Across the North Sea by Horn Publishing / Horn Forlag

Across

the North Sea Distributed free of charge worldwide

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Published by Horn Publishing - Horn Forlag AS Ole Deviksvei 4, NO-0666 Oslo, Norway Tel.: +47 22 88 19 30 Fax: +47 22 65 40 40 mail@hornonline.com www.hornonline.com Managing Director and Publisher Espen Edvardsen General Manager Anders Moe anders@hornonline.com Across the North Sea ÂŠ Copyright Horn Forlag AS All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any other information storage and retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from the publisher. Disclaimer Horn Publishing AS assumes no responsibility for material sent to us by the companies presented in this book. The companies themselves are responsible for ensuring that the text and pictures comply with national and international law. Managing Editor Hege Solberg Design and Layout Timo Lindgren Westre/ Ina Borch Cover photo Shutterstock, Christian Lagerek Printed by Livonia print SIA Written by Helen Campbell Profile Reservation Christoffer Rikvold, christoffer@hornpublishing.com Daniel Middleton, daniel@hornonline.com Davey Beckett, davey@hornonline.com Special thanks to Shutterstock, Oil & Gas UK, NOF Energy, East of England Energy Group, SPE Offshore Europe

Espen Edvardsen Managing Director, Horn Publishing

Horn Publishing Serving business worldwide

This publication pays tribute to the inspiring history of the oil and gas industry in the UK and to the technological innovations that have shaped it. Across the North Sea is divided into two sections: editorial, on the history and technology of the sector; and commercial, presenting many of the most important companies that have made it all possible.

The book is distributed free of charge throughout the world, and is available at a number of important trade fairs and conferences related to the offshore industry, notably SPE Offshore Europe in Aberdeen and OTC in Houston. Additional copies are available on request from Horn Publishing, which also publishes similar books on other European business sectors and industries. This is truly an inspiring and challenging brand to work with, and Horn Publishing wishes to thank all our clients for participating in the book â&#x20AC;&#x201C; without you, this would never have been possible. For further information, see www.hornonline.com Enjoy the book!

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

foreword by ESPEN EDVARDSEN

We sincerely hope you will find the editorial section interesting and useful. But even more important: we hope you will take note of the wealth of information on companies offering products and services that may be relevant to your needs. These are grouped into categories to help you find the most relevant companies as easily as possible.

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contents

CONTENTS index of companies by business category.......................................................

foreword by Malcolm Webb, Oil & Gas UK............................................. 6 foreword by Joanne Leng, NOF Energy.................................................. 8 foreword by Simon Gray, East of England Energy Group....................... 10 chapter ONE – chapter TWO – chapter THREE – chapter FOUR – chapter FIVE – chapter SIX – chapter SEVEN – chapter EIGHT – chapter NINE – chapter TEN –

Lifting the spirits................................................................. West of Shetland leads...................................................... Layer upon layer................................................................. A crude beginning.............................................................. Tragedy and tough beginnings......................................... Image conscious................................................................. A life extended................................................................... Aberdeen adapts................................................................ Constant lessons................................................................. Listen and learn..................................................................

12 16 20 24 28 32 36 42 46 54

company presentations...................................................................................... 54 index of companies in alphabetical order........................................................ 176

index of companies by business category SPE Offshore Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 exploration & production Acteon Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cabot Specialty Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CGG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chesterfield Special Cylinders Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JWF Process Solutions Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lawson Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Magnetrol International UK Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Newburgh Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WIKA Instruments Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

56 60 62 65 66 68 70 71 67

field development & technology Bpp-Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Bpp-Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Oil Plus Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 WeSubsea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

78 80 82 83

offshore & onshore products ABB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 AC Fluid Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Alliance Valves & Piping Supplies Manufacturing Ltd . 87 Al-Met Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Arco Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Argo Flare Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 ATEX Global Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Bifold Fluid Power Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Chalmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Dale Power Solutions Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Danbor Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Ferguson Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Flexitallic Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Fluorocarbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 FUCHS Lubricants (UK) Plc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Gorilla Corrosion Service Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Houghton Offshore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Hunting Energy Services (International) Ltd . . . . . . 109 Hydrastore Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Intervention Rentals Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Laser Cladding Technology Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 LoneStar Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Master Flo Valve Co (UK) Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Metso Automation UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 MSD Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Nylacast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

118 119 120 122 123 124 126 127 129 130 133 134

dredging & trenching services Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 fabrication & construction AKD Engineering Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Harland and Wolff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 safety & security Knowsley SK Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 data & electronics ecom instruments UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144 Teledyne RESON Offshore Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 education & training LINGU Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 Talon NDT Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 consultants Anartya Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Central Insurance Services Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EnginSoft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . London Offshore Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

149 150 153 154

services Aggreko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bring Cargo Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Corrocoat Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EEEGR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EffecTech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exova Corrosion Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Futurelink Group Offshore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harris Pye Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hunting Energy Services (International) Ltd . . . . . . Marin Subsea Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parsons Peebles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spencer Ogden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zetechtics Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

156 157 158 159 160 162 163 164 165 166 169 170 172

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index of companies by business category

drilling contractors & equipment Aberdeen Drilling Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stena Drilling Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Swinton Electro Plating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transocean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PELI PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PPE Precision Polymer Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . R. STAHL Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rig Control Products Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rotork Plc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Score Diagnostics Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPP Pumps Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . STAUFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Subsea Technologies Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Technogenia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Welding Alloys Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

foreword by OIL & GAS UK

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Malcolm Webb Chairman of Offshore Europe 2013 and Chief Executive of Oil & Gas UK

It comes as news to many that fields on the UK Continental Shelf are expected to be producing oil and gas into the 2040s. The offshore oil and gas sector plays an important role in maximising the potential of the region’s hydrocarbon resource, bringing benefits to the UK economy and longterm energy security, as well as developing technical expertise that is in high demand globally. Latest figures show oil and gas produced off the UK’s coastline meets 68 per cent of the country’s demand for oil and 58 per cent of its demand for gas – that’s half of the UK’s primary energy needs. And it will continue to be required, still estimated to likely satisfy 70 per cent of energy needs into the 2040s. Oil and gas not supplied from our own reserves can be satisfied through imports, but this will be at significant extra cost to the economy. We are fortunate, therefore, that up to 40 per cent of the UK’s resource still remains to be extracted. The UK offshore oil and gas sector remains the country’s largest industrial investor, providing hundreds of thousands of skilled jobs, exports and tax revenues for Britain. Furthermore, 45 years of exploration and production operations in the UK have resulted in a supply chain offering an unrivalled range of products, services and expertise, honed in some of the world’s most physically and economically challenging offshore environments. Our valuable contractor community, which now generates £27 billion a year in revenue, has capabilities across

the oil and gas lifecycle including seismic surveying, exploration, engineering and design, fabrication, production, maintenance and decommissioning. This capability is in strong demand internationally, boosting the number of jobs in the UK supported by the industry to about 440,000. Contractors pay £6 billion each year in corporate and payroll taxes, and export goods and services also to the tune of £6 billion. The oil and gas supply chain therefore is an important element in the UK economy and one which continues to flourish. The well services sector alone grew by 10 per cent to £1.9 billion in 2012. Mature and experienced A mature oil and gas province presents many challenges, but it has proved advantageous for the supply chain. It means that the UK is at the forefront of finding costeffective ways to prolong the life of ageing assets and maximise the recovery of hydrocarbons, with advances in subsea technology being just one example. Sixty per cent of new UK developments make use of subsea technology. According to UK Trade and Investment, the global subsea hardware and equipment market is expected to grow by 23 per cent (to $139 billion) from 2011 to 2015, and so the opportunities for UK companies in that area are clear.

chain and raising public awareness of the contribution it makes to the economy and energy security.

Oil & Gas UK has published new guidance in this area and, with the right approach, there is no reason why infrastructure cannot be operated safely and effectively beyond its originally conceived service life.

We also represent the sector to Government and seek ways to increase awareness of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic value among leading politicians.

Moving forward For the UK offshore oil and gas industry to grow and develop its technical expertise, it will need to continue to maintain and enhance its robust safety and environmental regime and business environment in collaboration with Government. Our role As the leading representative body for the UK offshore oil and gas industry, our membership comprises the full range of enterprises that are active in our industry from supermajor oil companies to SMEs.

We undertake pan-industry work that promotes collaboration and exchange of information. We run forums, publish and monitor guidelines, manage projects and discussions on key issues, and hold networking and industry-leading events.

Access to skilled personnel is vital for a sustainable industry and we work closely with skills body OPITO on that agenda also. The UK offshore oil and gas sector is a burgeoning and exciting industry, with companies of all shapes and sizes playing their part in its growth. There is much work to be done to ensure it can meet its full potential and Oil & Gas UK is proud to play its part in that endeavour. Please visit www.oilandgasuk.co.uk for more information.

Our aim is to strengthen the long-term health of the industry by maximising recovery of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oil and gas resources, ensuring a sustainable future for the supply

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foreword by OIL & GAS UK

Operating within a mature province also involves the industry in developing expertise to extend infrastructure life and maintain asset integrity. This has stimulated companies to work on ground-breaking pan-industry programmes and technological innovation. The industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strengths in this area will enable it to manage ageing effectively in all types of assets and export this knowledge internationally.

foreword by NOF ENERGY

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Joanne Leng MBE Deputy Chief Executive, NOF Energy

NOF Energy, one of the leading membership-based business development organisations in the UK, has for many years been instrumental in linking together UK and Norwegian oil and gas supply chain companies to foster greater collaboration to the mutual benefit of both countries. With over 400 member companies involved mainly in the oil and gas sector, NOF Energy leads the way in supplying unique business support services to industry and has an enviable track record in assisting its members to identify new business opportunities both in the UK and internationally, which on many occasions leads to actual new business. Encouraging members to internationalise their business is a key objective for the organisation, as so many opportunities exist overseas. With over 100 overseas trade visits under itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s belt, many covering the European markets including Norway, as well as the new emerging markets of Brazil, Vietnam and Libya, NOF Energy is keen to make

sure UK suppliers who have years of North Sea experience use this expertise wisely to win business overseas. The UK oil and gas supply chain is world-renowned for its forward-thinking approach to innovation and new technology development. Clients involved in offshore oil and gas projects are actively seeking new techniques for field developments, and with a mature supply chain and readily available deployable technology offering, the UK is perfectly placed to export its wares to the world, the ultimate benefits being cost reduction for clients and the means to develop deepwater and marginal fields in harsh and testing environments. Norway, similarly aligned to the UK in terms of its supply chain capabilities and levels of experience, makes perfect partner material for UK suppliers. With other organisations such as UK Trade & Investment and DECC (Department of Energy and Climate Change) NOF Energy actively works to help UK companies not just visit the market to undertake initial scoping visits looking at opportunities and projects,

NOF Energy also stands ready to help Norwegian companies wanting to find a partner or set up a presence in the UK,. The membership base may consist of 400 companies, but our vast UK database has over 6000 contacts so the reach is wide. The organisation this year celebrates 25 years in existence and is thriving. It offers a vast range of services from events and networking, industry intelligence, introductions to industry contacts and marketing and media support. Its membership is on the increase, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successful not for profit business model has turned what was once a typical trade association reliant on public sector support to the stand-alone commercially-viable business development organisation that it is today.

Members are based throughout the UK but the organisation has its roots in northeast England, where most of the North Sea offshore platforms were constructed. Today several large fabrication yards are still busy in the region and behind them is a strong supply chain servicing them. However, members are becoming increasingly active overseas. Wherever NOF Energy goes to there is nothing more certain than bumping into a UK supplier, Norway is a perfect example, being located just across the water and with so many regular flights now available, making visiting so easy. As for the Norwegian market, it will remain a key priority for both NOF Energy and its membership base for many years to come and no doubt relationships will continue to be developed. www.nofenergy.co.uk

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foreword by NOF ENERGY

but to help them then take the next vital step of fully understanding how to set up a presence in Norway and find a local partner. At the end of the day, it is all about building long-term business relationships in country and this is the message given to members.

foreword by EAST OF ENGLAND ENERGY GROUP

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Simon Gray Chief Executive, East of England Energy Group (EEEGR)

It’s nearly 50 years since the busy holiday resort of Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, UK, began a rapid transformation into England’s leading service centre for the Southern North Sea oil and gas world. Visionaries from back in the 1960s might have proclaimed that by today we would be preparing for a golden anniversary of celebration. Or, that after 50 years, it would all be over ... the wells dry, the infrastructure silent, the roustabouts back home. In fact, the energy industry could not be better poised for a buoyant and prosperous future along this stretch of the East of England coast. For the Southern North Sea (SNS), gas was always the big cookie. But even 20 years ago, people were proclaiming that its days were numbered, and that the flame was soon to go out. Instead, rapid technological changes coupled with innovative thinking and a pressing need to retrieve every possible pocket of gas has inspired a resurgence. It means the sector’s future now extends 25, 30, maybe 35 years ahead and 30% of the country’s gas is still delivered through the Bacton terminal on the North Norfolk coast. At the same time, the renewables world has opened up a new energy field for the region, with some of the world’s biggest wind farms built or planned just off its shores. Introduce the likelihood of a new nuclear power station at Sizewell, a growing passion for biomass, the potential of wave and tidal power, new gas storage initiatives, carbon capture and storage potential and proposed gas-fired power stations - and it’s no wonder that the East of England has been dubbed the all-energy capital of the world. The East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) was born into that world around 12 years ago. The concept was a simple one. Not only was the region rich in many resources, but it had developed decades

of experience across the energy world which could be harnessed, progressed and extended for the imperative future needs of the UK, Europe and beyond. EEEGR set out to bridge the gaps between the energy sectors and their respective companies to create one voice and one fund of knowledge. Many major international players were attracted, alongside a complete range of supply chain members. They talked among themselves, did business with each other, shared their knowledge and skills, and together spoke out to promote the unique expertise of the region. Today EEEGR has more than 400 members, ranging from the likes of Shell Expro, BP, ConocoPhillips, E.ON and Centrica to independent engineers, surveyors, fabricators, designers, administrators, accountants, lawyers, hoteliers, publicists and others professionals through to one-person businesses. Together they offer a remarkable pool of talent and knowhow assembled from the pioneering days of oil and gas through to the completion of the first major wind farms. And the small-to-medium companies can now enjoy support from a European Regional Development Fund programme which offers free consultancy to help them adapt and prepare for a modern era of energy. Anyone who thinks the heydays of gas are over and the major players have gone home should look at some of the latest developments. One recent report predicted an investment boom, sparked by tax changes encouraging new exploration, which is expected to lead to a £13bn spend on North Sea oil and gas development, the highest figure in three decades. GDF SUEZ E&P UK is currently investing around £1.4bn in the new Cygnus gas field project - the largest discovery in the Southern Gas Basin in the last 25 years, creating 4,000 jobs during construction.

a combined effort to promote the opportunities, resources, infrastructure, land and buildings, and skills of the region.

Gas extractor Perenco UK has announced its intentions to drill a new well at the Inde platform, 56 miles off the coast of Bacton.

Windpower may be the new baby of the industry but as with the supply chain - it is drawing in many familiar players.

It comes after the firm demonstrated its confidence in the SNS last year when it purchased the £251.7m BP southern North Sea gas assets, which will extend the life of the fields, sustain jobs and bring fresh opportunities for supply chain businesses across East Anglia in the years ahead.

Statoil teamed up with Statkraft for the Sheringham Shoal wind farm and they are together for the pending Dudgeon site off North Norfolk; RWE and SSE have worked jointly on the Greater Gabbard site; Centrica is planning Race Bank.

BP might be pulling away, but ConocoPhillips, which in 1964 had the first fixed platform in the SNS in 90ft of water 50 miles off Great Yarmouth, is still finding gas and extending the life of its fields. Inevitably, some fields and platforms reach the end of their natural life, and decommissioning is becoming another burgeoning business with estimates of anything up to £50bn of work for the UK, some of it again in the SNS. But while some of that half-century of skills will transfer there, many others are being converted to the world of windpower. Expertise in energy work beyond the horizon in the turbulent North Sea is at the core of the region’s capabilities. There are new challenges and new forms of energy- but many technological skills and knowledge gleaned from the oil and gas industry remain paramount

An even more potent force, bringing together Statkraft, Statoil, RWE and SSE, is behind the 9GW Dogger Bank proposal, the biggest of the Round 3 zones off the East Coast. Today, the East of England energy sector generates more than £12.9bn a year and employs over 103,000 people, a figure set to increase with the new industry-driven skills programme, Skills for Energy, hosted by EEEGR. Around 6,200 businesses are active in all-energy sectors across the region, including oil and gas, civil nuclear, wind and biomass. It’s a long time since first gas was discovered in the SNS yet it has a life far into the future. As for the wider resources, it looks as if the North Sea and the East of England may find endless energy.

It’s certainly proving a big temptation, which brings major energy companies across Europe and the Far East knocking on the region’s door. Often it is the door of James Gray, head of inward investment for the East of England Energy Zone, a unique partnership of private and public bodies - including EEEGR, Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils, local councils and Chambers of Commerce - that puts out the welcome mat. Again, it is

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foreword by EAST OF ENGLAND ENERGY GROUP

Work is under way to drill a second well on the York field for Centrica - at 6km one of the longest wells in the SNS.

chapter ONE

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It is the 79th largest country in the world, encompassing a minute fraction of one per cent of the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land area. But the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland can take credit for more than 40 per cent, by some accounts, of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great discoveries and inventions.

chapter ONE

Lifting the spirits

Isaac Newton From the 17th-century mathematician Isaac Newton’s discovery of gravity, to the achievement of Watson and Crick, who unravelled the ‘double helix’ structure of DNA in 1953, British scientists have always been up there with the world’s greatest. From the first steam engine to the jet engine; the first computer to the world wide web; the telephone, television and light bulb; penicillin, vaccination and Viagra; the chocolate bar, and the gin and tonic; not to mention the flushing toilet, the UK has been and remains one of the most creative and productive societies on the planet. As the first country to industrialize, Britain’s achievements as a world superpower in the 18th and 19th centuries resonate to this day in its status as one of the most globalized of countries. The nation punches well above its weight in international bodies from the Commonwealth of Nations to the European Union, the G7, the G8, the G20, the International Monetary Fund, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Bank, the World Trade Organisation and the United Nations... among others.

And nowhere is this more evident than in the British offshore industry. In fact, as we shall see, it is a Scottish chemist, James Young, who is credited with the first commercial extraction of North Sea oil.... Plenty of potential Offshore production peaked in 1999 and was, until a significantly greater slump in 2011, declining by around five per cent annually. However, even in its twilight years, the UK North Sea is still producing considerable volumes and is estimated to hold some 24bn barrels of oil equivalent as yet unrecovered. It is without a doubt a mature industry. The sector contributes more than a quarter of all corporation tax paid to UK government coffers and supports some 440,000 jobs. In fact, it is estimated that every billion pounds spent on offshore goods and services supports about 20,000 jobs in the UK. Of those employed in the industry, 32,000 work directly for oil and gas companies and major contractors, 207,000 in the wider supply chain, and perhaps another 100,000 each in jobs generated by the economic activity of employees and exports of goods and services. But successful exploration and the discovery of new reserves has not kept pace with the depletion of existing fields. A 2009 parliamentary committee report on energy and climate change had stated that, in determining policy on the UK oil and gas sector, the government needed to make security of energy supply the priority, with oil and gas continuing to make a major contribution to that

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chapter ONE

Even today, with just one per cent of the world’s population, the UK accounts for over 12 per cent of all citations in scientific papers. No wonder the UK government sees science and innovation as a key export in today’s highly competitive global economy. During the past decade or so, the numbers of patent applications, spin-out companies (set up by universities when their research generates a commercially-viable product), and returns from licensing income have increased four-fold or more. The quality of the UK’s skills base is cited by most R&D-intensive companies

as the biggest factor behind any decision to invest in the country.

chapter ONE

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA supply security, as part of a gradual transition to a lowercarbon economy. However, the MPs authoring the report cautioned that proper account must also be taken of both the immense tax revenues paid by the industry and of the hundreds of thousands whose jobs, directly or indirectly, depend on it. The taxation shocks emitted by the March 2011 Budget seemed to signal that the government had taken little notice. Looking to raise capital to finance a drop in fuel duty to appease a discontented driving population, the government had increased the supplementary corporation tax on production from 20 per cent to 32 per cent, thereby increasing the tax rate for oil and gas producers to between 62 per cent and 81 per cent. This alone meant 2011 was a very trying year for the UK sector. The following 12 months were something of a stalemate, as the industry paused for thought and sought constructive consultation with ministers and the government planned its next move. The March 2012 Budget brought some token improvements and, consequently, a degree of increased stability and predictability to a sector desperately in need of it. There then followed a period of extended consultation between industry and government and, by the end of 2012, the mood of investors had picked up considerably.

Voice of industry The shift and the resurgence in investor confidence after such a depressing two years for the UK sector are down to a new long-term view that the government is now taking, after listening to the industry and evidently acting upon some of its concerns. This increased confidence is clearly reflected in the markedly increased levels of activity predicted for the sector. Between 2005 and 2008, an average of 33 wells were drilled per year. This average dropped to 21 between 2009 and 2012, as investors put their cash down other holes away from the UKCS. In clear contrast, more than 130 wells are forecast to be drilled in the period 2013 to 2015, leading to the expectation that the next three years will be the UKCS’ most active drilling period for the past 15 years. The taxation shocks of 2011 had seen project diversity shrink, with those investors who did not shy away committing only to a total of five ‘safe’ major projects. In contrast, the changing mood over 2012 saw variety return, with new project commitments ranging from below £50m to more than £1bn in some cases. At the same time, in clear evidence that investors were more willing to engage in ‘riskier’ drilling in 2012 compared with 2011, half of all discoveries made in 2012 resulted from wildcat wells. Total investment in 2012 was £11.4bn, up from the £8.5bn in 2011,

and this in turn was forecast to rise to in excess of £13bn in 2013. Higher costs industry-wide do account for some of this year-on-year increase, but the growth is nevertheless reflective of the increased buoyancy felt by the sector.

In contrast with the ‘betrayal’ the industry said it had suffered just two years previously, this was truly a shift in tone of the exchanges between the government and industry of the previous few years.

In March 2013 and amid much fanfare, the government released its strategy to secure investment, create jobs, a significant development for the sector and one that reflected results of the collaboration that the industry had begged for and eventually secured.

Far from over At over 40 years old, the UK’s oil sector remains the most significant factor in domestic energy security. According to Oil & Gas UK’s 2012 Economic Report, oil and gas provides 73 per cent of the UK’s total primary energy needs, and production from the UK continental shelf (UKCS) met just under half of that primary energy; 68 per cent of oil demand and 58 per cent of gas demand. These figures represent quite an achievement for a nation whose oil sector has had the ‘mature’ tagline for some time now, and has had its imminent demise frequently and incorrectly predicted …

“The launch of the government’s strategy for the sector is one more step in the right direction and brings deserved recognition to the capabilities of our world-class supply chain. The strategy fosters strong and meaningful collaboration between the government and industry and will help to focus efforts on addressing particular areas such as skills, technology and exports. It will further strengthen the oilfield services sector across the country, boost investor confidence, safeguard jobs and help to maximise recovery of Britain’s oil and gas reserves.”

Even if the target to source 15 per cent of total primary energy demand from renewable sources by 2020 is met, some 70 per cent of UK energy demand will still be met by oil and gas at that time and well beyond. The sector’s contribution to the country’s economy is not in doubt either; the UKCS remains the largest investor and the largest contributor to national gross value added (GVA) among the industrial sectors of the economy. According to the BP Statistical Review of World Energy 2012, the UK was Europe’s third-largest gas and secondlargest oil producer in 2011, and was ranked 19th in the world for both oil and gas production.

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“Close engagement with the UK government and the resulting tax changes introduced last year to promote investment in the oil and gas sector are now bearing fruit,” said Malcolm Webb, Oil & Gas UK’s chief executive, as the strategy was released. “Record investment is forecast this year to search for and produce UK oil and gas reserves. This will be followed by an upturn in production from 2014, sustaining growth across the supply chain and reinforcing the industry’s already significant contribution to the UK economy.

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Safety standards in the UK oil and gas sector are regularly lauded as being among the highest in the world. The industry has been able to learn extensive lessons from thorough investigation into past incidents, close analysis of the root causes of safety breaches, wide sharing of information and continual augmentation of the standards and training required in the sector.

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West of Shetland leads

The causes of the Deepwater Horizon incident of April 2010 - in US waters several thousand miles away but with UK oil major BP right in the thick of it - have been scrutinised just as acutely in London and Aberdeen as they have been in Louisiana. The findings of in-depth reports have been far from ignored, by either government or industry, but licensing has continued pretty much as scheduled, albeit with increased scrutiny for certain areas deemed as warranting further attention. The UK’s 27th licensing round was announced in February 2012 and closed in May 2012. With 224 applications covering 418 blocks, this round attracted a record level of interest and, in October 2012, the Department for Energy and Climate Change announced the award of 167 production licences.

Stormy atmosphere A further 61 blocks, close to or in Special Areas of Conservation or Special Protection Areas, remained under environmental assessment as at May 2013. Despite the government’s assurances that environmental concerns are being addressed, the offer of further exploration territory

As a drilling environment, the area is certainly one of the toughest. Deep waters, high winds and waves and low temperatures make it one of the most hostile offshore environments in the world. Only one company, somewhat ironically BP, is producing there already, but Total will join it in 2014, when it brings onstream the Laggan-Tormore field. Exploration there began in the 1970s, with the Clair field the first significant discovery. Technical limitations at the time meant the ‘complex’ field lay dormant and undeveloped for thirty years until technical breakthroughs enabled BP to develop it and start producing in 2005. Further drilling by BP and others continued through the 1980s and early 1990s, resulting in the discovery of the Foinaven and Schiehallion fields in 1992 and 1993 respectively. These were followed by not much more than a handful of non-commercial discoveries until 2004, when a successful appraisal well on Laggan and Chevron’s Rosebank/Lochnagar discovery reignited interest. The Schiehallion field and the nearby Loyal reservoir will welcome a new floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel in 2014, allowing the resumption of

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“This successful licensing round shows we are taking the right action to offer certainty and confidence to investors,” commented the Energy Minister, John Hayes. “Our fiscal regime is now encouraging small fields into production and our licensing regime supports new faces as well as the big players to invest. Importantly, we are guaranteeing every last economic drop of oil and gas is produced for the benefit of the UK. It is our work with industry that is cultivating this precious resource, making our seas a fertile landscape for investors for many years to come.”

in the frontier West of Shetland (WoS), still a near-virgin in oil terms, has provoked and incensed environmental campaigners. British analysts make a distinction between two areas of the North Sea: the turbulent waters to the west of these northerly islands, and the rest. With its depths of 600 metres or more, the former is thought to contain up to a fifth of the UK’s residual oil and gas reserves.

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA production after operations were suspended early in 2013 to prepare for the disconnection of the old and no longer serviceable vessel to which the field has played host for 15 years. The new FPSO, under construction in South Korea, will allow the Schiehallion field to continue producing efficiently and safely and maximise extraction. In March 2012, BP received government approval to drill in its North Uist tract and commenced drilling soon after, but reports a year later said that the discovery of gas condensate in the reservoir fell short of expectations. At 1,300 m, North Uist was one of the UK’s deepest water wells – and probably one of the most expensive – highlighting the challenges and risks of pioneering investment in this part of the UK’s waters. All looks Clair Chevron commenced front-end engineering and design work on Rosebank/Lochnagar in mid-2012, and will make a final investment decision in 2014. In March 2013, BP, ConocoPhillips, Chevron and Shell announced their decision to proceed with a two-year appraisal programme to look at the possibility of developing a third phase of the Clair field. The commitment initially envisages five appraisal wells, with a further potential three to seven dependent on results from the first wells. Total hydrocarbons initially in place across the entire field are estimated at around 8 billion barrels of oil equivalent, but the complexity of the reservoir means considerable uncertainty as regards total recoverability.

This appraisal programme followed the partners’ decision to proceed with Clair Ridge, the second phase of development of the Clair reservoir and which will see the installation of two new, bridge-linked platforms scheduled to be installed in 2015. Production is expected to commence in 2016 and the facilities are being constructed with a 40-year design life, in clear evidence of the potential of this area. In a remote environment like WoS, developments are likely to have a domino effect, with earlier infrastructure being put in place making subsequent developments of nearby fields economically feasible. Other WoS fields that could be developed include Solan, Lagavulin, Tobermory, Torridon, Suilven, Cardhu, Glenlivet, Tornado and Freya. Certainly, the area WoS is considered the ‘last stand’ in exploration terms of the UKCS. In January 2010, thenchancellor Alistair Darling announced a tax relief incentive worth up to £160 million per field aimed at encouraging activity in ‘remote deep-water gasfields, which are found in the west of Shetland area’. Describing WoS as ‘the last major area in the UK Continental Shelf to be developed’, Mr Darling said infrastructure would be ‘critical to fully unlocking the gas potential of the region’. The government recognized ‘the importance of the UK oil and gas industry to our economy and the dependable foundation it provides for the UK’s energy security,’ he continued. ”While we are trying to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, we must and do recognize that this will be a long

transition and our oil and gas reserves will continue to play a vital role in supplying our energy needs for many years to come.” Predictably, the industry was more than pleased, reckoning that the measure would net £14 billion or more over the next decade, bringing almost two billion barrels of oil and gas into production. So the £3 billion tax break fan-fared in March 2012, for large and deep fields in the WoS, was even more welcomed by the industry, or at least by those companies who have the budgets to even be thinking about drilling there. While Oil & Gas UK said the WoS tax allowance move could see up to £40bn of new investment, this fiscal encouragement to operators to drill in the waters WoS was slammed by environmentalists as ‘absolutely shocking’. The Deepwater Horizon blowout incident off the Gulf of Mexico coast in April 2010, which has had as yet untold impact on regional livelihoods, wildlife and BP, should serve as a stark warning that WoS should be left alone, green campaigners insisted.

This review is believed to be the largest and most thorough ever conducted by the industry, and a number of significant enhancements to UKCS oil spill response capability have been made as a result. For example, operators now have access to the groundbreaking OSPRAG Cap, designed to swiftly seal off an uncontrolled well. Moves have also been made towards greater clarity on the potential liabilities of operators in the event of a serious incident on the scale of Deepwater Horizon, and on the financial provision to meet such liabilities being set aside. In spite of the challenges and the costs, these changes are important if confidence in the UK sector’s ability to keep producing is to remain. Political stability plays a major role. The unwelcome tax is a headache, but the UK could hardly be called unstable, when compared with some of the other places attracting operators’ dollars, such as Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Russia or some locations in eastern Africa. In addition, the UK’s well-developed infrastructure helps make even relatively small yields more cost-effective. As long as there is oil and gas in the ground and as long as the technology, and the maths of course, works, there will be companies willing to drill, develop and produce in UK waters. That’s if the green campaigners don’t get in the way…

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Thrills… or spills? Friends of the Earth said the tax breaks ‘could not be justified’, amidst questions raised by the Government about the affordability of subsidies to the wind and solar industries, while Greenpeace said ‘any oil spill in the west of Scotland would wreak untold devastation on some of the UK’s most fragile habitat and the local economy’. The organisation also attacked the Government’s promise to the industry on decommissioning allowances which, it said, were forcing the taxpayer to subsidise ‘rich oil companies’. Industry concerns over safety persist, of course, as memories of events in the Gulf of Mexico remain vivid and BP remains in the dock in the US. Full assessment

of the UK’s capability to respond appropriately to a similar incident occurring in the unique met-ocean conditions UKCS waters has been a major focus since the US spill. A month after Deepwater Horizon, the UK Oil Spill Prevention and Response Advisory Group (OSPRAG) was established to facilitate cooperation and collaboration across the UK offshore oil and gas industry, including regulators and trade unions, to carry out a deep review of UKCS drilling practices.

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It’s an old, old story, literally… but always worth telling.

chapter THREE

Layer upon layer

nowhere... at least, not until the dinosaurs had long since disappeared from the land above, ceding mastery of the universe to a certain biped mammal who was to become phenomenally clever with tools.

From the mouths of rivers on both sides poured silt and all manner of plant and animal residue, which accumulated and decayed along with dead sea organisms and bacteria in sedimentary layers on the ocean floor. As layer built upon layer, and the continents pulled apart, the pressure on the lower sediments increased several thousand times, converting them into sandstone and limestone. Simultaneously, temperatures rose.

Taking an age The process of generating oil and gas from a source rock took anything from 10 million to 100 million years, depending on the temperature in the sedimentary basin: between 60°C and 100°C for the formation of crude oil, or 150°C and above to transform the oil into natural gas, which is also formed directly from the increased heating of layers of coal.

In this hellish place, the organic remains of the Jurassic and other periods were transformed into crude oil and natural gas which, owing to their low weight, tended to rise toward the seabed, migrating from the source rock through water-filled pore spaces and escaping into the water above. (The process continues to this day until the oil and gas reach the surface, on land or at sea, where they escape naturally in the form of seepages and gas emanations. A great deal of potential energy and fuel is lost through this natural process.)

Many hydrocarbon reservoirs have now become producing oil and gas fields, of course, not only in the North Sea, but also in the Middle East, the Gulf of Mexico, Siberia, West and North Africa, Indonesia and the Caspian.

In many areas, however, layers of impermeable rock known as capstones blocked the upward migration of these hydrocarbon droplets and gases. Trapped and accumulated in the porous rock below, they formed what is known as a hydrocarbon reservoir, and the more concave the capstone, the more stable its underlying reservoir. As often as not, through the aeons, the precious hydrocarbons went

In Britain’s offshore waters, oil and gas deposits found under the southern North Sea and the Irish Sea are thought to have originated as rainforests that flourished during the Carboniferous Period (the very word ‘carboniferous’ is derived from the rich deposits of coal that occur in England) roughly 354 to 290 million years ago, during the late Palaeozoic Era. Reservoirs in the central and northern North Sea and west of Shetland, however, are much ‘younger’, dating from the intersection of the Jurassic and Cretaceous Periods, 144 million years ago, and forming in what was then a tropical ocean.

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Hundreds of millions of years ago, North America, including Greenland, was attached to the Scandinavian peninsula. As North America began its westward drift, a subsea basin developed between the two land masses.

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA Deciding what to call a newly-discovered oil and/or gas field can be a fascinating – and colourful – business. A pseudonymous contributor to on-line energy business discussion forum The Oil Drum, explains that oilfields tend to be named by the company responsible for the discovery. The name of the game ”Different companies have different traditions,” says the writer. Here’s how it works for some big companies in the North Sea: • Shell names its North Sea fields after seabirds, or at least waterbirds. They started from A, but they have duplicated on some letters and missed others: Auk Brent (= Brent goose) Cormorant Dunlin Eider Fulmar Guillemot Heron and so on. There is an urban myth in the oil industry that their first North Sea discovery, Auk, was simply A-UK to be followed by B-UK etc., but then some wag pointed out what would happen on their sixth discovery. And Brent is itself an acronym for the members of the Jurassic Brent (geological) formation which occurs in several Northern North Sea fields. The members are themselves named after either lochs or glens: Broom Rannoch Etive Ness Tarbert.

• Enterprise Oil called its biggest field Nelson – their head office was in Trafalgar Square (think: Nelson’s Column). • Amerada Hess UK named their biggest field Scott (as in Sir Walter), and then branched out using the names of some of his characters – Ivanhoe, Rob Roy. • Mobil (back when it existed) had a field called Arthur and several others named after Knights of the Round Table – Lancelot, Gawain.... ”I have worked in countries where the government retains naming rights,” the writer continues. ”They often seem to go for the dates of historic occasions, which has the virtue of being a plentiful source of names....” Pricing out of the market Brent crude is and will remain ‘the global oil benchmark... used as the price benchmark for around two-thirds of the world’s traded oil’, according to David Peniket, head of ICE Futures Europe, part of the electronic IntercontinentalExchange.

• BP has several North Sea fields named after Scottish saints – Andrew, Clair, Columba, Magnus, Ninian, Machar, Monan, Mirren and some others. Their North Atlantic Tertiary fields are named after Scottish mountains – Foinaven, Schiehallion, Loyal.

Addressing the Reuters Global Energy Summit in May 2010, Mr Peniket said the benchmark ‘reflects the fundamentals of the oil market on a global basis and we’re seeing Brent used as part of the pricing for oil throughout the world’. He was in little doubt that players in the growing Asian market, for example, would use Brent, rather than other benchmarks, to hedge their risk.

• Conoco named its North Sea oilfields after famous Scottish geologists – Hutton, Lyell, Murchison – and a cluster of their fields in the Southern Gas Basin is named after British aeroplanes – Vulcan, Victor, Valiant, Viscount, Vanguard.

Brent was among the first of the giant offshore oil fields to be discovered, in 1971. One of the largest fields in the UK sector of the North Sea, its benchmark status means that most of the numerous varieties of crude oil are graded as well as priced against it. There are competitors:

Dubai crude is used for pricing in the Gulf region, while the North American market has adopted WTI (West Texas Intermediate). Both Brent and WTI are characterized as ‘light’ and ‘sweet’ crude because of their low sulphur content, while Dubai is light and ‘sour’. Traders also keep an eye on the price of the OPEC ‘Reference Basket’, a weighted average of the various grades in member countries.

• The South Brae field (1977) contains oil and gas in sandy deposits which settled at the foot of an incline 140 million years ago. These fanned out to form reservoir rocks as sand sheets and conglomerate containing mudrock, so that the reservoir rock and source rock are the same age. The oil is relatively deep here, and has been described as ‘hot, gassy and corrosive’.

Geologically speaking, Brent is part of the 170 million-yearold East Shetland Basin, originally a river delta, where oil and gas formed in sandstone layers more than 200 metres thick. A sedimentary rock known as Kimmeridge Clay is the source of the oil and also forms the cap rock for the reservoir, which is thought to account for over 500 billion litres of oil in an area of 17 by 5 km.

• Like Brent, the Forties field (1970) has stored over 500 billion litres of oil layers of sandy rock formed from sediment deposited 55 million years ago. Oil from Kimmeridge Clay source rock has followed these sandy formations to become trapped within accumulations of sandstone above an irregularity in the bedrock.

There are, of course, plenty of interesting and important oil and gas fields in the UK sector, for example: • In the Piper field, discovered in 1973, oil is also held in a sandstone layer originating as sandbanks in a system of river deltas during the late Jurassic period – the middle period of the Mesozoic Era, the ‘Age of Reptiles’ – 145 million years ago. Here, too, Kimmeridge Clay is involved both as source rock and seal. About one cubic kilometre of sandstone holds 150 billion litres of oil over an area of 30 square km.

• Brought onstream in 2000, Shearwater field, in the central zone roughly 225 km east of Aberdeen, was something of a technological triumph. Distinguished by a gas condensate reservoir depth of over 4,500 metres, with correspondingly high temperature and pressure, ‘equivalent to three elephants standing on a postage stamp’, says Oil &Gas UK, one day’s production from Shearwater ‘would fuel a family car for 1,670 years or heat the water for 4.5 million showers’. • Leman field (1966), the largest gas field in the southern North Sea, measures some 10 by 30 km off the Norfolk coast. The gas is a product of the ‘Coal Measures’, a 300 million-year-old formation and the primary source of most of England’s coal production.

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Kimmeridge Clay is the major source rock for oil fields in the North Sea. It is found across England, in a band stretching from the Dorset coast in the southwest to East Anglia, taking its name from a Dorset village, where it forms a spectacular series of grey shale cliffs.

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‘North Sea oil’, as an industry, didn’t start in the sea and it didn’t start with oil as we know it today, but rather onshore with coal or, more specifically, torbanite.

chapter FOUR

A crude beginning

Sometimes known as boghead coal, torbanite is a type of oil shale named after Torbane Hill near Bathgate, Scotland, an area of prolific natural occurrence. Lacustrine in nature, torbanite is created by sediments brought down by rivers that settle into and fill in lakes over time. The water drains away or evaporates and the area turns into a plain. The soil left behind by the process is often highly fertile but, as James Young found in 1851, it can possess other properties beyond the agricultural. In 1847, Young, a Glaswegian chemist, began examining seepages of an ‘oil’ that miners in a Derbyshire colliery had noticed. Young’s own process distilled the seeping liquid into a thin oil suitable for use as lamp oil, and a thicker oil that had excellent machinery lubricating abilities.

Refining the basics Young and partners Edward Meldrum and Edward Binney established another business, this time in Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland, and patented the products in the UK in October 1850. His refinery bore little resemblance to the enormous sci-fi constructions familiar today in almost any industrial port area, but was in fact the first truly commercial oil-works in the world. Young’s plant processed

Clearly not one to miss an opportunity, or the global potential of his discovery, Young took out a US patent for the production of paraffin oil by coal distillation in 1852, obliging pretenders and opportunists to pay him royalties. As his success grew, Young bought out his partners in 1865, and set up new, larger processing facilities at nearby Addiewell before selling the premises to Young’s Paraffin Light and Mineral Oil Company in 1866. Young, remaining in the company but spending his time yachting, travelling and pursuing his other scientific interests, soon earned the nickname ‘Paraffin Young’ owing to the global success of the company he founded. When these reserves of torbanite eventually ran out, the company pioneered the exploitation of West Lothian oil shale. By the 1900s, extraction stood at nearly 2 million tons of shale annually and employed 4,000 men. Meanwhile, the early stages of the region’s oil era were beginning on the other side of the North Sea. In Germany, the small village of Wietze in Lower Saxony was the site of one of the world’s first boreholes in 1858, with the drillers encouraged by the area’s history, which saw a type of crude oil contained in surface tar pits extracted for medicinal purposes, the practice going back to the 17-th century. From 1920 to 1963 oil was also extracted from underground mines, and Germany also had small gas finds near Hamburg around 1910. The onset of war in 1914 threatened the reliability and security of fuel for the UK, then sourcing many of its shipments from across the Atlantic. Anxious about supply disruptions, the UK government renewed a previously

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Young, seeing the potential, swiftly established a business processing the oil. Demand for both products from a queue of ready customers meant the enterprise was successful, but it all but exhausted the seepage in the mine by 1851. Young started experimenting with artificially replicating what he believed was the action of heat on the coal seam, eventually distilling a petroleum-like fluid. From this, Young made a number of products, one that he called ‘paraffine oil’ due to its resemblance to paraffin wax at low temperatures.

naphtha, lubricating oils, liquid and solid paraffin from locally-extracted torbanite, shale, and bituminous coal.

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA lacklustre search for oil on UK territory. US surveyors pointed to potential in the Pennines, and a handful of exploration wells were drilled in the area. Most did not bear much fruit, but one discovery was made at Hardstoft in Derbyshire. Oil production, albeit reaching just 14 barrels per day at peak, began in June 1919, just a month after discovery, and continued until the end of 1927, although not on a commercial basis. A smaller deposit was also found in Lothian, Scotland by D’Arcy Exploration Company, a subsidiary of the AngloIranian Oil Company that pioneered oil exploration and production in the then-Persia, and later became British Petroleum (BP). Rules and rights The end of the first world war meant the resumption of fuel supplies from outside the UK, and the prospect of further domestic exploration and possible commercial extraction slipped once again from the national agenda, particularly as the UK had sparse and unclear rules governing ownership of any oil found. In 1921, all wells except those at Hardstoft and those belonging to D’Arcy were closed, the former being taken over by the relevant landowner, the Duke of Devonshire. Nevertheless, D’Arcy lobbied the UK government to simplify the rules governing mineral rights. The resultant Petroleum Production Act of 1934 clarified Crown ownership of all oil not discovered and enabled oil companies to buy exploration licences for UK acreage. Wasting little time, D’Arcy embarked on a drilling programme, ambitious for its time, spudding its first new wells at Portsdown in January 1936. Further wells were also drilled in a number of other locations in southern England, specifically in the Dorset, Sussex and Hampshire areas. These resulted in some oil shows at a number, but lacklustre results saw D’Arcy change tack and look further north, encouraged by the earlier seepage in Derbyshire. Gas was found at Eskdale and small oil shows at Dalkeith near Edinburgh, but it is the name of Eakring that is etched indelibly in the history of the UK oil sector.

The fame earned by this Nottinghamshire village is due as much to its role in the Second World War effort as it is to its role in the birth of UK oil. Using data procured from the mining entities in the area, D’Arcy detected the presence of favourable geological conditions under Eakring. Fortuitously, as it turned out, the company discovered oil in 1939, just before the outbreak of the war. Production began in 1943, but only after a historic meeting between one Philip Southwell, a D’Arcy petroleum engineer, and Lloyd Noble, president of the Oklahoma, US-based Noble Drilling Corporation – the latter, according to welldocumented legend, wearing his pyjamas. Stocks shock In the summer of 1942, with oil stocks 2m barrels below the safety level and sufficient only for a further two months, oil in dockland storage around the UK under regular airborne Nazi attack and being wiped out, and Britain-bound supplies from the US and Venezuela also under threat from U-boats, the British government was facing an oil crisis of acute proportions. Winston Churchill was forced to inform the Russians at a Moscow meeting that August that an Allied attack on the Germans across the Channel would have to wait owing to the fuel shortage. Philip Southwell was also present as a representative of D’Arcy. Eakring was such a little-known secret, that when Southwell addressed the meeting, his talk of the ‘UK’s own oilfields’ came as a surprise to many. Stopping short of disclosing the field’s exact location, except to vouch for its seclusion in a heavily wooded inland area, he informed the surprised assembly of the UK’s production of some 700 barrels a day of high grade crude. Southwell spoke of the potential for extensive further development, up to a further 100 wells and quadrupled production, at the field, but also of the need for equipment better suited to the drilling conditions than the rigs normally used by the company in the deserts of Persia. Southwell’s eloquence easily persuaded the relevant powers of Eakring’s potential and the difference reaching that potential could make to the war. On September 3 1942, three years and two days into the war and with

some military figures in the UK pushing for an accord with Hitler owing to the seriousness of the oil crisis, he flew to Washington. In his briefcase, he carried papers that showed the location of the UK’s secret oilfields.

condition that Porter of Fain-Porter join the venture. A mere few days later, representatives from the two companies and from PAW met with Southwell and the group hammered out a secret plan for the ‘Eakring Hundred’.

First meeting Don Knowlton of the Petroleum Administrators for War (PAW) production division in America, Southwell asked for the use of ten of the latest drilling rigs suitable for drilling depths of twenty-five hundred feet, into the UK’s oil fields. Not only was Knowlton as surprised as those at the earlier Moscow meeting had been, there was a major legal stumbling block in that such equipment could not be handed to foreign companies or governments.

Employing the drilling methods and equipment from the US, as well as the labour and expertise of a number of US roughnecks drafted in and billeted in a monastery at nearby Kelham, the Eakring field produced a total of 3.5m barrels of oil during the war. The production facilitated a significant advantage for the UK over Germany, which was forced to use a synthetic oil, manufacture of which was almost completely halted in 1944 owing to Allied bombing raids.

Not a man to give up easily, Southwell suggested bringing a US contractor into the fray to get round the legal issues. Knowlton authorised contact between Southwell and representatives of four drilling contractors; two from California and two from Oklahoma. The Californian companies did not attend the planned meeting with Southwell the following Monday but Lloyd Noble, president of Noble Corporation, and Frank Porter, president of Fain-Porter Drilling Company, both of Oklahoma, met with Southwell. Both, however, turned down Southwell’s request ‘due to existing project commitments’.

By 1964, production from Eakring, whose location was kept secret from the Nazis almost for the entire duration of the war, totalled some 47m barrels. This was before any well had been drilled in the North Sea, and some of the drilling techniques used at Eakring are still employed today.

A war hero In desperation, a tenacious and undeterred Southwell hitched a 5am lift to New Orleans on a British Naval plane and then took a flight to Dallas before renting a car, with one tank of gasoline only, and driving to Ardmore, Oklahoma, the hometown of Lloyd Noble. Succeeding, with some difficulty, in finding Noble’s home, Southwell was met at the door by the man himself – wearing the pyjamas – and was invited in.

Eakring is credited today with having played a vital role in the Allied war victory. But it was offshore, twenty years after the end of the war, where Eakring left its deepest mark. Most of the men who were to work in the oil industry during the early years of the North Sea sector trained at the Derbyshire field. Some were crewmembers of the SeaGem, the rig that was responsible for the first hydrocarbon discovery in the North Sea but was also the subject of cruel tragedy...

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The rest, as they say, is history. Both charmed by Southwell and impressed by his tenacity, Noble agreed to help on the

Ironically, it was the forced shutdown by British Petroleum of its Persian operations in the 1950s, and nationalization of hydrocarbon resources in the country we now know as Iran, that saw an influx of experienced drillers and geologists come to Eakring.

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The role and importance of the onshore in both the war effort and in the oil sector itself are not disputed. But if the beginnings of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s North Sea industry were to be defined by the birth of the offshore, then attention turns to 1965 and the tragic SeaGem.

chapter FIVE

Tragedy and tough beginnings

It was a series of gas shows onshore Netherlands in the 1950s, coupled with the knowledge of Eakring’s riches, that led to a growing conjecture that hydrocarbons might also lie under the seabed. Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij (NAM), a joint venture between Royal Dutch Shell and Esso (now ExxonMobil), began drilling the Slochteren-1 well on May 29, 1959, and hit gas on July 22. Well testing was carried out in August the same year, further wells were drilled and what became known as the Groningen field was estimated to hold up to 2,800 billion cu m of recoverable natural gas reserves. Today, Groningen is one of the world’s largest gas fields and continues to play an important seasonal ‘swing’ role in Dutch gas production. Meanwhile, the bank of knowledge built up around Eakring led to the realization that the sedimentary basin in which the field lay extended through the counties of Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, in what was becoming known as the East Midlands Petroleum Province, all the way to the shores of the North Sea. The oil found and produced at Eakring and in nearby deposits had played a significant role in the war effort and left little doubt about the onshore possibilities, and offshore aspirations were building. But companies still held off dipping their toes in the water because of two key deficiencies; available technology to extract oil from the bed of the North Sea, and international agreements delineating maritime boundaries.

UKCS is born… The stage was set…almost. But where was the experienced and knowledgeable manpower to drill in such uncharted territory? In a curiously fortuitous twist of history, political changes in Iran in the late 1950s – and subsequent renationalization of many assets – led to the return to the UK of a number of drill workers, equipped with the expertise to work in what was barely a fledgling of a commercial industry.

But it was in late 1965 that the fortunes of the North Sea changed forever, with the fourth well to be drilled in the UK sector of the North Sea. Drilling on the West Sole prospect from the 5,600 ton SeaGem drilling barge had commenced on June 5 1965, continuing non-stop for 24 hours a day. That September, at 8,500 feet, crew thought they were going to be rewarded with yet another dry hole... until the dials showed tentative signs of gas. It soon became clear that these were more than just shows. On September 20, drill-stem tests were carried out. Security was very tight owing to the political and media pressure put on the rigs in the North Sea at that time, and tensions and fears of failure ran high. According to museum records, a teleprinter message sent to shore read: ’A test in BP’s North Sea well now being drilled by the Sea Gem forty-two miles east of Humber has produced gas, but not in sufficient quantities to be commercially significant. The well is being drilled deeper in the hope that commercial production may yet be encountered.” Despite the tentative nature of this announcement, UK media headlines proclaiming a ’North Sea Klondike’ sounded the klaxon, and increased the pressure even further. The well was completed at 10,000 feet and, on December 9, when a forty-foot high flame appeared at the top of the rig, any remaining doubt that there were hydrocarbons under the North Sea vanished as quickly as more excitable headlines appeared. By the middle of that month, the government formally announced output from this, the first successful well in the North Sea, of 10 million cu ft of gas a day, and talk began of pipelines to the shore. …but not without trauma But West Sole and the SeaGem’s places in the history books are sadly two-pronged. Two days after Christmas, preparations to move the rig to another drill location some 1.5 miles away were underway. As the platform’s legs were lowered, two of them collapsed without warning, tipping

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chapter FIVE

The UK Continental Shelf Act came into force in May 1964, after the UK became the 22nd country to ratify the Geneva Convention and international boundaries offshore, and thus sovereignty of any reserves discovered, could be determined.

Early drilling suffered a few false starts in the form of a handful of dry wells, drilled by companies including Caltex of the US, Shell and Esso jointly, Gulf, Total, Continental and Signal. All were fruitless.

chapter FIVE

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA the SeaGem sideways and men into the sea below. Crew were unable to send a distress signal owing to the radio cabin being swept away, and some of the life-rafts onboard could not be released because of wave height. Those who were not lucky enough to get onto one were lost when the entire platform turned over and slipped beneath the surface of the freezing North Sea in a matter of seconds. Thirteen lives were lost in a tragedy which marked indelibly the birth of the North Sea sector. Lessons learnt from the accident still form part of offshore safety regulations in the UK sector today, in particular the legally-enforced requirement to have an offshore installation manager and a standby vessel for each rig. West Sole came onstream in May 1967 and, over time, further drilling meant production from the prospect eventually reached 50m cu ft of gas a day. But a ban on gas exports soon after, exacerbated by the low prices offered by British Gas, then the only buyer for this new home-grown source of energy, meant companies’ initial enthusiasm for further forays in the UK offshore was short-lived and exploration activity had slowed by the middle of 1968. Big oil comes in But gas was not all the North Sea had to offer. May 1969 saw the discovery of the Montrose field (later renamed Arbroath) by an Amoco-led group. Arbroath was the first commercial oil field to be discovered in any sector of the northern North Sea, but it was still small fry compared with the Ekofisk field found offshore Norway in December that year by Phillips. The discovery of Ekofisk, which today remains one Norway’s most important producing fields, provided the first big boost that the North Sea needed. Some ten months later, it got its second. Prompted by Ekofisk, BP drilled wells in acreage it had held for a number of years, but had been

disinclined to explore. The result was, of course, the giant Forties field. Forties was discovered with the SeaQuest semisubmersible in October 1970, when the drillbit in well 21/10-1 made contact with a 119m oil column. Although BP downplayed the size of the find for a time, while it devised a feasible pipeline route across what was agricultural land belonging to Scottish farmers, recoverable reserves were initially put at 1.8bn barrels. In fact, recoverable reserves at Forties were later revised to more than 3bn barrels. Such was the political and economic importance of the discovery, the UK government extended a loan of £370m to help bring the oil onstream. Dubbed the ‘gold-plated Forties’ by those astounded at the cost to develop it - Queen Elizabeth II pushed a gold-plated button to start deliveries to shore via pipeline as the pinnacle of a £500,000 ceremony on November 3 1975 - BP’s later sale of it in 2003 (to Apache) was likened to selling off the family silver. Production started at a rate of 10,000 barrels per day and at peak, Forties produced half a million barrels of oil a day, equating to a quarter of the UK’s daily oil demand. For a short period of time, the UK even appeared amongst the world’s top five oil producing countries… The UK oil age had begun. Other ’giant’ UK sector finds are Brent (2.5bn bls, Shel l - 1971); Beryl (1bn bls, Mobil - 1972); Piper (1.1bn bls, Occidental - 1972), and Ninian (1.4bn bls, BP/Ranger - 1974). The Brent field was especially welcome to Shell, as industry legend has it that geologists at the company, which held neighbouring acreage, downplayed their belief that the structure holding Forties contained ’giant’ reserves, lest Shell executives should think them delusional.

The rollcall of fields shows the speed at which the potential of the North Sea was explored and, by 1974, offshore exploration companies had found 50 per cent of all the UK oil that would ever be discovered. Much of the increase in activity stemmed from the shifting political sands in the Middle East and the growing threats to security of supply with which the UK was now faced. Egypt’s invasion of Israel in October 1973 and the resultant Yom Kippur war that followed, meant that OPEC producers, the majority of them in the Middle East, began to curtail, or at least limit, westward supplies. This action saw oil prices rise almost fourfold in just a matter of weeks, and was a key driver of the UK’s increase of offshore activity in the 1970s. Bonanza offshore and on Production really took off in the late-1970s and increased until the mid-1980s, by which time the UK North Sea was playing host to no fewer than 100 installations. This new offshore frenzy required a significant support industry onshore, and saw a transformation of the fortunes of thousands of people in Aberdeen and surrounding areas. The industry put the hitherto insignificant Aberdonian suburb of Dyce on the map and, as further finds were made to the south, other ‘oil centres’ became established in towns such as Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

But the North Sea has been vulnerable to oil price shocks like anywhere else. As the Ekofisk find led to greater exploration effort off the UK, new finds in Norway in the mid-1980s meant a sudden flow of new oil and a major price slump. With lower prices came less investment in production, until the early 1990s when recovery saw investment and production start to rise again. In 2005, the UK once again became a net importer of crude.

Piper’s wake-up call And that experience is highly valued. Volatile weather conditions in Europe’s North Sea have made drilling particularly hazardous, with incidents sometimes claiming many lives. The worst was the Piper Alpha disaster of 1988, which killed 167 offshore workers and served as a harsh wake-up call for the sector. An in-depth public enquiry by Lord Cullen led to a major review of safety procedures and standards offshore that have ricocheted around the world, but deeper waters, deeper fields and new technology mean safety offshore continues to be under constant review. Technological developments mean that new fields are still being discovered and, with the adage; ‘The best place to look for oil is in an oil field’ running through minds, the lives of fields previously thought spent are being extended. Apache found a further 800m barrels in Forties after it bought it from BP, thereby finding almost an entire new ‘giant’ field. Forties is still producing 70,000 bpd, double the rate at the time of BP’s sale, and is expected to continue to pump oil for two more decades. Notable hydrocarbon finds in the UK North Sea in the past decade are the 400m bl Buzzard oil field discovered in June 2001 by PanCanadian, the 150m bl Brenda oil field discovered by Oilexco in 2004, Total’s Islay and West Franklin finds, and the 2010 Catcher discovery made by Premier Oil. The latter in particular raised hopes that the Central North Sea holds further as yet unfound reserves; Premier is currently in the design phase for Catcher and expects to make a final investment decision after the third quarter of 2013.

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chapter FIVE

By 1981, the UK had become a net exporter of oil, with exports surpassing imports by some 20,000 tonnes, and imports rising in 1984 only due to Margaret Thatcher and her hardline with the UK’s mining sector, which saw a greater need for alternatives to coal at the height of the strikes.

As for current production and the outlook for the UK North Sea, the area reached its peak in production volume terms around 2000 and output has been in decline since then at an average annual rate of some 11 per cent. The North Sea is regarded as one of the more matured oil production provinces, undisputedly past its peak in output terms, but nevertheless with a wealth of experience and knowledge of operating in a harsh environment.

chapter SIX

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Seismic survey technology has been a vital tool for the oil industry from the beginning. Following large-scale investigations with 2D seismic in the 1970s, a breakthrough was achieved with 3D mapping at the end of the decade.

chapter SIX

Image conscious

According to the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP), whose members produce more than half the world’s oil and about a third of its gas, the search for new supplies lurking deep within the Earth’s surface starts ‘hundreds of kilometres up’. High-resolution satellite photography can provide a vital clue in identifying those areas of the Earth’s crust most likely to conceal the type of rock formations that can trap oil and gas deposits. These formations are known as sedimentary basins, since they consist of areas of prehistoric sediment deposited by ancient rivers and seas. Once identified, sedimentary basins can be explored using a variety of seismic techniques. These are based on sound waves and provide the most efficient way to find the underground rock formations that are most likely to be oil and gas reservoirs. Whether assessing ’frontier territory’ or seeking to understand more about a mature oil deposit in order to maximize the extraction of resources from a producing field, oil and gas companies often cite developments in seismic technology as one of the most important advancements continually benefiting the industry. While a single hydrophone streamer is towed behind the survey vessel in 2D mapping, the 3D solution calls for many parallel streamers. These allow much larger areas to be covered more quickly and inexpensively, while also producing a 3D image of the subsurface.

cables or nodes on the seabed. As with 3D seismic, subsurface signals are picked up via three components. But putting hydrophones on the seabed also makes it possible to detect a fourth component: shear waves, which oscillate at right angles to the wave direction. These differ from pressure waves, in part because they do not travel through water, and therefore cannot be picked up by surface streamers. Pressure waves register geological phenomena called flat spots, which could indicate hydrocarbons. Shear waves do not detect oil or gas, so their uninterrupted passage through a flat spot would strengthen the view that it could be a discovery. This inference can be drawn if the flat spot ‘disappears’ on the 4C seismic map, because that should indicate the presence of hydrocarbons. Similar in principle to sub-sea sonar navigation tools, seismic reflection works when specially-equipped vehicles, known as seismic trains, emit sound waves directed below the ground. Different rock structures refract these sound waves in different ways. Sensitive receptors called geophones pick up these special echoes and record the sound wave patterns. At sea, specially-equipped ships tow strings of floating sonic sources and hydrophones that pick up the reflected sound waves from beneath the sea bed’s surface.

Picking up the signals The next step is four-component (4C) seismic, which replaces streamers towed by a survey ship with hydrophone

These maps help offshore explorers determine the likeliest spots to drill for oil and gas. Yet even after accumulating all of this data, there is no guarantee that likely formations

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chapter SIX

Four-dimensional (4D) surveys have been developed from the 3D technique by superimposing new data on existing information. With the aid of accurate positioning and efficient streamer deployment, seismic surveys can be repeated very precisely. This makes it possible to map field changes over time, which in turn provides an indication of how the field is being drained and supports optimal positioning of production and injection wells.

Find that hotspot Geologists examine the data from geophones and hydrophones, looking for certain distinctive wave patterns that are deflected by the porous rock formations likely to contain oil and gas, and those of the solid rock that could trap these hydrocarbons in an oil reservoir. They map these rock layers and highlight the most promising structures. Recent innovations enable the creation and computerimaging of highly detailed 3D seismic maps that show the localization and characteristics of potential reservoirs.

chapter SIX

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA will actually be productive. In general, for every three wells drilled, only one yields commercially viable quantities of oil or gas. However, technology has much improved: just a few decades ago, the ratio was ten exploratory wells for one discovery.

harsh weather and tough working conditions. The ability of UK companies to cope and prosper in troubled waters has given them a competitive edge in other ’difficult’ regions such as the Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, Brazil and the Caspian Sea.

During the production phase, 4D seismic interpretation (three dimensions plus time) can help to map the chronological progression of oil and gas flows in the reservoir and to make decisions on additional investment in the drilling of more wells to enhance the recovery of the hydrocarbons.

In fact, technologies developed in the North Sea have been utilized by the international oil and gas industry all over the world, particularly in applications relating to subsea production.

By repeating 3D seismic surveys over time while production is underway, oil companies can also get a ‘4D’ view of the effect their extraction strategy is having on drainage patterns. While permanent downhole sensors tell producers much about what is happening in the well itself, only seismic images repeated at intervals can show the movement of fluids and gases through an entire producing reservoir. Rock of ages For example, a 3D survey in a mature field comparing the results against earlier records can identify reservoir niches that remain undrained even after years of production. Thanks to the time-lapse seismology, the pockets of oil can then be tapped by way of a long horizontal well. In addition, techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and measurement while drilling (MWD) can log interpretation to sniff out unswept oil ahead of the drillbit. By and large, it is technology that is behind the great North Sea success story, despite such apparent handicaps as

The development of new subsea technology has created great opportunities for enhanced oil recovery in particular. Some experts predict a gradual shift from installations projecting above the sea surface to subsea plants. These enable small fields to be tied in to larger facilities and field centres, extending the life of existing platforms and infrastructure in the process while increasing the yield in the field areas and opening the way for development in ultra-deep waters. In areas without any infrastructure, subsea plants may be tied directly in to processing facilities onshore. Subsea technology also contributes to more environmentally-friendly development and operations offshore, as less ship and helicopter traffic in the operating phase helps cut emissions, while remotely-operated technology reduces the number of risky operations. Subsea innovation The subsea phenomenon is an outstanding example of the ways in which offshore oil and gas have made the North Sea one of the world’s most advanced industrial laboratories, and a cauldron of technological innovation. In recent years,

these technological advances, underpinned by audacious management decisions, have cut development costs substantially while squeezing billions of pounds’ worth of previously inaccessible oil out of the seabed. Subsea UK, the ‘industry body and focal point for the entire British subsea industry’, aims to increase business opportunities at home and abroad for the sector, serving as a national forum for collaboration, diversification, commercialization of technology and coordinated marketing in the UK and abroad. The organization claims to represent the entire supply chain – operators, contractors, suppliers and individuals – in a sector which ‘leads the way globally in terms of market size, experience and technology development’. Membership is over 200 companies and counting.

Such activities are more necessary than ever today, more than 40 years after the first exploration wells were drilled. However promising the estimates of undiscovered recoverable resources, the demand for new technological solutions intensifies as extraction becomes increasingly challenging.

Drilling in deep and ultra-deep waters has become more and more possible as drilling rig capabilities have developed. Like the Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, Brazil and offshore Norway, drilling in the UK continental shelf area west of Shetland is enabled by rigs that can operate in water depths ranging from 1,000-5,000 ft (deep) and some in excess of 5,000 ft of water (ultra-deep). Meeting the many challenges of deepwater production involves facilities that float. These include semisubmersibles, tension leg platforms, production ships, plus the usual flotillas of crane vessels, standby and supply vessels, pipe laying vessels, remotely-operated vehicles, floating production, storage and offloading vessels and ‘flotels’, in addition to oil tankers and highly specialized vessels for transporting liquefied petroleum gas and chemicals. Fleets of standardized ‘multi-purpose vessels’ can serve as shuttle tankers, conventional tankers, ultra-deepwater drilling rigs or submerged turret production ships that can vacuum up small fields and move on to the next with little fanfare. Production costs can be as low as $5 per barrel.

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chapter SIX

Key priorities include: • Ensuring that the UK maintains its world leading position in subsea. • Creating a Centre of Subsea Excellence in the UK. • Facilitating programmes that address the key skills shortages in the industry. • Bringing industry, academia and government together to accelerate the development of the next generation of subsea technologies. • Helping member companies diversify into other sectors and other geographical markets.

In deep As in other mature offshore provinces, the most intriguing trend afoot in the North Sea may be the shift to deeper water. For the UK, as we have seen, this means stepping up activity to the west of the Shetland Islands. In any case, operators in the North Sea already purchase more subsea equipment – billions of dollars’ worth each year – than most of their counterparts anywhere else, including the Gulf of Mexico.

chapter SEVEN

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“The end of oil and gas supplies has been predicted since the early 20th century”, says the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP). “And every time, those predictions have proved wrong.”

chapter SEVEN

A life extended

Why? Because the prophets did not take into account market incentives and developing technology. Investment and innovation have led to techniques such as 3D and 4D seismic evaluation, directional drilling, long subsea tiebacks, deepwater production and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) systems. These techniques have prolonged field life and enabled access to resources beyond all expectations. When oil prices are low, research on oil and gas recovery tends to focus on technology that can be applied within a short time. Ideally, research and development should involve a wide range of methods, so that alternatives can be found to fit as many conditions and situations as possible and to solve particular problems. The higher the price of oil, the more cost-effective such advanced methods become.

Keep the pressure up Primary production, the oil produced from normal operations, is generally capable of recovering about a third of the oil in place in a reservoir. Depending on an individual field’s characteristics, some of the EOR techniques now commonplace in the sector can result in recovery of anything up to a further 50 per cent of the remaining oil, presenting great opportunity for enhanced economics of almost any suitable field. A mature province like the North Sea is a prime candidate for EOR techniques. These might include the injection of steam, gas, chemicals or even plain old water, either to change the consistency of the remaining oil so it flows more easily, or force it out of the reservoir. Water injection, or ‘water flood’, involves drilling injection wells into an oil reservoir and introducing water into that reservoir to encourage oil production. Injected water helps to raise the pressure in an aging formation and also assists with the movement of the oil present in the reservoir. The water used can be a brine mixture or, in some fields, water that is re-injected, having been produced as part of the normal hydrocarbon production process, separated from the oil and put back into the reservoir to squeeze out

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chapter SEVEN

Three important developments illustrate the dynamism of the offshore sector, characterized as it is by attention to environmental protection and industry-wide pressure to trim costs: • As described in detail in Chapter 6, 3D seismic surveying of unparalleled clarity has simplified exploration planning and improved drilling results, while 4D seismic monitoring – basically the use of time-lapse 3D imaging – is fast becoming essential to reservoir management. • The recovery rate of oil and gas resources has soared with advances in reservoir management and deviated drilling technologies, particularly beneficial to maximizing output from older fields. • Exploration and production have shifted to deeper waters and harsher environments, where floating

production units and a succession of subsea technology breakthroughs have made the Norwegian continental shelf a model for economical offshore field development worldwide.

chapter SEVEN

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA yet more oil. In some cases, the water used is filtered to ensure no impurities, which may lead to bacterial growth or block the well pores, enter the well. During steam injection, oil trapped in rock pores is heated by the steam so it becomes thinner, while injecting miscible gas – gas that dissolves in oil – also makes the oil thinner and therefore easier to extract. Two types of chemical injection are widely used in the sector; polymers are used to thicken water that is used to push oil through the reservoir towards producing wells and make the water’s job more effective, and surfactants can be used to literally wash oil from rock pores, working much like a domestic disinfectant. There is another advantage to new recovery techniques. They bring more oil and gas to the surface without expanding a field’s environmental footprint. At the Wytch Farm onshore field in the UK, for instance, horizontal drilling has preserved an environmentally-sensitive area that includes a stretch of World Heritage Coastline. Given that UK offshore oil production is declining even as global demand continues to grow, EOR has huge potential, if not to close the gap, to narrow it significantly. Each five per cent improvement in recovery factor across all fields yields another five years of global supply. Magnus comes of age What a difference 30 years and a bit of water make. BP’s Magnus oil field, located in 186 m of water 160 km northeast of Shetland, began producing back in 1983. At

the time, it was expected to have a 20-year life, and was at one time slated for decommissioning in 2008. However, the field reaches its 30th anniversary in 2013 and is on track to hit some 1 billion of cumulative barrels of production. Moreover, the field’s life is far from finished and BP now expects it to continue producing into 2030 and possibly beyond. As well as extensive additional seismic to map the field’s untapped reservoirs, the operator has applied waterflooding and gas-injection techniques, resulting in valuable additional recovery potential. These techniques, combined with an ongoing drilling programme, mean that BP is confident the field’s current production of between 20,000 and 30,000 bpd of oil and 13 to 20 million cubic feet a day of gas and can be sustained for the next 10-15 years and beyond. In some cases, the gas injected could be carbon dioxide (CO²) recovered from power plants. This process, known as carbon capture and storage (CCS), can be particularly effective in reducing emissions. CO² injection has been employed for many years in some countries, notably the US, where reservoirs containing pure CO² are available, and is attracting a great deal of interest in the UK. According to the European Commission, some 30 per cent of CO² emissions from the power sector could be captured in this way by 2030, rising to almost 60 per cent by 2050. Recovery position A study by the Durham University Energy Institute published

in October 2010 estimates that oil recovery using CO² could yield an extra three billion barrels of oil worth £150 billion, over the next 20 years. Three billion barrels of oil would be enough to ‘power, heat and transport the UK for two years with every other form of energy switched off’, the institute said in a press release. Importantly, this process (‘EOR-CO²’) would be ‘just about carbon neutral with as much carbon being put back in the ground as will be taken out’, the press release continued. Developing the infrastructure for the technology ‘would put the UK in the driving seat for developing enhanced recovery off-shore oil production around the world, and would also allow the UK to develop its carbon storage techniques in line with the UK government’s commitments on emissions reductions’.

“The extra three billion barrels of oil that could be produced by enhanced CO² recovery would make us selfsufficient and would add around £60 billion in revenue to the Treasury,” he said.

“We need to act now to develop the capture and transportation infrastructure to take the CO² to where it is needed. This would be a world-leading industry using new technology to deliver CO² to the North Sea oil fields. We must begin to do this as soon as possible before it becomes too expensive to do so. “My figures are at the low end of expectations, but they show that developing this technology could lead to a huge rejuvenation of the North Sea. The industrial CO² output from Aberdeen to Hull is all you need to deliver this enhanced oil recovery.” Lateral thinking Another important development in the science of petroleum recovery has been in the field of deviated and horizontal drilling. To one degree or another, twisting, turning and branching are a part of daily life in offshore drilling projects. But the ease and precision with which the task is performed has continued to advance with rotary-steerable technologies that save operators money by expanding the reach of existing infrastructure. Horizontal drilling techniques are designed to maximise the number of ‘pockets’ of a reservoir that can be reached

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chapter SEVEN

The study, funded by DONG Energy (UK) and Ikon Science, was presented to a CCS conference at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in London. Durham University Professor Jon Gluyas told the conference that this EOR-CO² method, based on techniques used in West Texas for decades yielding an extra four to twelve per cent of the oil in place, would return the UK to being self-sufficient in oil, as it was during the first North Sea boom, and would secure national oil supplies for the next 20 years.

But he added a warning: “Time is running out to make best use of our precious remaining oil reserves because we’re losing vital infrastructure as the oil fields decline and are abandoned. Once the infrastructure is removed, we will never go back and the opportunity will be wasted.

chapter SEVEN

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA by the drillbit. One of the main benefits is the ability to reach areas some distance away from the original drill site, without adding to the drilling operation’s footprint. In some circumstances, this allows the exploitation of resources that are in areas that cannot be disturbed above ground. This might be because they are heavily-populated, are areas of environmental or touristic significance, or are otherwise not natural hosts to a drilling rig. From a production perspective, horizontal drilling in hydrocarbon structures which are, after all, almost always horizontal, can very often result in higher output due to the greater surface area of the wellbore. In a world that is growing more densely-populated and more environmentally-focused by the day, techniques like these are highly valuable. Maximizing existing infrastructure continues to be one of the industry’s highest priorities. The North Sea has abundant pipelines and is studded with hundreds of subsea satellite wellheads whose parent platforms can be hard to discern even on maps. Even the satellites have satellites. Through the mini-boom of the mid-1990s, oil companies were encouraged, where not required, to develop marginal fields within pipeline reach of old platforms before entering new, unexplored areas with more exciting potential. But the result was expertise in cost-efficient, subsea well

construction that serves producers and suppliers well in an era of infrastructure minimalism at home and abroad. Streamline for success Of course, the oil producers have been quick to grasp the importance of leaner and meaner technologies and contracting procedures, cheaper field developments and tighter schedules. By simplifying design concepts and streamlining the development process, acquiring a production platform from a single contractor, for example, has become commonplace. The development of standardized, but flexible, semi-submersible platforms has helped to cut costs on some projects by 40 per cent or more. There is an extensive network of pipelines in the UK to carry oil extracted from North Sea platforms to coastal terminals in Scotland and northern England. BP operates the 110-mile, 36-inch Forties-Cruden Bay pipeline, linking fields in the Forties system to the oil terminal at Cruden Bay, Scotland. The company also operates a 110-mile, 36inch pipeline connecting the Ninian system to the Sullom Voe oil terminal on ‘Mainland’, the largest of the Shetland Isles. Britoil Plc operates a 150-mile, 24-inch pipeline linking the Bruce and Forties fields to Cruden Bay, and Talisman operates a 130-mile, 30-inch pipeline connecting the

Piper system with Flotta on Orkney Island. Shell and Esso jointly operate a 93-mile, 36-inch connection between the Cormorant oil field and Sullom Voe.

reservoirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance over time given various production strategies. As in the exploratory phase, seismic imaging and interpretation are key.

There are also numerous, small pipelines that connect each North Sea oil platform to these major backbones. Finally, the UK does have a few onshore crude oil pipelines, including a 90-mile, underground pipeline linking the Wytch Farm field in southern England to the refinery at Fawley and the nearby oil export terminal at Southampton.

With survey data of the quality now standard in the North Sea, computer operators can model a reservoir in three dimensions, highlighting significant geological features and using colour to differentiate between water, oil and gas concentrations. The improved view allows engineers to pinpoint the ideal locations and depths for injection and production wells, while state-of-the-art simulation enables engineers to wander through reservoirs in virtual reality.

An added dimension There is nothing new in trying to extract as much petroleum as possible from each reservoir you develop. But increasing the recovery factor has become a sacred mission since geologists began to predict that most, if not all, of the North Sea giants had been tamed.

Deploying a full suite of available technologies generates an even clearer view of field structures and hydrocarbon saturation. The cost is generally somewhat higher, but benefits include the ability to see through hydrocarbon masses to a reservoirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s substructure. Thanks to these advanced reservoir description and monitoring techniques, marginal fields that were passed over in the hunt for North Sea elephants can now be developed with the confidence that they are worth the effort.

Oil companies that want to improve oil and gas recovery rates must begin by acquiring the means to anticipate a

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chapter SEVEN

The UK has a single international crude oil pipeline, the 220-mile, 34-inch Norpipe operated by ConocoPhillips. With a capacity of 900,000 barrels per day, Norpipe connects Norwegian oil fields in the Ekofisk system to the oil terminal and refinery at Teesside.

chapter EIGHT

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Any prospering industry anywhere needs a strong support infrastructure behind it, and the UKCS has got that in spades. The past four decades of oil and gas development in and offshore the UK have seen the evolution of a number of oil centres, but none more important than Aberdeen.

chapter EIGHT

Aberdeen adapts

Some say it’s the abundant Scottish rain that makes the granite of which Aberdeen is built glint like silver. Others say it is the oil wealth itself that has injected itself into the city. Whether the ‘Granite City’ or the ‘Silver City’, Aberdeen has prospered as the UKCS has, and is as synonymous with oil as Las Vegas is with the one-armed bandit and Elvis. Sited between the River Don to the north and the River Dee to the south, Aberdeen had the fortune to benefit from the oil crisis of the 1970s, which sent world crude prices sky high and turned the UK’s attention to domestic oil and gas potential. The offshore boom that resulted saw an onshore boom too, as the city became the centre of the North Sea oil industry and a major supply centre for North Sea oil platforms and services. With the world’s busiest heliport, claiming to be ferrying more than 500,000 passengers a year, Aberdeen is often called the ‘Oil Capital of Europe’, or even the ‘Dallas of the North’, even if the clothing of choice is a warm overcoat, gloves and scarf, rather than chaps and a Stetson. Job centre Aberdeen’s local economy is one of the strongest in the UK, with up to half a million energy and energy-related jobs estimated to have been created in and around Aberdeen. In January 2011, the city was identified as one of five whose high levels of employment, skilled workers and average earnings had the potential to help the UK out of the recession.

The roll-call includes a high number of oil exploration and production companies, as well as contractors and consultants to the sector; geological and oilfield process specialists; drilling contractors; pipe-laying firms; support vessel and helicopter operators; and valve and drillbit manufacturers. Also there are the offshore recruitment agencies that keep the sector populated, the offshore catering suppliers that keep it fed and watered, and numerous hotels in close proximity to the airport and many

BP made crystal clear its intention to stay in Aberdeen by opening a sparkling new office in recent years, as did Chevron. And the new research centre opened by Shell next door to its existing headquarters in the Aberdonian suburb of Altens, where the skyline is dominated by the buildings, shows the size of its foot in the city. Facing the future Others present include ExxonMobil, Total Exploration UK, Talisman Energy, Amerada Hess, ConocoPhillips, Dana Petroleum, E.ON Ruhrgas, and Apache North Sea. Naturally, Aberdeen is also home to a high number of oil services and support companies, including AMEC, Halliburton, Wood Group PSN, KCA Deutag, Aker, Craig Group, Weir Group, Subsea 7, Technip, Baker Hughes and Schlumberger. And they are in good company. Aberdeen will play host as the SPE Offshore Europe conference and exhibition celebrates its fortieth anniversary in September 2013. With ‘The Next 50 Years’ as its theme, the event is bound to provide the right forward-looking platform for those looking to shape the future of the UK’s oil and gas industry, and is likely to attract even more than the 49,000 attendees at the 2011 event. Alongside its equally-prominent Norwegian counterpart ONS, held in Stavanger since 1974, OE is always guaranteed to be the place to find out about the latest evolution in oil and gas technology, and to meet the specialists and experts behind its development, as well as the owners of the fields that can benefit. Looking to provide the brains of the sector as well as the brawn, Aberdeen has made serious moves in the past two decades or so to branch further into becoming an important centre for research and development. At the nearby Aberdeen Offshore Technology Park (AOTP), established in 1987 on the east side of the city and closer to the coast, many of the industry’s key technological requirements can be met through a range of open access research facilities on the Park. And oil and gas academic research is historically very strong in the region too. Scotland has no fewer than fifteen universities and many of them have built very close links and associations with the oil and gas industry, creating a

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chapter EIGHT

Dyce, the location for much of this buzzing industry, is not so much a suburb to the northwest of Aberdeen, as the energy centre of the city. Like a walk of fame or who’s who for the oil industry, every company from every corner of the oil and gas sector is there, and the road names – Exploration Drive, for example – on an industrial estate called Wellheads, say it all.

of the company offices and warehouses themselves, so that visiting workers are right in the thick of it.

chapter EIGHT

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA real hotbed of innovation, research and development right at the centre of so much of UK’s offshore action. Industry and ivory Amongst the country’s centres of oil and gas academic excellence are the University of Aberdeen Oil and Gas Centre, founded in 1995 and supported by BP; the worldrenowned University of Dundee Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy, a graduate school in the field of international business transactions, energy law and policy; Heriot-Watt University Institute of Petroleum Engineering in Edinburgh and offering the largest petroleum engineering research programme in the UK; and the Robert Gordon University Centre for Research in Energy and the Environment, in Aberdeen. Many of the majors have tightly-focused and effective research partnerships with a number of the institutions, taking advantage of the wealth of knowledge and expertise across the sector. One of the newest industry-academic joint initiatives is the National Subsea Research Institute (NSRI), established in December 2008 as a venture that aims to cement the UK’s position as world leader in the use of technology on the sea floor. The NSRI, like many other research organisations, is a virtual institution, with assets and expertise spread over several locations. Aberdeen is at its centre, with Robert Gordon University and the University of Dundee two of the founding partners. Journal of record The Press and Journal (formerly the Aberdeen Press and Journal) is an energy institution all by itself. This daily regional newspaper, established in 1748 and Scotland’s oldest daily, serves northern Scotland its news and has long been the first port of call for anyone wanting to know what’s happening in the world of rigs and roughnecks. The paper is often abbreviated to the ‘P&J’, and sometimes mischievously nicknamed the ‘Parochial and Journal’ owing to its determination to find a local and regional

leaning in almost any story. It did however finally put paid to a long-standing urban myth that, reporting on the Titanic disaster in April 1912, the headline ran; ‘Aberdeenshire Man Drowned At Sea.’ The fact that the P&J is such a point of reference for all that is going on in a place called the Oil Capital of Europe means it is also rare among regional newspapers in that its news and views are also widely read abroad, and not only by expatriates. Energy.pressandjournal.co.uk, a standalone website from the paper, attracts readers around the world, and consolidates the P&J’s position as the place to go for all that is energy news. Along with the significance of the oil and gas sector and the city’s economic reliance upon it, comes vulnerability, as the loss of thousands of jobs during the 1980s oil price slump showed. At that time, a certain car sticker was commonly visible in north east Scotland, with a slightly less polite version of “Dear Lord, please let there be another oil boom. We promise not to [drink] it away this time.” Thriving in diversity Today, as the energy industry starts to shift towards a lower carbon future that more heavily features renewables, the area’s pole position in oil is the ideal base from which to diversify, from the Oil Capital to the Energy Capital of Europe. Aberdonian city authorities and the industry are well aware that other cities would also like to lay claim to this crown, Stavanger in Norway being one. Around 40,000 people are directly employed by 900 energy companies within the Aberdeen area, with an even larger number engaged in the critical supply chain. As well as strengthening its already firm reputation as a centre for oil and gas R&D, Aberdeen and the surrounding area holds substantial potential to serve as a base for the UK’s shift towards renewable energy sources, and particularly wind, tidal and wave energy. Aberdeen wants a large slice of this renewable future, with technology investment in the sector expected to reach

$600 bn by 2020 (UNF Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2008). At the same time, over 470 offshore installations, 5000 wells, 10-14,000km of pipeline and 15 onshore terminals may require decommissioning within the next 20 years. The port of Peterhead, some 50km to the north, is an ideal reception site for many of these facilities. Aberdeen already has the people, the expertise and the infrastructure, and is of course in pole geographical position to be a base for the growing use of the UKCS for wind as an energy source. Already there are the bases for subsea installation, support vessels, helicopters, offshore safety training and maintenance, almost all of it transferable. So, with renewables starting to boom, the view is that a role as the centre of it is up for grabs. With this in mind, Aberdeen City and Shire Economic Future, a private-public partnership that promotes economic development in the region, has identified a 30-mile corridor that it has called ‘Energetica’ – between Aberdeen and Peterhead, where it foresees a new hub for renewables development and energy technology. Key components of this new environment, as well as housing and leisure facilities, could include electricity generated by the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre in Aberdeen bay, an Energetica Smart Grid system to transport and deliver electricity, a pump storage facility to store any excess electricity produced through wind generation, test and research facilities for other forms of renewable energy and high-quality, low-carbon commercial and industrial accommodation. Project Director Sara Budge has said of the venture; “With the publication of the delivery plan, Energetica has now become a tangible project that has the potential to significantly grow the regional and Scottish economies and put Aberdeen City and Shire firmly on the map as a global energy hub for the second age of energy.”

Also of high importance to the UKCS oil sector and playing a significant role in wind and tidal energy development are the islands of Shetland and Orkney. The Sullom Voe

Down south And while Aberdeen services so much of the offshore activity that goes on off the north coast, Scotland is not the only UK oil centre. Great Yarmouth might be known for its yellow sands and famous pier, but it also serves as a base for the central and southern North Sea gas. Great Yarmouth itself boasts the newest deepwater port in the UK, EastPort UK, and the huge Bacton gas terminal, which handles gas from the southern UK North Sea, the Netherlands and Belgium, is in its vicinity. The town also hosts a 400-strong marine energy supply chain and some 12,000 skilled employees. Businesses with operations there include Aker Solutions, AMEC, Perenco, Petrofac, Halliburton and Schlumberger, together with local companies which market their expertise across the world, such as the marine contractor Gardline Group. And if the UK is never again a net oil exporter, it is widely accepted it can nevertheless export knowledge. Great Yarmouth’s wealth of experience took on a Latin American flavour in early 2011, as the town’s oil industry was encouraged to link up with Venezuela, holder of the world’s second biggest oil reserves after Saudi Arabia, to provide technical assistance, aimed particularly at maximizing recovery from oilfields that have, in many cases, been pumping for years. Contracts between Great Yarmouth, or other UK, companies and Venezuelan firms would also be a huge boost to the local and regional economies in the UK. ”Venezuela is a huge oil and gas market and Great Yarmouth has got some great oil and gas capabilities,” said Haden Spicer, a representative from the British Embassy in Caracas. With such well-established infrastructure and an army of personnel with experience in everything from subsea cables to offshore catering, it is clear that diversification and innovation are the key to the healthy future of all the support bases that have underpinned the development of the UKCS for decades.

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chapter EIGHT

Aberdeen already plays host to the UK’s leading renewables exhibition – the aptly-named All Energy: ‘The Renewables Show in the Energy City’– which takes place during May. The 2012 event attracted over 8,300 visitors from 49 countries who gathered to assess the latest developments, hear top speakers and visit the 580 exhibitors. At the time of going to press, the 2013 event had already clocked up a similar number of exhibition spaces and looked set to be even more successful.

and Flotta terminals, respectively hosted by these islands, were critical to the success of the UK’s northern fields. Sullom Voe received its first oil and gas in 1978 and was to become one of the largest terminals in Europe, while the Flotta terminal on Orkney handles some 10 per cent of the UK’s oil production, a lot of it from the Piper and Claymore oilfields. But both islands also hold substantial potential for renewable energy prominence, with various wind, wave, tidal and hydrogen fuel cell projects underway.

chapter NINE

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It seems ironic that oil and gas, fossil fuels after all, have an important role to play in the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gradual transition to a lower-carbon economy. But no transition could ever occur overnight, and the UK is now expected to meet 70 per cent of its energy demand with oil and gas into the 2040s.

chapter NINE

Constant lessons

How much of the oil and gas the UK uses in the next few decades will come from domestic production remains to be seen and depends on many factors. Not the least of these are government policy and the fiscal picture, which will be key dynamics in the degree to which oil and gas companies decide to continue putting cash into the North Sea. But whatever the levels of capital expenditure yet to go in to, and volume of production yet to come out of, the UK North Sea, growing environmental awareness means that hydrocarbons need to be drilled for, developed, produced and brought to shore in the least environmentallydamaging manner possible. Safety always first As the ramifications of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon incident endure and July 6th 2013 marks the 25th anniversary of the Piper Alpha tragedy, the issue of offshore safety has never been more acute. The far-reaching and ever-evolving changes implemented in the years after the Piper Alpha explosion that claimed 167 lives mean the tragedy’s legacy touches each and every offshore worker in the industry and always will.

One of the main messages from the Gulf of Mexico accident was that the industry must learn from the experience, not just that of prevention of a similar incident, but also from the response itself.

In the UK, oil spills, and consequently the resources needed to tackle and contain them, are categorized in three tiers: spills of around 100 tonnes or 740 barrels, that can be contained with locally-available resources, are classed as Tier 1; spills involving 500 tonnes or 3,700 barrels of oil need a regional response and are Tier 2. The National Contingency Plan, a measure taken by the UK as part of its obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, is activated in the event of a Tier 3 spill. That is one that involves an escape of 10,000 tonnes or 74,000 barrels of oil. Estimates that 4.9m barrels of oil leaked into the Gulf of Mexico during the incident in 2010 demonstrate all too clearly the potential for a huge impact. A model approach UK offshore operators are already required to have Oil Pollution Emergency Plans (OPEPs) in place for each specific field development or installation, as part of their risk assessments and, under the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation 1990, must test these offshore with every shift at least annually. These plans detail procedures in the event of an incident with the potential to cause marine pollution, aiming to

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chapter NINE

The Deepwater Horizon accident that claimed 11 lives and led to an environmental catastrophe was the unfortunate result of a series of technical and managerial failures. Few people can have failed to see the magnitude of the challenge that lay before BP and organizations working with it to try to contain the spill and cap the well. What happened was described as unthinkable, an event that had not been planned for, because ‘it just could not happen’. Yet anything can happen if the right – or wrong – combination of circumstances is there.

The shock of the incident reverberated around the globe and led to vastly increased scrutiny of the global offshore sector’s ability to prevent a repeat of such an event, and its readiness to handle the environmental fallout should one occur and its readiness to handle the environmental fallout should one occur. The gas leak experienced by Total at its Elgin well in March 2012 sent more than a shiver down the spine of the UK oil and gas sector. That incident did not escalate as first feared and was in fact resolved comparatively swiftly, but there is no doubt the industry held its breath.

chapter NINE

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA prevent and/or minimize such pollution should a spill occur. The risk assessments required under these plans now require operators to carry out extensive computer modelling showing the worst-case scenario spread of oil from a deepwater drilling operation, including possible spread to beaches and into inland waterways. This type of sophisticated modelling includes examining the varying directions of the spread of oil, taking into account different wind speeds and directions, and sea currents. Having such information laid out in detailed plans is aimed at ensuring that the appropriate response resources are immediately directed to the right place. Response and containment options include skimming, booming, dispersants and controlled burning methods and, as is well documented, all of these were applied during the Deepwater Horizon response. In some cases and in some circumstances, the equipment and materials used to respond to a spill can cause more damage than the spilled oil itself. The Oil Spill Treatment Product Approval Scheme review, led by the UK’s Marine Management Organisation, is collating the views of industry, government and environmental figures on the most effective, least environmentally-damaging products to treat spilled oil, including dispersants which garnered much concern in the Deepwater Horizon response effort. With activities now leaning towards the WoS, substantial attention has been diverted to how an oil spill in that area would be handled. Ironically, while the extremely harsh weather conditions would seriously hamper a response effort, probably totally ruling out the use of booms for example, those weather conditions could also assist with dispersal of surface oil. This was evident with the spill of around 85,000 tonnes from the Braer tanker in 1993, when storms actually proved to be very effective at dispersing much of the escaped oil. At the same time, however, the very strong marine currents would be likely to mean spilled oil would be much harder to contain that it was in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Gulf of Mexico’s higher temperatures were a major factor in the natural evaporation of an estimated quarter of the leaked oil. With the somewhat chillier conditions west of Shetland, this lucky circumstance would not occur. Providing some relief It is also worth remembering that, along with attempting to block the leaking Gulf of Mexico well by jamming it full of old golf balls and rope, a process known as a ‘junk shot’, BP’s drilling of relief wells was a key component in the overall effort. Rigs capable of drilling relief wells in the conditions prevalent in the area west of Shetland are not two a penny, and are rarely easily available at short notice. Wells such as those at the Schiehallion field are, at 110 miles, twice as far from the shore of Shetland as the Macondo well is from Louisiana, but that does not appease environmentalists and it should not appease the oil industry either. The clear message is that there is absolutely no room for complacency. Meanwhile, oil and gas are not the only energy sources and an ability to more easily fend off historical invaders is not the only advantage the UK has in being an island. In fact, the UK was identified as the best market for offshore wind energy in the world in a 2005 study by Ernst and Young, due to its favourable combination of wind resource, strong offshore regime and the extension of the relevant legislation, the Renewables Obligation, to 15 per cent by 2015. And those rough conditions and strong currents also bestow on the UK offshore high potential to produce energy from wave and tidal sources. The Offshore Valuation, published in April 2010 by the Offshore Valuation Group, a collaboration of government and industry organizations collectively addressing the question of the value of the UK’s offshore renewable energy resource, found that just a third of that resource – encompassing wind, wave and tidal – could generate the electricity equivalent of 1bn barrels of oil annually, matching North Sea oil and gas production. It could create 145,000 new jobs in the UK and provide the Treasury with €28bn in tax revenues annually, whilst ensuring that Britain

could become a net electricity exporter. Such developments could result in cumulative carbon dioxide savings of 1.1bn tons by 2050. The UK seabed out to 12 nautical miles is owned by the Crown Estate. Under the Energy Act 2004, the Crown Estate is also the licensee of renewable energy in the Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) on the UK’s continental shelf out to 200 nautical miles. As such, it has already played a major role in progress made in UK wind, wave and marine energy development in the last decade or so. The UK is the European and world wind sector leader with over 1,340 megawatts (MW) already installed offshore. Test and demonstration facilities for wave and tidal energy have been established off Orkney and Cornwall, the latter lying in the Atlantic of course, but nevertheless demonstrating the suitability of the territory for this technology. Transfer of experience The basis for these sorts of ambitions is certainly there. Many people working in the offshore oil and gas industry in the UK have years, four decades in some cases, of experience. The value of the deep knowledge and expertise prolific in the sector to the wind, wave and tidal industry is widely recognized, as are the many transferable elements of the onshore support and supply sector.

Prevention is surely the first word in any environmental protection strategy, but the next is mitigation. The UK’s path to a lower-carbon economy needs to be a step-by-step process, with the interests of all parties being taken into account if there is to be successful sustainable outcome.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that applying CCS technology- storing CO² emissions under the ground where they cannot escape into the atmosphere - could remove 15-55 per cent of global CO² emissions this century. The technology to do this is still evolving, but being able to do it at scale is everything. CCS is already being successfully deployed at locations such as Norway (the Sleipner field, the world’s first offshore CCS development) and Algeria, and is expected to become more prevalent in the coming years. However, the number of North Sea fields that could successfully store CO² is limited, largely because seawater injection, commonly used to maintain field pressure during oil production, significantly reduces the amount of storage capacity for CO2. Some 29 hydrocarbon fields of a possible 200 have been identified as having some CCS potential, with four gas condensate fields and one gas field offering significant potential for use in this way. There is a consensus that CCS projects would hold greater incentives and be more easily workable, in some cases only workable, for the operators of suitable fields if combined with enhanced oil recovery technology. The years of reservoir management and pipeline transportation knowledge present in the industry are also of tremendous value here. The jury is very much out on CCS and critics say it just hides the problem, literally, underground and, much like landfill for our waste, stores up trouble for later. But CCS technology, if deployed commercially, could present the UK with an opportunity to continue to use fossil fuels for energy as the variety of renewable energy sources is further developed.

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chapter NINE

It is likely that events in Japan in early 2011, which left a nuclear reactor on the brink of possible meltdown, will lead to further pressure for renewables to be progressed even more swiftly. Germany all but cancelled its nuclear plans in the wake of the Fukishima tragedy and the UK and others are treading very carefully.

The North Sea industry wasn’t built in a day and it won’t end overnight either. As investment, development and production continue, the region’s older, depleted reservoirs may also have a role to play in helping to cut emissions to the air.

chapter TEN

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The higher you climb, the greater the fall, so the adage goes. Since that first discovery in 1965, the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oil fortunes have waxed and waned, taking it from total reliance on imports, to becoming a net exporter, to its position now as a mature and declining oil producer.

chapter TEN

Listen and learn

They might both be kingdoms, but the UK was never going to be another Saudi Arabia. But, as a mature producing province, the North Sea is used to enduring premature obituaries. Oil production first peaked in the mid-1980s, whereupon the 1988 Piper Alpha disaster saw a sudden slump in investment, a production decline to some 1.9m barrels per day by the early 1990s, and declarations the region was ‘over’. A resurgence of interest and capital outlay saw production rise to peak once more in 1999, before starting a steady decline of an average 7 per cent per year. The maturity of the majority of basins means continued decline is inevitable. Its rate can be slowed, say North Sea advocates, but only if business, market and regulatory conditions are favourable, and if technological advances are fully exploited. A substantial portion of the reserves that could yet be extracted from the North Sea are under hardware installed 30-plus years ago, and what went in must come out one day. As with any mature producing province, old platforms and other installations need to be removed and dealt with as they reach the end of useful lives. The North Sea faces a heavy decommissioning load over the next several years, keeping some of the supply chain in business, but also costing oil companies dearly. Delaying the inevitable Industry figures put the cost of decommissioning over the next two decades at £29bn, a bitter pill for companies already paying more for everything. Those who can are delaying the dismantling and removal of platforms and pipelines as far as possible, but a longer lead time between operational cessation and decommissioning can often mean the eventual costs of the decommissioning can be higher. This part of the sector is starting to look towards group-projects to keep costs down, but decommissioning is nevertheless an expensive process no one really wants to go through.

These smaller outfits, many of them home-grown, tend to be more focused, more nimble, and more determined than ever to make that next discovery or squeeze more out of a reservoir previously felt by the majors to no longer be of sufficient interest. And sometimes, new oil is right where the old oil is. Apache is hardly small, but its purchase

But the costs of exploring for, developing and bringing to shore oil and gas from the North Sea have risen as the region has matured, putting it amongst the most expensive places in the world in which to be in the oil business. New discoveries are also smaller than in earlier years. The general likelihood is that the really big, ‘easy’ discoveries have already been found and what remains is either smaller, more technically challenging to extract, or both. Innovation rules Technology and innovation are the way forward. Higher costs lend themselves to more satellite developments – ‘piggybacking’ newer finds onto existing production facilities nearby – and an increased sharing of infrastructure all round. This kind of collaboration could be the key to opening up access to smaller, more marginal fields that might otherwise go unexploited due to size or remoteness. But of course, oil and gas are up against cleaner fuels, including a growing wind power presence, meaning that the sectors must expect to share, not only the physical space offshore, but also market share, regulatory bias and the investment pot. Oil prices are being driven and held higher by everincreasing industrialisation in China and India, violence in the Middle East and tension from Iran. Although demand growth slowed slightly in 2011, this was offset by the political turmoil in North Africa and Middle East, with the disruption in Libya hitting supplies. The issue of energy security means the economic case for maximising the potential of the UK North Sea remains strong as renewables take their place in the market and the transition to a lowercarbon world. The UKCS industry plays a huge role in UK plc, and what it asks for above all is stability and certainty. The government has played dangerously close to the edge for many UKCS operators and their budgets, having sorely tested the sector’s nerves in 2011 and kept those nerves on the edge through some of 2012. The mood now seems a drastically more collaborative one. As long as it is maintained, it should result in the UK’s ability to maximise the recovery of the valuable oil and gas reserves that remain, to continue to meet a substantial portion of its domestic energy needs for future decades, and to sustain a large number of jobs. An industry and a government committed to work in partnership is the basis of this. The industry has a voice, and the government has listened. With real maturity comes true wisdom, it seems…

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chapter TEN

One of the main attractions of the North Sea has been that, as a mature area, it has held the interest of a range of different company types. While oil majors’ larger budgets mean they are naturally drawn to higher-potential prospects, such as lesser-known areas like the WoS, where the potential rewards as well as the costs and risks are higher, smaller companies are in a position to pick up the reins on older existing fields and, in some cases, extend field-life quite considerably. The government’s March 2012 gift of decommissioning tax relief contractual agreements for older fields could extend the life of some fields by 5-7 years as it will allow would-be buyers, usually smaller companies with shallower pockets, to calculate exactly what their future costs will be.

of Forties from BP in 2003 is a case in point. During the summer of 2010, a new 3D seismic survey carried out over the field highlighted ‘many areas’ of bypassed oil in the reservoir. Of the twenty wells Apache subsequently drilled, twelve proved productive, and the company is now well advanced with a project to extend the life of Forties by nearly two decades. Not at all bad for a field once expected to cease production in 2012.

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spe offshore europe The NeXT 50 YeArs The oil and gas industry represents a continuing success story, both in terms of future production and a strong supply chain. And although its future seems assured, there are plenty of challenges ahead. Yet challenges drive innovation, and the industry has a deserved international reputation for excellence in engineering, manufacturing and technology allowing it to operate successfully in both mature basins and frontier areas. ‘The Next 50 Years’ is therefore an appropriate theme for the forthcoming SPE Offshore Europe biennial conference and exhibition to be held at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre from 3-6 September 2013. Over 31,000 visitors are expected to participate in the world’s largest upstream oil and gas exhibition and conference outside North America. Senior representatives from the global industry, UK and international governments and academia will come together to lead the sessions during the four-day event which is free to attend for all registrants. Over the four days of the conference there will be a series of panel sessions, peer-reviewed technical sessions, topical lunches and breakfast briefings. Topics cover all areas of interest to anyone directly involved in the oil and gas industry or, indeed, anyone interested in the future outlook for this business. The exhibition halls will showcase the technologies, services and expertise of the global industry, covering the complete supply chain of companies including operators, drilling contractors and oilfield service companies. Over 1500 organisations are expected this year in the largest exhibition of the show’s history. Reflective of the global nature of the industry as a whole there is a large international exhibitor presence at the event with participating companies from over 40 countries. Visit www.offshore-europe.co.uk for more information.

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EXPL EXPLORE

SPE OFFSHORE EUROPE THE NEXT 50 YEARS SPE Offshore Europe is where the E&P community meets to find the solutions required to keep up with an accelerating technology race, and understand the demands of a changing industry committed to ensuring security of supply in an increasingly complex world.

The Offshore Europe Partnership, a joint venture between:

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WWW.OF FSH EUROPE.C OREO.UK

3rdâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;6th September 2013 AECC, Aberdeen, UK REGISTER FOR THE FREE CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION: WWW.OFFSHORE-EUROPE.CO.UK

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company presentations

company

PRESENTATIONS

exploration & production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 field development & technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 drilling contractors & equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 offshore & onshore products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 dredging & trenching services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 fabrication & construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 safety & security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

education & training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

NORTH SEA SAGA

company presentations

data & electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

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exploration & production

Acteon

32934 Acteon DPS_32934 Acteon DPS 03/06/2013 14:49 Page 1

Defining Subsea Services in the North Sea

SUBSEA SERVICES THE PROVISION OF SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND PERSONNEL, COMPLEMENTARY TO THE CAPABILITIES OF VESSEL OWNERS AND SUBSEA CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES. From exploration to decommissioning, Acteon companies bring technical ingenuity and a drive for fresh thinking to every stage of offshore activity. This approach to the subsea service market is just one example of how we're defining, shaping and leading subsea services. Discover a fresh approach to subsea services at www.acteon.com/subsea

DEFINING SUBSEA SERVICES

Even with a history of commercial extraction stretching back over 150 years, North Sea oil exploration and production continues to be a growing industry to this day. Working in seas and oceans all over the world, Acteon has a long-standing presence in the North Sea, providing specialist subsea services, equipment and personnel to the subsea sector. Acteon, through the collective strength of its operating companies, links subsea services across a range of interconnected disciplines to provide unique skills and technologies across the life of a field. The collaborative business model of the Acteon group of companies combines a high degree of flexibility, service quality and experience to deliver comprehensive solutions to the North Seaʼs vessel and rig owners and subsea construction companies. Here we will look at some of the recent North Sea projects Acteon companies have completed, giving you a glimpse of how Acteonʼs goal to define, shape and lead subsea services across the world is working in the North Sea.

Pioneering riser technology extends the operating envelope of jack-up drilling When a UK oil and gas operator asked Acteon to provide an ultra-high-pressure riser for their North Sea drilling campaign, it was the first step towards an industry-revolutioning innovation. The challenge was to make large-bore subsea drilling possible with pressures in excess of 12,000psi. A pipe made of weldable steel would be too heavy to be practical, whereas high-strength steel, which makes the pipe wall thinner and lighter, is nearly impossible to weld successfully.

It is a truly mould-breaking innovation and one that has won the group the East of England Energy Group Award for Innovation. Best of all, its success is the combined result of Acteon companies, 2H Offshore, Claxton, Pulse and SRP, proving just what Acteon companies can achieve by working together.

exploration & production

Acteon companies, 2H Offshore, Claxton, Pulse and Subsea Riser Products worked closely together on the project, proposing a solution of shrink-fitting flanges to the pipes, sidestepping the need for welding. Shrink-fitting allows the flanges to be attached by using indu c t i o n h e a t i n g co i l s w h ich h e a t t h e f la n g e body, allowing the pipe to be stabbed into it, before it cools. Once Acteon’s engineers had identified shrink-fitting as a viable solution, the concept was put through a rigorous development and testing process to guarantee the performance demanded by such a critical riser application. The first of its type in the world, this riser is capable of withstanding pressures of up to 12,200psi. It marks a leap forward in drilling practices, opening up the feasibility of high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) drilling using a jack-up rig with a surface blowout preventer – a strategy previously thought impossible, that provides significant cost benefits and operational efficiencies.

Acteon Group Ltd Ferryside, Ferry Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1SW, UK Tel.: +44 1603 227019 info@acteon.com • www.acteon.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

32934 Acteon DPS_32934 Acteon DPS 03/06/2013 14:49 Page 2

Inter-M Pulse proves it can weather North Sea extremes As offshore production ventures into increasingly extreme environments, it becomes more important than ever to have a clear picture of the integrity and reliability of a rig or an FPSOʼs moorings. Inter-M Pulse is a long-term mooring connector with the capability to monitor and track the in situ tension of a mooring line and transmit tension data acoustically to the topside control room.

Developed by Acteon companies, InterMoor and Pulse, the Inter-M Pulse completed six months of field trials in the North Sea, coping admirably with typical sea states of around 39 feet (12 metres). The field trial mooring system consisted of a combination chain and fibre make-up with the unit installation located at the fibre and shackle connection. After the unit was successfully installed over the stern roller of an anchor handling vessel, it was immediately operational and feeding line tensions and inclination readings to the surface. At all times the Inter-M Pulse was able to send accurate line tensions and inclination readings to the topside control room.

Alan Duncan, Managing Director of InterMoor, said of the trial findings, “This technology allows full calibration on mooring chains without losing valuable rig time. During a storm the Inter-M Pulse is capable of feeding live data from the mooring chains up to the control room, and in the aftermath, uploading and analysing the findings to determine the storm’s impact and verify the mooring system’s dynamics.”

Are you prepared for when production comes to an end? Decommissioning in the North Sea presents a huge challenge to offshore oil producers, and is estimated to cost the industry £30–35 billion over the next 30 years. Each decommissioning project brings its own distinct set of challenges, yet the common thread among all of them is their dependence on impeccable project management and coordination to succeed. Thatʼs why, when Acteon company OIS was approached to help with a survey and four-well abandonment programme in the North Sea Scott field, one of the client’s main concerns was to establish a skilled and focused group of service providers capable of working together as an effective team. Acteon’s structure and collaborative approach makes the group perfectly positioned for such projects. OIS was tasked with planning the programme and directing the work, which included assembling all the necessary players, defining their roles and responsibilities, and performing a thorough risk assessment of the entire operation.

When the wells had been cut, the wellheads were recovered to the back deck of the vessel ready for component recycling and environmentally friendly disposal, returning the seabed to its original condition. The success of the well-abandonment campaign at Scott field required skills and technology drawn from across the Acteon group of companies. Using Acteon’s pioneering SWAT system removed the need for drilling rigs and diver intervention – a potential saving of up to £400,000 per day when compared to conventional rig-based methods. Whatever the project, Acteon’s effective coordination and collaboration ensures we’re ready to meet the scale of the many North Sea decommissioning projects on the horizon.

The first step of the project was a well survey, for which OIS used the survey equipment and marine support services of sister Acteon company InterMoor, with wellhead cap removal taken care of by Claxton. For the actual abandonment operation, OIS used a suspended well abandonment tool (SWAT®) supplied by Claxton, and abrasive cutting equipment to abandon the four wells. InterMoor supplied the necessary survey equipment and marine support services, with transponders and subsea positioning equipment supplied by another Acteon company, Seatronics. InterAct delivered the well classification, the preliminary procedures and the health, safety and environment submittals.

Acteon Group Ltd Ferryside, Ferry Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1SW, UK Tel.: +44 1603 227019 info@acteon.com • www.acteon.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

Learn more about how Acteon is working to define, shape and lead subsea services in the North Sea at www.acteon.com

exploration & production

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Cabot

IMPROve HPHT well sAFeTy And ecOnOMIcs wITH cesIuM FORMATe • The only fluid capable of delivering long, high-angle HPHT wells with open-hole completions for maximum hydrocarbon recovery. • Much faster and safer completions – data from the Rushmore database show that North Sea deep gas wells drilled and completed with cesium formate brine have been completed in less than half the time of wells drilled with conventional drilling fluids (averages: 20.9 vs. 46.8 days).

Cesium formate brine makes the perfect drilling, completion and intervention fluid for deep gas well constructions. Its use in over 150 of these very challenging operations has greatly improved safety and field economics. Conventional drilling fluids are thick suspensions of heavy metal mineral particles in oil or water. The metal minerals are added to make heavy slurries. Without the weight provided by these heavy metals, wells become unstable, and a lethal blowout can occur as in the tragic case of BP’s Macondo well. But, paradoxically, high concentrations of heavy minerals create well safety risks and ruin well economics. Before the arrival of cesium formate brine there was an average of at least one well control safety incident per deep gas well constructed in the North Sea. As shown in the Gulf of Mexico, when well control is lost the consequences can be catastrophic.

Cesium formate brines are naturally very heavy (2.3 g/cm3 / 19.2 lb/gal) and can be made into solids-free fluids, which have significant advantages in deep gas well drilling and completions. These advantages are translated into safer, faster well constructions and more productive wells. • Improved well control and safety – with no solids in the fluids, the risk of losing well stability and control is much reduced. In practice, there have been no well control safety incidents in over 150 deep gas well operations using cesium formate brines. • Reduced formation damage and elimination of screen plugging – cesium formate is incapable of causing permanent formation damage. Most users report that gas and condensate production rates from wells exceed their expectations after drilling and completing in cesium formate brine.

formatebrines.com

• Faster, safer drilling – low-solids drilling fluids based on cesium formate brines create less fluid friction, reducing ECD by around 0.05 g/cm3 / 0.42 lb/gal in a typical deep HPHT well. This means safer drilling in rocks with narrow margins between pore pressure and frac gradient, and increased ROP. Studies at Terratek indicate that cesium formate improves drilling speed by 100% in hard rock drilling compared with oil-based muds. • Absence of heavy metal minerals in cesium formate fluids and recycling and multiple re-use of the brine significantly reduce environmental impact of drilling operations. Cesium formate brine is reclaimed and reused, adding to its environmental credentials. In 2010, Cabot received the UNIDO Chemical Leasing Award for its sustainable business model

IT’s PAybAck TIMe

The result is rapid production of recoverable hydrocarbon reserves and faster payback of oil companies’ massive investments. This is why the likes of Statoil, BP, Shell, TOTAl, Marathon and enI have chosen cesium formate brine time and again for their deep gas well construction and intervention operations. Go to formatebrines.com to find out more.

Cabot Specialty Fluids Ltd. PO Box 4, NO-5347 Kystbasen Ågotnes, Bergen, Norway Tel.: +47 55 70 70 52 Fax: +47 55 70 70 53 CSF.NorthSea@cabotcorp.com

90% of reserves in just seven years Two north sea gas fields – Tune and Huldra – were developed by drilling and completing ten wells in open hole using potassium/cesium formate brines. Recoverable reserves from Tune were estimated at 15.9 billion Sm3 of gas and 4.9 million m3 of condensate. For Huldra, estimates were 18.0 billion sm3 of gas and 3.2 million m3 of condensate. Figures show1 that both fields produced close to 90% of estimated recoverable gas reserves and over 95% of estimated recoverable condensate reserves after just seven years full production. In both cases, at least 70% of recoverable gas and condensate were produced after only four years. It is believed that the value of hydrocarbons produced is around US$ 1 billion per well – surely a good return on original investment. 1) NPD fact pages, www.npd.no.

Cabot Specialty Fluids Ltd. (head office) Cabot House, Hareness Circle, Altens Industrial Estate Aberdeen AB12 3LY, Scotland Tel.: +44 1224 897 229 Fax: +44 1224 870 089 cesium.formate@cabotcorp.com

Cabot Specialty Fluids (S) Pte Ltd. One Raffles Quay, North Tower Level 25 Singapore 048583 Tel.: +65 6622 5522 Fax: +65 6622 5523 CSF.Asia.Pacific@cabotcorp.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

Oil companies need to deliver their estimated gas and condensate reserves. This is where cesium formate brine really pays its way. Cesium formate brine leaves wells in a perfectly clean and undamaged condition, making it easier for hydrocarbons to flow into the wells and then to the surface.

exploration & production

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

CGG A fully integrated geoscience company

PASSION FOR GEOSCIENCE Today the industry has a new Geoscience leader. Our global community of talented geoscientists work closely with our clients to deliver innovative solutions for the exploration and sustainable development of the Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural resources. With a proven track record and a proud heritage of more than 80 years, we are your geoscience partner of choice. We are CGG.

Over 35,000 km2 of contiguous broadband multi-client data coverage.

CGG is stepping boldly into a new era of integrated geoscience to build the most comprehensive earth models that support the exploration and production of natural resources. Our expertise in geophysics, geology, petrophysics and geomechanics can build a more dynamic and comprehensive Earth model to aid strategic drilling and production decision-making. A multi-disciplinary data library

Subsurface Imaging

With an extensive global multi-client data library including seismic, gravity & magnetic, well log data, geological studies and an offshore hydrocarbon seeps database, we give you the competitive edge for selecting the best prospects and building a better understanding of the risks prior to drilling.

With over 43 advanced imaging centers and expertise in most of the world’s basins, our data processing capacity is leading the industry in new research & development for complex geophysics and geology. Geology, geophysics & petrophysics

Onshore acquisition services

Offshore acquisition services We’ve expanded our fleet and broadened our technology for marine seismic acquisition yet again! Our latest advances in marine imaging include BroadSeisTM, BroadSourceTM and StagSeisTM, and we’ve developed many new processing algorithms to support deepwater exploration.

CGG Services (Norway) AS Marine & Seabed Carl Konnows Gate 34 NO-5162 Laksevåg Tel.: +47 56 11 31 00

Joining our portfolio of unique subsurface imaging capabilities and high-end reservoir characterization services offered by Hampson-Russell, we are pleased to welcome onboard Jason and Robertson to strengthen our reservoir description & modeling capabilities. These three subsidiaries have a wealth of experience and knowledge in geology, geophysics and petrophysics, and can help you ‘Pump Up the Volume’ to maximize resource recovery. Satellite mapping & remote sensing services NPA offers a unique portfolio of geological mapping products to provide valuable knowledge in frontier areas, while our ground and structural stability studies provide monitoring of production activities and our signature offshore hydrocarbon seeps database provides insights into active petroleum basins for exploration in addition to pollution monitoring.

CGG Services (Norway) AS Subsurface Imaging O.H. Bangs Vei 70, P.O. Box 243 NO-1323 Høvik Tel.: +47 67 11 65 00

CGG Services (Norway) AS EAME Data Library, Subsurface Imaging & Seabed Hoffsveien 1c, P.O. Box 490 Skøyen, NO-0213 Oslo Tel.: +47 22 13 46 00 www.cgg.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

We’ve expanded our onshore acquisition capabilities to extend beyond seismic programs. Contact us for information about our onshore broadband solutions, microseismic monitoring, gravity and magnetic surveys, surface geophysics, and permanent reservoir monitoring solutions.

Chesterfield Special Cylinders High pressure gas containment specialists

Testing HP gas cylinders in situ cuts costs and reduces downtime

Testing and re-qualifying high pressure cylinders to international safety standards is vital but costly and causes critical downtime. Chesterfield Special Cylinders’ In Situ service reduces costs and downtime drastically by re-testing and re-qualifying gas cylinders without removing them.

The team, with over 20 years’ experience testing for the Royal Navy, co-developed the BS8562 standard now being applied to maritime gas cylinders worldwide. On ships, rigs and all marine vessels, the CSC In Situ team is delivering safety and certification and saving time and costs.

For information and advice contact: Alan Harding: +44 (0)114 242 7514 alan.harding@chesterfieldcylinders.co.uk www.chesterﬁeldcylinders.com

Chesterfield Special Cylinders Ltd Meadowhall Road, Sheffield S9 1BT, UK Tel.: +44 114 242 7500 Fax: +44 114 242 7501 info@chesterfieldcylinders.com www.chesterfieldcylinders.com

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exploration & production

BS8562 is the new international benchmark for re-certifying gas cylinders wherever they are, delivering the same level of inspection testing and re-certifying as removing cylinders and sending them to an approved re-test facility.

Chesterfield Special Cylinders’ global In Situ department is the only team qualified to inspect, test and re-qualify cylinders internationally to this standard.

exploration & production

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

JWF Process Solutions Ltd Helping the North Sea extend the life of its Mature Assets

A Total Service Solution You Can Rely On...... In 2012 JWF celebrated 50 years of trading by posting its best ever year. From humble roots as a Glasgow based sales agent for Fischer & Porter variable area flow meters, JWF has grown into a business that supplies instrumentation solutions to a wide range of process and energy industries in Scotland and the North of England. In 2012 JWF was recognised by ABB as their Instrumentation Alliance Partner of the year and as WIKA’s top partner.

Front end instrument specification Application appraisal Project status reports Documentation ‘hand-over’ packages Application rental service

JWF Process Solutions Ltd 120 Woodneuk Road, Darnley Industrial Estate Glasgow, G53 7QS Tel: +44 (0) 845 274 7750 info@jwfltd.com www.jwfltd.com

WIKA Instruments Limited The specialist for pressure, temperature, level, flow and calibration measurement

About us In the course of the last six decades the name WIKA has become the brand for high quality and reliability when measuring pressure and temperature. In the past few years WIKA has successfully integrated renowned manufacturers of level, flow and calibration to further broaden the capability offered to customers. WIKA is a global business with worldwide approvals for its products, services and quality management system. In the UK, we have been established for over 40 years, offering efficiency and excellence.

WIKA Pressure, Temperature WIKA has an extensive range of pressure and temperature mechanical measuring instruments, together with a complete offering of temperature transmitter elements and sensors, fully compliant to the requirements of NACE, ISO 15156 and ATEX.

WIKA Level A comprehensive range of level measuring instruments, meeting the rigorous standards in accordance to ASME, NORSOK and North Sea specifications, providing local indication as well as remote radar transmission.

WIKA Primary Flow

WIKA Calibration Technology In the past few years WIKA has successfully integrated renowned manufacturers of calibration equipment into the group, including DH Budenberg, ASL, Mensor and Scandura. With these established brands within the calibration market we deliver the ideal solution for each measuring task.

WIKA Instruments Limited 4 Gatton Park Business Center, Wells Place Merstham, Redhill, Surrey. RH1 3LG Tel.: + 44 (0) 1737 644008 info@wika.co.uk www.wika.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

With the recent acquisition of Euromisure we now offer a complete primary flow portfolio fully compliant to the Oil and Petrochemical requirements.

exploration & production

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Lawson Engineering design and manufacture of high quality ROV Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS)

Lawson Engineers is an independent UK mechanical handling company supplying products and designs for subsea launch and recovery, deck machinery and Defence. We have operated in Oil & Gas for over 35years as a reliable partner to both small firms and multinational corporations, establishing long-term partnerships with our customers. Our main role is the design and manufacture of high quality ROV Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS), cranes, hydraulic power units, pressure vessels, electric, pneumatic and hydraulic winches and goods lifts. Core skills and expertise Lawson’s expertise is centred on the design of compact mechanical handling systems. The team is highly experienced with a strong background in crane

and winch design, and flexibility creates a fast response to challenges; reflected in a history of bespoke machine deliveries. Wider skill-base Lawsons operates within a group of informal associates including, Bennex, Camenco, J2 Engineering and Transmark Subsea. This ‘support’ widens both skills and products. Development Development is crucial to our process and is often done together with a customer. Utilising a 45-year backcatalogue, we can take previously designed and fieldproven items as the ‘base model’ to update. Similarly, our involvement in other industries allows ideas used in say, pharmaceuticals to be transferred offshore.

We offer the following: New build machines The most frequently requested products are Launch and Recovery Systems for ROVs and tools, with well over 100 supplied. The range varies between 1-25Te SWL and cable storage for up to 6000m. We either sell these direct to the end user or via an intermediary such as the ROV manufacturer. Recent evolutions include one LARS for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and another that transforms a 6m certified sea container into a 5m wide skid with A-frame, HPU and ROV docking system. (See photographs below.) Winches, another major product line, cover all possible variants to around 25Te SWL with electric, hydraulic pneumatic or diesel drive.

2007 saw diversification into pressure test systems with 450-bar working pressure vessels of internal diameter to 0.8m and internal length 2m. Service and after-market Service and support is offered for every machine and includes on-site training, spares supply, in-field service and our telephone helpline. The man controlling the machine simply phones and talks directly to the designer. Refurbishment of older machines Refurbishment programmes are run for older machines extend the life of both our own machines and those made by others. Typically, one third of the as-new cost can extended life by 10-years or more.

exploration & production

Lawson Engineers Barras Lane Industrial Estate Dalston Carlisle CA5 7NDÂ UK Tel.: +44 (0) 1228 711 470 sales@lawson-engineers.com www.lawson-engineers.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Magnetrol International Worldwide Level and Flow Solutions

Your preferred partner in the global supply of level and flow control solutions Ad AcrossTheNorthSea (170x202).indd 1

27/05/13 10:20

Magnetrol International UK Ltd Regent Business Centre, Jubilee Road Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9TL Tel.: +44 1444 871313 • Fax: +44 1444 871317 sales@magnetrol.co.uk • www.magnetrol.com

Newburgh Engineering Contract manufacturer of high specification engineering components and assemblies Newburgh is the UK’s premier contract manufacturer of high specification engineering component parts and assemblies. Newburgh produces specialist project/safety critical parts to a wide range of industries including oil and gas, nuclear, power generation, defence and aerospace, distributing to global customers. Established in 1939 in Bradwell, Derbyshire, Newburgh now operates out of their founding site and a new purpose-built facility in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. For nearly 75 years, the company has provided a high level of manufacturing expertise to customers, forging close partnerships that allow for effective and efficient production solutions.

With 140 skilled employees and 20 apprentices, Newburgh has extensive manufacturing capabilities including:

• Contract Production

• CNC Vertical boring to 3.7m x 2.1m

• Cellular Manufacturing Partnerships

• CNC Turning to Ø0.6m x 9m long

• 15,000m² manufacturing space

• Fabrication and welding

• 40 tonne lift capacity

• Fronius ETR weld cladding

• CNC Milling to 22m x 1.5m x 1.3m

• Clean Assembly and test

• 5 sided CNC machining to 10m x 3m x 1.3m

• Pressure testing up to 25,000 PSI

• 5 axis CNC machining to 2.4m x 1.2m x 1.3m

• Surface Coating to marine/subsea standards

• CNC Horizontal boring to 2.5m x 2.4m x 2.2m

• NDT – dye pen, ultrasonic, MPI, BRINtronic

• Range of Contouring and Seat Pocket tooling

• Inspection to facilities - CMM to 4m x 1.5m x 2m

Newburgh Engineering Bessemer Way, Rotherham, S60 1FB Tel: +44 (0)1709 724260 Fax: +44 (0)1709 839312 sales@newburgh.co.uk www.newburgh.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

exploration & production

Newburgh Engineering is centrally located within the United Kingdom, and operates at the heart of the UK’s worldclass high specification engineering supply chain. A manufacturing partnership with Newburgh Engineering can deliver significant benefits to your business – contact the Sales Team for more information.

field development & technology

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Bpp Cables

Bpp-Tech City Tower Level 7, EC2V 5DE London Tel.: +44 (0)845 217 7001 info@bpp-cables.com www.bpp-cables.com

Bpp-Tech

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

field development & technology

Bpp-Tech City Tower Level 7, EC2V 5DE London Tel.: +44 (0)845 217 7001 bpp@bpp-tech.com www.bpp-tech.com

Oil Plus Ltd Oil and gas water management consultants

Oil Plus specialises in the chemistry and process design of oilfield water treatment and injection systems, providing clients with independent advice in a variety of industry specialisms. We operate globally in a wide range of oil and gas activities, using specialised but well-proven techniques to gather ‘live on-site’ data, vital for designing cost-effective new facilities and optimising existing systems. Our philosophy is to examine, review and determine process solutions by troubleshooting problematic production issues to ensure our clients obtain a better understanding of the process conditions they are working with, whilst complying with local environmental regulations and government legislation. We’ll work with you to: • Reliably predict reservoir souring and scaling, potentially saving you millions of dollars.

• Identify the root cause of your system’s under-performance, such as blockages, emulsions, high water-in-oil and high oil-in-water. • Determine the effectiveness of your chemical dosing regime. • Identify and map threats from corrosion, bacteria and archaea. • Provide additional cost-effective, relevant performance improvement strategies.

Small enough to care yet large enough to help… Oil Plus is a consulting and oilfield services section of John Crane Production Solutions, who are part of John Crane, a division of Smiths Group plc.

Oil Plus Ltd Europe Global Headquarters Newbury, UK T: +44 (0)1635 30226 North America Houston USA T: +1 281 269 6860 mail@oilplus.co.uk - www.oilplus.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

field development & technology

• Prevent injectivity losses by accurately determining your filtration requirements using live water and real-time testing.

field development & technology

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

WeSubsea Into deeper waters and beyond

OUR AWARD WINNING PRODUCTS AND SERVICES have already gained a firm foothold in the market. From day one the company’s newly developed and optimized Titanium ROV Dredgers and associated equipment have surpassed our expectations. WeSubsea have excellent knowledge of the offshore market and underwater technologies that allows us to easily familiarise ourselves with our customer’s needs. By means of analysis and advice, in consultation with the client, WeSubsea can develop customised solutions. Our products are uniquely designed to save vessel time, to be robust, to give excellent technical solutions and of course to reduce the risk of injury to personnel and damage to equipment. Our technology is carefully designed for both quick mobilisation and reliable operation and we maintain a constant focus on quality and flexibility. WeSubsea is a

TO ENSURE CONTINUITY AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION we endeavour to quickly provide an effective solution to the challenges facing our clients. The flagship company Titanium dredger along with ourÂ subsea baskets, lifting frames, tooling for subsea operations, engineering and services, means that the company is about to become a leading supplier for subsea contractors. Our equipment has been very well received by our customers, and in the market place, in a global context. Our equipment and tooling systems are extremely flexible and can easily be configured to suit your project requirements. WeSubsea are based in Kristiansund, Norway and Aberdeen, UK.

WeSubsea UK, Aberdeen +44 1467 625 277 Norway, Kristiansund +47 71 71 04 00 we@wesubsea.com www.wesubsea.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

field development & technology

qualified supplier in Achilles JQS and FPAL. Our quality and management systems meet the requirements of ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004, and we equate the importance of HSE/QA goals with economic objectives and our goal is: To be one step ahead within our field of technology and expertise, always!

drilling contractors & equipment

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Aberdeen Drilling Consultants Rig Inspection Services

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

drilling contractors & equipment

Aberdeen Drilling Consultants Queens Road, Aberseen, Scotland AB15 4YE Tel.: +44 1224 209123 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: +44 1224 209579 Dhay@adc-engineering.com www.adc-engineering.com

drilling contractors & equipment

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Stena Drilling Offshore drilling Contractors

About Stena Drilling “Stena Drilling is one of the world’s foremost independent drilling contractors, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Stena AB, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Stena acquired Houlder Marine Drilling and Ben Line Steamers / Atlantic Drilling in 1989 and 1996 respectively, inheriting a rich history and pedigree dating back to the mid-1970s. The acquisitions were strategic in providing Stena Drilling, not only with worthy drilling units, but also with staff and personnel, who brought invaluable operational experience and success into the Company. Stena Drilling manages a global business, consisting of four ultra-deepwater drillships and three semi-submersible rigs. In expanding its fleet of well-maintained drilling units, the company has had an active role in the building and conversion of rigs whilst also pioneering some of the most leading-edge technologies and innovations in the drilling world, culminating with the Stena IceMAX, the world’s first dynamically positioned, dual mast ice-class drillship, designed specifically for safe and efficient operations in arctic conditions. Stena drilling’s core business values are focused on care, innovation and performance. The pursuit of these goals looks to ensure positive client relations, exceptional performance within our industry and strives to improve the safety, both to the environment and to all personnel involved.

capable of drilling in water depths of up to 10,000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Stena Drilling Ltd Ullevi House, Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1224 401180 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 897089 www.stena-drilling.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

drilling contractors & equipment

Stena Carron is a harsh environment, dynamically positioned DP Class 3 drillship

drilling contractors & equipment

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Swinton Electro Plating providing Surface Engineering services to the Oil & Gas industry SWINTON ELECTRO PLATING, established in 1962 and providing Surface Engineering services to the Oil & Gas industry for more than 25 years, operates one of the largest facilities of its type in the UK. Downhole Tools benefit from the hard-wearing surface provided by Hard Chrome Plating. Swinton have specialised in coating “new” product and repairing & re-coating used assets so that the User can achieve a longer life inservice from their tools. This is also true for assets operating at the Wellhead, Mid-water, Surf-zone and Topsides. With a length capacity of 8500mm and lift of 5 Tonnes, most equipment can be handled at our plant in Manchester.

Electroless Nickel coatings are used where Corrosion is an issue. Wellhead equipment including Valves and BOP’s are coated to protect against the harsh sea-floor environment and enable operation when it’s needed! Mid-water equipment such as Components on ROV’s and ancillary tools like Cable Cutters benefit from the protection provided. Topsides equipment that has to withstand atmospheric as well as seawater spray conditions can be manufactured and protected with a uniform thickness.

Complex shapes and different metallic materials can all be coated Components, some made from high alloys steels, can be provided with the benefits of both coating systems by using Electroless Nickel as a base, corrosion barrier, with a top-coat of Hard Chrome to provide wear resistance and good low-friction properties. This combination has been used successfully in Riser Tensioners operating in the surf-zone and critical to positioning and stability of the Rig!

Internal or External surfaces can be coated and, with in-house preparation and finishing facilities, Swinton Electro Plating is ideally suited to protect your assets.

Swinton Electro Plating Royal Oak Works, Oak Street, Swinton, Manchester, M27 4FL, UK Tel.: +44 (0)161 794 8426 • Mobile: +44 (0)7808 716238 Fax: +44 (0)161 794 0155 sales@swintonplating.com www.swintonplating.com

Transocean

Transocean:

Ever since launching the first jackup to work in the U.K. North Sea in 1965, Transocean has helped our customers to achieve their offshore drilling objectives with a keen focus on an incident-free workplace. Being our customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; preferred partner has led us to several firsts in the North Sea, including the first jackup designed to work year-round, and the first semi-submbersible rig to work west of the Shetland Islands, year-round. We were also the first to provide full scale well construction training in our dedicated training centre and the first to receive acceptance of an Installation Safety Case. Our progress continues in recent years, as our rigs have run the first concentric injection completions and utilized a riserless mud return system. So whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harsh-environment drilling by a high-specification semisubmersible rig or shallow-water drilling by our four high-spec jackups, Transocean brings the right rig and the right people to get the job done, efficiently and safely. www.deepwater.com

UK North Sea Ad.indd 1

Transocean Langlands House, Huntly Street Aberdeen AB10 1SH, Scotland, U.K. Tel.: +44 1224 654400 Fax: +44 1224 654401 www.deepwater.com

drilling contractors & equipment

Progress in the north sea

5/10/13 9:35 AM

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

ABB

ABB Daresbury Park, Daresbury Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 4BT, UK Tel: +44 1925 741111 Fax: +44 1925 741212 oilandgas@gb.abb.com

AC Fluid Technology ATEX/DNV/GL approved level/temperature switches, circulation pumps, particle counters and servo valves AC Fluid Technology specialises in hydraulic system controls. Offshore applications includes the control and monitoring of hydraulic, lubricant and coolant fluids - including ATEX, DNV and GL certified controls. Klotz particle counting systems to ISO4406 and NAS standards for the monitoring of drilling fluids and water systems for ships and rigs. High quality, robust Schneider servo-valves have proved themselves in the extreme wind, rain, heat or sub-zero conditions encountered in shipping and offshore applications.

ATEX/GL/DNV certified products LIQUID LEVEL AND TEMPERATURE CONTROLS, COOLERS AND CIRCULATION PUMPS Our comprehensive selection of level and temperature controls, coolers and circulation pumps - with a well-established Offshore user base - offer combined solutions for the control of liquid level and temperature, with switched or continuous analogue output. Ruggedly designed - including an ATEX, DNV and GL certified range - and having precise control and reliability, their many applications include hydraulic drive systems, hydraulic motor, power unit and control systems, variable speed power transmissions and variable speed drives. PARTICLE COUNTING, MEASURING and MONITORING SYSTEMS Klotz laser particle measuring systems to ISO4406 and NAS standards are for measuring particulate contamination in fluids. A number of established Offshore users test in such diverse applications as synthetic-based and water-based deepwater well drilling fluids and the commissioning of water systems in ships and rigs.

SERVO VALVE TECHNOLOGY The servo valve is the heart of every electro hydraulic control system. Conformance to static and dynamic parameters requires equipment of the highest quality. The Schneider product range is widely used throughout the offshore oil and gas industry, and has proven themselves in extreme conditions - whether in wind, rain, heat or sub-zero temperatures Schneider’s robust systems work steadily and reliably. Schneider piston slide valves in single and multi-stage versions are subjected to stringent quality control. The Schneider HVM servo valve range embraces single, two and three-stage valves having a flow rate ranging from 0.4l/min to 1,000l/min with pressures up to 420bar. Besides the standard range, application-related special valve designs are available, for example low-leakage pistons, two return flanges, and highly dynamic valves.

AC Fluid Technology 2 Batemans Lane, Wythall, Birmingham West Midlands, B47 6NG Tel.: +44 1564 825 145 Fax: +44 1564 825 105 enquiries@ac-fluid.co.uk - www.ac-fluid.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Examples of the diversity of other applications include: • Testing hydraulic, lubrication and coolant fluids. • Contamination testing of power generating and transformer lubricating fluids. • Contamination testing of diesel and kerosene. • Testing drinking water and the purity of solutions in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. • Determination of residual contamination in flushing and cleaning machinery during the machining of components. The logging of contamination may be determined continuously online or in the lab.

A T M

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Advanced Titanium Materials LTD

specialises in the sourcing, stocking and supply of TITANIUM, Nickel Alloys and Duplex products

Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd has been a recognized name in the Sheffield metals and manufacturing industry for over 11 years. Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd carry a large range of materials and have access to metals and manufacturing processes to suite every task great or small. Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd range include titanium grades 2,5 including surgical grades, nickel based alloys such as A286, 718, 625, monel 400, K500, Nimonic 80 to name but a few. Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd can also supply a range of bar, sheet, plate, tubes, rings, flanges, forgings, billets and finished products to supply needs. We also stock a wide range of duplex products.

We have immediate access to variety of Forges, from Open

Die, Closed Die, Drop Stamping or GMF Pressing all with ISO and Aerospace approvals. This gives us absolute flexibility and

control when allocating Ingot stock for further working, as we

can decide which company to use for the process route that gives the best price, delivery and fit for purpose alloy product We are ISO approved.

VAT Registration NO: 944 8664 77 Registered NO: 675 3869

Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd Unit 1 Bruce Works, 49 Mowbray st, Sheffield S3 8EN Tel.: +44 (0) 1142 395771 - Fax: +44 (0) 1142 768596 john@advancedtitaniummaterials.com www.advancedtitaniummaterials.com

Alliance Valves & Piping Supplies Manufacturing Ltd Manufacturers, Agents and Stockholders of Process and Instrumentation Valves, Fittings & Associated Equipment

Alliance Valves & Piping Supplies Manufacturing Ltd are a U.K. based ISO 9001: 2008 Accredited Manufacturer and Supplier of Instrumentation Valves, Fittings and Associated Products such as:• Needle Valves • Instrument Ball Valves • Compression Tube Fittings • CNC Machined Metal Products • Vessels and Sample Cylinders • Thermowells

• Instrument Valve Manifolds • Gauge Root Valves • Instrument Pipe Fittings • Air Headers and Distribution Manifolds • Syphons • Etc.

As well as 30 years experience in the Manufacture of Instrumentation Valves & Products we are also able to supply Valve and Piping Packages including Process Valves - Gate Valves, Globe Valves, Butterfly Valves, Check valves, Pipe, Fittings and Flanges. We have particular expertise in the supply of Exotic Alloy Materials such as Duplex, Super Duplex, Titanium, Alloy 400, Alloy C276 etc.

Alliance Valves & Piping Supplies Manufacturing Ltd Office 4, Clifton House, Bailiff Bridge, Brighouse, West Yorkshire, HD6 4JJ, United Kingdom Tel.: +44 1484 401880 • Fax: +44 1484 401881 sales@alliancevalves.co.uk • www.alliancevalves.co.uk

offshore & onshore products

For more information on products supplied by Alliance Valves & Piping Supplies Manufacturing Ltd, why not visit our Web site on www.alliancevalves.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Al-Met Ltd Tungsten Carbide and Super Alloy Components

Supplying the leading Oil & Gas valve manufacturers worldwide. Al-Met is a centre of excellence in manufacturing wear parts for control and choke valves, from tungsten carbide, nickel and super alloys. We can provide specialist knowledge, support and expertise from the earliest stages of design. Components range from seats, cages, guides, and stems through to disc stacks. Our modern well equipped plant and highly skilled workforce can further enhance our product range with Hard Surface Deposition and Tungsten Carbide HVOF. Specialised coatings including Xylan, Nickel, Chrome, Zinc and Molybdenum. Stellite Overlays can also be applied in co-operation with sub contractor treatments such as Nitriding, Carburising and Borofuse.

In partnership with our customers we are committed to the future of flow control.

A Pressure Technologies plc Group Company

Al-Met Ltd Coedcae Lane Industrial Estate Pontyclun, CF72 9HG, United Kingdom Tel: +44 1443 220800 Fax: +44 1443 228199 sales@almet.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ www.almet.co.uk

Arco Limited

Experts in supplying the Oil and Gas Industry Arco Limited Blackness Road, Altens Industrial Estate,

Aberdeen, AB12 3LH Tel: 01224 249494 Fax: 01224 248322

Arco Limited

Export Department Waverley Street, Hull, HU1 2SJ Tel: +44 (0) 1482 611737 Fax: +44 (0) 1482 611767 e-mail: export@arco.co.uk

www.arco.co.uk Arco Limited Head Office PO Box 21 Waverley Street Hull, HU1 2SJ Tel.: +44 (0) 1482 222522 Fax: +44 (0) 1482 218536 www.arco.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

e-mail: aberdeen.branch@arco.co.uk

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Argo Flare Services Inspections • Design & Supply • Refurbishments & Upgrades • Ignition Systems

The flare inspection, design and refurbishment specialists Working directly with the major offshore oil and gas operators and contractors throughout the North Sea and further afield, Argo Flare Services supports project, operations and integrity teams with flare equipment supply and inspection services regardless of the original flare vendor. Flare Inspection Flare inspections are usually undertaken 6-12 months ahead of a scheduled shutdown and can be undertaken with the flare ‘live’ by means of an aerial photographic survey through Argo Flare Services. The resulting high resolution images are analysed by our experienced engineers and compiled in a detailed condition report. Armed with the report, the operator is then able to plan effectively for any necessary replacement parts, repairs or maintenance. Flare Tip Design & Upgrades Having undertaken countless offshore and workshop inspections of flare tips of all types, materials and designs, Argo Flare Services has an extensive knowledge of flare failure modes and is uniquely placed in being able to use this expertise in the design and supply of new and replacement pipe, multipoint and Coanda flare tips. All new flares designed and supplied by Argo (as with our refurbishments) incorporate life enhancing improvements which serve to extend the operating time between costly flare change-out activities. Flare Refurbishments Argo Flare Services have introduced a number of major offshore operators to the benefits of flare tip refurbishments. Find out how you too can benefit by contacting us. Ignition Systems Typically packaged together with the flare tip, Argo Flare Services also offer flare ignition systems that are tailored to suit the individual requirements of the platform.

Argo Flare Services 55 High Street, Marlow Buckinghamshire SL7 1BA UK Tel.: +44 1628 478776 Fax: +44 1628 487412 sales@argoflares.com • www.argoflares.com

ATEX Global Ltd

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

ATEX Global Ltd 57 Ashgrove Road, TW15 1NS N-Ashford Tel.: +44 800 756 5305 sales@atexglobal.com www.atexglobal.com

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Bifold Fluidpower Ltd. Our state of the art production facilities based in the UK allow our superior and innovative sub-sea valves to be subjected to extensive test programmes, these include: • Qualification in accordance with ISO 13628-6 • Endurance tested to in excess of 1 million cycles • Corrosion testing in direct seawater immersion for 90 days and 50/50 seawater internally at 60°C • Contamination resistance testing on class 8 fluid over 30,000 cycles without filter • High and low temperature storage and function testing • Hyperbaric function testing to 3500m • Shock and Vibration testing

Bifold, Official Partner of the Marussia F1™ Team have linked Safety with Performance to provide Directional Control Valves and Valve assemblies for Subsea applications

Bifold have been successfully designing and manufacturing valves for operation directly immersed in sea water since 1987 and have applied this experience to develop our extensive range of technically superior subsea valves, maintaining safety factors and reliable operation across the pressure range to over 15,000 psi / 1035 bar with an operating temperature range of -50°C to +140°C. Designed to operate reliably on fluids with contamination levels greater than NAS 1638 Class 12, these true failsafe valves provide the option for reducing the sub-sea control module weight and cost, providing the customer with superior products for their application. With a focus on safety and reliability in subsea control, Bifold’s directional control valves maintain safety factors on pull in and drop out voltage as well as de latch pressure, throughout the pressure range, but also during long term cycling (in cycles) and long term static hold tests.

The Bifold sub-sea range includes Shearseal directional control valves, shuttle valves, pilot operated valves (ball seated and slide), solenoid valves with a range of connector options, check valves, relief valves, pumps, intensifiers, special valve products and control pod products. Visit us at Offshore Europe, Aberdeen UK, 3th - 6th September 2013, Stand No. 3B60, where you will be able to explore a range of our products. For innovative and reliable valve solutions, visit our website www.bifold.co.uk where more detailed information and a PDF brochure can be downloaded. The Bifold Group of Companies are supported worldwide with a global network of agents and distributors. Bifold is a world class supplier of the widest range of switching instrument and piping valves and pumps for use in the oil and gas upstream and downstream sectors. Our innovative and reliable range of high-tech products and accessories, specifically designed with the customer in mind, have gained worldwide approvals and credibility for the onerous conditions as found in hazardous (classified) locations, hostile, corrosive and subsea environments.

Bifold Fluidpower Ltd. Greenside Way, Middleton, Manchester, M24 1SW, UK. Tel.: +44 161 345 4777 • Fax: +44 161 345 4780 gbancroft@bifold.co.uk • www.bifold.co.uk

Chalmit A Century of Brilliance

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Chalmit 388 Hillington Road, Glasgow, G52 4BL, Scotland Tel: +44 141 882 5555 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: +44 141 883 3704 info@chalmit.com www.chalmit.com

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Dale Power Solutions Ltd. Your power in safe hands

Secure power whenever you need it For more than 78 years we have provided our business partners with high quality systems and services, protecting critical power supplies at all times and in all conditions. Renowned for both technical excellence and operational expertise, the business specialises in protecting the most demanding applications. In all major sectors including oil and gas, utilities, telecommunications, medical and financial services, the Erskine product brand is synonymous with outstanding service, reliability and expertise.

Secure Power Solutions • • • • •

AC & DC Secure Power UPS Project Management Generators Batteries Service & Support

SCARBOROUGH : LONDON : ABERDEEN : DUBAI

Meet the UPS for Oil and Gas Applications The UP7000 UPS series raises the standard for the oil & gas industry standby power solutions for supporting critical controls and safety systems.

• Inherently safer design • Significant lifetime cost reduction Dale Power Solutions are a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to create innovative solutions for customers through its standby power systems and has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most trusted provider of backup power solutions.

• • • • • • •

Reduced need for live working Fewer engineer-days on site Less compromise to critical loads Greater flexibility when testing Logistics of load banks gone HVAC issues avoided Battery testing simplified

Dale Power Solutions Ltd. Salter Road, Eastfield Industrial Estate, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO11 3DU, England Tel: +44 (0)1723 583511 • Fax: +44 (0)1723 581231 info@dalepowersolutions.com www.dalepowersolutions.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Key safety & cost benefits

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Danbor Ltd Danbor gears up for logistics success Danbor may be a relative newcomer to the offshore logistics business in Scotland, but over thirty years’ experience running offshore supply bases in Denmark and Greenland means that the company can offer a wealth of experience. So it is perhaps not too surprising that Danbor has established a reputation for outstanding service, particularly in dealing with complex projects and has already added some of the biggest oil and gas companies to its customer list. In the past nine months, the company has bought a £3million warehouse, yard and office complex in Aberdeen’s Altens Industrial estate and negotiated leases on a deep water quayside support vessel base and two additional storage facilities in Montrose. Company chief executive Kim Christensen says that it’s just the beginning for the company, commenting, “We are making a major investment in the north east of Scotland and expect to double our workforce in Montrose and Aberdeen in the coming year. We’re already on the lookout for additional storage facilities”. Danbor Ltd is part of the Danbor Group which was formed in 1978 and has become a leading international contractor, operating globally. The company offers a number of logistics services including inventory and materials management, supply base and freight management services with a focus on safety, quality and superb service. The Danbor team can offer a complete logistics service, shipping just about anything to any part of the world and no challenge has beaten them so far. In the past, members of Danbor’s team have shipped airfreight and sea cargoes to and from oilfield centres around the world. Mr Christensen added, “The level of service we offer our customers means that we’ve been awarded two major contracts already and have several more projects in the pipeline over the next year. Danbor is also attracting a number of enquiries in decommissioning and early stage interest from the offshore renewable sector, so we believe that we have the capacity and capability to become one of Scotland’s leading offshore logistics operators. “Our supply base facilities at Montrose include new deep water berths meaning we can offer an integrated shipping and storage service for offshore equipment. The new base has become very popular for refurbishment and inspection projects, as well as transporting expensive or bulky specialist equipment which needs to be stored in a secure base and shipped out to different installations. “Currently we are working with a major oil company of a project that has seen more that 30 ships deliver 5000 tonnes of anchor chain to Montrose for inspection and refurbishment or recycling and replacement chains shipped out to the field. Multi-faceted projects require precision and attention to detail as well as co-operation and communication and this is what we’re good at.” “We’re always happy to discuss challenging projects with existing and potential clients, as well as meeting their day to day storage and logistics requirements. We believe our service and facilities are second to none and that our commitment to building business and creating jobs in Scotland will make us the logistics provider of choice for the energy and renewable sectors”.

When not j experien ust a c figur e is a fact e of s peech

Professional logistics service Provider • • • •

Onshore/offshore logistics One-stop-shop Quay-side operation

• • •

Supply Base Renewable energy support Offshore/subsea project support

International/domestic transportation

Danbor LTD · aLTens InDusTrIaL esTaTe · aberDeen / souTh Quay · MonTrose · www.danbor.com Part of the a.P. moller – maersk GrouP

Danbor Ltd. Danbor House, Crawpeel Road, Altens Industrial Estate, EB12 3LG Aberdeen, UK Tel: +44 1224 451002 Fax: +44 1224 873179 uk@danbor.com www.danbor.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Danbor Ltd. is synonymous with high-quality performance, first-class service, first-class equipment, and first-class staff. Based on 34 years of experience within the Oil and Gas industry we offer various services like:

offshore & onshore products

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Ferguson Group Ltd Accommodation and Workspace Modules

Ferguson Group, specialists in the manufacture of accommodation and workspace modules to the global energy industry, is continuing to set new standards for outstanding service by supplying accommodation packages to suit the exact requirements of customers. The company has built a reputation over the last 35 years for manufacturing its A60 accommodation and workspace modules to the highest quality available to the international marketplace. Accommodation and Workspace Module Range Ferguson Group supplies a full range of accommodation modules, galleys, mess, coffee shops, gymnasiums, locker and recreation modules, medic, offices, workshops, laboratories, LWD/MWD/test cabins and freezer/chiller units. Standard accommodation modules are available in: 10.3m, 7.6m and 6m sizes while the standard workspace modules are available in: 10.3m, 7.6m, 6m, 4.8m, 4.5m and 4m sizes. Standard modules can house between 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8 POB (persons on board), depending on internal layout. These fit-for-purpose high quality units can be further adapted to suit specific requirements, are available from stock at highly competitive prices and have a fast turnaround from order to delivery. Depending on client requirements the A60 modules can be provided as stand-alone or can be linked and stacked to form multi-module complexes. An entire complex can be constructed to precise specifications using the range of units required and linking them with hallways and stairways to form a large and robust accommodation complex.

group

Quality: Standards and Certification All modules are designed and built in-house to DNV 2.7-1 and BS EN 12079 standards and to a range of certifications to support various markets. With rigorous control over the production process, Ferguson Group can guarantee the quality of the end product and delivery to schedule. The manufacturing process operates to the highest industry standards, providing customers with the reassurance that they are using modules that comply with the latest HSE regulations. The company is committed to HSEQ, and has received BS EN ISO 9001, BS EN ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 accreditation. The Ferguson Group employs more than 170 people worldwide through its divisions serving the offshore container rental and accommodation modules markets. The group, based at Kintore, Aberdeenshire, has operations in all major global oil and gas locations to ensure the best service for its customers.

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Ferguson Group Ltd Ferguson House, Midmill Business Park, Kintore Aberdeen, AB51 0QG, United Kingdom Tel.: +44 (0) 1467 626500 - Fax: +44 (0) 1467 626559 info@ferguson-group.com www.ferguson-group.com

offshore & onshore products

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Flexitallic Ltd International manufacturer & supplier of high quality sealing products

chang

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Flexitallic Ltd Scandinavia Mill, Hunsworth Lane, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire BD19 4LN, UK Tel.: +44 (0)1274 851273 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: +44 (0)1274 300303 enquiries@exitallic.eu www.exitallic.eu

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offshore & onshore products

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Fluorocarbon Onshore & Offshore PTFE & High Performance Polymer Products

Fluorocarbon Caxton Hill, Hertford, Hertfordshire, Caxton Hill,United Hertford, Hertfordshire SG13 7NH Kingdom SG13 7NH United Kingdom T: +44 (0)1992 526857 Tel.: +44 (0) 1992 526857 E: oilandgas@fluorocarbon.co.uk oilandgas@fluorocarbon.co.uk www.fluorocarbon.co.uk www.fluorocarbon.co.uk

Fluorocarbon is one of the UK’s largest processors of PTFE and high performance polymers. We supply the international oil and gas industry with a range of products and services that are focused on meeting their increasing demands. We aim to offer our customers, cost effective solutions at the highest quality from material selection through to product design, manufacturing and distribution.

Fluorocarbon’s range of products include:

We have a group research and development team bringing new materials and products to market, and our modern, qualified laboratories offer full traceability on all products.

• Loadout Skidway Systems

The Fluorocarbon Package • Site visits and consultation on application and design • Product testing for specific applications • Onsite training for installation of bearings and use of Fluoroslip Lubrication Systems Fluoroglide skidding systems used worldwide to loadout jackets & top sides with weights of up to 35,000 tonnes.

Fluoroglide® Bearings:

High Performance Sealing Systems

• Platform Bridge Connection

• Loading Arms

• Process Piping Supports

• Stem Seals and Packings

• Flare Stacks

• Ball Valve Seats

• Sub Sea (1.5km depth)

• Valve Seal Sets

• Sleeper Bearings

• Transmission Seals

• Civil Engineering

• Bias Drill Transport Sleeves

• Onsite support

Friction for pipe sliding plates is often below 3%.

Fluorocarbon Caxton Hill, Hertford, Hertfordshire, Caxton Hill, Hertford, SG13 7NH United Kingdom Hertfordshire

T: E:

SG13 7NH United Kingdom

+44 (0)1992 526857 Tel.: +44 (0) 1992 526857 oilandgas@fluorocarbon.co.uk oilandgas@fluorocarbon.co.uk

www.fluorocarbon.co.uk www.fluorocarbon.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Typical loadout friction values when using Fluoroglide system with Fluoroslip FL414 and FL614 are 5%.

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FUCHS Lubricants (UK) Plc Specialist Offshore Lubricants OFFSHORE

Aerospace

Automotive

Marine

Medical

Paper

Energy

Mining

high performance lubricants for the OIL & GAS InduStry from the largest independent lubricants company in the world

FUCHS provides innovative lubricating products and bespoke support packages to provide a complete service to offshore operators. We research, develop and manufacture lubricants that are approved by leading OEMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and are available globally via the FUCHS organisation.

Approved to BS EN ISO 9001 / BS EN ISO 14001 / FPAL (registration number 100/42598)

FUCHSLUBRICANTS.COM

FUCHS Lubricants (UK) Plc New Century Street, Hanley, Stoke on Trent, ST1 5HU Tel.: +44 (0) 1782 203700 Fax.: +44 (0) 1782 202073 contact-uk@fuchs-oil.com www.fuchslubricants.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

A unique range of products and services designed to keep your assets in optimum condition and operating at maximum efficiency.

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offshore & onshore products

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Gorilla Corrosion Service Ltd Corrosion Protection Ensuring Asset Integrity Based Montrose in the North East of Scotland for nearly 30 years, Gorilla Corrosion Services provides high quality, cost effective solutions for surface preparation and protective coating applications to a wide range of companies operating in the Oil and Gas Industry on and off-shore, Water Industry, MoD, Marine as well as Heavy Engineering and Construction Industries both in the UK and Internationally. Our reputation is built on quality, value and integrity and this is backed up by our long-standing, loyal and extensive client base. Our technical specialists have a wealth of experience and their expertise is recognised within the industry, and as such we are able to advise and provide consultancy services on the most appropriate coating system that will meet your specific requirements. In a recent addition to our portfolio of services we have introduced specific industry training courses which we utilise internally as a commitment to develop our operators. We have recently with the assistance of our sister company Intervention Rentals Ltd, set up Corrosion Engineering operations in Doha, Qatar and Takoradi, Ghana

Services Blasting and Peening, Industrial Coatings, Thermal Spray Coatings, Fire Protection, Site Works.

Markets Oil & Gas-On and Offshore, Thermal Spray, Renewable Energy, Water industry, Site Works.

Gorilla Corrosion Service Ltd Lunan Bay, By Montrose Angus, Scotland, DD10 9TG Tel.: +44 1241 830513/5 Fax: +44 1241 830533 www.gorillacorrosion.com

Intervention Rentals Ltd

COMPANIES IN

THE NEWS

Intervention Rentals goes global in Ghana Montrose based oil and gas services company Intervention Rentals Limited (IRL) has just opened a new office in Takoradi, Ghana. It was officially opened on the 22nd November by Lena Wilson, chief executive of Scottish Enterprise. This is now the second overseas venture for IRL after setting up in Doha, Qatar in 2010.

and commissioning services. The company is regarded as the foremost measurement solution provider in the North Sea area. IRL is now seen as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;go toâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; company for flowline, flow measurement and specialist pumping services in the well intervention/integrity sector of the oil industry.

IRL had been looking at the West African market for some time and were able to Lena Wilson recognize the huge opportunities the Ghanaian market had to offer. After participating in a second trade mission to to let the business in Ghana grow sufficiently Ghana earlier this year, IRL returned with the to where it can become the hub of our West attitude that we must be established there and African operations. are now happy that goal has been achieved. Intervention Rentals Ltd was formed in 2006 Initially stock was supplied from the company primarily to support the local North Sea oil headquarters in Scotland to enable the new service sector. IRL offers a unique service to base to become operational as quickly as the oil industry, in particular to the Well possible, however our intention thereafter is services, well integrity and pipeline process

Intervention Rentals Limited contacts: Montrose: 01241 830739 Aberdeen: 01224 254657 Doha: +974 416 4478 -79-80 Ghana, Takoradi: +233 (0) 204437202 and +233 (0) 312290606 Accra: +233 (0) 302767919 www.interventionrentals.com

Energy International December 2012

Intervention Rentals Ltd Lunan Bay, By Montrose Angus, DD10 9TG Tel.: +44 1241 830739 info@interventionrentals.com www.interventionrentals.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Advertising Feature

Due to the continued growth of the company, IRL opened an office at St Swithin Row, Aberdeen in September to accommodate local customers and to have a presence in the centre of the oil Capital.

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Houghton Offshore

Providers of Offshore Fluid Solutions rld of Differ o en aW ce g n

G lo ba

EMS 39155

ib u

ti o n

Ma ki

High Performing Environmentally Acceptable Fluids for the following:

lM a n u f a c t u ri n g &

st i D

FM 01205

Houghton Offshore Houghton PLC, M171AF Manchester Tel.: +44 1618 745000 Rab.Anderson@uk.houghtonglobal.com www.houghton-offshore.com

houghtonintl.com

offshore & onshore products

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Hunting Energy Services (International) Ltd

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Hunting Energy Services (International) Limited Badentoy Avenue, Badentoy Park, Portlethen, Aberdeen, AB12 4YB, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1224 787000 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: +44 (0)1224 787106 www.hunting-intl.com

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offshore & onshore products

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Hydrastore Ltd Hydraulic systems and components

Hydrastore Ltd Sandtoft Industrial Estate Belton, Nr.Doncaster South Yorkshire DN9 1PN

Tel.: +44 1427 874445 sales@hydrastore.co.uk www.hydrastore.co.uk

LoneStar Group Today’s Solution for Tomorrow’s Energy Market

• Fasteners • Gaskets • Precision Engineered components LoneStar Group is dedicated to meeting the exacting demands of the Subsea and Power Generation markets through high integrity local supply, innovation, and traceability. Stock and Supply Chain Management Programmes

LoneStar Group is a global manufacturer and supplier of standard and high performance fasteners, sealing and precision engineered components to the world’s Oil and Gas, Subsea, Petrochemical, Power Generation and Renewable Energy markets.

With over 1000 employees across 13 companies, the Group has a proven competence for global logistics with offices located in the UK, Romania, Singapore, Dubai, India, China, America and Australia. A combined extensive stock inventory of over £50 million, enables LoneStar to provide fully certified finished and semi finished products on short lead times and at competitive prices.

Precision Engineering In addition to carrying an extensive stockholding of fasteners, gaskets and raw materials, LoneStar has extensive machining capacity to deliver a diverse range of precision engineered components specific to customer requirements in materials ranging from carbon and stainless steels to high strength nickel alloys.

With a proven track record in the supply of high criticality components to major Subsea and Power Generation OEMs across the world, all LoneStar products are fully traceable, certified and inspected to recognised industry standards including ISO 9001:2008 and API 6A. Rigorous Quality and Testing The Group also has in house Heat Treatment, Testing & Laboratory Services to ensure all products comply with client specific standards for quality & safety. Group companies also offer a 24 hour emergency call out service in the event of a breakdown.

LSP Holding UK Ltd t/a LoneStar Group Kennicott House, Well Lane, Wednesfield, West Midlands, WV11 1XR Tel: UK. 0800 3134321 • Int. +44 (0) 1902 357626 enquiries@lonestargroup.com www.lonestargroup.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Global Presence

• Dedicated Stock Production • Consignment Stocks • Scheduled Deliveries • Custom Packaging • Product Identification • Kitting • VMI & On-site Representation • E-Commerce / EDI Links •“Kan Ban” – On-site Replenishment

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offshore & onshore products

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Master Flo Valve Co (UK) Ltd.

Master Flo Valve Co (UK) Ltd. Blackness Road, Altens Commercial Park Aberdeen, AB12 3LH, Scotland Tel.: +44 (0)1224 878999 Fax: +44 (0)1224 878989 info@masterflo.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.masterflo.com

Metso

There is more to Metso than meets the eye.

Discover more at www.metso.com/oilandgas/flowcontrol Neles® • Jamesbury® • Mapag®

Metso Automation UK 2 Lindenwood, Crockford Lane, Chineham Business Park RG24 8QY Basingstoke, Hampshire, UK Tel.: +44 870 606 1478 Fax: +44 1256 707 661 www.metso.com

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Look what goes into a Metso valve. It starts with a long track record of delivering engineered performance and legendary reliability with premier products such as Neles®, Jamesbury® and Mapag®. But the numbers really paint the picture. In almost 90 years, Metso has delivered globally millions of valves, control valves and on-off valves. We have also become one of the leading suppliers of smart positioners. All backed by field service expertise from over 55 automation service hubs and over 30 valve service centers around the world. We see it this way: keeping oil and gas producers working safely and reliably protects investments, people and the planet.

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MSD Design Ltd

Offshore and onshore our skilled engineers and designers use their expertise to create bespoke technical solutions for you.

Survey

Design

Manufacture

Installation

www.msddesignltd.com Tel: +44 (0) 1224 897238

Fax: +44 (0) 1224 898037

MSD Design Ltd, Unit 1, Logman Centre, Greenbank Crescent, Aberdeen, AB12 3BG

DESIGN LTD

MSD Design Ltd Unit 1, Logman Centre, Greenbank Crescent, Aberdeen, AB12 3BG Tel: +44 1224 897238 • Fax: +44 1224 898037 sales@msddesignltd.com • www.msddesignltd.com

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offshore & onshore products

From concept to completion

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Nylacast

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Engineering Polymer Solutions for the Oil & Gas Industry

World Leaders

With the ability to manufacture and machine a wide range of engineering polymers Nylacast are recognized as the market leader in the supply of Offshore and Subsea components. Nylacast has the knowledge and facilities to provide a full range of engineering polymer solutions supported by a full R&D and testing facility. Furthermore, Nylacast are FPAL registered and work in compliance to the high quality standards of ISO 9001/ TS 16949 and ISO 29001:2011 Oil & Gas. With extensive experience in projects from the Asia-Pacific to the North Sea, with bespoke components and typical applications as diverse as sheaves, pipe in pipe spacers and ROV chassis, Nylacast are able to offer full assistance with specification, design and testing as well as material certification and implementation. Nylacast Engineering polymers are often recognized as the perfect solution to the environments faced within the industry offering many advantages in Offshore and Subsea applications, such as: high impact strength and neutral buoyancy, as well as being self lubricating with a low co-efficient of friction which eliminates costly maintenance and service time. In addition, enhanced performance is available by building on the world renowned Nylacast brands of Nylube, Oilon and Aquanyl, coupled with the experience of our dedicated industry Engineers and Chemists, Nylacast is also able to tailor its materials to suit our customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projects and needs.

ENGINEERING PLASTIC SOLUTIONS

Nylacast Engineered Polymer Components: > Ideal properties for use in salt water > Exceptional resistance to abrasion & impact > Corrosion & Chemical resistant > Self lubricating > Lightweight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; typically 1/7th of Steel > High visibility colours > Low co-efficient of friction > 25 times the life of phosphor bronze Typical applications: > Bespoke components > Pipe-in-Pipe spacers > ROV components > Pipe clamps > Pulley sheaves > Bundle spacers > Well head components > Thruster nozzles > Piggy-Back clamps > Bushes > Rollers > Wear parts

Nylacast Houston 11490 Westheimer, Suite 850, Houston, Texas, 77077, USA Tel: 001 713 425 6344 Fax: 001 713 783 0067 offshore@nylacast.com www.nylacast.com

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Nylacast 200 Hastings Road, Leicester, England, LE5 0HL Tel: +44 (0) 116 276 8558 Fax:+44 (0) 116 274 1954 offshore@nylacast.com www.nylacast.com

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PELI PRODUCTS PELI PRODUCTS

The global leader in design and manufacture of high-performance case solutions The global leader in design and manufacture of high-performance case solutions and advanced portable lighting systems and advanced portable lighting systems

PELI

> PROTECTOR CASES OVER 70 SIZES • WATERTIGHT • OEM APPLICATIONS

> ELITE COOLERS OUTDOOR / OFFSHORE TOUGH • 7-10 DAYS ICE RETENTION • 33-61 LITERS

> DIGITAL PROTECTION WATERTIGHT AND CRUSHPROOF CASES AND BACKPACKS

> SAFETY APPROVED LIGHTS ZONE 1 & 0 ATEX CERTIFIED LIGHTS • LED TECHNOLOGY • WATERPROOF

INDUSTRIAL EVOLUTION Getting the job done right begins with good tools. For lighting products or protector cases, those tools are named Peli. They’re innovative and tough, and trusted by hard workers for more than 35 years. Protector Cases Built with engineering-grade polymers, Peli Cases and Peli Storm Cases are the toughest on the market and offer more than 70 models that can protect sensitive equipment of all sizes. If your equipment requires protection against mechanical shock, vibration, and extreme temperature changes, Peli has a case for you. Elite Coolers Peli ProGearTM Coolers are built tough with the most durable polymers and are engineered with secure press and pull latches, a freezergrade o-ring seal and dual handles for easy transport and tie-off. The uninterrupted solid wall construction will retain ice for 7 to 10 days. Digital Protection Ergonomic, rugged and tested for extreme performance, Peli ProGearTM backpacks are the toughest way to take technology anywhere, regardless of environmental conditions. Elite Backpacks feature built-in watertight, crushproof Peli cases for extreme laptop and tablet protection. Peli´s digital protection cases offer ultimate protection for laptops, tablets, eBooks and netbooks. All cases in the series offer anti-scratch, foam inserts to add another layer of protection for delicate electronics.

Safety Approved Lights From NVG-compatible and IR lights to rugged Xenon and LED submersible work lights, Peli’s extensive array of advanced lighting tools (almost 60 models, 16 of them ATEX certified) has a lighting solution for just about any application. Peli Lights stand out because of their durability, their safety approvals (ATEX) and their high level of technology.

NEW LED AREA LIGHT 9435 RALS > The first LED Area Light ATEX approved Zone 2 (Cat. 3) for hazardous areas > 1500 Lumens > Portable > Battery powered > No cables, no fumes, no noise

EMEA headquarters: PELI PRODUCTS, S.L.U. EMEA headquarters: PRODUCTS, S.L.U. C/ Provença, 388 Planta 7 PELI • 08025 • Barcelona, Spain C/ Provença, 388 Planta 7, 08025, Barcelona, Spain Tel +34 93 467 4999 • Fax +34 93 487 7393 Tel +34 93 467 4999 • Fax +34 93 487 7393 info@peli.com • www.peli.com info@peli.com • www.peli.com

PPE Precision Polymer Engineering

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PPE Greenbank Rd, Blackburn, BB1 3EA England Tel: +44 (0) 1254 295400 Fax: +44 (0) 1254 680182 www.prepol.com

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R. STAHL Ltd. The Experts in Hazardous Area Automation, Switchgear & Lighting Guarding the water of life Ex-protected touchscreen HMIs for Scottish Whisky destillery Cologne - Whisky needs to mature for a long time to reach peak quality - and it best stays undisturbed duringthat time. At the beginning, however, the preparation requires all the more attention: The spirit is the result of a chain of processes that need careful monitoring. The main part of the process takes place in hazardous areas. The Ardmore Distillery close to Aberdeen had its operating and monitoring equipment for the production modernised about three years ago, introducing Windows-based, explosionprotected touchscreen HMI systems. The distillery is located in Speyside, the most productive of the five regions of Scottish Whisky production, where about half of all active distilleries are located. In addition to its own brand single malts, the Ardmore Distillery also produces malt whiskies for blended malts. The distillery is one of the biggest in the whole of Scotland. Founded at the end of the 19th century, the distillery has been rebuilt and expanded several times during the last few decades. Now that the control system of the main distillery has been expanded to include the automatic valves of the external tank farm, operating and monitoring tasks can be carried out comfortably at a double station running Windows software and consisting of two Ex-protected 19-inch touchscreen PCs.

High-proof spirit under lock and key A step-by-step process takes the malted barley through the distillery until it emerges as a storable spirit. The fully automated system allows staff to control and monitor all phases of the distilling process from a central point. This central location is at the heart of the still-house, right next to the spirit safe, a glass cabinet locked by customs and excise. This is where the most recent modernization was undertaken, with the aim of implementing a state-of-the-art HMI solution. Ardmore Distillery commissioned Advanced Electronics with the selection and installation of this solution, as they had been responsible for the modernization of the still-house electronics in 2001. Advanced Electronics carry out electrical, control and instrumentation installations for a wide range of customers predominantly in the distilling and food industries throughout Scotland. The company is not only successful at recommending products outside of their remit, but also at building and maintaining their own range of PLC, HMI and SCADA systems. Once Ardmoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific requirements had been identified, various possible solutions were evaluated. The decision was made to test an Ex-protected PC operating system from R. STAHL for two weeks. This test was successful. As a consequence, two 19-inch touchscreen devices of the Open HMI ET-456 series were ordered.

R. STAHLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HMI systems are located next to the spirit safe (to the left) - a padlocked glass-walled case to catch the spirit coming from the stills

Flexible software base The main reason for choosing this series - in addition to their construction and the powerful hardware of the panel PCs - was the user-friendliness of the Windows XP Embedded system. As Ewen McDonald, Contracts Manager at Advanced Electrics, explains: “We chose the R.STAHL hazardous area PC system as the ideal HMI for the Ardmore still-house because of the flexibility of the Windows operating system, which allowed us to use the same software as the existing safe area HMI’s in other areas of the site. We were also impressed by the robust construction and build quality of the PC that we had on evaluation.” The Open HMI ET-456 is an easy to maintain product containing no fans, moving parts or batteries. The system is fully certified for hazardous gas and dust enviroments. The touchscreen increases user-friendliness - this is of particular importance in cleanrooms in the food industry, for example, where even staff in full protection gear can operate the systems easily with gloved hands. If required, optional accessories such as separate keyboards, pointer devices and special input devices such as Mifare and barcode readers are also available. The Windows operating system is preinstalled, ensuring that the product can literally be plugged and played with an operational lifespan of over 50,000 hours. State-of-the-art hardware Open HMI systems can not only be installed separately (standing or hanging), but can also be fully integrated into control panels. Despite their robust design, the devices are easy to service. Trained personnel can open their housings right in the hazardous zone to replace individual components. On the inside, the systems consist of modules with individual explosion protection - the optimum type of explosion protection has been implemented separately for each individual module. The central unit of the devices installed at the Ardmore Distillery is an Intel Pentium M processor. At this specific location these processors can guarantee consistently good performance with high energy efficiency. At other locations, however, the performance of such systems might be reduced. In the case of extremely high ambient temperatures of up to 50 °C, which can regularly occur in certain applications in hazardous areas, Pentium M processors reduce their clock rate in order to prevent excessive core temperatures inside the closed housing Because of this, the latest generation of Open HMI systems is now equipped with Intel Atom CPUs. These processors also do not require fans inside closed housings. Thanks to their reduced energy requirements, their architecture has the additional advantage that the systems can be operated constantly at temperatures ranging from -30 °C to +50 °C (and briefly even at +55 °C) without any reduction in performance. A great number of international certifications guarantee that the systems can be installed world-wide. Conclusion

R. STAHL Ltd. Unit 11 Maybrook Business Park, Maybrook Road, Minworth, Birmingham, B76 1AL Tel: +44 121 767 6400 • Fax: +44 121 767 6490 marketing@rstahl.co.uk www.rstahl.co.uk

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Thanks to their extreme energy efficiency, the latest generation of Open HMI systems by R. STAHL have an even greater temperature tolerance.

In contrast to the distillery’s products, which achieve their high quality with time, the HMI solution installed at Ardmore proved its merit right from the start. The explosionprotected PC’s were delivered onschedule in January 2008 and installed in July during a maintenance shutdown period. By now, the robust systems have proven themselves during operations for over two years. The operators continue to be satisfied with design, configuration and performance of these comfortable systems. The continuous optimisation and modernisation of the Open HMI range is not limited to the use of the most up-to-date processor technology, but also includes the constant upgrade to new, available screen sizes. At present, screens with up to 24” wide-screen format with full HD resolution are available.

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Rig Control Products Ltd Control and Monitoring Equipment

RCP Elmagco Brake Control, TBM and Zone Management Systems Rig Control Products (RCP) and RCP Pte are experts in the design, manufacture and installation of a wide range of rig instrumentation products & PLC control equipment. In addition to this, we also offer our customers full technical support and excellent training facilities. Over the years, RCP has established a wealth of knowledge and expertise in design, electrical engineering, control & instrumentation, therefore ensuring that our systems are built for purpose. RCP is rapidly becoming an important solutions provider to many of the operating companies across the globe. Below is a snapshot of the equipment and services we provide to the industry; for further information, please contact us using the details below. Subsea Control Systems Subsea Control Systems such as HPHT, BOP & Diverter Panels and Choke Control Consoles are designed and built in-house, using only the latest technology. Data logging, DAQ and remote access are essential for clients who wish to ensure safety critical equipment can be monitored in real time. All of our equipment is designed with ease of operation in mind, while offering enhanced network security. Our clients can now call upon RCP in both our UK, and Singapore offices to offer complete surface BOP and Diverter solutions, refurbishment of, or new Koomey type units. Instrumentation Our comprehensive Rig Monitoring System (RMS1000) offers clients highly accurate measurement and a clear display of any number of drilling parameters.

www.rcpat.com - sales@rcpat.com

Its modular design allows for easy expansion should other processes need to be monitored in the future, in addition to stop-start functions which can also be programmed into the system. RCP also offer traditional BOP/Diverter Control panels and modern HMI ’Touch Screen’ well control equipment utilising the very latest Siemens technology. Control Equipment Our Zone Management Systems are innovative in both design and build, allowing RCP to work closely with companies such as ’Weatherford’ to ensure the safe operation of pipe handling equipment and eliminate the risk of collisions. Our Zone Management Systems have recently been chosen by ’Ensco’, when rigs are being equipped with an Iron Derrickman (IDM). Our Travelling Block Monitor (TBM6000) is an intuitive crown and floor saver system that is designed to be easily integrated with other RCP systems, such as our AntiCollision System which offers enhanced safety on the drill floor. Our TBM is by far, our leading, off the shelf product, with clients including ’TAQA’ and ’Transocean’. RCP also offer: • Elmagco Brake Controllers • Drillers Cabin Pressurisation Systems • Anti-Collision Systems • Heli-Deck Monitoring Systems • Siemens PLC upgrades for obsolete PLC based systems (PLC code conversions)

Aberdeen Office RCP Ltd, Excalibur House, Woodburn Road, Blackburn Industrial Estate Aberdeen AB21 0RX Tel: +44 1224 798312

Singapore Office RCPAT PTE. Ltd. 1 Gul Road, Blk 1 Singapore 629362 Tel: +65 8599 7785

Rotork Plc Rotork, redefining flow control Rotork is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric, pneumatic and hydraulic valve actuators and control systems, valve gearboxes, valve accessories and precision control instruments - supported by the Rotork worldwide service network. For over fifty years, engineers have relied upon Rotork for innovative, dependable solutions to manage the flow of liquids, gases and powders to improve efficiency, assure safety and protect the environment. The company has established dedicated manufacturing facilities and a global network of local offices and agents who can truly provide a worldwide service, enabling Rotork products to be locally sourced and supported by life-of-plant maintenance, repair and upgrade services. In the oil and gas industries Rotork products are used on applications throughout virtually all upstream and downstream activities ranging from offshore production facilities through refining and processing to transportation of finished products via pipelines or vessels. The Rotork Group is comprised of four actuation and flow control divisions:

Rotork IQ intelligent electric valve actuators at a fully automated oil industry tank farm

Rotork CVA modulating electric valve actuators installed on a gas pipeline

Rotork Fluid Systems specialises in the production of pneumatic and hydraulic actuators and control systems. Rotork Fluid Systems’ product offering encompasses P, GP, CP, RC200 / RCI200 and R ranges of scotch-yoke and rackand-pinion pneumatic actuators, H, GH and RH hydraulic actuators, the GO range of gas-over-oil actuators, the HPG range of high-pressure direct gas actuators and the Skilmatic range of electro-hydraulic failsafe actuators. Rotork Gears secondary gearboxes with IQ intelligent electric actuators on pipeline ball valves

Rotork Gears delivers innovative solutions to individual valve gearbox and valve accessory requirements, drawing on an unrivalled range of quality products. Rotork Gears’ valve accessories capabilities include mounting kits, spools, pedestals, extension spindles, switchboxes, positioners, handwheels and chainwheels, offered with comprehensive packaging, assembly and test services.

Compact Rotork high pressure pneumatic regulator for instrument and industrial control applications

Rotork Instruments manufactures products used in the pressure and flow control markets, offering high performance and precision for all its products, which include market leading regulators, boosters, relays and transducers.

Rotork Plc Rotork House, Brassmill Lane, Bath, Somerset BA1 3JQ, UK Tel: +44 1225 733200 Fax: +44 1225 333467 information@rotork.com www.rotork.com

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Rotork Controls manufactures electric valve actuators and control systems for the heavy-duty valve market and is the home of the flagship IQ intelligent electric actuator range. The IQ range features legendary innovations including Rotork’s unique double-sealed enclosure, ‘non-intrusive’ infra-red commissioning, data-logging and predictive maintenance capabilities. More recent innovations include the advanced display, Bluetooth® communications interface and absolute encoder. Within this division, Rotork Process Controls manufactures electric actuators for continuous modulating control, including the innovative CVA and CMA ranges.

Rotork hydraulic actuator for sub-sea isolation valve (SSIV) duty

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Score Diagnostics Limited Valve Condition Monitoring Made Easy Valve Condition Monitoring is known to reduce risks, and maximise efficiency and reliability in all processes where it is deployed. It is increasingly being seen as the only safe way of managing valve populations. To ensure the on-going safety integrity, environmental protection and efficiency of your process is correctly maintained at all times, it is of critical importance that you know the condition of your process valves. Put more simply, you need to know if your valves are leaking or not and if they are leaking, how bad is the leak? Additionally, on more critical valves you need to know if there is another “failure mode” developing in your valves or operators that will expose you to risks to people, process or plant (for example, in the event a valve fails to complete its design function such as closing or opening on demand). Score’s 30+ years of experience of valve supply and intelligent valve management tells us that all plant operators are facing the same recurring problems. As a general rule, 90% of the problems experienced by process operators result from just 10% of the installed population of valves which are not performing to the required standard. The problem for operators is that it’s not always obvious which are the “culprit valves”. It is also known that all valves follow the same exponential deterioration in performance over time.

Given that we know this, it is possible to use Acoustic Emissions (AE) technology for example, to quickly and easily find leaking valves.

valve loss / leak detection and quantification is the hand-held MIDAS Meter®.

So, the good news is that risk can easily be managed through the intelligent monitoring of valves, based on their criticality, over their entire life cycle (and any subsequent life cycles following maintenance interventions). All we need is the correct and reliable monitoring equipment, systems and techniques. MIDAS® Valve Diagnostic products use proven acoustic emissions (AE) technology to identify through valve losses / leaks and then use proprietary algorithms to calculate and quantify any leaks found. Valve leakage represents major risks to plant operations. These risks include: • Safety - Loss of containment of process fluids presents a major risk to personnel working on the plant • Environmental - Leaking valves / loss of fluid containment represents a potentially major risk to the environment • Efficiency - Lost production due to leakage and / or downtime due to poorly performing valves affects both plant efficiency and availability, which can result in both product and / or profit losses. Score Diagnostics Limited has developed a number of valve condition monitoring products and services to address their existing customers’ and the wider market’s needs. These products are now in wide-spread use throughout the Oil & Gas regions worldwide. The products offered are all intrinsically safe certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. The “entry level” product for through-

The MIDAS Meter® uses an acoustic emissions (AE) sensor to detect the high frequency sound signals emitted by leaks across valve seat to seal interfaces. It is a non-invasive inspection technique which requires the operator to place the sensor directly onto the outside surface of the valve body. Once in position, it is possible to see within a few seconds if there is any leakage across the valve seat(s). Furthermore, by completing a quick valve survey, where readings are sent from the handset, wirelessly by Bluetooth, to the Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) it is also possible to estimate the leak rate. This then allows the valve maintenance team to focus their efforts on addressing the worst performing valves first. Easy to understand output reports show valve condition corresponding to it’s “allowable leak rate” in the form of a traffic light system. The easy to interpret visual indicators suggest the following logic :

• Valve Performing, Leave Alone, • Leakage Detected, Monitor Deterioration Closely, • Leakage Detected, Maintenance

Required to avoid risks associated with in-service failure modes

•V -MAP reporting and analysis provides identification of maintenance requirements and reliability data for confirmation of Safety Integrity Levels (SILs) • Remote access is available for valve expert analysis and support

Score Diagnostics Limited’s range of market-leading valve condition monitoring products help you to troubleshoot problem valves, monitor valves, trend failures and move towards pro-active maintenance.

Valve failures are very often the result of ageing. Indicators of ageing that can be detected and trended over time using the V-MAP system include, but are not limited to :-

For more critical process valves, the MIDAS® Sensor (patent pending) has been developed to be installed on the valve and adjoining pipework, to give a continuous and permanent feedback indication of valve sealing performance in line. The sensor used is the same design as the MIDAS Meter® and the output from the unit (4-20mA electrical signal) is designed to tie in directly with all plants’ Digital Control Systems (DCS) or Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) Systems or Score’s own V-MAP System. This makes the technology easy to install at the plant construction phase and also to retrofit to existing plants.

Main benefits of V-MAP •V -MAP is a passive, non-intrusive monitoring system that responds to every valve operation, planned or unplanned. • I t removes the need for operations personnel intervention, unless alerted • I t provides reports and audit records including the trending and comparison with performance benchmarks and safety criteria

A number of case studies have been written-up and some of these are available to download from our website.

For the most critical process valves, such as Emergency Shutdown Valves (ESDVs), where other failure modes and effects are important to monitor and trend, Score have developed a fully integrated, permanently installed system known as V-MAP.

Score Diagnostics Limited Ian Davidson Building, Wellbank, Peterhead Aberdeenshire, Scotland, AB42 3AE Tel.: +44 1779 480000 midas.enquiries@score-group.com www.midasvalvediagnostics.com

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The MIDAS® Sensor’s output allows the operator back in the process control room to see the performance of the valve in real time. The software / graphic user interface (GUI) gives a visual indication of the condition of each valve being monitored for through-seat leakage.

Telemetry systems, comprising sensors, transducers and management / reporting software continuously monitor key indicators of valve and operator performance over time and report these in both statistical and graphical formats for further analysis.

• Increasing times to operate • Increasing valve operating force or torque • Increasing actuator pressure or current • Increasing through seat leakage • Need for maintenance or break down repair • Failure to meet acceptance criteria • Experience of problems of ageing with similar critical valves of similar materials and/or design on similar duties

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SPP Pumps Ltd

SPP Pumps Ltd 1420 Lakeview, Arlington Business Park Theale, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4SA Tel.: +44 118 932 3123 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: +44 118 932 3302 enquiries@spppumps.com www.spppumps.com

STAUFF Local Solutions for Individual Customers Worldwide

Other UK locations Ireland: +44 (0) 2892 606900 Sheffield: +44 (0) 114 251 8518 Southampton: +44 (0) 23 8079 9518

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offshore & onshore products

STAUFF Badentoy Avenue, Badentoy Industrial Estate Portlethen, Aberdeen AB12 4YB Tel: +44 (0)1224 786166 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: +44 (0)1224 786177 sales@stauffscotland.co.uk www.stauff.co.uk

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Subsea Technologies Ltd A Fresh Approach to Subsea Engineering

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

offshore & onshore products

Subsea Technologies Ltd Donside Facility, Davidson Mill, Mugiemoss Road, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9PA, UK Tel: +44 (0) 1224 392200 info@subseatek.com www.subseatek.com

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Technogenia S.A. More than 30 years of innovation in the anti-wear market TECHNOGENIA, leader in hardfacing, manufactures welding products for antiwear protection in the oil drilling industry. TECHNOGENIA has developed a spherical cast tungsten carbide powder, Spherotene®, that provides exceptional anti-abrasion solutions for various fields. The incredibility strong carbide particles are applicable by a welded-on cast-nickel cord (Technosphère®), special castings, or precision laser (Lasercarb® process), providing almost 10 times a longer service life than with more traditional chrome-carbide hardfacing.

Technogenia has specialised since its beginning in the production of high level anti-wear protec-tions, based upon the production of Tungsten Carbide. The spherical cast Tungsten Carbide produced by Technogenia: named Spherotene® is obtained by spraying a liquid phase of Tungsten Carbide. These Tungsten carbides are incorporated into the following products offered by Technogenia. These Tungsten carbides are incorporated into the following products offered by Technogenia. Our brands are: • Sphérotène®, our spherical cast tungsten carbide powder • Technosphère®, our welding rope for oxy-acetylene welding • LaserCarb® , our lawson process

Technogenia 249 rue des Marais - BP 151, 74410 Saint-Jorioz Tel.: +33 450 685 660 Fax: +33 450 686 277 technogenia@technogenia.fr www.technogenia.com

Technogenia Lasercarb® Technology Center 708 Metcalf Street (FM 2854) Conroe – Texas 77301 Tel.: +1 936 441 4770 Fax: +1 936 539 4760 jbcrepin@technogenia.com www.technogeniaUSA.com

Technogenia Lasercarb® Oklahoma 41S. Cooley Drive Oklahoma City – Oklahoma73127 Tel.: +1 405 470 3350 Fax: +1 405 470 3362 jbc@technogenia.com www.technogeniaUSA.com

Laser Cladding Technology

Numerous industries use tools that require high resistance to abrasion. The LaserCarb® process is a hard facing process that adds an anti-abrasion material to the wear parts. The Lasercarb process resolves numerous problems caused by welding. Lasercarb® uses powders based on fused Spherical Tungsten Carbide produced by Technogenia. Principle The process consists of using the energy of a Laser beam to melt the deposition powder (NiCr or other material) on the part. A weld occurs between the deposit and the base metal.

L.C.T. - Laser Cladding Technology Unit 1 , Coach Crescent, Shireoaks Triangle, Shireoaks, Worksop, Notts S81 8AD Tel.: +44 1909 470 589 • Fax: +44 1909 471 270 sales@lasercladding.co.uk www.lasercladding.co.uk

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Benefits • Use of powders based on fusedsphericalTungsten Carbide (Spherotene®) • Very high hardness: 3000 HV ± 500 • Fused Tungsten Carbides are not affected by Lasercarb® • Almost total absence of porosity • Extremely limited cracking and deformation • Large deposit thickness of 0.5 to 3mm (0.020 in to 0.125 in) • Perfect adherence through welding • Precision, Automation, Reproducibility

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TESS Manufacture hoses and hose fittings for industrial, on- and offshore applications TESS is Norway´s leading supplier of engineered systems and services for hoses and hydraulics for the OIL & Energy industry. TESS coordinates more than 100 service centers with approved workshops and Hose Engineers approved by DnV. TESS is recognized as a reliable supplier of high quality products and services for more than 40 years. 900 employees served a turnover of more than USD 435 Million in 2012. Hoses and couplings • Industrial and hydraulic hoses • Loading and drilling hoses • Ultra high pressure hoses • Fire resistant - Warmguard hoses • Fittings and valves • Pipe fittings and quick couplings • Steel hoses, compensators and pipes Engineering and Systems: TESS capabilities are complete engineering, procurement, construction and installation. TESS has established a dedicated technical division with R&D activities, customized production and total solutions deliveries. Together with Partners TESS undertakes the full responsibility of: • Hose handling systems/offshore loading • Customized hose solutions • Hydraulic Flying Leads (HFL) and bundles • Subsea Umbilicals Hose management and services: TESS has extensive technical and field experience. TESS service personnel are continuously updated and certified by internal training courses. TESS Academy also provides Customer Training.

TESS as is ISO 14001 certified: After having passed the ISO 14001 audit, TESS has become one of the first Hose and Hydraulic suppliers in Norway to receive an ISO 14001 certificate for its environmental management system. TESS as is ISO 9001 certified. Customer references: • Statoil • FMC Technologies • Aker Solutions • Shell • Exxon Mobil • Schlumberger • Maersk ...and other successful customers!

Products (MRO): Our experts and engineering staff are continuously improving our product range enabling TESS to meet the present and future demands. TESS is innovative, and cooperates directly with some of the world’s leading manufacturers. TESS offers:

TESS as P.O. Box 1540, NO-3007 Drammen Tel.: +47 32 84 40 00 Fax: +47 32 84 40 01 tess@tess.no www.tess.no

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We offer Service Agreements, Customer Support and Life Cycle Care Systems – this to help Customers to improve Q HSE and increase uptime. • TESS Hose Management • Manufacturing and Project Management 24/7 • Pressure Testing, Flushing and Certifying of Hoses / Systems • Piping /Welding • Integrated Supply with Partnershop and containers

MROP • Welding equipment and materials • Personal protection and work wear equipment (PPE/PPC) • Tools & material handling • Transmission products • Chemicals and lubricants • Other MRO products

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offshore onshoreproducts products offshore && onshore

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Welding Alloys Alloys Ltd Welding Ltd Designingmachines machines for for the customer Designing customerwith withthe thecustomer customer Since 1966, Welding Alloys has gained unique experience drawing from years of commitment to research and development of specialised welding products and solutions.

Welding Alloys is committed to forming close customer relationships and has established numerous partnerships with industry as a supplier of the total solution from consumables, machines and training, to integrated engineering services. Through this the Welding Alloys Group has gained a thorough understanding of the operating conditions and requirements of industries worldwide.

D3-Touch™ Control Technology This new control technology for automation allows effective and efficient implementation of fully automated welding techniques and processes. This system allows: •

Real-time feedback

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Perfect synchronisation between all axes of movement

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Seamless and precise control of the welding head

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Reduction in setup time through the setting up of repeatable welding parameters

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Reduction in time and cost, increasing efficiency and reproducibility

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Precision welding, reducing material/welding consumables used

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Simple programmable interface with only the requirement for one operator

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Full traceability of materials used the welding process

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Self / remote system diagnostics

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Weld condition monitoring

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Remote system & process monitoring

Welding Alloys has incorporated this new EtherCAT® based D3-Touch™ technology into all of its machines, improving the performance and accuracy of the welding process. The user interface has been specifically designed for a perfect connection between the operator and the machine. This technology complements the precision engineered mechanics, allowing for optimum quality and welding performance.

MultiSurfacer™ XT Orbital Cladder Developed through Welding Alloys’ continued product development programme and in-depth knowledge of cladding / hardfacing technology for internal bores, pipes, rings and grooves; the XT Orbital Cladder meets the demands of the industry, seamlessly and efficiently within the global oil, gas and petrochemical markets. •

Bore-to-bore / Joining programming

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Innovative touch screen technology

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Offline programming of component geometries

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Component geometries taken from direct input of CAD drawings

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Self-centering functionality

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Arc Voltage Control (AVC) providing automatic control of the distance between the welding tip and the component

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Min & Max setting of weld parameters give alarm signals when values fall out of specified range

The standard machine has been designed to utilise hot wire TIG processes for cladding internal bores, blocks and valves from 800mm to 400mm in diameter.

MultiSurfacer™ ST Stabiliser Welder The ST Stabiliser welding machine is specially designed and developed to provide the automated welding of drill stabilisers used for applications in soft to medium hard formation holes in the oil & gas sectors. High degree of motion and process control

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Welding repeatability

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Full component manipulation

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High quality weld on stabilisers

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Built in condition monitoring facility

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Ability to handle a mixture of welding processes

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Fully integrated mechanical and electrical design

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Complete geometry programming

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Auto diameter allowing a constant surface speed to be maintained

Through the use of the Welding Alloys range of consumables and flux-cored cladding wires, a high quality, defect free weld can be achieved on stabilisers, offering a superior level of wear resistance.

WeldingAlloys Alloys Ltd Welding The Way, Fowlmere, Royston, SG8 7QS, UKUK The Way, Fowlmere, Royston,Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, SG8 7QS, Tel: +44 1763 207500 Tel: +44 1763 207500 Fax:+44 +441763 1763207501 207501 Fax: sales@welding-alloys.com sales@welding-alloys.com www.welding-alloys.com www.welding-alloys.com

offshore offshore &&onshore onshoreproducts products

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53 ACROSSTHE THE NORTH SEA135 ACROSS NORTH SEA

dredging & trenching services

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation A POWERFUL COMBINATION As a world leader we provide unique seabed dredging and excavation solutions to operators and contractors with precision, safety and reliability.

ADDED VALUE

SOLUTIONS & CAPABILITIES

Our presence in key global subsea markets creates many benefits for our client base which includes International and National Oil & Gas companies, Offshore Wind Farm Developers and Engineering Houses, as well as main contractors subcontracting these tasks to specialised contractors.

The potent mix of complimentary capabilities that we offer provides significant added value to all aspects of our client’s projects.

Subsea dredging and excavation services; • Removal and relocate seabed materials • Spud can opening and clearing • Controlled flow excavation • Decommissioning • Subsea installation • Cable Installations • Free span rectification • Pipeline and cable lowering • Seabed clearance for installation of habitats and modules • Work in low visibility, high current, and shallow and deep-water

We offer the best engineering solutions as we undertake studies and engineering to deliver the largest range of seabed services in relation to dredging and excavation solutions.

Part of the International Reef Subsea Group World-wide offices: Mandal - Norway; Aberdeen - UK, Houston & Mexico – Americas, Singapore - Asia

Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation Gismerøyveien 207, NO-4515 Mandal Tel.: +47 38 27 81 00 Fax: +47 38 27 81 01 postmaster@reefsubsea.com www.rsdne.com – www.reefsubsea.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

dredging & trenching services

AREAS OF OPERATION

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AKD Engineering Engineered to Last

High Integrity Fabrication Machining Design

Offshore/Onshore Services

Project Management Assembly & Testing

Project Engineering

Decommissioning

Personnel Supply

Surveys

AKD Engineering Ltd Horn Hill, NR33 0PX Suffolk Tel.: +44 (0)1502 527800 sales@akd-engineering.co.uk www.akd-engineering.co.uk

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

fabrication & construction

global expertise & precision

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Harland and Wolff

fabrication & construction

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Heavy Industries Limited

A reputation for delivering quality, on time and on budget for over 150 years, has made Belfast’s Harland and Wolff the marine manufacturer of choice for industry. Harland and Wolff have a long history of successful projects for the offshore oil, gas and more recently, renewable energy sectors.

Heavy marine engineering • Design and build offshore substation platforms and modules • Design and build offshore foundations for turbines, met masts and substation platforms • Detail design and build of renewable energy devices and prototypes • Suction Installed Bucket Foundation Design Engineering Services • Marine design consultancy • Naval architecture

Ship design, building and repair • Ship and offshore unit design • Ship and offshore unit repair and conversion • Ship and offshore unit building • Ship and offshore unit decommissioning Offshore Wind Farm logistics base • Large storage facility, assembly and load-out specialists • On-shore engineering design and manufacture support

Harland and Wolff have one of Europe’s largest marine & offshore heavy engineering facilities. Purposely developed to create some of the world’s largest oceangoing vessels, the world class facilities are able to handle the largest of structures in a safe, productive and cost effective environment. That, coupled with a multi-million pound investment programme in new industry specific equipment, has led to a considerable number of recent completed projects and contract awards, which include:

Harland and Wolff also operate a ship repair & conversion division, offering a unique combination of technical expertise and substantial physical facilities. Built over hundreds of successful projects, it has a worldwide reputation with owners and operators for strict standards of health and safety, quality and timely delivery for planned and emergency repairs to all vessel types, which is reflected in our high number of repeat customers.

Harland and Wolff Heavy Industries Limited Queen’s Island, Belfast, BT3 9DU, United Kingdom Tel: +44 2890 458456 • Fax: +44 2890 458515 sales@harland-wolff.com www.harland-wolff.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

fabrication & construction

• Dry Docking and Repair of the SeaRose FPSO for Husky Energy on an intensive 28 day programme, which was completed 4 days ahead of schedule with no lost time injuries. • Working for Prime Contractor Kvaerner Verdal AS, construction of 8 large pile sleeve clusters, buoyancy tanks and conductor tubes for Edvard Grieg and Martin Linge oil platform jackets for the North Sea. • Design and build of the Humber Gateway substation jacket for E.ON.

• Design and build 2 substations for Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm for Siemens. • Marine Systems Design Engineering for FPSO ‘Thang Long Dong Do’ conversion • Marine Design Engineering for FPSO ‘Petroleo Nautipa’ upgrade • Assembly of 3,000t BARD 1 Offshore Wind Farm substation jacket with Prime Contractor Wesserwind. • 3 OWF logistics projects and 3 suction installed Bucket Foundations for Dogger Bank and Firth of Forth OWFs.

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safety & security

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Knowsley SK Limited The Offshore Fire Fighting Equipment & Systems Specialist Knowsley SK Limited are renowned for the design, manufacture and delivery of innovative fire fighting systems for the protection of high value Oil, Gas & Petrochemical installations. We have an enviable reputation for finding the complete fire fighting solution which incorporates highly reliable systems & equipment for use in all manner of harsh environments. Knowsley Products are manufactured and supplied into the -50ºC extremes of mid-winter in the Caspian region and also to the +60ºC summer heat of the Middle East. Add over a century of expertise, continuous product development, plus the backing of a worldwide support network, and Knowsley SK is the first choice for high-value asset protection, with optimum solutions that can be relied upon whenever danger strikes. Nowhere do you need to be more self-reliant than on an offshore platform or FPSO, and of course that includes self-reliance in the event of fire. There’s no fire service in the vicinity to come to the rescue and this has a number of significant consequences. Fire fighting systems must work reliably and as automatically as possible. All equipment needs to be simple to operate so that the personnel present can use, maintain and repair this without problem. At the same time, the equipment has to withstand high levels of corrosion. The construction of an offshore platform poses specific problems for fire fighting systems, not only because many processes take place in a confined small surface area, but also because these processes are not spread horizontally, but vertically. Each platform level requires its own safety services. For example, the rooms in which personnel sleep and the helicopter platform have to be protected in different ways. Finally, there are space and weight limitations. Within all of these conditions Knowsley SK can offer you the best solution. We know the offshore world. Deluge & Foam Skid Packages At our factory in Manchester we have designed and built some of the largest and most technically complex deluge skid packages ever constructed. Working to the demanding specifications of our clients and with due deference to the environment to which these skids will be installed we now have a very extensive reference list for offshore projects around the globe. Of course the Knowsley portfolio also includes a well established product range including hydrants, fixed and oscillating monitors and the all new Turbinator foam proportioning device - the next generation in foam mixing technology.

Part of

Knowsley SK Limited are part of the SK FireSafety Group. The SK FireSafety Group is composed of a well-balanced and diverse range of experienced companies that specialise in one area of expertise: protecting people and investments against fire and other accidents. That is why the group is able to meet all of your safety needs. Knowsley SK Limited are part of the specialist Oil & Gas business unit along with our prestigious and renowned sisters; Saval BV of the Netherlands and Noha AS of Norway. With the combined knowledge and experience of the three companies which make up the Oil & Gas Business Unit we are able to provide a very high level of technical support to our clients. Legislation surrounding offshore fire safety is very stringent and adherence to these standards is mandatory - in fact there are excellent manuals, often metres thick, about the principles of offshore fire safety and fire fighting. Our Business Unit picks up where these manuals end, by focusing directly on your specific situation. Because, although the components we use are comprised mainly of established products, the solution we offer is never off-the-shelf; the locations at which our customers are active are too diverse and the specific requirements of each platform requires a flexible approach and bespoke engineering.

Offshore Servicing and Maintenance Knowsley SK along with our sisters Saval and Noha offer complete and comprehensive servicing and maintenance activities for all offshore fire fighting systems and equipment. We are fully qualified and certified to provide complete care & maintenace packages for new or existing hardware. We can survey existing systems and report on compliance with the original design requirement or current industry legislation which may have rendered your current systems obsolete.

NOHA Norway AS was founded in 1924, and has grown to become a world leading manufacturer of fire hose reels, as well as Norway’s leading supplier of fire fighting equipment. NOHA’s growing Oil Gas division are focused on developing solutions and extending the product range to cover all offshore and onshore requirements. The NOHA range is recognised as the world leading brand for offshore hose reel manufactures to the highest quality with continuous development ensuring products will always be at the forefront of design and performance giving a total capability in any situation. Saval with more than 85 years of experience in the area of fire protection and evacuation, is the safe choice for your company. Every day over 200 Saval employees work to ensure the safety of your plant and people. Saval are also a highly respected manufacturer of a broad range of high quality fire fighting products such as fire extinguishers, hose reels, foam discharge equipment and of course bespoke extingusihing systems to suit both onshore and offshore environments.

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

safety & security

Knowsley SK Limited Centrepoint, Marshall Stevens Way Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1AE, England Tel.: +44 161 8727511 • Fax: +44 161 8488508 sales@knowsleysk.co.uk • www.knowsleysk.com

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data & electronics

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

ecom instruments UK Hazardous Area Equipment For the past 26 years, ecom instruments have manufactured and supplied portable, explosion-proof equipment, designed specifically for use in hazardous areas. We are a global organisation with locations throughout Europe, the Americas and Asia. Our vision is to fully realise the potential of interconnected hand-portable devices centred on a computing hub. Already known for our quality, reliability and high performance, ecom will enable mobile workers to do their jobs even more efficiently and safely with multipurpose hardware, service and support from a single provider. Today, the ecom instruments product range is divided into four distinct divisions; Mobile Computing: From laptops to handheld computers with barcode or RFID reading capabilities, the ecom instruments range of mobile computing devices can help create efficiency savings and dramatically reduce engineering man-hours. Devices are available with GPS, GPRS and integrated cameras to provide maximum functionality. Communications: ecom’s range of ATEX certified communication products includes mobile phones compatible with all major networks; some of our phones are available with man-down and GPS functionality to help protect lone workers. We also manufacture and supply intrinsically safe PMR radios along with accessories. Measurement and Calibration: ecom instruments have partnered with the world’s best known test equipment manufacturer Fluke to produce a range of ATEX certified multimeters and process calibrators. Other products within ecom instruments’ range include intrinsically safe temperature-measurement devices, ultrasonic wall-thickness gauges, wall clocks and stroboscopes. Portable Lighting: The ecom instruments range of ATEX certified torches include some of the highest quality and best performing devices in the industry. We believe torches should be built to last and by ensuring this we are able to offer some of the most cost-effective ATEX certified torches available. ecom’s torch range has been developed using cutting edge techniques in design and explosion protection. Our portable lighting range also includes inspection lamps, headlamps and hand lamps. In its 27-year history, ecom instruments has grown from a three-person enterprise to an international provider of world-class safety solutions for hazardous area applications. With some of the biggest names in oil and gas adopting our products due to their quality, reliability and performance, ecom continues to innovate in the field of hazardous area equipment.

ecom instruments UK A310, The Wilton Centre, Redcar TS10 4RF Tel.: +44 1642 465 400 info.uk@ecom-ex.com www.ecom-ex.co.uk

Teledyne RESON Offshore Ltd.

The TELEDYNE RESON name is the hallmark of class leading Sonar equipment, Transducers, Hydrophones, and Survey software that you can count on. Headquartered in Denmark, TELEDYNE RESON has a global presence with offices and representatives around the world.

Teledyne RESON Offshore Ltd. 7A Crombie Lodge, Campus 2, Balgownie Drive Bridge of Don, Aberdeen AB22 8GU Tel.: +44 1224 709 900 Fax: +44 1224 709 910 sales@reson.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ www.teledyne-reson.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

data & electronics

www.teledyne-reson.com

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education & training

146

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

LINGU Europe UK & Nordic

LINGU Europe UK: +44 (0) 20 3139 9095 Norway: +47 2142 3600 post@lingueurope.com www.lingueurope.com

Talon NDT Limited provides a flexible yet tailored approach to NDT services and certification

NDT Training & Consultancy Service • Comprehensive NDT training courses in all disciplines. • IRATA Approved Rope Access Training Courses. • A wide Range of Working at Height Courses. • Auditing of NDT activities and certification schemes both in-house or at supplier.

• ROLLS ROYCE Approved Aerospace Outside Agency Level III Services (NAS 410) • Third party witnessing, monitoring & expediting (specialising in castings & wrought products) • Procedure drafting, review, implementation & endorsement (Level III ASNT & PCN) • Manufacture of flawed samples for NDT training, qualifications and competency trials

Talon NDT Limited

Unit 9, Murcar Commercial Park, Denmore Road, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, AB23 8JW Tel.: +44 (0) 1224 822251 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 822252 info@talonndt.co.uk • www.talonndt.co.uk

1 & 2 Keystone Court, Hallam Way Whitehills Business Park Blackpool, Lancashire FY4 5NZ Tel.: +44 (0) 1253 776530 www.talonndtblackpool.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

education & training

• PCN & SNT Level I, II and III training, certification & renewal (available on-site)

147

Anartya Ltd

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

consultants

Anartya Ltd Harbour Buildings, South Quay Ferryden, Montrose, DD10 9SL, Scotland, UK Tel.: +44 1674 673963 info@anartya.com www.anartya.com

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consultants

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Central Insurance Personal Touch, Global Reach

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

consultants

Central Insurance Services Ltd Crown House, Prospect Road, Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, Aberdeen AB32 6FE Tel: +44 (0) 1224 656 699 darren.james@central-group.com www.central-group.com

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EnginSoft Specialists in Complex Integrated Simulations

EnginSoft is a global consultancy with 28 years experience in Simulation Based Engineering and Sciences. Operating as a key partner in Design Process Innovation we specialise in

Complex Simulation and Optimisation activities, including:

Offshore FEA/CFD Oil & Gas Equipment Flow Modelling Subsea & Geology Reservoir For partnering help in Consulting Services, Software Support & Customisation, Software Training & Assessment, Research and Technology Transfer

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

consultants

EnginSoft UK Ltd The Venture Centre Sir William Lyons Road, Coventry, CV4 7EZ Tel: +44 (0)2476 997160 uk@enginsoft.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.enginsoft.com

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consultants

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

London Offshore Consultants

Since 1979 LOC has been a leading international provider of marine and engineering consultancy to the world’s shipping and offshore energy industries. Our clients have included government agencies, insurance and legal interests. LOC combine multi-disciplined engineering, marine knowledge with practical experience and expertise to provide a specialised range of consulting, survey and marine casualty response services to our clients across a global network of strategically located offices. LOC’s UK offices, located in London, Newcastle and Aberdeen have the following core areas of business aligned to the energy industry: • Marine Warranty Survey • Field Operations Support, Marine/Field Studies, MOU Moves, Vessel Assurance • Shipping - Insurance and Litigation Support Marine Warranty Survey LOC has acted as MWS on some of the world’s largest and most complex construction projects undertaken.

It provides a level of mitigation and protection against potential loss for the assured and insurance underwriters in the execution of marine operations. LOC has approved all types of marine construction operations including load outs, launches, near sea and trans-oceanic transports, installations, lifts, onshore load-in’s, and flow line riser and umbilical installations. LOC has operated in areas from shallow water margins to deep water, in environments exposed to hurricanes, ice, swell and high currents. LOC’s work has included decommissioning of some landmark structures in the North Sea and installation of a significant proportion of the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure. LOC’s proactive approach adds value for clients, helping to ensure marine operations happen in a safe, orderly and timely manner. Marine Engineering Services From high level procedures to detailed design, from prestudy to project execution, LOC’s marine engineering services and technical expertise provide solutions for all

www.loc-group.com

manner of challenging and complex marine operations with experienced personnel providing independent 3rd party review and verification services. LOCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of mariners and engineers has developed transport studies, mobilisation manuals and management procedures; supplying all the relevant analysis such as in depth structural, lift rigging, sea fastening, motions and transportation analysis. Field Operations Support, Marine/Field Studies, MOU Moves, Vessel Assurance LOC has experienced and accredited marine surveyors (including OVID & eCMID) for vessel assurance, suitability, pre/post charter condition inspection and DP operations. We provide marine studies in relation to feasibility, navigation, dry/wet tows, and field development/renewal. LOCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive experience with marine operations enables us to both assist and facilitate risk analysis, assessment and management and to undertake accident, damage and incident investigations LOC provides expertise in the planning and execution of MOU moving/

Shipping: Insurance and Litigation Support LOC provides a full range of services to the shipping industry. LOC staff members are available 24/7 to attend and investigate cases of cargo, fixed object or hull and machinery damage. Personnel assess vessel and port/ berth suitability in terms of a loss prevention measure, or a forensic investigation. On-going support for salvage operations and wreck removals is available. LOC Worldwide LOC Group has 32 offices in 15 countries across Europe, Africa, Americas, Middle East, Asia and Australia; and employs over 400 staff. Our global network of offices provides our clients with the benefit of a consistently high standard of service together with local knowledge and expertise, while also helping to minimise travel time and associated costs.

London Offshore Consultants (Aberdeen) Ltd. Suite 1F, Johnstone House, 52-54 Rose Street Aberdeen AB10 1UD Tel: +44 1224 630200 aberdeen@loc-group.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

consultants

London Offshore Consultants Ltd. Ibex House, 42-47 Minories, London EC3N 1DY Tel: +44 20 7264 3250 london@loc-group.com

mooring with experience from the UKCS and NCS up to the Barents Sea.

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services

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ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

Aggreko Temporary Power & Temperature Control Solutions for the Oil & Gas Industry

Aggreko is the world’s leading supplier of interim power and temperature control solutions. With over 50 years’ experience and global operations spanning more than 100 countries, our customers rely on us to ensure their operations run smoothly and efficiently. Our fast-track, turn-key rental power and temperature control solutions include: • Power packages ranging from 15 kVA up to multi-megawatt installations • Gas, diesel and HFO fuel options • Resistive & Reactive Loadbanks ranging from 600 kVA to 6000 kVA • A complete range of ancillary items to ensure a seamless power solution • Full remote control and monitoring of power installations • A complete range of industrial quality air and fluid chillers, heaters, dehumidifiers and cooling towers. Our tailor made rental solutions for North Sea Oil & Gas customers include: • DNV 2.7.1 containerised and crash framed generators and transformers • NORSOK Z-015 Fire & Gas systems implemented • Full offshore documentation packages for all projects • Dedicated offshore support for watch-keeping and servicing • Full engineering support from concept design to final commissioning With an international network of 194 service centres Aggreko is always close at hand with both fleet and highly experienced technicians to support our customers 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether it is helping oil & gas operations to get back up and running after a plant failure or building an integrated rental solution into the lifecycle of a project Aggreko offers fast and reliable solutions that conform to the highest HSE standards.

Aggreko UK Orbital 2, Voyager Drive, Cannock Staffs WS11 8XP Tel.: +44 1543 476100 hire@aggreko.co.uk www.aggreko.co.uk

Aggreko Dragonveien 44, Bygg 31, NO-2013 Skjetten, Oslo Tel.: +47 810 00 333 www.aggreko.no

Bring Cargo Ltd Your global transport and logistics partner

Zwijndrecht

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

services

chesterfield Cargo Ltd. Scandic Terminal, North Moss Lane Stallingborough, DN41 8DD, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1469 575700 Fax: +44 (0) 1469 576086 info@bring.com - www.bring.co.uk

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services

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Corrocoat Anti-Corrosion Technology, Engineering and Service

An Introduction Corrocoat are a market leader in providing Anti-Corrosion Technology, Engineering and Service to Industry Worldwide. This is achieved by utilising a combination of coating and composite techniques in conjunction with conventional engineering skills to protect, refurbish and repair a vast range of plant and equipment. Thus giving substantial improvement on protection against corrosion, erosion, wear & abrasion, and in certain applications an improvement in efficiency. These same techniques can be applied to new plant and equipment to give the same level of improvements. As an organisation Corrocoat develop and manufacture their own coatings, including the high quality glass flake used in the products. Over a period of almost 30 years Corrocoat have repaired / refurbished / coated many differing components and equipment, examples of which include the following: pumps, valves, tanks, vessels, pipework, heat exchangers, structural steel work, concrete tank bunds etc. As a result of this work Corrocoat now has a proven track record throughout the world and across a diverse range of Industries such as Renewables, Oil & Gas, Power Generation, Petrochemical, Process Industries, Marine, Water Treatment and Sewerage and many more. Corrocoat also have the necessary skills to carry out any mechanical / general engineering and fabrication work should this be required including: • all engineering work required to prepare equipment for coating • full engineering overhaul, repair and refurbishment of plant and equipment, including manufacture and balancing of shafts, fitting of bore assemblies etc • Redesign • Machining back to finished specification Corrocoat are a company with representation in over 40 countries, and are therefore able to offer the same high level of service Worldwide. Corrocoat are world leaders in the field of corrosion engineering.

Corrocoat Ltd Forster Street, Leeds, LS10 1PW Tel.: +44 0113 2760760 Fax: +44 0113 2760700 info@corrocoat.com www.corrocoat.com

EEEGR The East of England Energy Group THERE’S ENERGY IN THE EAST Make sure you’re heading our way The East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) is the industry association for the energy sector in the East of England, representing the interests of over 400 members across the supply chain. EEEGR is a not-for-profit organisation, committed to the sustained development of the energy industry and the continued success of members. EEEGR members operate throughout the energy sectors from oil, gas, wind, wave & tidal, bio-energy, and nuclear through to decommissioning, carbon capture & storage (CCS), generation, transmission and distribution. The East of England is a world leading all energy hub. As the catalyst for the energy industry, EEEGR’s objective is to assist our members to gain more business. Our core activities Networking: A passion to bring the region’s supply chain closer to the major players, for mutual benefit. Events: EEEGR hosts two flagship conferences each year, as well as a suite of specific sector events and corporate social functions. It leads visits to trade fairs, exhibitions and events to promote members across the UK and the world. Special Interest Groups: A combination of interactive discussion workshops and direct communication through email and online forums. Publicity: EEEGR has extensive facilities and excellent contacts to promote and showcase all members and their work Skills for Energy: Focused on addressing the core skills needed across all energy sectors, both technical and commercial. Working for members: EEEGR works on members’ behalf to promote the East of England as a world leading all energy hub, encouraging inward investment from energy majors and attracting international business opportunities. Visit us online at www.eeegr.com

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

services

EEEGR Beacon Innovation Centre, Beacon Park Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 7RA Tel.: +44 1493 446535 office@eeegr.com • www.eeegr.com

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services

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EffecTech Global Leaders in Gas Measurement

Effectech is an independent specialist company providing accredited inspection, calibration and testing services to the energy and power industries for gas quality, flow and total energy metering. Our highly trained and experienced staff provide fast and effective solutions to your fiscal, regulatory, contractual, safety and environmental gas measurement obligations.

Inspection of Gas Quality Measurements EffecTech provides Inspection and performance evaluations on Gas Quality Measurement Systems & process gas chromatographs in accordance with the international standards ISO 17020 & ISO 10723. Operators require this to demonstrate that their natural gas measurement systems are operating as expected and that optimal performance is being maintained reducing significant mis-measurements which may compound over time. Regular site Inspections and performance evaluations provide confidence in the metering system and objective evidence that the gas is being metered correctly. EffecTech is first in the world to have gained ISO 17025 accreditation for on-site calibration by performance evaluation. This enables EffecTech to provide clients with evidence of compliance with even the strictest fiscal metering requirements.

Calibration Gases Gas chromatography is a comparative method and as a consequence the calibration gas is the principal driver for the accuracy of the analysed gas composition, and that of any physical property calculated from it. EffecTechâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accredited ISO 17025 calibration gases are used as the sole source of traceability for the main transportation networks in the UK, Ireland, France, Greece and Turkey. The monopoly gas transporters in all these countries rely on EffecTech exclusively for their traceability for fiscal metering of calorific value for billing their domestic customers. EffecTech confers trace-ability by using Primary Reference Materials (PRM) from the leading metrology institutes, In the UK (NPL), Netherlands (VSL) and in the USA (NIST).

• Express delivery for hydrocarbon mixtures is 1 week to UK or ex works worldwide. •S tandard delivery for hydrocarbon mixtures is 2-3 weeks to UK or ex works worldwide and 4-5 weeks for trace sulphur mixtures.

Global Gas and LNG Proficiency Testing Scheme Proficiency Testing Schemes provides laboratories with an objective means of assessing and demonstrating the reliability of the analytical data they are producing. In this PT scheme, run in accordance with ISO 17043 and focused on the LNG & natural gas industries, a number of ISO 17025 synthetic gas samples are sent for analysis to all participating laboratories. Each laboratory then reports back their analytical results, which are then compared to the actual composition values. The closeness of each laboratory’s results to the actual composition forms the basis of a quantitative assessment of their capability and performance. The full set of results for all laboratories are reported anonymously to the whole group, with each participant being made aware of the identity of their own result.

Analytical Support EffecTech’s ISO 17025 accredited laboratories provide high quality analysis, testing and sampling services for natural gas and gas condensate samples. In addition, we provide physical properties according to ISO 6976, hydrocarbon dewpoint to ISO 23874 and other combustion properties such as carbon emission factors. Sampling can be provided by one of our experienced engineers with comprehensive training to local staff for subsequent activities.

Flow Validation Services EffecTech specialises in performing ISO 17025 accredited calibrations and validations of the secondary elements of any gas flow metering system. Typical customers are large consumers of gas such as power stations and producers including gas transmission and LNG terminal operators. In addition, EffecTech offers a troubleshooting and consultancy service to investigate and identify metering errors, lost or unaccounted for gas and suspected metering or energy imbalances across plant and hydrocarbon accounting chains. We also witness metering validations as an independent third party where the end user does not own and maintain the flow measuring equipment. EffecTech can also assist clients in the auditing of metering system maintenance, preparation of metering validation procedures, training and mentoring and attending factory acceptance tests (FAT) as well as advice on metering system design and specification.

EffecTech India N-163 MIDC Tarapur, Boisar, Dist. Thane - 401506, Maharashtra, India Tel: +91 (0)2525 276137 , 605501/02/03 M: +91 (0)9967 890077 www.effectech.co.in

EffecTech Qatar Gate 3, Street 42, PO Box 16069, Salwa Industrial Area, Doha, Qatar Tel: +974 5579 5245 Fax: +974 445 15319 www.effectech.com.qa

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

services

EffecTech Dove House, Dove Fields, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 8HU, United Kingdom Tel :+44(0)1889 569229 info@effectech.co.uk www.effectech.co.uk

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Exova

Corrosion centre As oil and gas production pushes deeper into the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harshest geological environments, there is a greater need for assurances on the performance of coatings, platings and metals. Exova is a recognised world leader in corrosion testing and consulting, helping you to reduce the future risk of damage to pipelines and other key assets. Our new purpose-built Exova Corrosion Centre in Dudley, UK brings together our global experts to develop corrosion testing and advisory solutions for you and your business. www.exova.com/ECC

Other Key Services Coatings Exova Corrosion Centre Engineering Critical Assessment Environmental testing Failure analysis Immersion Ultrasonic Testing (IUT) Metallurgical testing Pipeline services Weld testing services

Testing, calibrating, advising

Exova Corrosion Centre corrosion@exova.com www.exova.com/ECC

Futurelink Group Offshore Specialists in Payroll for the Oil, Gas & Energy Industry

Engaging the services of contract workers should be beneficial to your business. So, don’t let the burden of payroll, administration and regulatory challenges affect these benefits. Futurelink Group Offshore is a market leader in contractor payroll and can manage these matters for you. With over 15 year’s experience, we can make a real difference to your business by providing fast, cost effective and expert service. Guaranteed Cost Savings - contractors pay a small, tax deductible fee for the weeks they work, you don’t pay a penny

Specialist Insurance - we offer a pay-as-you-go policy through our specialist brokers covering most “at risk” job classifications* Quality Assured - we maintain a quality management system and have been certified with ISO09001 since December 2011

*Limited Company customers will need to be referred to our brokers.

A range of payroll solutions

A range of additional services

Our full range of payroll solutions for contractors, with unbiased advice on the right solution for them, include:

We also offer an additional range of services, allowing you and your contractors to focus on what you do best:

SoleTrader

Tax Advice

CIS Compliant

Invoice Factoring

Umbrella PAYE

Professional CIS Audit

Limited Company

Financial Advice for Contractors

Save time, reduce your risk, gain peace of mind and best of all don’t pay a penny for our services to your contractors Futurelink Group Offshore

Kings House, Home Park Estate KingsRoad, House, Home ParkHertfordshire, Estate Station Kings Langley, WD4 8LZ

Station Road, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, WD4 8LZ Tel: +44(0)845 620 9255 +44(0)845 620 9255 Email: Tel: info@futurelinkgroup.co.uk Web:info@futurelinkgroup.co.uk www.futurelinkoffshore.co.uk www.futurelinkoffshore.co.uk

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services

Futurelink Group Offshore

163

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Harris Pye Group Ltd

services

164

United Kingdom Europe Asia Africa Middle East South America Australia

Oil & Gas

DELIVERING EXCELLENCE

www.harrispye.com

SURVEYS, REPAIRS, UPGRADES AND CONVERSIONS IN THE MARINE, OFFSHORE OIL & GAS AND INDUSTRIAL SECTORS

Harris Pye Group Ltd No. 2 Barry Dock, David Davies Road, CF63 4AB Barry Tel.: +44 1446 720066 Fax: +44 1446 700801 hpuk@harrispye.com - www.harrispye.com

Hunting Energy Services (International) Ltd

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165

services

166

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Marin Subsea Ltd set up_Layout 1 25/04/2013 13:09 Page 1

Marin are one of the energy industry's first choices for full ocean depth excavation, recovery, decommissioning, deepwater troubleshooting and drilling support. Leading Marin is the team responsible for pioneering and refining two pivotal subsea excavation techniques: MFE (mass-flow excavation) and claycutting. Group CEO George (Boris) Stroud and chief technical director Nick Sills between them designed, developed and built more than 90% of the MFE and claycutting equipment in use today. Marin's strengths are without a doubt the versatility and range of tooling they can provide. The Evo and JetProp systems represent today's most versatile MFE and claycutting equipment, and they allow specialist excavation across a broad range of operations - from complex shallow

Subsea Intervention

Aurora Downhole Solutions

water locations to projects where full ocean depth (FOD) capability is required. Equipment is designed in-house and much of it patented proprietary technology. Marin have a long history of delivering bespoke solutions on some of the most complex projects in the toughest of locations. In addition to specialist subsea capabilities Marin can also provide innovative drilling support to clients for top hole clean up and well preparation. Using the skills and technology from across the business top hole clean up and well preparation solutions from Marin are reliable and cost eﬀective. These solutions enhance operational eﬃciency removing debris that interferes with normal production without damaging the well structure.

Blackhawk Oﬀshore Support

services

Marin Subsea Ltd Marin House, Castle Way AB41 9EY Ellon, Aber Tel.: +44 1358 722526 info@marinsubsea.com www.marinsubsea.com

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167

Parsons Peebles Specialising in design, manufacture & service of motors & generators for over 100 years

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services

Parsons Peebles Wood Road, Rosyth Royal Dockyard, Dunfermline, Fife, KY11 2EA, Scotland - UK Tel: +44 (0) 1383 421150 info@parsons-peebles.com www.parsons-peebles.com

169

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Spencer Ogden Ltd

services

170

Filling the energy skills gap®

WHO WE ARE

THE BIGGER PICTURE

As the fastest growing energy recruitment company Spencer Ogden stands for the best in professional, proactive global energy recruitment and our Oil & Gas team is no exception. Delivering worldwide across the upstream and downstream sectors to an award-winning standard, it’s how we do it that makes all the difference.

We stay professional, we make ourselves accountable and we work fast but being an award-winning recruitment specialist, we don’t stop there.

We are vertical market specialists so we can talk technicalities and we’ll hit the headhunting trail on an international scale to find the specific skillsets our clients need – that’s if our global talent database doesn’t stretch far enough. With live project tracking and offices in the key market centres of London, Scotland, Singapore, Houston, Hong Kong, Dubai and Cape Town, we find the experts in a market with a skills shortage – and follow it up with professional, tailored endto-end recruitment solutions.

• More than industry knowledge: We’re vertical market specialists. However specific the role or skillset, we know the talent you should be talking to. • At the leading edge: with offices in energy’s five super hubs, we stay up to date and connected with the best in the sector. • We find your people – fast: Proactive networking, project tracking and our existing talent database keep the best candidates close at hand. • The international answer: Our global network, visa and pay-rolling solutions create seamless mobilisation and make worldwide expansion easier – plus our local knowledge keeps you streets ahead.

GIVING YOU THE ADVANTAGE

GET IN TOUCH

With a team who know Oil & Gas inside out and managers from an Offshore background, we work with experience not guesswork.

For more information on how Spencer Ogden can help your staffing needs or to discuss hundreds of Oil and Gas jobs please contact us on:

•

London Houston Singapore

• • • •

Specialist teams covering Exploration & Production, Subsea and Discipline Engineering (Onshore and Offshore). Specialist areas including but not limited to Ultra Deep Water, Shale Gas, Oil Sands, LNG, FPSO. The ability to track every live, international energy project through heavy investment in the relevant software. Focus: 70% E&P Upstream and 30% Downstream. Our clients are able to secure candidates as projects finish before they become available on the open market.

+44 (0) 207 2689 300 +1 713 358 7900 +65 6831 5300

enquiries@spencer-ogden.com

WWW.SPENCER-OGDEN.COM

SPENCER SPENCER SPENCERSPENCER SPENCERSPENCERSPENCER SPENCEROGDEN OGDEN OGDEN OGDEN OGDEN OGDEN energy energy OGDEN OGDEN oil+gas Renewables power smart nuclear mining finance trading

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Search for Spencer Ogden in your app store

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services

Spencer Ogden 33 Charlotte Street London, W1T 1RR Tel.: +44 20 7268 9300 • Fax: +44 20 7268 9301 enquiries@spencer-ogden.com www.spencer-ogden.com

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Zetechtics Ltd Powerful, umbilical and jumper monitoring solutions for the worldwide subsea oil and gas industry

C-Kore is designed to provide assurance to field installation engineers that their umbilical systems will meet the client requirements by checking electrical integrity immediately prior to connector make-up. As subsea field umbilical arrays grow ever more complex the integrity of the components becomes increasingly critical. It is paramount that subsea electrical arrays are made up of umbilical cables & connectors that are known to be good. Unfortunately it is all too easy for jumper assemblies to be damaged in transit between factory floor and sea floor. Once the array is fully assembled and in place on the sea bed then fault finding becomes highly problematic and test via disconnection runs the very real risk of introducing further faults. Possible faults could include;

• Manufacturing Errors & Design Flaws • Transit Damage via Incident or Accident • Incorrect Installation or Load Out • Mechanical Damage (impact, vibration, crush, cut, abrasion, etc.)

• Hydrostatic Effects • Water Leak or Pin Hole • ROV Manipulator Damage • Sea floor movement

The Zetechtics C-Kore is a Subsea (rechargeable) battery powered electronics package, fully integrated into the dummy plug normally fitted to the electrical connectors of subsea termination heads and umbilical / jumper assemblies. When Subsea, the C-Kore can detect the arrival of any ROV (via light source or proximity sensors), and when activated, installation resistance, continuity and capacitance (cable length) are measured automatically. Tests are performed between all / any required electrical cores and the surrounding sea water. Lowest measured values are shown on the full colour OLED display; these values can be used to determine if any damage has occurred to the subsea component. The operator then makes up the connection in the normal way and can be sure that known good components are being assembled at every point in the process.

C-Kore can be retro fitted at any stage of the journey from the point of manufacture (or storage site) to the final installation point on the sea bed (when required). During transit the C-Kore can test the equipment periodically (via predetermined settings) or remain in a dormant state unless triggered by the user, to allow controlled monitoring. Monitored data is logged on a 32GB internal storage device providing retrieval of years of logged information.

Benefits • Finding one problem prior to connector make-up could save millions of dollars

• No plugs have to be removed to make electrical checks • Reusable throughout field installation sequence.

Features • Detects cable faults on subsea umbilical’s and jumpers • Replaces the normal dummy blanking plug • Full Colour OLED displays worst case insulation resistance, shortest cable length (based on measured capacitance) and highest continuity.

• Measures insulation resistance from 0Ω to 10GΩ to detect short circuit / shunt faults

• Capacitive measurement of cable length to detect open-circuit faults / cable breaks (lengths up to 100+km).

• • • • • • • •

Ruggedized titanium enclosure rated to 3000msw Test between every conductor and to seawater 1 year of standby life before operation Activated by ROV lights Battery powered (rechargeable) Incorporates Self-test circuitry Protected inputs – fully isolated when in standby Fully user-programmable test settings via simple PC USB interface

• Tests are datalogged (via 32GB internal storage) and can be recovered from unit after use over USB Connection

• International patent protected.

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

services

Zetechtics Ltd Main Street, Amotherby, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 6TA England Tel: +44 (0) 1653 602020 Fax: +44 (0) 1653 602022 sales@zetechtics.com www.zetechtics.com

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Zetechtics Ltd Powerful, umbilical and jumper monitoring solutions for the worldwide subsea oil and gas industry Zetechtics manufacture the Jupiter Subsea Control System for the Tooling Intervention market. Formed in 1992 Zetechtics have become the market leaders in Subsea Control systems for ROV Intervention Tooling with the Jupiter System and are now applying their technology to Well Intervention & Workover Systems. There are over 250 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, which is 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. Every Jupiter systems is designed and tested to operate in at least 3,000 meters of seawater. Software The Jupiter Software is identical in every system ever supplied, using a small ‘set-up file’ to instruct the control system exactly what it is controlling, the calibration of sensors, how the tool should work, what interlocks it may have, how it wants the GUI arranging and how to datalog the operations & results.

The Jupiter software system has a variety of features and options that the client can choose from. All available options are included within the standard software package and are simply enabled on request. Thus a 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 All Jupiter systems use the same software; no special customized version is required for user application. The software is ‘told’ what to do and how to do it by a single set-up file. The user has free access to all aspects of the Jupiter software set-up and does not require the use of a software engineer to make alterations to the operation of the Jupiter system. The user can allocate individual passwords to any part of the Jupiter set-up system to prevent unauthorized alteration.

Applications Following is a brief rĂŠsumĂŠ of some of the existing applications of Jupiter Systems. Flowline Pullin & Connection Jupiter systems have been used by Technip with its Flexconnect System and FMC for their three ROVCON Systems. Both systems have been successful and the FMC systems in particular are in continuous use. Pipeline Repair Jupiter Systems are used by Saipem International Ltd in their successful Brutus Pipeline Repair System. Tool Deployment Units Jupiter Systems have been used by Kvaerner for 5 TDU systems. Systems have also been purchased by Cooper Cameron, Saipem and Fugro Ltd. Heavy Lift Module A Jupiter system was used by Kvaerner to control their HLM3 tool, which is used for exchanging control modules and chokes in deep water.

Robotic Drill System & Seabed Corer. A complex Jupiter system is used by the British Geological Survey to control the operation of their Deepwater seabed drill & core sampling tool. Suction Anchor Installation. Jupiter Systems are used by Saipem, Subsea 7, FugroSingapore and Technip for the installation of Suction Anchors. Like Torque Tool Control Systems, the slightest malfunction can result in the collapsing of a Suction Anchor, which in extreme circumstances can force the complete redesign of subsea field installations. Miscellaneous Systems Jupiter Systems have been used by ABB Offshore Systems AS for the control of the SNORRE B RCR Tool, Acergy have used three Jupiter Systems for the control of various deepwater intervention tools including a Flowline Insulation Installation Tool. A Jupiter system was used by CUT to control and monitor the operation of a Diamond Wire Cutting Tool. The measured cut rate was used to control the wire speed and wire extension measurement was monitored to predict & prevent wire failure.

Shallow Water Lift Line Running Tool Jupiter System was used to control an SLRT by Cooper Cameron on the AGIP Bahr Essalam Field. This tool was supplied by impROV Ltd. Torque Tool Control Zetechtics are the market leaders worldwide in Torque Tool Control with 250 systems currently operating in the field. Whilst these may be seen as simple tools it must be remembered that the slightest malfunction of the control system can damage a valve actuator beyond repair necessitating an expensive and time consuming module swap out. These systems are being used by CNR International, McDermott Caspian Contractors, Technip, Oceaneering, Subsea7 (Australia, North Sea, Brazil, Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, Singapore, etc.), Fugro-Singapore, FugroRovtech, Fugro-impROV and others.

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

services

Zetechtics Ltd Main Street, Amotherby, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 6TA England Tel: +44 (0) 1653 602020 Fax: +44 (0) 1653 602022 sales@zetechtics.com www.zetechtics.com

175

index of companies in alphabetical order

176

ACROSS THE NORTH SEA

index of companies in alphabetical order

ABB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intervention Rentals Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

107

Aberdeen Drilling Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

JWF Process Solutions Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AC Fluid Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Knowsley SK Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

142

Acteon Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Laser Cladding Technology Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

131

Advanced Titanium Materials Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lawson Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Aggreko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

LINGU Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

146

AKD Engineering Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

139

London Offshore Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

154

Al-Met Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

LoneStar Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

111

Alliance Valves & Piping Supplies Manufacturing Ltd . . . .

Magnetrol International UK Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Anartya Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

149

Marin Subsea Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

166

Arco Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Master Flo Valve Co (UK) Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

112

Argo Flare Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Metso Automation UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

113

ATEX Global Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MSD Design Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

114

Bifold Fluid Power Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Newburgh Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bpp-Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Nylacast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

116

Bpp-Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Oil Plus Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bring Cargo Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

157

Parsons Peebles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

169

Cabot Specialty Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PELI PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

118

Central Insurance Services Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

150

CGG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

R. STAHL Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

120

Chalmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

136

Chesterfield Special Cylinders Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rig Control Products Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

122

Corrocoat Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

158

Rotork Plc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123

Dale Power Solutions Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Score Diagnostics Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124

Danbor Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Spencer Ogden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

170

ecom instruments UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

144

SPE Offshore Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EEEGR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

159

SPP Pumps Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

126

EffecTech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

160

STAUFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

127

EnginSoft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

153

Stena Drilling Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Exova Corrosion Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

160

Subsea Technologies Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

129

Ferguson Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Swinton Electro Plating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PPE Precision Polymer Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Flexitallic Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Talon NDT Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Fluorocarbon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

102

Technogenia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

130

FUCHS Lubricants (UK) Plc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

105

Teledyne RESON Offshore Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

145

Futurelink Group Offshore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

163

TESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

133

Gorilla Corrosion Service Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

106

Transocean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Harland and Wolff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

140

Welding Alloys Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

134

Harris Pye Group Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

164

WeSubsea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Houghton Offshore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

108

WIKA Instruments Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Zetechtics Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

172

Hunting Energy Services (International) Ltd . . . . .

109 + 165

Hydrastore Ltf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

110