IPLOCA Newsletter 101 by Pedemex BV

Sorrento Convention Retrospective page 18

Letter from the President page 4

Member News page 11

HSE & CSR page 31

Innovation page 32

Letter from the President

I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve as IPLOCA President for the 2024-2025 term, and I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Roberto Castelli for his leadership during the last term. I am also pleased to welcome six new directors to the 2024-2025 IPLOCA Board, bringing fresh talent and expertise to our board, which meets four times a year to guide the work of the Association.

I was thrilled by the strong attendance at this year’s Annual Convention and I would like to thank everyone who joined us in September in Sorrento, Italy, for a memorable and enriching 56th Convention. The results of the feedback survey showed that practically everyone was able to network as expected, which is crucial for our members, given the importance of personal relationships in our community. Results from the feedback survey are shared on page 30.

In the following pages, you will find a retrospective of this year’s Convention, which includes a six-page photo gallery, highlights of the guest speakers, and the results of the golf tournament. Additionally, a special feature showcases the winners and runners-up of the three 2024 IPLOCA Awards.

Please mark your calendars for IPLOCA’s 57 th Annual Convention to be held in the historic city of Izmir, on Turkey’s Aegean coast, from 15 to 19 September 2025. The event will offer an excellent opportunity for networking, building business relationships, and sharing ideas on the latest industry developments.

Beyond the Convention, we strongly encourage members to take advantage of all the other events organised by IPLOCA. The Novel Sessions and Regional Meetings offer a great opportunity for knowledge sharing, networking and exchanging experiences with like-minded professionals in the industry. More than 85 delegates from around the world participated in the IPLOCA Fall Sessions, which included the HSE & CSR Workshop and the Novel Construction Session, held in Lisbon, Portugal, in October. The highly anticipated IPLOCA Regional Meeting for Latin America is scheduled for 4 December in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Please feel free to reach out to me or the IPLOCA Secretariat if have any questions, suggestions, or other feedback related to our Association.

I am thrilled to work together with the Secretariat in Geneva and our Board of Directors to advance the goals of our Association and I look forward to seeing you at one of our many events around the world in the near future!

Best regards,

Yasar Giregiz IPLOCA President 2024-2025

News from Geneva

Seasons Greetings

Our very best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year!

The staff of the IPLOCA Secretariat and the Board of Directors would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the work of the Association during this past year.

We are grateful to you for your expertise, the time you have shared with us, and, of course, greatly appreciate your friendships! In 2025, we are excited to continue supporting our members as the industry transitions to new energy resources.

Caroline Green - Time to say goodbye

After nearly 20 years at IPLOCA, I will be putting away my Convention Manager badge and handing over my duties to Isabelle Bourzeix at the end of the year.

My eligibility to join the exclusive ‘Swiss retirees club’ seems to have crept up on me. It feels like only yesterday when Luc Henriod interviewed me for the position of Office Manager to help set up the IPLOCA Secretariat in Geneva, after the decision had been made to move the office from the University of Ghent in Belgium to Switzerland in 2005. Over the years I have seen colleagues come and go: Liz Spalding, Caroline Caravellas, Jackie Tempel, Guy Henley, Emma Hachfeld, Sarah Junod, Pieter Schoonenberg, Luc Henriod, Juan Arzuaga, and many board members, as well as John Phillips, the driving force of the Association for many years.

When working on the convention programme I had the opportunity to visit some extraordinary places to organise events including: Palazzo Pisani Moretta and Scuola Grande San Giovanni Evangelista in Venice in 2010. The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Great Hall of the People on Tiananmen Square, as well as the Terracotta Warriors in China. The historic Opéra Garnier and the Musée des Arts Forains in Paris for IPLOCA’s 50 th Anniversary, where Caterpillar hosted an unforgettable party amid antique fairground machinery.

Welcoming our new Convention Manager – Isabelle Bourzeix

Isabelle Bourzeix joined IPLOCA as Convention Manager in October 2024, bringing with her over two decades of experience in event and administrative management.

Prior to IPLOCA, Isabelle held positions with international organisations in the medical and scientific sectors, including FDI World Dental Federation and Kenes Group, one of the world’s leading professional congress organisers and association management companies, where she developed a keen understanding of business-oriented conventions. As the manager of IPLOCA’s Annual Convention, she is responsible for contract negotiations with suppliers, programme definition, sponsorships and on-site management of the programme. Isabelle is a French citizen, who speaks fluent English and some German. She loves music, traveling and cooking. We wish Isabelle all the best in her new role!

Tower Bridge and the Guildhall in London. I witnessed the emergency evacuation of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. during the President’s Dinner in 2013, dense smog that affected the tour programme during the Singapore Convention in 2015, and the earthquake that hit Mexico City in 2017, just days before the start of the Convention.

The pipeline industry is truly unique, and I wish you all a smooth energy transition into the future of pipeline construction. As for me I look forward to having more time to spend with my husband Jon, my family and friends.

Caroline

Board Meeting Update

8-13 September 2024 - Sorrento, Italy

The President, Roberto Castelli, was delighted to welcome the Board to the Annual Convention in Sorrento, Italy. The following highlights the main discussions and decisions made during their meetings at the Convention.

Safety Moment

Bruno Pomaré, outgoing HSE & CSR Committee Chair, offered the Board his final piece of advice regarding safety before stepping down from his role. He pointed out that commuting in his hometown of Paris comes with its own challenges, yet walking through the busy streets of southern Italy feels even more overwhelming. His advice for Sorrento: always use the pedestrian crossings and never assume that drivers will stop for you.

Minutes of the Cairo Board Meeting

The minutes of the previous Board Meeting were reviewed, and comments were made on the action items. It was noted that the HSE & CSR Committee was actively seeking a nonfinancial sponsor for the IPLOCA Quality Award.

Treasurer’s Report

The outgoing Treasurer, Adam Wynne Hughes, presented his third quarter report. He mentioned that both the costs and the income related to this year’s Annual Convention were higher than budgeted. On the other hand, the income generated from the arrival of new members was higher than planned. He pointed out that IPLOCA needs to look into how to keep the Scholarship Programme sustainable over the long term.

Membership

IPLOCA’ s membership stood at 78 Regular Members, 110 Associate Members and 34 Corresponding Members. The following membership applications had been approved: - AI Clearing , U.S.A. – Associate Member

- BROEN A/S , Denmark – Associate Member

- FRIEDRICH VORWERK SE & Co. KG. , Germany –Regular Member

- PROTEM USA LLC, U.S.A. – Associate Member

The following resignations had been received:

- Blue Sky Evolution

- Overgas Engineering

- OVERPIPE

- PETRA

- Swiss Approval International (as of 2025)

The following company has changed its name:

- Nesma & Partners Contracting Company Ltd. to Nesma & Partners Contracting Company UJSC

AGM and Changes to the By-laws

As per the By-laws, the agenda and the proposed changes to the By-laws were sent by Georges Hage, IPLOCA Executive Secretary, to members 30 days prior to the Annual General Meeting. The agenda includes the Year in Review by the outgoing President; the Treasurer’s Report and appointment of the auditors; the approval of the amendments to the Bylaws; the ratification of the 2024-2025 Board election results; and the objectives for the 2024-2025 term presented by the incoming President.

NextGen Network

The Project Lead, Saji Khoury, advised that he was looking for a co-chair for the IPLOCA NextGen Network. The purpose of the IPLOCA NexGen Network is to establish a collaborative forum that encourages the next generation of industry professionals to connect, share knowledge, and gain easy access to the IPLOCA community.

Scholarship Programme

In 2024, the Scholarship Programme, led by Saji Khoury, gave out 12 scholarships. One awardee was chosen per region with a total of eight awardees selected from the eight

regions. The remaining four scholarships were awarded to the highest overall scorers. Students whose companies had not paid their membership fees and/or had not submitted their HSE statistics were excluded. No two scholarships were awarded to the same company.

Convening of the 2024-2025 Board of Directors

On the Friday of the Convention week, the retiring President, Roberto Castelli, stated that it had been an interesting year and thanked the Board and the IPLOCA Secretariat for all their hard work and contributions. He then thanked the board members who had finished their terms and the retiring directors left the room. The 2024-2025 Board convened. The retiring President, Roberto Castelli, tabled the 2024-2025 Officers’ names and the Board voted unanimously to appoint Yasar Giregiz as President, Saji Khoury as 1st Vice President, Bill Solomon as 2nd Vice President and Bruno Pomaré as Treasurer.

Elected Directors

- America North: Dean Cowling (Michels Corporation), Kent Wilfur (Gulf Interstate Engineering Company)

- East & Far East: David Lukas (AJ Lucas Services Pty Ltd.), Risal Mahmud (PEAL Engineering and Construction Limited)

- Europe Central: Giovanni Muriana (Max Streicher S.p.A.), Marcin Przywara (Gascontrol Polska Sp. z.o.o.)

- Europe Eastern: Yasar Giregiz (Fernas Construction Company), Hakan Göral (Tekfen Insaat Ve Tesisat)

- Europe Mediterranean: Leonardo Gravina (SICIM), Bruno Pomaré (Spiecapag)

- Europe Northwest: Wilko Koop (De Romein Group)

- Latin America: Pablo Brottier (SACDE)

- Middle East & Africa: Michael Fakhoury (Nesma & Partners), Saji Khoury (CCC)

- Associate Members: Andre Decastro (Darby Equipment Company Inc.), Jason LaValley (LaValley Industries), Bill Solomon (Vacuworx Global, LLC)

Appointment of Directors and Directors-at-Large

There being vacant seats in two regions due to a lack of candidates during the nomination process, Yasar Giregiz proposed the appointment of Henk de Graaf (CRC Evans) for Europe Northwest. The candidate was unanimously accepted by the Board. The names of the proposed Directors-atLarge were tabled by Yasar Giregiz. The Board then voted unanimously to appoint Andrew Ball (J. Murphy & Sons Limited), Benet Chan (Caterpillar Inc.), Somaieh Salehpour (Seal for Life Industries), Andrew Stuart (Winn & Coales Int.) and Gerben Wansink (Maats Pipeline Professionals).

Committees

The 2024-2025 Board will run a total of eight committees and projects as follows:

- HSE & CSR Committee

Chair: Giovanni Muriana. Leadership: Benet Chan, Jason LaValley, Risal Mahmud, Bruno Pomaré

- Innovation Committee

Chair: Somaieh Salehpour. Leadership: Roberto Castelli, Benet Chan, Leonardo Gravina, Wilko Koop, Jason LaValley

- Energy Transition Committee

Chair: Andrew Ball. Leadership: Pablo Brottier, Dean Cowling, Hakan Göral, Henk de Graaf, David Lukas

- Membership & Communication Committee

Chair: Marcin Przywara. Leadership: Roberto Castelli, Andre Decastro, Michael Fakhoury, Leonardo Gravina, Jason LaValley, Somaieh Salehpour, Andrew Stuart

- Convention & Board Location Project

Project Lead: Kent Wilfur. Leadership: David Lukas, Andrew Stuart, Gerben Wansink

- Speakers Project

Project Lead: Hakan Göral. Leadership: Andrew Ball, Pablo Brottier, David Lukas, Bill Solomon, Kent Wilfur

- NextGen Network

Project Lead: Saji Khoury. Leadership: Andrew Ball, Roberto Castelli, Andre Decastro, Michael Fakhoury, Hakan Göral, Henk de Graaf, Jason LaValley, Somaieh Salehpour

- Scholarship Project

Project Lead: Saji Khoury. Leadership: Michael Fakhoury, Risal Mahmud, Gerben Wansink, Kent Wilfur

Regional Meetings

IPLOCA Regional Meetings are planned as follows:

- 4 December 2024: Buenos Aires, Argentina for Latin America

- 26 March 2025: Tokyo, Japan for East & Far East

- 4 June 2025: Krakow, Poland for Europe Central

Next Board Meeting

The next Board Meeting, which follows a Regional Meeting on 4 December 2024, will be held from 5 to 7 December 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Incoming President Yasar Giregiz presented Roberto Castelli with his presidential pin

New Directors

on the 2024-2025 IPLOCA Board

We warmly welcome the following directors, as a result of the 2024-2025 elections and nominations.

Benet Chan Director-at-Large

Benet is a Global Account Manager at Caterpillar, a 100-year-old manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. Benet began his career as Land Survey Engineer in Alberta, Canada and later transitioned to civil engineering in Vancouver. In 1996, he joined Caterpillar and has worked across the construction and mining machinery industry. He has managed a significant portion of the company’s business in Asia as well as globally, cultivating strong relationships with clients and dealers while overseeing account management for multinational contractors. With his extensive experience, he manages complex, cross-cultural projects and builds strong international business relationships, serving as a key liaison between Caterpillar’s facilities in the U.S.A., Europe, and Asia.

Benet graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Civil Engineering from Queen’s University in Canada. He later completed the Caterpillar Leadership Program through Beijing International MBA Executive Program at Peking University. Benet speaks fluent English, Mandarin and Cantonese. He lives with his wife, Edna, in Singapore. In his free time, he enjoys running and hiking.

Andre Decastro Director for Associate Members

Andre is the Director of Global Sales and Rentals at Darby Equipment, a family-run, U.S.-based manufacturer of specialised pipeline construction equipment. Originally from Brazil, Andre moved to Kansas in the early 2000s to further his education and eventually became a U.S. citizen. With over 20 years of experience in leading international business operations across the globe, he has held senior roles in prominent companies within our industry in both the United States and South America. Andre’s educational background spans Business and Welding Engineering, and he’s currently working toward his MBA. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, he brings a global perspective to everything he does. He resides in Tulsa,

Oklahoma, with his wife, Brandy, his daughter, Joy (who is attending college), and their two beloved dogs, Gordo, the Pug and Cooper, the English Bulldog. In his free time, Andre enjoys staying active through workouts and walks, and he has a passion for cooking and wellness.

Michael Fakhoury Director for Middle East & Africa

Michael Fakhoury is Vice President for the Energy Business Line at Nesma & Partners, a contracting company in Saudi Arabia with 40,000 employees that delivers innovative solutions to some of the biggest energy and infrastructure challenges in the Middle East. Since joining Nesma & Partners more than 20 years ago, he has held various leadership roles across the company. Starting from 2017, he has been leading the company’s operations in the Industrial, Oil & Gas sector. Over the past seven years, he has sponsored a portfolio of projects valued at USD 4 billion, with Saudi Aramco as a major client. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lebanese University and an Executive MBA from the American University of Beirut. He speaks fluent English, French, and Arabic and lives with his wife, Jeanine, and his two sons in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia. In his spare time, he likes playing tennis, swimming, and scuba diving.

Henk de Graaf Director for Europe Northwest

Henk is the Director of Sales and Business Development at CRC Evans, a company providing welding and coating services, equipment and integrated solutions for the energy and infrastructure sectors globally. After completing his studies in Mechanical Engineering, he started his carrier in sales and business development working for a welding consumables manufacturer. He held senior roles within the company working in the Netherlands, Austria and Germany. In 2011, he opted to combine his extensive knowledge and experience with automated welding solutions and joined CRC Evans. Over the past 20 years, he supported numerous energy related projects, mainly in the Eastern Hemisphere. Henk has a strong interest in the transition to renewable energy, with a focus on project demands, customer needs and developing tailored solutions.

He speaks Dutch, German and English and lives with his wife, Jacqueline, and their three sons in the Dutch countryside. In his spare time, he enjoys gardening and taking care of animals.

Wilko Koop Director for Europe Northwest

Wilko is Managing Director at De Romein Group, a European main contractor for high-voltage cable and pipeline construction. He is a Dutch citizen, who holds a degree in Automotive Engineering from HAN University of Applied Sciences, and a qualification in Engineering Management from Hanze University Groningen. Wilko has extensive industry experience, primarily focusing on the installation of underground high-pressure pipelines and high-voltage cables. Throughout his threedecade career, he has overseen numerous innovative and groundbreaking projects worldwide, including landfalls, trenchless crossings, and the development of specialised machinery. He holds a Guiness World Records Certificate (from 2020) for a project he worked on in the United Kingdom for the National Grid.

While holding various leadership positions at major international contracting companies, he has built an extensive global network of industry experts. Wilko lives in the North of the Netherlands with his wife, Trineke, and their three children. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, as well as jogging, hiking, and cycling.

Jason LaValley

Director

for Associate Members

Jason is Founder, President and CEO of LaValley Industries. Inventor of the DECKHAND® pipe handling system and TONGHAND® exit side wrench, Jason has built a company around solving problems in infrastructure construction by leveraging the experience of industry veterans with engineering innovation inspired by technology convergence across industries.

Jason founded LaValley Industries in 2006 with the mission of bringing new technologies to the pipeline and HDD industries. He holds multiple patents across several countries and has received numerous awards for his innovations. Prior to forming LaValley Industries, Jason spent the better part of a decade working in the directional drilling industry throughout North America, spending five years as a superintendent. Throughout his career, Jason has worked on several world record directional drilling projects. He looks to the electrification of the future as an exciting new frontier for LaValley Industries to pioneer innovative energy solutions. He lives in Bemidji, Minnesota with his wife, Lucy, and their four children. In his spare time, he can be found racing at the dirt track with his family or enjoying an outdoor adventure in the Minnesota Northwoods.

World Federation of Pipe Line Industry Associations

Members of the WFPIA (World Federation of Pipe Line Industry Associations) met during IPLOCA’s Annual Convention in Sorrento. Key topics discussed during the meeting included strategies for attracting and retaining

young professionals in the industry; promoting the critical role of natural gas and pipeline construction in the energy transition; positive messaging around pipelines, including the ‘Pipelines are Good’ initiative; and facilitating information sharing among associations on safety, environmental issues, and the energy transition. The next WFPIA meeting is scheduled to take place during the DCA Convention in Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.A. in February 2025.

From left to right - Kevin O’Donnell (PLCAC), Marc Scherer (PLCAC), John Stuart-Robertson (APGA), Rob Darden (DCA), Mark Albert (DCA), Adam Wynne Hughes (PIG), Andrew Ball (PIG representing Kate Lazenby), Georges Hage (IPLOCA), Roberto Castelli (IPLOCA) and Kevin Barrett (PLCA representing Elizabeth Worrell).

Membership Centre

New Regular Members

Founded in 1957, ENKA İnşaat ve Sanayi A.Ş. (ENKA) is a global engineering and construction firm, headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey. ENKA provides services through its subsidiaries in the following areas around the world: Engineering & Construction (incl. Fabrication), Power Generation, Real Estate Management, Trade.

ENKA is the largest engineering and construction company in Turkey and ranked among the ENR’s Top International Contractors since 1981. Mr. Mehmet Tara, acting as the Chairman of the Board of Directors and President, is the third generation of the Tara family to lead the company. ENKA is traded publicly in Borsa Istanbul (BIST) with a Market Cap of more than USD 9 billion. Records show that, thus far, ENKA has been awarded over 580 projects with a total contract value of USD 63 billion in 57 countries.

ENKA İnşaat ve Sanayi A.Ş.

Balmumcu Mahallesi

Zincirlikuyu Yolu No 10 34349 Besiktas, Istanbul Turkey

T +90 212 376 10 00 enka@enka.com www.enka.com

Founded in 1976 in Curitiba, Brazil, Construtora Elevação has consolidated a strong national reputation for its work in the water and wastewater, oil and gas, as well as civil and industrial construction sectors.

The company’s focus is not only on achieving technical excellence, but also on always exceeding its clients’ expectations, generating trust that translates into long-term partnerships.

Construtora Elevação is committed to a zero-accident policy.

Construtora Elevação Ltda. Av. Munhoz da Rocha, 251 80030-475 Curitiba, Paraná Brazil

T +55 41 2106 9900 elevacao@construtoraelevacao.com.br www.construtoraelevacao.com.br

New Associate Members

Founded in 2020, AI Clearing is revolutionising the pipeline construction industry with its AI-driven progress tracking, real-time quality control, and advanced site analysis. Utilising Artificial Intelligence and Geographic Information System (GIS) surveys for pipeline construction sites, AI Clearing’s innovative solution significantly enhances productivity and ensures adherence to project schedules.

The company’s services are highly valued among clients in the pipeline industry. AI Clearing’s track record includes comprehensive inspections of CO2, H2, natural gas, oil, and water pipeline construction sites, providing clients with detailed reports on work progress and compliance with health and safety standards. AI Clearing’s solution has been widely adopted and appreciated by industry leaders worldwide.

AI Clearing

7600 Chevy Chase Drive Suite 300 Austin, TX 78752

U.S.A.

T +1 512 713 6598 hello@aiclearing.com www.aiclearing.com

BROEN A/S is a leading international manufacturer of valve technology operating on three continents across the world with key markets in Europe, China and the U.S.A. For more than 75 years BROEN has been the global leader in the development and production of valve technology for the control of water, air and gas.

BROEN delivers complete solutions for HVAC building installations and is a leading supplier of district energy valves and valve technology for natural gas. In addition, the company supplies valves, actuators and comprehensive control solutions for marine and industrial applications.

BROEN A/S

Skovvej 30 5610 Assens

Denmark

T +4564712095 fni@broen.com www.broen.com

Member News

Al-Qahtani awarded Saudi Aramco projects

Saudi Aramco has recently awarded four contracts through their subcontractors to Al-Qahtani Pipe Coating Industries for internal and external FBE Coatings, and double joint welding of pipelines on the Jafurah, Fadhili, and Dammam Field Development Projects. The pipe diameters range from 8” to 56”, and the total length of the pipelines is 880 km. The Jafurah project is a major gas development initiative by Saudi Aramco, aimed at tapping into the vast unconventional gas reserves in the Jafurah basin, located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

The project is designed to support the country’s transition to cleaner energy sources and enhance its domestic energy supply. Located in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, the Jafurah basin hosts the largest liquid-rich shale gas play in the Middle East, with an estimated 200 trillion cubic feet of gas in place. This shale play covers an area of 17,000 square kilometres. Production and processing of gas from this giant unconventional reserve is crucial for Aramco to achieve its ambition of increasing gas production by 60% by 2030, with 2021 as its baseline. In February 2020, Aramco received a capital expenditure grant of USD 110 bn from the Saudi government for the long-term phased development of the Jafurah unconventional gas resource base.

Bezemer’s winch deployed for 2.3 km reverse shore crossing in Mexico

From June to August 2024, the Dutch winch rental company Bezemer Dordrecht B.V. carried out works in Mexico on the Southeast Gateway Pipeline. The company was approached by Allseas, a world-leading contractor in the offshore energy market, to provide a linear winch for a maximum pull of 400T. This linear winch was positioned on Allseas’ Tog Mor vessel to pull a 36” pipeline bundle through a tunnel into the sea. The equipment provided was a CPM

1100, a continuous linear winch frequently used for similar operations. The winch was supplied with 2,500 metres of 88.9 mm reverse lay pull wire and transported from Dordrecht to Veracruz, Mexico. Once in Mexico, the winch was installed on the deck of the Tog Mor. The winch pulled the 36” pipeline bundle further down the tunnel each time a new pipeline string was added, pulling more than 2,300 metres of pipe in total.

Bin Quraya awarded Aramco Construction Quality Award

Bin Quraya Co. Ltd won the 2024 Saudi Aramco Construction Quality Award - an Inspection Technology and Innovation Award. The project that was recognised by the award highlighted the use of “Mechanised Dual Torch Welding” on 42” outside diameter internal coated pipelines in the Zuluf Water Supply Project, part of the Zuluf AH Development Program. The project led to increased efficiency and quality improvements. The technology used enabled the completion of 40 joints per day, minimising rework and ensuring high weld quality through advanced root pass techniques. The project highlighted how technological advancements enable adherence to strict quality standards and timely project completion. Key achievements include cost savings, enhanced digital processes, and exceeding the standards set by the Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirements (MSAER). Bin Quraya applied innovative solutions that significantly improved the project schedule, reflecting an ongoing drive for improvement in quality and innovation.

C.A.T. Group secures major project awards and welcomes new Group CEO

The C.A.T. Group has announced several new project awards, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting the region’s strategic energy goals. Recently, C.A.T. was awarded works for approximately USD 600 million in Jafurah, Saudi Arabia as part of the Unconventional Resources Maintain Potential project. These contracts cover a range of well tieins, pipelines, and flowline installations to support the gas development programme in the Jafurah field. In the UAE, after winning Package 3 on the ESTIDAMA pipeline project, the C.A.T. Group was awarded the construction works for Package 6. This award testifies to the successful collaboration of C.A.T. and NMDC on this crucial gas project for ADNOC and the UAE. Additionally, C.A.T. has announced the appointment of Christopher Bush as the new Group CEO. With over 35 years in the EPC industry, Mr. Bush’s leadership will bring C.A.T. even closer to its clients and guide it through a period of dynamic growth and operational excellence.

Ltd. (CPP) and a significant player in global energy storage and operation infrastructure, is responsible for the feasibility study, survey, and detailed design of the Kangbao to Caofeidian hydrogen pipeline in northern China. As of 24 October 2024, over 15% of the study has been completed. This project, anticipated to become the world’s largest green hydrogen pipeline by diameter and capacity, will span 972.7 kilometres with a diameter of 813 millimetres, a design pressure of 7.1 MPa, and an expected annual delivery capacity of approximately 1.3 million tons of green hydrogen. Designed to supply green hydrogen to meet demand in Beijing and the industrial city of Tangshan, the pipeline will play a crucial role in reducing pollution and advancing China’s energy-saving and emission-reduction goals. Once operational, it will set a new benchmark for hydrogen infrastructure on the global stage. Green hydrogen, produced through water electrolysis using electricity from renewable energy sources like solar and wind, offers a zeroemission alternative to fossil fuels. In recent years, China has intensified its commitment to hydrogen infrastructure to meet ambitious carbon reduction targets. This pipeline exemplifies CPP’s expanded focus on green energy projects.

De Romein wins contract for German high voltage grid expansion

As the energy market continues to expand, along with significant investments in pipeline infrastructure, there is an increasing demand for HVDC (high-voltage direct current) cable infrastructure to transmit power generated by onshore and offshore wind farms. De Romein Group plays an important role in this expansion. German transmission system operator Amprion awarded a contract for civil engineering services for the Rhein-Main Link project to De Romein Group’s newly created joint venture. The contract includes the creation of a 600-kilometre-long cable system from Lower Saxony to the Rhein-Main economic region in Hesse. De Romein’s Joint Venture (50%/50%) will provide civil engineering as well as the construction of the future energy corridor required to

CPPE designs world’s largest green hydrogen pipeline in China

China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Corporation (CPPE), a subsidiary of China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co.,

transport the electricity generated by offshore wind farms in the North Sea to the Rhein-Main region in southern Germany. The preparatory phase of the project has now commenced, and the construction of the Rhein-Main Link is scheduled to start in 2028, with expected completion in 2033

New member Finn Corp joins Convention for the first time

Finn Corp was very pleased to have attended its first IPLOCA Annual Convention — making connections between large pipeline contractors and the extreme need for ground restoration technologies. Finn Corp brings over 85 years of erosion and landscape management expertise to support the pipeline industry. Known for their HydroSeeders®, the company looks forward to providing powerful and efficient solutions for pipelines and pipeline-related projects. Finn HydroSeeders® are designed specifically for large-scale seeding and erosion control needs, making them ideal for restoring landscapes and minimizing environmental impact along pipelines and large-scale excavations. With tank capacities ranging from 300 to over 4,000 gallons, the company offers adaptable solutions to efficiently cover large areas, ensuring consistent soil stabilisation, fast revegetation, and effective soil erosion control. The HydroSeeders® use an innovative hydraulic seeding process that applies seed, mulch, and fertilizer in one quick application, establishing healthy, resilient vegetation that helps protect soil during pipeline installations, repairs, and maintenance. This method saves time, reduces labour costs, and produces long-lasting results, even and especially on steep, uneven terrain, and areas that can be difficult to access with traditional seeding equipment. As a member of IPLOCA, Finn Corp looks forward to providing more sustainable resources within the pipeline sector by helping members complete projects with greater environmental responsibility and operational efficiency.

Geocean completes offshore work on Wilhelmshaven LNG terminal in Germany

Geocean, which is part of VINCI Construction Grands Projets, has successfully completed the installation of three TCP pipelines and a power cable to connect Excelerate Energy’s floating storage regasification unit (FSRU) to terrestrial facilities. The offshore FSRU terminal project

installed in Wilhelmshaven, Germany is a joint venture between ENGIE and TES (Tree Energy Solution). Geocean has been chosen to carry out this fast-track installation project, enhancing the country’s infrastructure and energy security. The company worked on the connection to the FSRU, the anchoring system, and the subsea equipment. This infrastructure was installed 1.7 km from the shore at a depth of 14 metres. Geocean deployed its FAST-FLEX barge solution, one of its four types of modular barges. These modular barge solutions are tailored to the specific needs of each project and designed to streamline installation operations and cut the cost of offshore installation projects. This project represents a major development in the company’s offshore installation capabilities.

Gulf Companies welcomes Daniel Hernandez Trejo as Managing Director for the LATAM Region

Gulf Companies welcomes Daniel Hernandez Trejo as the Managing Director for the Latin America region. Based in Gulf Companies’ Mexico City office, Daniel will be responsible for advancing Gulf’s operations and spearheading new business initiatives across Mexico and Latin America. With an extensive background in the renewables, energy, and oil & gas industries, Daniel brings a robust combination of technical expertise and a forwardlooking vision to Gulf’s LATAM portfolio. Daniel joins Gulf from NextEra Energy, where he held the role of Director of Engineering and Construction for Midstream Assets and brings hands-on experience across the entire project lifecycle—from engineering and construction through commissioning and asset operations. His career spans

impactful roles in engineering, project management, and high-level operations, delivering world-class projects across diverse locations including the United States, Mexico, South America, Asia and Australia. A licensed Professional Engineer with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Daniel is known for his multicultural approach and his commitment to building high-performing teams that consistently exceed client expectations. His experience with both EPC companies and Owner-Operator roles uniquely positions him to drive Gulf’s efforts in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to the Latin American market.

Herrenknecht’s AVN machine constructs shore approach of

Southeast Gateway Pipeline

TC Energy is developing the Southeast Gateway Project in Mexico. It consists of the construction of a marine pipeline that will transport natural gas, connecting the supply from Tuxpan, Veracruz, to delivery points in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, and in Paraíso, Tabasco. Commissioned by TC Energy, Grupo Desarrollo Infrastructura S.A. de C.V. (GDI) reordered a Herrenknecht AVND2400 to construct one of the shore approaches of the Southeast Gateway Pipeline at Coatzacoalcos. In February 2024, GDI successfully recovered the AVND2400 in the Gulf of Mexico after completing an extremely long pipe jacking drive of 1,715 metres in length within 83 days. The AVND2400 was retrieved from the seabed at a depth of 25 metres below sea level. This machine type was chosen in order to protect the marine environment, as it enables safe tunnelling operations by controlled face support. The machine was guided by VMT’s TUnIS Navigation MT navigation systems and Herrenknecht assisted the drive with round-the-clock support from a team of experts from nine nations.

implementation projects in ten countries across three continents, is celebrating its 30 th anniversary. In addition to its landscaping design and implementation projects, Karaoğlu Peyzaj also undertakes landscaping projects focused on nature restoration in various fields and sectors, including pipelines, industrial facilities, factories, and mining sites. The company has taken on landscaping work for many pipeline projects, such as the TANAP Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline. Founding Partner Yasin Otuzoğlu shares the following insights on the 30 th anniversary: “Karaoğlu Peyzaj has become a pioneering, innovative, and global landscaping design and implementation firm that offers end-to-end services. We completed over 1,000 projects in Turkey, Europe, the Middle East, and the Balkans, on time and without issues. We believe that we have provided a vision of sustainability to the landscaping sector over the past 30 years. Through our nature restoration practices, we support the activities of various industries such as pipelines, construction, highways, mining, industrial facilities, and energy in accordance with nature conservation principles. We carry out our work with passion and the understanding of giving back to nature what we take from it.”

LaValley Industries’ smart job site energy solutions for off-grid power supply

Karaoğlu Peyzaj celebrates 30 th anniversary

Karaoğlu Peyzaj, a well-established Turkish landscaping company that has completed landscaping design and

LaValley Industries introduces the EMPOWER™ line of versatile, fuel-efficient generators designed to meet the evolving demands of energy-intensive job sites. The EMP generators use Efficient Modulated Power generation technology, which automatically adjusts engine speeds to

match load requirements, that ensures optimal efficiency and maximizes fuel savings under fluctuating conditions and carbon restrictions. The EMP generators include modular systems that allow users to swap input and output modules, easily adapting the generator’s voltage configuration to specific site needs. Additionally, these generators support parallel operation, enabling higher power output without distribution panels. The thermal control system of the EMP generator line is also unique as it can act as a cooling or heating mechanism for implements, such as the PITPUMP™ slurry pump. The sound-attenuated enclosures and lower engine speeds also contribute to reduced noise levels. EMPOWER™’s advanced telematics and health monitoring capabilities deliver real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance data, helping to minimize downtime. For applications that connect to the grid, EMP generators operate emission-free and noiselessly while seamlessly shifting to engine power as a backup or to achieve demand-based utility savings. With extensive field testing and reliable performance data, EMPOWER™ generators offer robust, sustainable power solutions for modern infrastructure projects.

MAX STREICHER S.p.A. awarded Gas Compression Station Project in Sulmona

MAX STREICHER S.p.A. has been awarded a contract by Snam Rete Gas for the construction of a natural gas compression station in Sulmona, Abruzzo, Italy. This station is part of the new ‘Adriatic Line’ infrastructure, which includes a 425 km ‘hydrogen-ready’ pipeline designed to enhance Europe’s energy security by transporting supplies from Azerbaijan, Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean to Northern Europe. MAX STREICHER S.p.A. will execute all mechanical, civil and electrical and instrumentation (E&I) activities for the station, including the installation of three 11 MW turbo-compressors, with a combined nominal power of 33 MW. Construction began in early September 2024, with project completion targeted for September 2026. As

the 14 th compression station in Italy’s gas transportation network, Sulmona will pressurize gas to ensure efficient distribution to consumption points across the country while also supporting export routes to Northern Europe.

Nesma & Partners wins MEED’s Energy Project of the Year Award

Nesma & Partners announced that its Hawiyah Unayzah Gas Reservoir Storage project has been awarded the prestigious MEED Project Award for Saudi Arabia. This recognition highlights Nesma’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability in every aspect of project execution. Developed for Saudi Aramco, this pioneering project is the Kingdom’s first subsurface sales gas storage facility. Storing surplus gas during off-peak periods and releasing it back into the Master Gas System during peak demand plays a vital role in optimising gas distribution and enhancing energy efficiency. This award is a testament to Nesma & Partners’ ongoing dedication to delivering solutions that push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability. The Hawiyah Unayzah Gas Reservoir Storage project is an example of how the company is positively impacting the Kingdom’s infrastructure and energy landscape, aligning fully with the goals of Vision 2030.

PipeSak’s involvement in the Coastal GasLink Pipeline Project

Spanning 416 miles, or 670 kilometres, the Coastal GasLink Pipeline connects Dawson Creek in northeastern British Columbia in Canada to an LNG facility near Kitimat on the coast. This extensive route traverses rugged, mountainous terrain and environmentally sensitive areas, requiring robust protective measures for both the pipeline and the surrounding ecosystem. To address these unique challenges, PipeSak supplied RockStop® pipeline rockshield, offering flexibility across all terrains and weather

conditions, and geotextile pipeline weights to keep the pipe secure in wet areas. Built from lightweight, durable geotextile fabric, RockStop® provided high impact and abrasion resistance against coarse backfill, while PipePillos® offered additional support to prevent pipe deformation. This approach ensured the secure and resilient installation of the pipeline, designed to operate sustainably across varied landscapes. Built to last beyond the pipeline’s projected lifespan, these protective products support long-term safety and structural integrity. The company says customers should look for PipeSak making an even bigger impact at conferences and exhibitions in 2025. The company is eager to showcase its latest innovations, starting at the Pipeline Pigging & Integrity Management Conference (PPIM) in January 2025.

Seal For Life‘s coating solutions selected for East African Crude Oil Pipeline

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), the world’s longest heated pipeline stretching 1,443 kilometres from Uganda’s Lake Albert to Tanzania’s port of Tanga, is transforming energy access in East Africa. To overcome challenging technical conditions and remote environments, EACOP’s engineers have selected Seal For Life’s Canusa-

CPS brand for its advanced, resilient and field-friendly coating solutions. The HBE-95 liquid epoxy and the CSC PE100 + IntelliFuse automated casing system deliver uncompromising anti-corrosion, sealing and durability to the field joint. The Canusa-CPS team is also building local expertise by employing and training skilled personnel in Uganda and Tanzania to provide essential support throughout construction—driving local growth and creating economic opportunities in East Africa.

SICIM achieves first gas reinjection for KEP-1A Project

Full speed ahead for SICIM in Kazakhstan: the KEP-1A Project safely achieved first gas reinjection in July 2024. This significant milestone was reached with the successful operation of the 5 th compressor at full discharge pressure, enabling gas from the Karachaganak Processing Complex (KPC) to be reinjected into the reservoir through the new KEP-1A gas reinjection system for the first time. This milestone, the most critical in the KEP-1A Project, was safely completed liquidating over 18 million man-hours and zero LTIs. Simultaneously, KEP-1B (the sixth compressor) is proceeding at full speed, with a target start-up in the first quarter of 2026. SICIM was awarded this full EPC project, valued at USD 600 million, in 2022 by Karachaganak Petroleum Operating B.V. (KPO) confirming its strong presence in the country since 1999. To date, more than 250,000 inches of piping have been welded, 4,000 tons of equipment have been installed, and 1,400 km of cables have been successfully laid. Over the years, SICIM’s dedication to local content has been a cornerstone of its operations in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Demonstrating this commitment, nearly 6,000 people, or 98% of the entire workforce on the KEP project, are Kazakhstani. The completion of the KEP-1A Project represents a major advancement in the continued development of the Karachaganak field, ensuring longterm production stability, economic growth and fostering regional development.

Spiecapag, a leading pipeline and Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) services contractor, has been selected by global cabling solutions provider Prysmian, for the landfall HDD scope of the Marinus Link Project. The project will improve the electricity and telecommunications connection between Tasmania and Victoria in Australia via 345 km of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and fibre optic cables. It includes 255 km of subsea cables across the Bass Strait and 90 km of underground cables in Gippsland, Victoria, enabling Tasmania to import excess solar and wind energy produced in Victoria and export its hydropower later to meet peak demand interstate. As part of the Marinus Link Project, Spiecapag will be delivering 12 shore crossings - 6 on each side of the Strait, via its HDI Lucas arm. HDI Lucas is the sister company of Horizontal Drilling International (HDI), operating in the Asia Pacific Region. “We are thrilled to partner with Prysmian and Marinus Link on this significant project,” said John StuartRobertson, General Manager of HDI Lucas. “Our expertise in HDD and Prysmian’s leadership in cable systems will ensure the successful delivery of the Marinus Link Project, contributing to a more sustainable and reliable energy future for Australia.”

Volvo CE brings hybrid technology to new generation excavators

Volvo Construction Equipment has introduced a new generation of hybrid excavators that utilise hydraulic hybrid technology. Among several benefits, there is a 17% increase in fuel efficiency, a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions, and lower fuel consumption. The first hybrid models of the new series are the EC400 and EC500, size classes commonly used in pipeline projects. The hydraulic hybrid technology harnesses the energy generated by the downward motion of the excavator’s boom, which charges an accumulator and then powers the assist motor when needed, reducing the reliance on the engine system. This principle leads to cost savings, fuel efficiency, and reduced carbon emissions. The new generation excavators from Volvo CE also feature a

more spacious and ergonomic design, an enhanced operator environment, and an improved human-machine interface. These advancements contribute to increased productivity and lower total cost of ownership. When combined with Volvo’s smarter solutions like Volvo Active Control and Dig Assist with On-Board Weighing, these excavators offer unmatched precision and productivity. Overall, Volvo CE’s new hybrid excavators offer a powerful and sustainable solution for customers, combining advanced hybrid technology with modern design and improved performance.

IPLOCA Scholarship Programme

Applications open on 15 January 2025 and close on 15 March 2025 for the IPLOCA Scholarship Programme.

Children and grandchildren of employees of IPLOCA Regular and Associate Members are eligible to apply via the online form on the IPLOCA website. The scholarships are not limited to specific educational pursuits, but are open to all fields of study. Saji Khoury, 1st Vice President of the IPLOCA Board of Directors, leads the selection process committee. We encourage all members to publicise the scholarship opportunity as widely as possible within their organisations. More information on the programme is available at www.iploca.com/ committees/scholarship-programme/scholarship

Sorrento, Italy

Annual Convention Retrospective

More than 520 members and guests had the pleasure of meeting up once again at the Annual Convention held in Sorrento, Italy from 9 to 13 September 2024.

This year, the programme incorporated two days of Open General Meetings and three days of cultural programmes. An excellent line-up of speakers included Diana Anghel, Mark Bridgers, Michele Caramuta, Peter Cox, Darren Matkin, Maria Sferruzza and Duncan Stevens. Topics discussed included effective leadership, health & safety, energy transition and AI’s role in the industry. Delegates had the privilege to listen to presentations from two major European operators, IPLOCA Corresponding

Members Eni and Snam, about their projects and strategies. Further information on all the speakers can be found on page 27.

In addition to the business meetings, registered delegates were able to take part in many social events. This year’s tour programme included visits to the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the quaint coastal town of Positano, the National Museum in Naples – without doubt, one of the best archaeological museums in the world, and Sansevero Chapel where delegates discovered the Veiled Christ – a masterpiece fashioned from a single block of marble.

Maats/Liebherr Golf Tournament

This year’s golf tournament was held at Salerno Golf Club in Salerno, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Sorrento.

This year, the players competed on a 9-hole course, therefore places where limited. Although the group was smaller than usual, the golfers enjoyed a fun day with good weather conditions. Maats and Liebherr would like to thank everyone for their support, and we look forward to seeing you in Izmir, Turkey in 2025.

Attendees were sent a link in October to view and download the photos on the following pages, as well as many others. We hope you enjoy the photos!

Congratulations to all trophy winners, namely:

First Place: Eduardo Rivera, Elizabeth Evans, Jim Watkins

Second Place: Richard Turner, Andreas Fuchs, John Walsh

Third Place: William Corbett, Sean Haberer, Pablo Brottier

Nearest the Pin Men: Andrea Colombo

Nearest the Pin Ladies: Elizabeth Evans

Longest Drive Men: Karl Leidenfrost

Longest Drive Ladies: Gabriele Halatschek

Photo Gallery

Open General Meetings

Business Opportunities

Poster Sessions were held during the coffee breaks at the Open General Meetings, allowing people the time to visit and ask questions in a relaxed atmosphere. These sessions were given by CRC Evans, Cyntech Group, Denso GmbH, PipeSak Incorporated, Sherwin-Williams U.K. Ltd., Tesi S.p.A, Vermeer Corporation, Winn & Coales and World Pipelines Magazine International.

Ten-minute B2B meetings were hosted by A. Lamb Associates Limited, American Augers, Bechtel Energy Inc., Fluor Corporation, Gascontrol Polska Sp. z o.o., Herrenknecht AG, Sicim S.p.A., Spiecapag, Tesi S.p.A. and Vermeer Corporation.

Annual General Meeting

IPLOCA Executive Secretary Georges Hage opened the AGM and welcomed the delegates. President Roberto Castelli presented his ‘Year in Review’ during the Annual General

Meeting, and was pleased to confirm that, amongst other objectives, the Board had successfully developed a new format for the Novel Construction Sessions and put in place a plan to involve young professionals in the Association. The results of the 2024-2025 Board of Directors elections were ratified. Also, the IPLOCA audited accounts for 2023 were approved and the auditors re-appointed for the 2024 financial year.

Amendments to the IPLOCA By-laws were proposed and considered approved since no objections were raised. The Board proposed granting Associate Members the same rights and obligations as Regular Members when their representative becomes an Officer on the Board, defining the Treasurer’s term of office, and amending clauses that contradict Article 12.2 related to the the annual membership fee due date. The incoming President, Yasar Giregiz, closed the meeting with his objectives for the coming term.

Guest Speakers at the Sorrento Convention

Many thanks to our guest speakers for their contribution during the OGMs on Thursday and Friday. Copies of their presentations are available at www.iploca.com/presentations

Diana Anghel

Culture and Leadership Consultant, Caterpillar Safety Services

Leading for Safety: Measurable Traits that Change Everything

Peter Cox

Vice President Onshore Upstream & Midstream, Worley

Adapting the Pipeline Industry to deliver a Net Zero Energy System

Duncan Stevens

Performance Coach and Keynote Speaker

Unlocking Excellence – Building HighPerforming Collaborative Teams

Mark Bridgers

Principal, Continuum Capital

AI Transformation: How and when Artificial Intelligence will Transform Pipeline Capital Construction

Darren Matkin

Manager of LiHS Strategy, Development & Implementation, Saipem

The Role of Visible Management Commitment & Workforce Engagement in Saipem’s Safety Journey

Michele Caramuta

Head of Regional Development Project Management, West Africa and Libya, Eni Eni Natural Resources – From Exploration to Production

Maria Sferruzza

Executive Director, Engineering, Construction & Solutions, Snam Snam’s Projects and the role of the Midstream Value Chain for a Resilient and Sustainable Energy System

Presentation of Awards in Sorrento

The IPLOCA awards are intended to reward those companies that are in the lead in their search for excellence.

The winners and runners-up for three awards were presented in Sorrento. The list of submissions received and further information on the entries are available on our website at: www.iploca.com/awards .

The 2024 IPLOCA Health and Safety Award

by SNAM

The award recognises members’ initiatives aimed at improving health and safety in the pipeline industry.

The Adjudication Committee nominated SICIM S.p.A. as the winner of this year’s award for its Safe Prompter Trapdoor for Welding Tents. The committee gave the following reasons for its decision: it streamlines the process by which top management observations directly impact operational safety; it introduces a simple approach to mitigating the risks associated with working at height; it addresses a hazard related to typical underrated ancillary activities that are not always well supervised and assessed; it demonstrates a clear and measurable reduction in accidents, near misses, and incidents related to working at height; it has a practical design, making it easy to implement and integrate into existing systems.

The runners-up were:

MAX STREICHER GmbH, for its Vacuum Crawler VC70. The VC70 stands for maximum safety, health protection, ergonomically friendly and efficient in removing various soil materials, mud and water, leading to benefit both

Submissions for 2025

Thank you to all those who participated in the 2024 awards.

We encourage all members to prepare and submit entries for 2025, which, in addition to the IPLOCA Health & Safety Award sponsored by Snam, will include the IPLOCA Corporate Social Responsibility Award sponsored by TotalEnergies, the IPLOCA New Technologies Award sponsored by BP, and the recently introduced IPLOCA Quality Award.

Submissions are required by May 2025 and further information will be available on www.iploca.com

people and the environment. It is utilised for exposing tree roots, plants, and underground supply line conduits without causing damage, cleaning sewer systems and industrial facilities. In terms of automation and controllability, the VC70 stands out with its remote control and integrated tilt sensor with a warning function, significantly enhancing workplace safety. Since its introduction three years ago, there have been no accidents or incidents whenever it was deployed.

Caterpillar, for its seat belt reminder system. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 150,000 injuries per year are the result of construction site accidents. 2017 OSHA Safety Data concluded that one in five work-related deaths occur in construction. A recent OSHA study focused on machine rollovers. To prevent fatalities during a rollover incident, not only must the machine be equipped with a Roll-Over Protection System, but the operator must also be wearing a seat belt. Wearing a seat belt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe while operating equipment. However, human error always remains a real possibility. Sometimes busy operators forget to buckle up when attention is focused elsewhere. Failure to wear a seat belt not only presents a safety risk, it also may violate local regulations. Caterpillar has developed a Seat Belt Reminder System that gets both operators and site personnel’s attention through audible or visual warnings. It also provides real-time alert system monitoring that notifies the operators and site personnel or managers when the seat belt is not latched. One major pipeline construction contractor in the US has installed the Cat Seat Belt Reminder System in more than 1,600 machines. It saw the seat belt usage improved from below 70% to above 85% after the first year.

The 2024 IPLOCA Environmental Award

The 2024 IPLOCA Excellence in Project Execution Award

Post-convention Questionnaire

We are grateful to the delegates and spouses who took the time to complete and submit the post-convention questionnaire.

Around 25% of convention attendees responded to the questionnaire this year. The information received is important to help us further improve future conventions and gives participants the opportunity to express their opinion and convey their suggestions on any part of the programme. We encourage more attendees to give us feedback after future events. Overall, the convention programme was greatly appreciated, with the business meetings and social events mostly rated as excellent or good.

96% of respondents said they were able to network as expected and 93% said they would recommend the convention to other colleagues. They once again confirmed their interest in having presentations on the work of IPLOCA’s committees and many of them would like to see more presentations on future projects, new technologies, and the energy transition. Most respondents indicated that they are likely to attend next year’s convention in Turkey.

About 97% of attendees who answered the questionnaire used the app which represents a similar percentage to the previous convention in Vancouver. The comments received regarding the app were very positive, with a few suggestions to help us improve it further in the future. 80% of all respondents liked the format of two business days and three cultural days. Only 20% preferred last year’s format, which included three business and two cultural days.

Health, Safety, the Environment & CSR

IPLOCA Fall Sessions: 2024 HSE & CSR Workshop in Lisbon

The workshop, held on 22 October, was led by Diana Anghel from Caterpillar Safety Services. The morning provided the opportunity for attendees to hear about the latest learnings about Human-Machine Interfaces from a health and safety perspective.

In the afternoon, participants were divided into small groups to work on the following questions:

1. What is dangerous (in the human-machine interaction dynamic) ?

2. What do we do that is difficult (to implement or work around)?

3. What do we do that doesn’t make sense (in application today)?

4. What we can do differently (from what is being done today)?

5. What do we do that is delightful (or going well)?

Answers to these questions can be viewed here.

Safety Culture:

Measuring the Unmeasurable?

Dr Fred Sherratt, Associate Director of Research, Construction Safety Research Alliance

Achieving a ‘positive safety culture’ has long been a goal of safety management programmes – but there is still no agreed scientific definition of ‘safety culture’ and no agreed scientific way to measure it as a holistic concept.

IPLOCA warmly thanks the members of the HSE & CSR Committee who sponsored this workshop, namely Caterpillar, Denys, Max Streicher GmbH & Co KG a.A, Max Streicher S.p.A., J. Murphy and Sons, Serimax, SICIM, Spiecapag and Tekfen Construction.

News from the HSE & CSR Committee

In September the Committee welcomed its new Chair, Giovanni Muriana Giovanni, a member of the IPLOCA Board of Directors, is the Managing Director of MAX STREICHER S.p.A. He holds a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering and has more than 20 years of international experience in the oil, gas and energy industry. In 2012, when he joined MAX STREICHER S.p.A., the German group gave him the responsibility for strengthening the company and boosting business development efforts abroad.

The Committee welcomed a new member, John Kinirons, who is Group SHES and Sustainability Director at J. Murphy and Sons. John is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Health and Safety professional who has used the knowledge and experience gained working in operations to drive significant improvement in health and safety performance. John has managed and led the health and safety function in a number of large multidisciplinary construction-based organisations. He has worked across many different environments in his career and is vastly experienced in the building, rail and power sectors.

Despite decades of research and practice since the term was first coined after the Chernobyl incident in 1986, we are not really any closer to any answers.

The Construction Safety Research Alliance was asked by its members to look into this situation. Some US utility regulators are asking firms to report on their safety culture as a licensing requirement, and many C-Suites are becoming more interested in safety culture as phrases like ‘culture eats strategy for breakfast’ become more popular. Yet safety culture is not like other safety operations and initiatives. Culture itself is a social science concept. It tries to capture what it feels like to work in a company – the

From left to right: Massimo Mori, Marco Nanni, Mitch Cowart, Helena Leitão, Lourenço Almeida, and Diana Anghel

unwritten rules and norms of ‘how things are done around here’. Culture is how your company does what it does, and safety culture is just the part of your organisational culture that relates to safety.

But this has consequences for its use as a management tool. We just can’t ‘measure’ culture in the same ways we usually measure safety, with numbers, percentages and dashboards. To measure culture using appropriate social science methods takes unique skillsets, immersive fieldwork and more time and recourses than commercial operations could support.

So instead, we just grab some safety things we can easily measure using numbers – e.g. the presence of safety policies, numbers of leadership safety engagements, safety training records – add them all together, and call that ‘safety culture’.

But mathematically that’s a fallacy of logic – and bad science. It’s also unnecessary! The safety toolkit already contains many different tools to best measure the different

Innovation

Novel Construction Fall Session

The Novel Construction Fall Session took place on 23-24 October 2024 at the DoubleTree Fontana Park hotel in Lisbon, Portugal.

We were delighted to welcome more than 85 delegates from around the world to the two-day event, which focused on new technologies, energy transition and sustainable development. The following subjects were presented in the morning of the first day by IPLOCA members and a guest speaker:

- Insight into Digital Trenchless Crossings

Sagar Sheth, Ramboll

things that we do for safety. These include validated worker opinion surveys (often called safety culture or safety climate surveys) or tools that measure the quality of things like leadership engagements, rather than just the quantity. We should use the right tool for the right job, and perhaps stop chasing ways to capture safety culture through simplistic and unscientific approaches.

Safety culture is a great concept for talking about safety; it certainly exists and is something we can all feel. But as a management tool it quickly becomes problematic. Don’t waste the time, resources and energy of your safety professionals trying to measure ‘safety culture’ in one go –it’s just not scientifically or practically possible.

To find out more about the science behind the statements made in this article, please visit: www.sciencedirect.com

The peer-reviewed paper was published in the journal Safety Science. As with all CSRA work, this paper is open access and free to download.

- End-to-End Geological Survey and Trenching: A Case Study by Tesmec *

Flavio Villa & Angela Latronico, Tesmec S.p.A.

- Net Zero at the Speed of Trust

Chris Beech, Worley

- Innovative Coating Solutions that Play by the Rules

Somaieh Salehpour, Seal for Life Industrues

- How to Prevent and Resolve Disputes

Virginie Colaiuta, LMS Legal

- Improving Pipeline Hydrotesting with IoT

Alejandro Aguirre, Techint Engineering & Construction

- The Implications of Digitalisation, Automation and AI in Pipeline Engineering and Construction in Light of the Energy Transition

Abhay Chand, Petro IT

- Efficient Modulated Power Generation: Smart Solution for Off-Grid Power Supply

Jason LaValley, LaValley Industries

A workshop was held in the afternoon and participants were divided into small working groups for brainstorming. The group discussions were related to the following subjects:

AI Transformation, Skills & Resources, Standards & Compliance

– Material codes, Energy Transition, Net Zero Construction.

On the second day the following presentations were made and the conclusions from the workshop were presented:

- Net Zero AGI Design & Construction

Zakir Amin, J. Murphy & Sons Limited

- Potential of Decarbonisation of Pipeline Construction Job Sites

Boris Böhm, MAX STREICHER GmbH

- AI-Powered Construction Progress Tracking *

Pierre-Yves Hanson, Denys & Dariusz Ciesla, Al Clearing Inc.

- Hydrogen Pipeline – A FEED study journey

Geoff Cox, Bechtel Energy Inc.

- Achieving ‘Right First Time’ Welding for Hydrogen & CCUS Pipelines

Murdo MacAngus, SERIMAX

* Articles on these topics follow this report.

Strategic Excavation

The presentations are available at www.iploca.com/event/ iploca-novel-construction-fall-session-2024

We would like to thank our generous sponsors, Maats Pipeline Professionals, Monter-strojarske montaže d.d., Seal for Life Industries and SICIM S.p.A., for their support of the event, as well as all those who participated in the Novel Construction Fall Session.

We look forward to our next session which is planned for 1617 April 2025 in Palermo, Italy. The hotel is yet to be defined.

Tesmec’s Pioneering Methods for Underground Utility Detection

Flavio Villa, CTO, Tesmec BU Trenchers & Surface Miners

A recent pipeline installation project in Saudi Arabia highlights Tesmec’s extensive capabilities within the pipeline sector.

This ambitious endeavor involved the installation of a 40-inch (1016 mm) pipeline across challenging terrain, including hard limestone rock, marl, and sand, while simultaneously navigating a complex network of existing utilities and infrastructure. Tesmec’s advanced technology and comprehensive service model enabled precise and safe excavation in this intricate environment.

Tesmec ensures the success of pipeline projects through thorough terrain assessments and feasibility studies, utilising advanced technologies like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and drones to identify obstacles and streamline planning. By offering comprehensive support throughout every project stage and maintaining a global presence, Tesmec positions itself as a reliable partner in the pipeline sector.

Project Challenges and Unique Terrain Conditions

The project faced a remarkably high density of utility crossings, which included 62 above-ground pipes, 156 underground pipes, and 41 underground cables, in addition to multiple roadways such as a highway, five asphalt roads, and thirty-three marl roads. In total, the pipeline corridor comprised an impressive 379 crossings along the pipeline route. Given this complexity, traditional excavation methods, such as drilling and blasting, were prohibited due to the proximity of existing infrastructure. As a result, Tesmec’s specialized chainsaw trenchers, designed to minimize vibrations, emerged as the ideal solution, allowing for safe operation near existing utilities without the risk of damage.

Advanced GPR Mapping and Utility Detection

To effectively navigate this intricate utility network, Tesmec employed advanced ground-penetrating radar (GPR) in conjunction with differential GPS technology. While maps of known crossings were available, realtime utility detection was essential to prevent costly errors during excavation. The GPR surveys, enhanced by post-processing software, produced high-resolution, three-dimensional maps of the subsurface environment, enabling the Tesmec team to accurately locate utilities with impressive precision.

The GPR technology utilised featured utility detection capabilities operating at frequencies of 600-1000 MHz, achieving penetration depths of up to 4 metres. For geological analysis, high-penetration radar at 80 MHz was employed, reaching depths of up to 5 metres. This dual approach allowed for the identification of geological layers critical for planning trench dimensions, while GPS

integration provided exact coordinates for utility mapping and trenching. As a result, Tesmec was able to generate AutoCAD drawings with accurate utility coordinates, which proved essential for adjusting excavation plans when deviations in utility placement were discovered, including instances where some utilities were located up to 7 metres away from their mapped positions.

Efficient Trenching with the Double-Cut Technique

To meet the project’s unique demands, Tesmec implemented its innovative double-cut trenching method in the rocky sections of the pipeline route. This systematic approach involved initially excavating a trench, backfilling it with the excavated material, and then creating a parallel trench, followed by the removal of the central ribbon with an excavator. The pipeline specifications required trench widths of 1420 mm

A Case Study

Revolutionising pipeline construction with AI and drones

Dariusz Cieśla, VP of Product & Strategy, AI Clearing

Pierre-Yves Hanson, Site Engineer, DENYS

Marcin Tracz, Project Manager, AI Clearing

The Desteldonk-Opwijk pipeline construction project in Belgium serves as a prime example of how drone and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can revolutionise construction progress tracking. This large-scale undertaking highlights the potential for enhanced efficiency, transparency, and safety within the pipeline construction industry.

The project spanned 44 kilometres and took nine months to complete. It was divided into two main sections. To ensure

x 2110 mm in sandy areas and 1620 mm x 1267 mm in rocky conditions. To comply with the client’s request for low ground pressure, Tesmec utilised smaller trenchers, which necessitated the double-cut technique to achieve the required trench width in multiple passes. In less challenging sections, conventional excavators were employed to enhance efficiency.

Performance and Results

Despite facing strict regulatory controls and a challenging landscape, Tesmec’s trenchers achieved remarkable production rates. In sandy and marl areas, the team managed to complete an impressive 210 metres per day, while in rocky areas, the production rate was 82 metres per day. The project adhered to a rigorous timeline, with trenching operations commencing on 15 October 2022, and concluding on 29 January 2023, while maintaining stringent quality and productivity targets. Although work permits and regulatory compliance limited daily excavation hours, Tesmec’s team demonstrated adaptability, ensuring consistent project momentum.

Tesmec’s Advantage as a Pipeline Partner

This case study of the Saudi Arabian pipeline project underscores Tesmec’s leadership in delivering comprehensive pipeline solutions. Through innovative utility detection, precise trenching methodologies, and a commitment to end-to-end support, Tesmec maximises safety, productivity, and cost-efficiency. With its global reach and local expertise, Tesmec stands as a trusted partner for clients navigating the complexities of pipeline infrastructure projects worldwide, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

effective monitoring, Denys invested in drones and operator training. The drones collected data, which the AI Clearing system processed using photogrammetry and AI analysis to provide near-real-time project insights. Weekly reports based on this data helped manage 20 tracked activities, from topsoil removal to pipe laying, with information available via an interactive online dashboard. This reporting method replaced labour-intensive surveying, reducing the time needed to gather and analyse progress data and allowing faster and more accurate responses to deviations from the planned design.

The AI Clearing Core system was also able to detect heavy construction equipment, such as HDD drilling machines, bending machines, and pipelayers, and forecast their movement along specific pipeline sections. This approach not only ensured compliance with safety regulations but also assisted in predicting upcoming activities and tasks in those particular areas. As safety is fundamental for pipeline projects,

Denys utilised the AI Clearing system to monitor selected aspects of health and safety compliance and quick detection of potential risks, such as proximity to existing pipelines or infrastructure, unauthorised access to restricted areas, and personnel not wearing safety gear. A distinctive aspect of the solution was its ability to provide both quantitative and visual evidence of the project’s progress. At the beginning of the project, each construction activity was assigned a weight, allowing the team to represent the pipeline’s progress as an accurate percentage of completion. Additionally, the system verified that the mileage calculated using the “Tilos” planning software matched the actual field sections, ensuring that the planned work aligned perfectly with the executed work.

Denys’ new approach has proven to be invaluable not only for monitoring but also for managing financial discussions with subcontractors and the investor. It provided clear visual evidence for progress claims, which helped resolve disputes related to additional work or delays. According to the project manager, AI and drone-powered construction progress tracking has become a long-term asset rather than just an expense, as it reduces contractual issues and clarifies the project’s status for all parties involved. As the industry moves towards increasingly data-driven construction management practices, the project showed how AI & drones can play a

Upcoming Events

2025

PLCA 77 th Annual Convention

5-9 February – Marco Island, Florida, U.S.A. www.plca.org

DCA 64 th Annual Convention

24 February - 1 March – Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.A. www.dcaweb.org

PIG - The Pipeline Industries Guild 67 th Annual Dinner 11 March – London, U.K. www.pipeguild.com

IPLOCA East & Far East Regional Meeting

26 March – Tokyo, Japan www.iploca.com/events/regional-meetings

Hannover Messe

31 March - 4 April – Hannover, Germany www.hannovermesse.de

IPLOCA Novel Construction Spring Session 16-17 April – Palermo, Italy www.iploca.com/events/novel-construction-sessions

crucial role in improving large-scale construction projects’ accuracy, efficiency and accountability.

AI Clearing is a technology company founded in 2019 in Austin, Texas. The company aims to revolutionise the construction progress monitoring industry by seamlessly integrating artificial intelligence with photogrammetry and GIS/CAD technologies. By utilising data captured by drones, design blueprints, and project schedules, their innovative platform generates reliable reports that cover 100% of the construction site quickly.

Pipeline Technology Conference 5-8 May – Berlin, Germany www.pipeline-conference.com

Offshore Technology Conference 5-8 May – Houston, Texas, U.S.A. 2025.otcnet.org

Other Important IPLOCA Dates

Member News for IPLOCA March Newsletter 25 January – Deadline for submissions newsletter@iploca.com

Member News for IPLOCA June Newsletter 25 April – Deadline for submissions newsletter@iploca.com

IPLOCA Scholarship Programme Applications 15 March – Deadline for submissions www.iploca.com/committees/scholarship-programme/ scholarship/

IPLOCA Yearbook 2024-2025

New Edition Out Now

We are pleased to announce the publication of the 58th edition of the IPLOCA Yearbook.

The Yearbook is much more than a publication; it’s a reflection of a shared commitment as members of the IPLOCA Association, a global community of like-minded

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Pipeline & Gas Journal

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professionals working together for the advancement of our industry. Without the support of our advertisers, this essential resource would not be possible. We hope this edition exceeds your expectations, and as always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions. Please remember to send us the contact details of individuals who should receive this publication. All content from the IPLOCA Yearbook is also available online at www.iploca.com/ yearbook , and additional copies can be requested at www.iploca-yearbook.com .

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IPLOCA Board of Directors 2024-2025

Officers

Yasar Giregiz

F ernas Construction Company

President Director, Europe Eastern

Saji Khoury

Consolidated Contractors Company

1st Vice President

Director, Middle East & Africa

Scholarship Committee Chair NextGen Network Project Lead

Bill Solomon

Vacuworx Global, LLC

2 nd Vice President Director, Associate Members

Roberto Castelli

Bonatti S.p.A.

Immediate Past President

Bruno Pomaré

Spiecapag

Treasurer

Director, Europe Mediterranean

Executive Secretary

Georges Hage

Directors

Andrew Ball *

J. Murphy & Sons Limited Director-at-Large Energy Transition Committee Chair

Pablo Brottier SACDE

Director, Latin America

Benet Chan * CATERPILLAR Inc. Director-at-Large

Dean Cowling Michels Corporation Director, America North

Andre Decastro

Darby Equipment Company Inc. Director, Associate Members

Michael Fakhoury

Nesma & Partners Contracting Company UJSC Director, Middle East & Africa

Hakan Göral

Tekfen Insaat Ve Tesisat

Director, Europe Eastern Speakers Project Lead

Henk de Graaf * CRC Evans Director, Europe Northwest

Leonardo Gravina SICIM S.p.A. Director, Europe Mediterranean

Wilko Koop

De Romein Groep B.V. Director, Europe Northwest

Jason LaValley LaValley Industries Director, Associate Members

David Lukas

AJ Lucas Services Pty Ltd. Director, East & Far East

Risal Mahmud PEAL Engineering and Construction Limited Director, East & Far East

Giovanni Muriana MAX STREICHER S.p.A. Director, Europe Central HSE & CSR Committee Chair

Marcin Przywara

Gascontrol Polska Sp. z.o.o. Director, Europe Central Membership & Communication Committee Chair

Somaieh Salehpour * Seal For Life Industries Director-at-Large Innovation Committee Chair

Andrew Stuart * Winn & Coales International Ltd. Director-at-Large

Gerben Wansink * Maats Pipeline Professionals Director-at-Large

Kent Wilfur

Gulf Interstate Engineering Company

Director, America North Convention & Board Location Project Lead

* appointed by the Board of Directors

Back row left to right: Kent Wilfur, Marcin Przywara, David Lukas, Henk de Graaf, Andrew Stuart, Dean Cowling, Pablo Brottier, Hakan Göral, Gerben Wansink, Jason LaValley. Second row: Michael Fakhoury, Leonardo Gravina, Wilko Koop, Andrew Ball, Somaieh Salehpour, Andre Decastro, Giovanni Muriana, Benet Chan, Risal Mahmud. Front row: Roberto Castelli, Bill Solomon, Yasar Giregiz, Saji Khoury, Bruno Pomaré, Georges Hage.