bending and tension measurement while a single sensor is removed and replaced.

Tri Tool Inc. announces the new RBL-G2, the next generation in clamshell lathes.

“We wanted to eliminate as many pinch points on the new RBL-G2 as possible,” says Justin Tripp, P.E., manager of engineering. “Our engineering team developed an innovative and patent-pending tool block design that allows for the tripper mechanism to remain in a fixed and low-profile location adjacent to the tapered drive housings. The result is significantly fewer pinch points throughout the entire usable range of the machine.”

Tri Tool examined every aspect of the clamshell lathe design and improved performance, speed and ease of use while maintaining the power and durability from previous models. The newly re-designed RBL-G2 will now sever and bevel up to three times faster with a new high speed, in-line and right angle motor options in a single drive housing which adds flexibility and reduces machining time without compromising power.

Atkins installs Solan subsea storage tank

Atkins installed the subsea oil storage tank on the 40 million barrel Solan field west of Shetland, in the UK.

Fabricated at Dry Docks World Dubai, the subsea tank sits in around 135m of water and can store 300,000boe. it is 25m high and has a foot print of 45m by 45m.

Beginning in 2008, Atkins engineers have been involved in each step of the Solan project from concept development work, through to front-end engineering design

(FEED) and then detailed design work in 2012-2013.

“The Solan project has been an integral part of our strategy to deliver green and brownfield design services to clients in addition to operational support,” says Ed Randall, Atkins project manager and principal naval architect. “Design is an area that we are continuing to invest in, and the innovative solution that we have provided to Premier and Chrysaor for the Solan field demonstrates the technical expertise of the team that has been working on the project over the last few years.”

Atkins’ oil and gas business has recently signed a five-year contract for the provision of structural integrity management services under a new framework agreement with oil and gas operator, Talisman Sinopec Energy UK Ltd., as well as an engineering support agreement with Maersk for three North Sea assets and a two-year framework agreement with Eni for assets in Western Australia.

Chesterfield Special Cylinders launches integrity management team

UK-based Chesterfield Special Cylinders (CSC) has launched a new integrity management team to work with owners and operators of high pressure gas storage vessels as installed in rigs and ships, and with gas majors and classification bodies to maximise vessels’ lifetime performance and safety.

The integrity team is now managing periodic inspections and tests at its Sheffield, England factory as well as

delivering them worldwide while the vessels remain installed. It is also delivering vessel life extension support services to high pressure gas users globally.

CSC’s managing director, Mick Pinder, explains: “CSC has a worldwide reputation for the design and manufacture of high pressure gas containment systems. We also conduct periodic inspection and testing for customers such as the Royal Navy and BOC. Following increased demand from customers, we have extended the scope of this service and formalised it within a central integrity management team.

The integrity team’s remit encompasses everything from the provision of supporting certification and verifying a scope of work document, through to refurbishment and rectification work to extend a vessel’s working life. This comprehensive approach is of particular benefit to people who are responsible for the safe operation of high pressure vessels, wherever they are installed.”

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North Sea mooring systems: How reliable are they? Mooring failure rates are still higher than industry targets. Assessing past failures could help industry understanding, say Will Brindley and Andrew Cornley.

In recent years, a number of high-profile mooring failures have emphasized the high risk nature of this element of a floating structure.

The fleet of semisubmersible mobile offshore drilling units (MODU) operating in the harsh North Sea environment has experienced approximately three mooring failures every two years.

In recognition of the high mooring failure rates, the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has introduced recommendations for more stringent mooring strength requirements for units operating on the UK Continental Shelf.

Maritime training boost for UK

Three key maritime training companies are seeing success in North Tyneside, UK, attracting trainees from across the globe.

Since opening on the Tyne Tunnel Estate between 2009 and 2014, Advanced Industrial Solutions (AIS), Maersk Training and Shoreland Access, all have experience significant growth from offering training in the renewable, maritime and subsea sectors.

“The three companies have helped to highlight and strengthen the borough’s reputation, on a global scale, as a first-

class and accessible location for the global oil, gas, wind and maritime industries, where businesses can grow and thrive,” said Cllr Frank Lott, cabinet member for economic development.

Collectively, the three companies train over 16,000 people each year, with trainees coming from the local area as well as overseas locations including American, Australia and Thailand.

Maersk Training offers specialised training for the offshore wind and maritime sectors, providing windfarm owners, operators and other stakeholders, with the key skills and competencies needed.

Recently, it offered a free or subsidised Level 2 Diploma in Staying Safe in the Wind Industry (Onshore and Offshore) course to unemployed people in the area, helping them to take advantage of the job opportunities in the offshore wind energy market.

AIS focuses on the global oil and gas industry, while Shoreland Access concentrates on onshore and offshore engineering.

Claxton introduces new CCSS

Claxton Engineering Services Ltd., developed a new conductor cementing support system (CCSS) that has typically saved 12 - 18 hours of rig time per conductor waiting for cement to cure.

According to Claxton, it has recently become increasingly common for operators to install a jacket and batch set the platform conductors so that the topsides can be installed at a later date. The operator brings a rig over the jacket and uses it to run a conductor and then to hold the conductor in place while the cement cures, a process that typically takes 12 - 18 hours.

Exova opens new Aberdeen facility

Testing, calibration and advisory services provider Exova Group has opened a new, purpose-built facility in Aberdeen in response to increasing demand for mission-critical testing in the oil and gas sector.

Officially launched by Malcolm Webb, CEO of Oil & Gas UK, the new laboratory will provide a range of specialist mechanical and materials testing as well as the most comprehensive weld-testing, weld procedures, training and qualification facilities in Aberdeen.

Supporting both energy primes and leading supply chain customers, the 16,000sq ft

facility more than doubles capacity and will be Exova’s North Sea Hub connecting a network of 11 specialist oil and gas laboratories in the UK, Netherlands and Italy.

Mike Pooley, European managing director for Exova said: “Our new laboratory furthers our growth strategy and extends our provision of technically demanding services to the oil and gas sector. Its strategic location combined with the expertise, capabilities and capacity we can now offer will benefit our customers not just in local and Scandinavian markets, but the rest of the world through the global supply chain.”

Exova currently carries out thousands of tests annually for companies such as: Oceaneering; Shell; Aker Subsea; Rotech Fabrication Limited; Harlen Fabrication Limited; Schlumberger; Wood Group; GE Oil & Gas; and Subsea7.

Additional capabilities, to be introduced throughout 2015, include a new range of non-destructive testing, coating inspection and testing, and large-scale Crack Tip Opening Displacement testing.

The new laboratory will ensure Exova is unique in Aberdeen for its range of weld and welder procedures, including certification to new NACE, the international association of corrosion engineers, standards.

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News In Brief....

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The Publication Place your advert in this A4 publication, from a 1/4 page to a double page spread.Take advantage of the free editorial which will equal the size of your advert.

A great way to showcase both your Company details and to also explain a product or a service you supply in your own words and with colourful images.

With a good circulation across the UK and distribution at the major exhibitions both here and overseas, you can expect awareness from companies in the industry looking to purchase equipment you manufacture or seek your specialised services.

The Online Version Company Logo advertising is available on our website. We allow for static Logo’s that can be placed in a prominent position on our Home Page. Demonstration Videos are another option!Have your advert display the video play sign in the on-line magazine. Readers can click on the link to activate your video. Take a look on our website www.sosmagazine.biz

Contact our sales team:Alex WettonSales Manager01634 568926alex@sosmagazine.biz

Jon McIntoshSales Manager01634 568929jon@sosmagazine.biz

Do you need to Advertise?

If you are looking to reach the Workboat and Shipping market, we also publish Dockyard Magazine.

Filled with News Sections and regular features, the magazine circulates just over 6,000 copies to the UK Workboat and Shipping sector.

Please see our website:www.dockyard-mag.com

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Marine & Renewables Journal

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December 2014 Issue

Cover Story p16 Engines & Transmissions p30 Diving & Underwater Services p18 Moorings, Ropes, Chains & Anchors p34Windfarms & Renewables Supplement p39

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Pg 26 Air Power & Hydraulics Tel +44 (0)1418 104511 Website. www.aph.co.ukPg 36 Arc Energy Resources Tel +44 (0)1453 823523 Website. www.arcenegy.co.ukPg 14 Ashtead Technology Tel +44 (0)1224 771888 Website. www.ashtead-technology.comPg 31 Atlantas Marine Tel +44 (0)1935 426000 Website. www.atlantasmarine.comPg 2 Atlas Interactive Tel +44 (0)1224 708430 Website. www.atlasknowledfge.comPg 26 ATR Group Tel +44 (0)1224 708430 Website. www.atrgroup.co.ukPg 35 Axair Fans UK Ltd Tel +44 (0)1782 349430 Website. www.axair-fans.co.ukPg 4 Barclays Tel +44 (0)2920 829600 Website. www.wealth.barclays.comPg 46 Beamex Tel +44 (0)1455 821920 Website. www.beamex.com Pg 9 Belleville Springs Ltd Tel +44 (0)1527 500500 Website. www.bellevillesprings.comPg 34 Belzona Ltd Tel +44 (0)1423 567641 Website. www.www.belzona.co.ukPg 45 Bender UK Tel +44 (0)1229 480123 Website. www.www.bender-uk.co.ukPg 32 Bibby Offshore Tel +44 (0)1224 857755 Website. www.bibbyoffshore.comPg 22 Bicon Components Tel +44 (0)8457 678345 Website. www.biconcomponents.co.ukPg 5 BMT Scientific Marine Tel +44 (0)1752 388941 Website. www.bmt.orgPg 23 Ceep Connectors Tel +44 (0)1730 352012 Website. www.ceep.co.ukPg 21 CMP Products Tel +44 (0)1670 715646 Website. www.cmp-products.co.ukPg 24 Churchill Drilling Tools Tel +44 (0)1224 898848 Website. www.circsub.comPg 44 Crowcon Detection Inst Tel +44 (0)1235 557700 Website. www.crowcon.comPg 32 Cygnus Instruments Tel +44 (0)1305 265533 Website. www.cygnus-instruments.comPg 13 Deepdale Engineering Tel +44 (0)1384 480022 Website. www.deepdale-eng.co.ukPg 23 Destec Engineering Tel +44 (0)1522 791721 Website. www.destec.co.ukPg 13 Elmeridge Cables Tel +44 (0)1273 391810 Website. www.elmeridge.com Pg 17 GDF Suez Energy Tel +44 (0)1133 062000 Website. www.gdfsuez-energy.co.uk Pg 27 Hire Torque Ltd Tel +44 (0)8000 832202 Website. www.hiretorque.co.ukPg 45 Hornbill Engineering Tel +44 (0)1792 818111 Website. www.hornbill.co.ukPg 41 IchemE Tel +44 (0)1788 534431 Website. www.icheme.orgPg 30 Imenco Smart Solutions Tel +44 (0)1224 701749 Website. www.imenco.noPg 47 IMI Critical Engineering Tel +44 (0)1217 173700 Website. www.imi-critical.comPg 31 KBA Group Tel +44 (0)1224 872741 Website. www.kbaeurope.org Pg 5 Krohne Tel +44 (0)1933 408500 Website. www.krohne.comPg 41 Lee Products Tel +44 (0)1753 886664 Website. www.leeproducts.co.ukPg 43 LMK Thermosafe Tel +44 (0)1440 707141 Website. www.inteliheat.co.ukPg 38 MG Duff Zinga Tel +44 (0)1243 770726 Website. www.zinga-uk.comPg 11 NeoNickel Blackburn Tel +44 (0)1254 503502 Website. www.neonickel.comPg 8 OGIC Tel +44 (0)1224 444000 Website. www.ogic.co.ukPg 16 Oilcareers.com Tel +44 (0)1224 548080 Website. www.oilcareers.com/UKPg 15 OilMac Tel +44 (0)1467 894147 Website. www.oilmac.comPg 10 Optasense Tel +44 (0)1252 392000 Website. www.optasense.comPg 47 Penny & Giles Tel +44 (0)1495 202000 Website. www.pennyandgiles.comPg 19 Precision Polymer Eng Tel +44 (0)1254 295400 Website. www.prepol.com Pg 18 Rotork Tel +44 (0)1225 733200 Website. www.rotork.comPg 42 Rotronic Tel +41 4483 81144 Website. www.rotronic.comPg 12 RUD Chains Tel +44 (0)1227 276611 Website. www.rud.co.ukPg 20 Seacon Tel +44 (0)1493 652733 Website. www.seaconworldwide.comPg 41 Servelec Controls Tel +44 (0)1246 437400 Website. www.servelec-group.comPg 43 STS Tel +44 (0)1736 851050 Website. www.sts-trolleys.co.ukPg 28 Subsea Scour Control Sys Tel +44 (0)1493 443380 Website. www.sscsystems.comPg 42 Survitec Group Tel +44 (0)1224 214444 Website. www.survitec.comPg 9 Valley Springs Tel +44 (0)1426 451981 Website. www.valleyspring.comPg 33 Zetechtics Ltd Tel +44 (0)1653 602020 Website. www.zetechtics.com

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