Member News

ACD Construction completes Sakarya Phase 1 Project

ACD Construction has successfully completed Sakarya Phase 1 Project - Onshore Pipeline Construction and recently launched Sakarya Phase 2 Project - Onshore Pipeline Construction. Both projects are located near Zonguldak in the Black Sea region of Turkey. ACD creates end to end pipeline service solutions. The completed project consists of onshore pipelines (Gas Export Pipelines & a MEG Pipeline) installation work associated with the Phase 1 Project between the offshore pipeline and the process plant. Following the successful completion of the Phase 1 Project while maintaining a high standard of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) practices, along with rigorous Quality Assurance (QA) measures, ACD has been awarded the contract to construct the Sakarya Phase 2 Project - Onshore Pipeline Construction. The project involves the onshore pipeline (Gas Export Pipeline) installation work between the offshore pipeline and the process plant, including tie-ins with offshore pipelines & OPF and various other services.

American Augers’ new HDD Maxi Rig maximises productivity

Horizontal directional drill (HDD) operators can improve their jobsite uptime and meet a variety of new jobsite requirements with the new DD600 Maxi Rig Directional Drill from American Augers. Replacing American Auger’s DD440T, the DD600 was designed with customer-focused features to enhance the power and performance of the current industry standard in HDD maxi rigs. One of the most notable features of the new DD600 is the 755 HP Stage V/T4F/T3 CAT C18 engine that does not require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), the only machine of its kind in this class. The simple exhaust system increases

uptime and reliability, eliminating daily jobsite struggles with DEF. With ease of transportation in mind, the weight of DD600 meets standard transportation requirements, meaning no special permits are required to transport the machine. The DD600 can also be transported without removing the wrenches, saving hours in assembly and disassembly time.

“The new DD600 Directional Drill incorporates many features and updates that came at the request of our customers,” said Richard Levings, American Augers Product Manager. “This latest drill further increases the power and performance capabilities that come with owning an American Augers drill.”

Bin Quraya awarded construction of Master Gas System III Package 5

Saudi Aramco has awarded Bin Quraya Co. Ltd a lump sum turnkey (LSTK) contract for engineering, procurement and construction of pipelines, associated facilities and auxiliary systems spanning 170 km with a diameter of 56 inches. This project is related to the PEW-05 crossing populated areas, as part of the Master Gas System Phase III programme. The project has several interfaces with different contractors and government utilities. The expansion of the existing

Master Gas System network is required to meet internal consumption needs, as demand has been increasing, and to ensure gas supply sales to industrial hubs like Shoaiba and Shoqaiq by 2028, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The detailed scope of works includes two 56” pipes between EWG 3 and 4 covering 2 lines of 85 km 56” in the existing corridor, scraper launchers and receivers, starting from BGCS 3 in Wasea and ending at EWPS 4 in Riyadh. Each pipeline has 10 MLIV stations where each MLIV comprises of the isolation valves for both pipelines. The scope is also to provide five jump overs, three hot taps and five tie-ins. The programme aims to support the Saudi Aramco objective to efficiently meet the country’s growing energy demand by replacing liquid fuel with sales gas.

Bonatti builds compressor station for Porthos CO2 storage

In 2024, construction commences on the EUR 1.3 billion CO2 transport and storage system in Rotterdam, slated for completion by 2026. Porthos, a collaboration among EBN, Gasunie, and the Port of Rotterdam, aims to handle CO2 emissions from port companies like Air Liquide, Air Products, ExxonMobil, and Shell. The system will transport captured CO2 to depleted North Sea gas fields 20 km offshore, storing 2.5 Mton annually for 15 years, totalling 37 Mton. Bonatti will construct the CO2 compressor station, overseeing engineering, procurement, and construction, as well as pre-commissioning activities. The station, equipped with 3 compressors and automated systems, will deliver CO2 via underwater pipelines to an offshore injection platform. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) plays a crucial role in Dutch climate policy, aiming to reduce Rotterdam’s CO2 emissions by 10%. Bonatti’s involvement reflects its commitment to energy transition, aligning with its efforts in emission reduction projects. This project underscores Bonatti’s expertise in compression system engineering and construction, reinforcing its position in the international market.

CPP’s Lawe Lawe Project in Indonesia nears completion

China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co., Ltd. (CPP) is close to completing its first major EPCC project with Pertamina, the Indonesian national oil company. The “LaweLawe facilities RDMP RU V-Balikpapan Project”, located in East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia, is set to enhance the country’s oil refinery capacity and support economic growth in the region. This strategic initiative features the construction of key infrastructure components, including a record-breaking 52-inch offshore crude oil pipeline, a 320,000-ton single-point mooring system, a 52-inch onshore pipeline, and two large storage tanks with a capacity of 170,000 m3 each.

The offshore pipeline holds the record for the largest diameter offshore pipeline installation in the world. Despite the fact that the project, which was launched in October 2019, faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and fluctuating raw material costs, the team managed to complete 90% of the work to date. Final steps such as hydrostatic testing and painting are currently underway. The project’s operational phase is eagerly anticipated to commence in the first half of 2024, marking a significant achievement in CPP’s portfolio and a substantial contribution to Indonesia’s infrastructural development.

Erciyas creates hyperloop development venture

In 2016, to contribute to a sustainable future, Erciyas Steel Pipe Co. began developing hyperloop, a high-speed, next-generation mode of transportation that consumes 10 times less energy than airplanes and produces zero carbon emissions due to its reliance on renewable energy. After six years of extensive work, in 2022, Erciyas Steel Pipe Co. signed an agreement with a US-based innovation and technology company to become a supplier and investor. Hyperloop R&D activities are currently ongoing, and Erciyas continues to collaborate with institutions and organisations within the

Erciyas Hyperloop Technology Industry Inc. was established as a partnership between Erciyas Steel Pipe Co. and RC Endüstri Ulaşım Araçları A.Ş., a group company. The new entity brings together two main areas of expertise: wagon building and large diameter tubes manufacturing. The joint venture aims to propel forward the development and production of innovative solutions integral to the hyperloop transportation system. Erciyas Steel Pipe Co. ranked 4 th among the “Top 50 Most Innovative Companies” in Turkey in 2023 thanks to its Hyperloop Project.

Gascontrol Polska awarded gas pipeline connection project

GAZ-SYSTEM, the Polish natural gas transmission grid operator, announced on 20 March that it had signed a contract to build a gas pipeline connection to the planned CCGT plant in Rybnik, Poland, along with a measuring station. Gascontrol Polska has been selected as the contractor for the construction work. The project consists

of a high-pressure gas transmission pipeline with a diameter of 500 mm and a length of 4.55 km, which will be constructed along with accompanying infrastructure, for example a measuring station with a capacity of 160.000 NCM/H. The above-mentioned connection will be linked to the ‘Racibórz – Rybnik’ pipeline, which is currently under construction. Together with the ‘KędzierzynKoźle – Racibórz’ section, they will form an 80-kilometre corridor, ensuring supplies of natural gas to a 882MW CCGT unit being constructed in Rybnik. It is estimated that the annual gas consumption will be around 1 billion cubic metres. The gas pipelines being built in this region are part of an investment programme called ‘Coal2Gas’, which is included in the GAZ-SYSTEM’s investment plan for 2023-25. The gas pipelines from the ‘Coal2Gas’ programme will ultimately form a system of transmission pipelines supplying Silesia and Podbeskidzie in a ring system.

Goriziane’s innovative solution: the Automated Pipe Handling System

Goriziane’s fully automated Pipe Handling System is an advanced technology designed to streamline the process of handling pipes in industrial settings, including in the oil and gas sector. This system utilises robotics, sensors, and automation to efficiently transport, position, and manipulate pipes without the need for human intervention. Key features of Goriziane’s system include the following: robotic arms are employed to grasp, lift, and move pipes with precision and reliability; integrated sensors detect the position, orientation, and dimensions of pipes, enabling accurate handling and placement.

The entire process, from picking up pipes to delivering them to the desired location, is automated, reducing the need for manual labour and increasing operational efficiency. The system is adaptable to various pipe sizes, materials, and shapes, making it suitable for diverse industrial applications. Built-in safety mechanisms ensure

the protection of both the equipment and personnel by preventing accidents and minimising risks associated with manual handling. Overall, Goriziane’s Fully Automated Pipe Handling System offers a cutting-edge solution for enhancing productivity, reducing costs, and improving safety in industries that involve the handling of pipes.

Midstream offers great career choices, Lamar study says

Conventional wisdom says the midstream industry represents a poor career choice, according to an essay published by Lamar University’s Center for Midstream Management & Science. Its author argues this narrative must be challenged, as it degrades the sector’s ability to attract qualified people. These facts should be considered: U.S. midstream capital expenditures were USD 40 billion in 2023, and more than USD 150 billion in midstream investment will be needed over the next decade to transport natural gas from shale basins to end-users. Considering U.S. Gulf Coast LNG facilities, USD 800 billion of capital investment is needed.

The market capitalisation of the top 48 U.S. public midstream companies is approximately USD 609 billion, representing USD 441 billion of revenue and USD 55 billion of profit. The midstream industry employs 350,000 people in North America and this number is forecast to increase to 381,000 by 2035. Nearly half of U.S. pipelines are over 50 years old and need significant capital for maintenance or replacement. The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts fossil fuels will comprise 70% of the world’s primary energy sources in 2050, down from 79% in 2022. Hydrocarbon liquids consumption is expected to rise 22%, and natural gas consumption is expected to rise 29% by 2050. The author argues the facts make it clear, the midstream industry offers outstanding career choices. Read the essay at: Challenging Conventional Wisdom Impacting the Midstream Industry ( lamar.edu)

Michels brings new life to empty quarry

Michels Pipeline, Inc., working with Michels Construction, Inc., collaborated to convert an abandoned rock quarry in West Milford, New Jersey into a 20-acre natural gas compressor station. A key component of the East 300 Upgrade Project, Compressor Station 327 ties into one 24-inch and one 30-inch mainline, increasing capacity for the region that needed additional gas supply. The project also included the installation of a 19,000-horsepower electric motor drive compressor with ventilation and lube oil systems, three gas filter separators, four bays of highpressure gas coolers and other equipment.

The work, completed in November 2023, encompassed more than 3,800 cubic yards of concrete and more than 160 tons of reinforcing steel used to erect three buildings on-site. Established in 1959 in Brownsville, WI, Michels is an international leader in energy and infrastructure construction. The Michels Family of Companies is a collection of wholly owned infrastructure and energy companies providing contracting solutions under the Michels brand flagship.

Nesma & Partners establishes joint venture with SICIM for Aramco project

Nesma & Partners, a leading contracting company in Saudi Arabia, has announced a landmark joint venture with SICIM, a renowned Italian firm. This strategic partnership, aimed at two Master Gas projects involving pipeline engineering, procurement, and construction for nearly 500 km of 56” pipe across the mountainous western region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between Taif and South Jeddah, is a significant step towards enhancing the energy sector’s capabilities in the Kingdom, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s pipeline development. The joint venture, fuelled by the expertise and resources of both Nesma & Partners and SICIM, will undertake crucial assignments commissioned by Saudi Aramco, the national

oil company. These projects hold immense importance in the country’s efforts to expand its oil and gas infrastructure, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives of economic diversification and industrial growth. With Nesma & Partners’ longstanding reputation for delivering excellence in construction, and SICIM’s proven track record of delivering pipeline projects worldwide, the joint venture is poised to bring cutting-edge solutions and world-class execution to the forefront. This collaboration not only underscores the strength of international partnerships but also signals a new era of cooperation in advancing Saudi Arabia’s energy landscape towards sustainable progress.

Nesma & Partners wins Sustainable Initiative of the Year category

As a testament to the company’s continuous pursuit of excellence in all aspects of its business operations, Nesma & Partners has won the Sustainable Initiative of the Year category at The KSA Innovation in Construction Awards 2024 ceremony held in Riyadh on 4 March 2024. This recognition is a source of pride and reassurance for Nesma, affirming the company’s commitment to sustainable and innovative practices in the construction industry.

PipeSak appoints Robin Seils as Director of International Accounts

Adam Connors, Cam Cunningham, Robin (Rocky) Seils and Geoff Connors

After a distinguished career marked by innovation and dedication as the Director of Sales, Robin (Rocky) Seils, a brilliant mind behind the company’s industry-leading RockStop® rockshield, is now rocking internationally. Due to the anticipated growth in PipeSak’s international sales, Rocky will be leading international client outreach by leveraging his expertise in forging international connections overseas to ultimately improve pipeline integrity worldwide. Rocky plays a pivotal role in understanding what hardworking pipeliners and company owners are looking for in new pipeline protection solutions that meet both their protection needs and simplify installation on the right-of-way.

and Techint forge partnership to build oil pipeline in Argentina

SACDE and Techint Engineering & Construction, in an equal partnership consortium (50%-50% joint venture), were selected by Oldelval S.A to undertake the construction of Module 2 of the DUPLICAR Pipeline

Project. This oil pipeline aims to increase the Vaca Muerta area oil output starting from Pichi Mahuida in Río Negro, crossing the Colorado River through an HDD into La Pampa, and extending up to Puerto Rosales in Buenos Aires province. The scope of the works consists of the construction of 250 kilometres (155 miles) of pipelines, made up of a 198-kilometre (123 miles) 24-inch pipeline and a 52-kilometre (32 miles) 30-inch pipeline.

acquired by Henkel Henkel has successfully completed the acquisition of the US-based Seal For Life Industries LLC from Arsenal Capital Partners. Seal For Life is a specialised supplier of protective coating and sealing solutions in a broad variety of infrastructure markets such as renewable energy, oil and gas, and water. The signing of the transaction took place in February 2024. As infrastructure ages and sustainability gains ever more prominence, the necessity for repair solutions that enhance asset longevity is becoming more apparent. Consequently, maintenance and repair solutions for industrial, civil, and municipal applications are gaining heightened importance. “This acquisition underscores our dedication to create a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) growth platform and it positions us to expand our offerings in future-oriented markets such as renewable energy and water supply,” says Mark Dorn, Executive Vice President and globally responsible for Henkel’s Adhesive Technologies business unit.

Jeff Oravitz, CEO of Seal For Life, stated, “Arsenal has enabled the transformation of Seal For Life into a unique platform of coatings solutions. The firm brought significant expertise in technologies and applications that drove a focus on where the markets are going and how we can address the long-term trends. We are grateful to the Arsenal team for their partnership and support over the last five years and are excited for the growth opportunities as we join the Henkel organisation.”

SICIM S.p.A. awarded major 48” pipeline project in Italy

The award of the Mercato Saraceno – Cesena 48” gas pipeline section by Snam Rete Gas reaffirms the role of SICIM as a key player in the pipeline industry, not only in the international but also in the domestic market. The project represents one of the lots of the new 48” gas Pipeline Sestino-Minerbio which is part of the so-called Linea Adriatica. The entire project is approximately 690 km long and represents a core element of the national gas transmission system. It was designed for the transport of 100% hydrogen and it could play an important role for the SoutH2 Corridor (the southern hydrogen transport corridor) that was included in the list of European Projects of Common Interest (PCI).

SICIM has been awarded the construction of Lot 3 of the northernmost section of the Project called SestinoMinerbio. The 48” pipeline stretches 31 km near the city of Cesena and crosses hills and flat terrains following the course of the Savio river. The presence of highway E45 and waterway crossings, as well as environmentally sensitive areas, will lead to laying a quarter of the pipeline length (i.e., approx. 7 km) by using trenchless technologies such as eight microtunnels, two Direct Pipes, a Tunnel Boring Machine (approx. 2 km & 3,8 m as outer diameter) and 20 auger borings. In addition, the Savio river will be crossed 11 times by implementing open cut solutions. The construction works start in the spring of 2024 and will be fully completed in 40 months, while commissioning will be achieved in 2026. Approximately 250 people will be employed on the construction of the pipeline.

Spiecapag gains momentum on Kurri Kurri Pipeline Project

Drawing on its experience as a leading pipelines contractor globally, Spiecapag has mobilised teams and equipment to construct the Kurri Kurri Lateral Pipeline

Project for APA Group, near Newcastle - approximately 150 km north of Sydney, Australia. Officially awarded on 20 July 2023, the project consists of two main pipelines, a 14-inch high-pressure transmission pipeline, 20 kilometres long, and a 42-inch gas storage pipeline, 24 kilometres long. These buried pipelines will connect the Hunter Power Project at Kurri Kurri to the existing Jemena Sydney to Newcastle pipeline, which will provide dispatchable firmed capacity to supplement Snowy Hydro’s renewable electricity generation portfolio.

Construction works commenced in October 2023, and work across both pipelines is well underway. About 8 km of the 14” pipe is already buried, and reinstatement is already in progress, while trenching and welding continues further on the line. On the 42” storage section, stringing and bending are well advanced, and the welding – using Serimax STX08 STT automated system, a first in Australia – has recently started. Set to employ over 350 people, the project is providing many business and employment opportunities to the local community, as well as bringing experienced international pipeline personnel into the team.

Tesmec introduces its largest trencher

Tesmec has launched the largest and most powerful trencher the company has ever made, the groundbreaking 1875XL EVO. This revolutionary chainsaw trencher boasts a formidable 950 HP (709 KW) engine, setting new standards in digging performance. Designed for colossal projects in the harshest conditions, its rigid frame and undercarriage ensure stability and durability. Ideal for large-diameter pipelines in hard and abrasive rock, the 1875XL EVO surpasses industry norms, outperforming traditional methods.

Equipped to adapt to double and triple chain boom configurations, it can achieve depths of up to 732 cm

(24’) and widths of 213 cm (84”). The EVO technology, featuring upgraded flywheels, gearboxes and hydraulic components, delivers high chain pull and low chain speed, optimizing performance on challenging terrains.

Additionally, Tesmec’s cutting-edge trencher has features like TrenchTronic 4.0, TrenchIntel, Re.m, and Smart Tracker, which ensure maximum excavation efficiency, productivity, and fleet monitoring. With unmatched trenching dimensions for pipeline projects, the Tesmec 1875XL EVO redefines what’s possible in the realm of excavation, promising enhanced productivity and reduced maintenance costs.

TIB Chemicals hires George Balmforth as Business Unit Director

Following the retirement of Rainer Kuprion, George Balmforth took over as Business Unit Director for Coating Systems at TIB Chemicals in January 2024. 38-year-old George was born in London and grew up in Germany. He holds both German and British nationalities. After having obtained a degree in International Business and Economics, he began a career in coatings with a heavy focus on commercial ship and superyacht new builds and

refit projects, later branching out into renewable energy projects. After 11 years in the applicator segment in project management, he moved into a sales management role, where he led a cross-border team for a large chemicals and coatings manufacturer for the last 6 years, before joining TIB Chemicals in January.

“I feel the solid market share and loyal customer base built by my predecessor, Rainer Kuprion, is a fantastic foundation to build on. We intend to build, grow and protect our current markets, but also explore future opportunities within the protective coatings and energy segments,” he announced upon his appointment.

Vacuworx launches Solar Panel Lifter

Vacuworx expanded its product line by launching the Solar Panel Lifter (SPL). The newest addition to the lineup of vacuum lifting systems operates in conjunction with mini excavators, efficiently supplied by a 12V system powered by the excavator’s charging system. It also features a 300-pound standard lift capacity, soft silicone vacuum pads that prevent damage to solar panel modules, 360 degrees of rotation to facilitate precise handling and alignment, and 5 inches of vertical vacuum pad travel for additional protection.

Vacuworx recognized the need for safe material handling in the solar industry, where continuous, repetitive movement poses a threat to its workers and increases their chance of injury or exhaustion. The SPL is designed to alleviate fatigue and strain by mitigating any need for workers to have to carry solar panels for long periods of time or lift them over their heads.

Available globally, the SPL is an ideal companion for contractors involved with in-field solar panel module handling tasks and installation projects, anywhere in the world.