The Australian Pipeliner May 2023

ATCO is adapting its infrastructure vital for WA’s net-zero journey through renewable gases. ImagecourtesyofATCO.

COO

Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR

Molly Hancock molly.hancock@primecreative.com.au

EDITORIAL

Clemence Carayol clemence.carayol@primecreative.com.au

Vivien Topalovic vivien.topalovic@primecreative.com.au

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Nick Lovering nick.lovering@primecreative.com.au

DESIGN PRODUCTION MANAGER

Michelle Weston michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Blake Storey blake.storey@primecreative.com.au

DESIGNERS

Kerry Pert, Louis Romero

COPYRIGHT

The Australian Pipeliner is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in The Australian Pipeliner is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in The Australian Pipeliner are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

© Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2021

ARTICLES

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

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The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association’s (APGA) vision is to lead the sustainable growth in pipeline infrastructure for Australasia’s energy. APGA is a non-profit organisation formed to represent the interests of its members involved in: the ownership, operation, maintenance, design, engineering, supply and construction of pipelines, platforms and all other structures used in or in connection with the drilling for, extraction and transmission of hydrocarbons, solids, slurries and similar substances both onshore and offshore. As a single voice representing the collective interests of its members, APGA is dedicated to encouraging the extension and development of the industry.

The Australian Pipeliner | May 2023

As the leading innovator, we continue to supply our customers with the technology, methods, and consultancy to make the best integrity management decisions for their assets. No matter what the future holds, renewable hydrogen as a flexible energy carrier plays a vital role in moving the industry further; we want to make sure you are ready.

Fit for the Future. Ready for Hydrogen.

Chief Executive Officer’s report

As you may have noticed, the gas industry has been making headlines recently due to significant government activity that has impacted gas markets and the pipeline industry. The government has made interjections with the intent to determine outcomes through gas price caps and an increased scope of powers for the Australia Energy Market Operator (AEMO). These developments have all played out heavily in the media and are the likes of which we have not seen since the 1970s.

In response to these changes, our advocacy program and policy team has been working tirelessly to ensure the voice of the industry is heard. We have introduced several new narratives into the conversation, most recently focusing on the “cost of electrification” for the everyday person. Independent modelling from the parliamentary Budget Office has revealed that the cost of electrifying a suburb in Canberra would be an average of $26,000 per home to switch from gas to electricity. Through a few simple calculations, we were able to put a total cost of electrification in a region upwards of $130 billion, which is a total much higher than what has been estimated to date. This interjection resulted in much-needed debate on the cost of electrification and its impact on the gas industry, as well as a few days of media coverage for the APGA.

Our policy team has also been working relentlessly to inject commentary on the opportunity renewable gas provides to meet emissions targets and direct conversation around proposed changes to the industry. We have provided commentary on key topics including the safeguard mechanism, Australian domestic gas security mechanism, and state-based policy in Tasmania, New South Wales, and South Australia. You can have a look at the submission section of the website and see that we have made 24 submissions to the end of April in 2023

already. This is an unprecedented level of activity from governments across the country and I am sure that you are all experiencing the effects of this in some way, shape or form in your own organisations.

It is great that APGA has the capacity to match this level of activity and be a bigger part of the public conversation this year. I can see from the feedback that members are noticing. The additional resources APGA’s Owner Members have put into the enhanced advocacy program is the reason we have been able to keep the pace and make more of a difference. The work we are doing is critical to ensuring the role of gas and gas infrastructure in delivering a decarbonised future is understood, accepted and supported across Australia.

At APGA, we are committed to our 2050 vision and support a net-zero future for Australia. Within that, we believe that a multipronged approach to emissions reduction is necessary. As such, we are actively advocating for the introduction of a renewable gas target. Renewable gases, such as hydrogen and biomethane, represent a real, technically viable approach to lowest-cost energy decarbonisation in Australia. We see renewable gases playing a critical role in decarbonising gas use for both wholesale and retail customers. All that is needed now is a plan to deliver the integrated energy system of the future that delivers decarbonised liquid, gas and electricity to the country. I can write it in a single sentence but it is a huge task.

The theme of this edition of The Australian Pipeliner is as important as ever in our industry, with a focus on future fuels and emissions reduction. We believe that it is crucial to continue this theme throughout the year at the APGA, with a particular focus on the future of the industry and the role that renewable gases play. As such, we would like to extend an invitation to you to attend this year's APGA Convention and Exhibition in Perth in October.

ABN: 29 098 754 324

APGA Secretariat Registered Office: 7 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 (PO Box 5416, Kingston ACT 2604) T: +61 2 6273 0577

E: apga@apga.org.au

W: www.apga.org.au

Chief Executive Officer

Steve Davies

Corporate Services Manager

Michelle Wickson

National Policy Manager

Jordan McCollum

Communications Manager

Lawrence Shelton

Engagement Manager

Dean Bennett

Membership Officer

Katy Spence Events Coordinator

Matthew Freeborough

Policy Manager

Catriona Rafael

Government Relations Manager

Paul Purcell

Early bird is open now! We believe that this is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the industry, network with like-minded individuals, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments, and how you can play a role in the future of the industry.

I hope to see you all there.

STEVE DAVIES CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Central Highlands Water invests $15 million in Daylesford water supply pipeline

Central Highlands Water’s announcement of a $15 million investment in Daylesford’s longterm water supply security is a welcome boost for the region’s future growth and climate resilience.

According to Central Highlands Water‘s (CHW) chair Angeleen Jenkins, the new 14-kilometre water pipeline will provide enhanced security of water supply within the region and will future-proof the water needs of the service area against the impacts of climate change.

“As part of the operations of the asset when complete CHW has committed to 100 per cent use of renewable energy by 2025,” she said.

“This major capital investment in Daylesford’s water reserves will support long-term prosperity, growth and development within the region.”

CHW will continue working with the Hepburn Shire Council and relevant cultural, environmental and community

stakeholders regarding the planning and delivery of this project.

“We appreciate the ongoing collaboration and support shown by all involved and we look forward to securing the region’s water future together,” Jenkins said.

Hepburn Shire Council mayor Brian Hood welcomed this collaboration.

“Securing water for the future through the delivery of this valuable infrastructure is important for local residents, businesses and tourism as well as for the next generation of our water users,” he said.

When needed, it will be able deliver more than 300 million additional litres per annum of supplementary raw water for the community. This means during periods of dry climate and drought, the pipeline will complement Daylesford’s two existing major surface water supplies, the Wombat and Bullarto Reservoirs. The underground 400mm diameter raw water pipeline will extend from Blampied, connecting to the Goldfields Superpipe, and

utilising existing power easements and road reserves where possible.

The end connection for the pipeline will be at the Daylesford Water Treatment Plant.

The successful contractor for this significant project is S & R Construction and Engineering. The development of the water pipeline will be undertaken in three stages, with commencement of pipeline construction work to begin in early 2023 and with the expected completion of works in the second half of 2024.

Oil and gas industry urge NSW to consider energy challenges as priority

Repeated recent warnings from independent authorities like the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) regarding the NSW energy strategy are not to be ignored any longer if forecast shortfalls are to be avoided.

Australia’s oil and gas industry has urged the incoming New South Wales Labor Government to recognise the crucial role of natural gas in the state’s cleaner energy future and enable investment in new supply to avoid forecast shortfalls and put downward pressure on prices.

The Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (APPEA) congratulated Premier-Elect Chris Minns for winning the support of NSW voters at the recent state election.

APPEA Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch however was adamant: NSW needs to listen to ACCC and AEMO’s repeated warnings.

“The oil and gas industry congratulates Chris Minns on his victory and urges his new team to consider the serious and immediate energy challenges as a matter of priority,” McCulloch said.

“New South Wales is a big gas user but has left its own reserves in the ground and outsourced its energy security, exacerbating the cost-of-living pressures on NSW households and businesses.

“Bans and regulatory uncertainty have made new supply investment very difficult and left users paying $2/GJ extra when gas is transported from Queensland, often over untapped NSW reserves.”

McCulloch outlined that the new government needed to recognise the key role of natural gas in a cleaner energy future as identified by international and national energy authorities and echoed by the Prime Minister.

“The state needs to provide a clear strategy to promote investment in new supply in order to help avoid forecast shortfalls in the east coast energy market and put downward pressure on prices,” she explained.

“This could include fast-tracking new supply options like the long-delayed Narrabri Gas Project, which could supply enough natural gas to meet up to half of the state’s gas demand.”

McCulloch said states which have put in place investment-friendly environments benefited greatly – with better energy security, cheaper energy, emissions reductions and substantial economic benefits.

“Queensland, for example, forecasts $7 billion in gas royalties in coming years to build hospitals and roads while over 30,000 jobs are supported by its CSG and LNG developments,” she said.

“New South Wales, meanwhile, is missing out on the public revenue and jobs that local gas production provides while risking the lights going out.”

Australia’s oil and gas industry has urged the incoming NSW Labor Government to recognise the crucial role of natural gas in the state’s cleaner energy future.

CHW will continue working with the Hepburn Shire Council regarding the planning and delivery of this project.

Jemena opts for renewable electricity and organic waste

Jemena is investing in demonstration projects that will generate biomethane sourced from gases released by organic waste and hydrogen made by using electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.

In a recent video, “Renewable gas – from pipe dream to pipe line”, Jemena’s commitment towards a cleaner energy future is reinforced. Jemena’s customers are committed in reducing their emissions, that is why the company is investing in projects that demonstrate that renewable gas “is a viable way to help Australia meet its net zero emission targets.”

“However, at Jemena, they are exploring how renewable electricity and organic waste can provide renewable gas for their customers.”

In the video, the Jemena team explains how “gas plays an important role in firming the

energy system and generating electricity when base load power stations and renewables like solar and wind aren’t available”.

“Our customers tell us they love gas – it’s fast, flexible, reliable and has provided energy to our homes and economy for many decades.”

With its demonstration projects, Jemena is exploring how to use hydrogen and oxygen to reduce carbon emissions in the gas network in the coming decades, and to look at the potential for its customers to use renewable gas in their homes, businesses, and manufacturing. “By using renewable gas in existing gas infrastructure, it will help keep energy affordable for our customers in the long run,” shares the Jemena team.

The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) applauded Jemena for thinking

Coliban Water’s new pipeline to improve local water supply

Residents in Epsom and Huntly will be able to benefit from improvements this autumn with Coliban Water finalising its new pipeline project.

With residential areas in Epsom and Huntly in regional Victoria continuing to grow, the performance of the local water supply is primordial.

Design work for the pipeline started in 2021 and construction commenced in May 2022, and is set to be finalised in the coming months, as final trenching is underway near Station Street and ground boring is being finalised across several short sections of the new pipeline. The new pipeline, which will run from Howard Street in Epsom to Gungurru Road in Huntly, is one of the largest water supply pipeline projects installed in our region in recent years.

“We are aware some customers have been experiencing water pressure issues, particularly on hot days and at peak times when more water is used to run air conditioners, water gardens and keep cool,” said the Coliban Water team.

“We work closely with Council and land developers to plan for population changes in our region to ensure we provide adequate

outside the box when it comes to renewable energy and producing biomethane.

“When it comes to renewable energy, most people think of solar panels and wind turbines” shared the AGPA team.

water services.”

According to Coliban Waters, operating from this autumn, the benefits of the pipeline will be immediate.

However, local residents can expect to notice a real difference from next summer, when increased demand for water typically adds to low-pressure issues.

The new pipeline is one of the largest water supply pipeline projects installed in our region in recent years.

With its demonstration projects, Jemena is exploring how to use hydrogen and oxygen to reduce carbon emissions in the gas network in the coming decades.

Why a renewable gas target is critical to gas use decarbonisation

By Jordan McCollum, National Policy Manager, APGA

As advocates for the transition to renewable gases, we often talk about the ability to reach net zero gas in Australia by 2050. But what does reaching net zero gas actually mean?

achieving net zero, and 2025 can be considered as a reasonable point in time to start targeted renewable gas development. The application of a diffusion of innovation curve between 2025 and 2050 can be seen in Figure 4. By following this renewable gas uptake trajectory, rather than a straight line or some other form of trajectory, diffusion of innovation theory suggests Australia should deliver net zero gas by 2050.

Now that we know that this is the trajectory that the renewable gas industry must meet to achieve net zero gas by 2050, the question that remains is – how do we get on this trajectory?

Having come leaps and bounds in researching the production, transport, storage and utilisation of renewable gases like hydrogen and biomethane, we know that we have the tools necessary to achieve a net zero gas system domestically in Australia. However, the path ahead of us is still a little less clear.

Luckily, renewable gases aren’t the first new technology to embark on a gradual takeover of an existing market. Thanks to the experience of the motor vehicle, the internet, smart phones and even renewable electricity before them, the pathway of renewable gases to transition Australia’s gas supply chain to net zero gas isn’t as murky as one may think.

Like new technologies in the past, renewable gases are anticipated to follow what is referred to as diffusion of innovation theory. The theory observes that most new technologies will follow, at least approximately, a normal distribution s-curve when taking over an incumbent market –referred to as the diffusion of innovation curve. Approximations of the diffusion of innovation curve have been seen across most new technologies which have developed across the past century. With 20 per cent adoption by 2020 under the Renewable Energy Target (RET), this positions the renewable electricity industry on the curve to achieve net zero for the existing electricity market by 2050 (Figure 3). Whether by accident or design, targeting 20 per cent

uptake played a role in putting renewable electricity firmly on the trajectory to full market takeover. The 20 per cent mark is well above the combined innovators (first 2.5 per cent of uptake) and early adopters (next 13.5 per cent of uptake). By ensuring uptake enters the early majority portion of the diffusion of innovation curve, the RET ensured that renewable electricity uptake would continue even after the target had been met.

Renewable gas advocates can take advantage of this knowledge to plan out the renewable gas diffusion of innovation curve required to achieve net zero gas by 2050. As per the electricity sector, targeting 90 per cent renewable gas production by 2050 will be considered equivalent to

This is why a renewable gas target is so critical to gas use decarbonisation in Australia. A renewable gas target of 3.5 per cent by 2030 and 20 per cent by 2035 can ensure that renewable gas deployment develops beyond the innovators and early adopters phases of the diffusion of innovation curve prior to 2035. By doing to, renewable gas deployment will be on a trajectory which aligns with net zero gas by 2050.

By observing how new technologies diffuse into existing markets and how the RET ensured that this occurred in a timely manner, we have the opportunity to ensure that renewable gas deployment doesn’t follow the diffusion of innovation curve, but that a renewable gas target is set to align with achieving net zero by 2050.

For more information visit www.apga.org.au

Figure 2: Diffusion of innovation curve examples.

Figure 4: Renewable gas diffusion of innovation curve.

Figure 1: Diffusion of innovation curve.

Figure 3: Renewable electricity diffusion of innovation curve.

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From the Netherlands to APA Group's leading man in hydrogen and future fuels

So, tell us a little about yourself?

As the Head of Hydrogen and Future Fuels at APA Group, I am responsible for delivery of APA’s strategic hydrogen and future fuels projects. My role involves looking into the future at the transportation and storage infrastructure requirements necessary to support future fuels such as hydrogen and biogas.

One of the key projects I have been leading is focused on the potential conversion of the southern section of the Parmelia Gas Pipeline in Western Australia, from natural gas to hydrogen service. This involves addressing various

technical challenges to ensure a safe and efficient conversion process.

This is a key project in APA’s Pathfinder Program, which is focused on helping unlock the energy solutions of the future – and would make the Parmelia Gas Pipeline Australia’s first, 100 per cent hydrogen-ready transmission pipeline.

Some background on how you landed your new role?

I was born and raised in the Netherlands and came to Australia in 2009 to work as a program manager at the Global Carbon Capture and

Storage Institute in Canberra. I spent four years there, focusing on various aspects of carbon capture, transportation, utilisation, and storage technologies.

After that, I moved to Wollongong to work as the Research Manager for the Energy Pipelines Cooperative Research Centre (EPRCRC). It was during this time that I became involved with the APGA Research and Standards Committee. Toward the end of my time at the Energy Pipeline CRC, I coordinated a bid for the Future Fuels CRC and served as the Research and Innovation manager for that new industry-led research centre after it received

In this month’s APGA Q&A, the spotlight is on APA Group’s Head of Hydrogen and Future Fuels, Klaas Van Alphen.

its funding in 2019.

After nearly a decade of managing R&D projects on behalf of industry I jumped the fence and joined the corporate world in July 2022. It's been a great opportunity to move beyond research, and actually work on projects that are looking to utilise the technologies and concepts we've always been studying in the lab. Given the strong climate ambitions in Australia and across the globe, I believe this is the right time to be on the side of developers and owners of the net zero energy infrastructure required in the energy transition.

You've gone from a very theoretical position to a very practical position, can you elaborate?

Yes and no. Even though my previous roles were primarily research oriented, I have been managing research on behalf of industry, particularly the energy pipeline industry. So, there was always a practical and applied element to it as well. The research projects I managed, sometimes 50+ at one time, were largely aimed at improving industry standards and delivering research outputs that could be adopted by industry. Research projects ranged from future proofing Australian gas distribution networks by testing the long-term effects of hydrogen on the plastic materials in that network, to better understanding organisational causes of major incidents in our sector. It is fair to say that most of the research led to improved safety outcomes of our (future) gas industry.

You say you had early engagement with the Research and Standards Committee at the University of Wollongong?

That's right. The APGA Research and Standards Committee is the largest industry funder of the research conducted by cooperative research organisations such as the Energy Pipeline CRC and its successor, the Future Fuels CRC. As a result, the committee guides and directs the research to ensure that it addresses the needs and challenges of the industry now and into the future.

In my previous role, I was responsible for listening to the industry's opportunities, challenges and issues, and translating them into research projects aimed at developing solutions to realise the opportunities and resolve the issues. Now, in my current role, I am on the other side of the equation, seeking out research bodies to help solve my own challenges. But regardless of which side I am on, the goal is always to drive innovation and progress the wider industry, with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Tell us a bit more about your involvement in the APGA RSC and how you sort of came to it and what your future ambitions are for the committee?

Well, I was recently appointed as the chair of the RSC, which is a great honour for me. I understand that the past chairs of the RSC have set high standards, and I hope to live up to those expectations. There are some big shoes to fill.

In the past, I was more concerned with informing the RSC, briefing them on the latest research. However, my new role as the chair requires me to oversee the committee's work looking at the interface between standards and research, as well as strengthening important international relations. Using research and relationships to inform standards and ensuring the

safety of our pipeline assets in Australia.

Included in that is also doing both long-term strategic researche looking at what's over the horizon, as well addressing the issues and opportunities we face today. We need research to make our projects run efficiently and safely today, but also need to undertake research now to be ready for the projects of the future.

It might be quite exciting to be able to be in a position to kick off research projects that might have an influence in five, 10 years?

It is, but it is as important to have a mix between technical research that provides quick solutions to current issues and more strategic research that looks towards the future. For example, when the Future Fuels CRC was established in 2019, hydrogen was not yet a widely recognised industry opportunity. Now, the industry is pleased to have the CRC in place to provide answers to important technical and engineering questions, such as whether our pipelines can transport hydrogen at high transmission pressures and if our current gas customers can use it without major modifications to their equipment. At the same time, the CRC is working to develop new codes and standards for designing and operating hydrogen pipelines. The RSC plays a crucial role in ensuring that our current standards are up-to-date and informed by the latest science, while also anticipating and preparing for new fuels that may be transported through pipelines in the future, with a focus on safety.

You mentioned safety a few times is that a big part of the research going for it or is that just a part of research as a whole?

Maintaining our technical standards to ensure the safety of our people working in our industry as well as the customers and communities that interact with our pipeline assets has always been a significant focus of the APGA RSC.

With roughly 50 companies contributing funding to research, the research done is typically for the benefit of the entire industry, rather than just individual companies. It is essential to have sound technical standards in place that people can design and operate assets to, and investing in research to improve safety is a worthy cause. As the industry transitions into new fuels, it is crucial to ensure a safe transition because even a single incident could set back the entire industry or development for years. While research that benefits commercial interests or allows projects to run more efficiently is also important, safety should always be a top priority. This includes managing existing assets safely and looking into the future with pipeline infrastructure.

APA Group’s Head of Hydrogen and Future Fuels, Klaas Van Alphen.

What is the committee like when people inside the committee how is it organised? How do the people work together within the committee?

I believe around 50 companies have signed up to the RSC, and we usually have around 30-35 people representing their companies attending our meetings three times a year. While we do offer a hybrid option, I strongly encourage people to attend in person as there is a very open and collaborative spirit within the committee. It's a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, and for operators, constructors, consultants, suppliers, and others to come together and discuss their issues. We discuss whether these issues can be resolved through Standards or if research is required, and these discussions often lead to new research topics and programs moving forward.

Our meetings always include a ‘lessons learned’ or sharing session where people share their experiences since the last meeting. Even if the topic is not directly related to your area of expertise, it's still fascinating to hear what others are doing for the industry and what issues they may face.

Through the RSC, as well as our current research with the Future Fuels CRC, we have established a strong reputation for the Australian pipeline research and standards community with our counterparts in North America and Europe.

I frequently have late-night and earlymorning calls with colleagues from the European Pipeline Research Group (EPRG) and Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI), where we share our findings and keep up with the latest research and standards development happening overseas. It's important for the Australian industry to tap into these international linkages and access the research being done in other parts of the world. By joining the RSC, companies do not only gain access to the world leading research undertaken by our Australian research partners, but also gain benefit from those valuable international connections.

Is there any exciting innovation coming out of North America or Europe at this point that might be beneficial to us?

It's interesting because you would think that in the future fuels space we are potentially lagging a bit behind overseas developments. However, this is not the case. When it comes to our knowledge and focus on pipeline assets, particularly in terms of hydrogen pipeline design and operations, some companies in North America are actually looking at us and

what we're doing as opposed to the other way around. We always look to complement the research done overseas to best utilise our research dollars.

We have been leading the way in this area through our work with the Future Fuels CRC, and through APA’s Parmelia Gas Pipeline hydrogen conversion project that I mentioned earlier. Our engineers and scientists are doing some amazing work in material science, organisational safety and pipeline design engineering.

While we do look at Europe, North America and other parts of the world for innovations and new thinking, we recognise that their scale and resources are different from ours. I’m sometimes a bit jealous of the resources they have available to do things. However, because we are so well connected, we are able to leverage their work and we often share our findings with them. Overall, I am impressed by the level of collaboration and the sharing of knowledge between different regions.

Anything locally that you are excited about coming out of the RSC?

I know we spoke about innovation, but I'll bring it back a bit and talk about codification and Standards. One thing I'm really excited about is what we've done with the industry membership, working collaboratively with the research community and the state-based technical regulators, in developing a Hydrogen Pipeline Code of Practice, which is what I would call an interim standard that allows those involved in designing new or repurposing existing pipelines for hydrogen service to have sound guidance to support those designs and eventually the operations of those assets. This is a big gap now as it doesn't exist in Australia. So, for that to come out, and I expect it to come out by the middle of this year, is going to be a key milestone and key output of Future Fuel CRC and the APGA Research and Standards Committee.

The Hydrogen CoP is an amalgamation of the research and industry knowledge sharing undertaken to date and bringing it all together in a code of practice.

In addition to the anticipated code of practice, the RSC and Future Fuels CRC have already made a major contribution by building a test lab at the University of Wollongong. It allows us to test pipeline materials in a hydrogen environment at pipeline pressures, contributing to new pipeline design or asset conversion. Having that testing capability in Australia is a major win for the industry.

More with a focus on the distribution assets, Deakin University has set up a similar system

that allows for testing of plastics (or PE pipes) for use with hydrogen. I think that's key, having the research capability available at a number of Australian world-class universities to support the industry across a wide range of topics, not just the new energy transition fluids like hydrogen, ammonia and carbon dioxide, but also to support our existing natural gas system.

I could go on about all the good research that has been done, like novel corrosion monitoring approaches, innovation in pipeline surveillance techniques, mechanical damage assessments, and many other exciting things, but the short of it is that there is a long history of really good research that was guided and used by APGA RSC members.

What would you say to someone who wants to join a committee so whether it'd be the Research and Standards Committee or one of the other committees within the APGA?

It's always best to try things out for yourself and that goes for every APGA committee. It is a great way to contribute to the industry and gain relationships and new knowledge that will benefit your business.

My main involvement has been with the RSC, and one of the benefits of participating in the RSC is not only being up-to-date with the latest developments in Standards and research, but also the networking opportunities it provides. Although not all the research and knowledge may be relevant to your company, there are always some valuable insights that you can gain from participating in the RSC. It is also a great way for new entrants in the industry to learn. Additionally, being part of a collaborative community that is at the heart of new research and standardisation is something to be proud of and is important to be a part of.

What’s on the agenda for you in your new role?

That is a good question. Look, I've just started in my role and only had one meeting as chair, but there are a few things on the horizon that I am excited about.

One of my goals is to improve communication and integration between the RSC and other APGA committees. To strengthen the ties between research teams and standards committees, as they sometimes diverge. Additionally, I want to ensure that everyone in the RSC gets the value they seek from the committee. There are a lot of opportunities to strengthen what the RSC already has, and I plan to develop a forwardlooking research program that goes beyond the term of the Future Fuels CRC.

Pipeliners have everything to gain from a net zero Australia

By David Norman, CEO of Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre

May marks a milestone with the launch of a major techno-economic study of how a net-zero Australia could look. Titled the Net Zero Australia Study, and led by the Universities of Melbourne, Queensland, Princeton and the Nous Group Consultancy, we at Future Fuels CRC have sponsored the study alongside APA Group and Worley. Included is a diverse advisory group to achieve its aim of being rigorous, granular, evidence-driven, technology-neutral and nonpolitical.

The study is designed to look at how a true net-zero emission Australia would operate based on a series of potential scenarios. It does not make judgements of which scenario is more desirable, achievable or likely. It lets each of us decide that for ourselves. But what it does do is illustrate the scale, complexity and cost of the net zero challenge, the implications of key choices, and the potential impacts of making those choices across society, the economy and the environment.

The study is a ground-breaking piece of modelling, showing how large-scale variable renewable energy (VRE) could transform our country, both for domestic and exports markets. The model was provided with the option of building either hydrogen pipelines from VRE aggregation nodes to port and demand locations or building only electricity transmission instead.

The model chose to build primarily hydrogen pipelines between the VRE nodes and ports, with hydrogen being produced in electrolysis facilities at VRE aggregation nodes before being piped to the port, and electricity lines being run in parallel to support the electricity requirements of other new industrial infrastructure, such as desalination plants and ammonia facilities.

All core scenarios involve the construction of very substantial hydrogen pipelines by 2060, with a need for 292 to 600 GW of hydrogen transmission pipelines. These pipelines are chosen by the model as the least cost means of moving the enormous quantity of clean energy from inland solar and wind locations, where the model choses to convert the renewable electricity to hydrogen at the earliest possible opportunity and then utilise the cheaper means of transmission of clean molecules by pipeline to port locations. This outcome is very consistent with separate modelling work released by the APGA, of the economics of pipelines versus powerlines and again demonstrates the commercial advantage of moving molecules versus moving electrons in such situations.

Depending on the individual scenario, that’s 10,000 to 15,000 kms of large diameter hydrogen transmission pipelines to service these export regions, plus water pipelines to carry the required desalinated water in the opposite direction. Separately the modelling study

illustrates the requirement for 16,000 to 20,000 kms of carbon dioxide pipelines to support the carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) needed to make net zero possible.

All this capacity will need storage to balance VRE supply and demand from both domestic and export customers. Depending on the scenario, between 20 and 60 TWh of hydrogen storage will be needed. That’s equivalent to over 200PJ of gaseous fuel storage.

All of this creates an enormous opportunity for the pipeline industry to innovate and support the transition to net zero across Australia.

There are countless other conclusions and insights available from the ground-breaking work. I encourage you to delve into this study in depth and find the opportunities for your business.

You can find the full study plus all the methods, data and the seventeen downscaling reports which provide granular results on employment, capital deployment, renewable and non-renewable resources at www. netzeroaustralia.net.au

You can find out more about our research at futurefuelscrc.com and the Net Zero Australia study at netzeroaustralia.net.au

A new study by three major universities shows the scale of hydrogen, carbon dioxide and water pipelines needed to achieve net zero. Australian pipeliners have everything to gain from the opportunities that decarbonisation will bring.

The Net Zero Australia Study explores how large-scale variable renewable energy could transform Australia.

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Significant infrastructure developments in WA

Over the last 12 months, Western Australia has seen many infrastructure developments crucial in developing future growth for the region.

WA state Development Minister Roger Cook says providing the land for projects including hydrogen, ammonia and green iron ore would help transform the two sites into globally competitive, multi-product industrial precincts.

“The projects across the two SIAs will deliver a range of projects including ammonia, green iron ore, and hydrogen,” he says.

“From job creation to growing the local advanced manufacturing industry and servicing international markets, we will see the economic benefits of these land allocations and these projects flow through the WA economy over time.”

Santos delivers more domestic gas to WA

Strike Energy received multiple key regulatory approvals regarding the Walyering gas field development via the Part V works approvals, Pipeline License and now the Environmental Plan which will support construction and commissioning operations.

In investment news, Mandurah’s largest Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) received a $37 million investment aimed to cater for future growth in the region. Similarly, the WA government announced that it had earmarked land in the Pilbara region for mainly hydrogen projects.

Elsewhere, Australian oil and gas exploration and production company Santos entered into a new gas supply agreement with the Walyering joint venture (JV) in the Perth Basin.

In celebration of an important milestone, the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme pipeline marked its 120th anniversary, underlining its significant contribution to the development of Western Australia.

Strike receives approvals for Walyering gas field development

The facility, which will be the closest source of gas to the major southwest gas market and powered purely by solar and battery storage, enables Walyering to have one of the lowest emissions intensities for current WA domestic gas supplies.

Construction and commissioning is estimated to take approximately six weeks with production operations to follow on completion of pipeline connection.

The workover rig is currently on Walyering-5 before moving to Walyering-6 to install the production completions.

Mandurah WRRF gets $37 million investment

Water Corporation’s Gordon Road WRRF treats wastewater from tens of thousands of homes and businesses in Mandurah, North Mandurah, Barragup, Yunderup, and West Murray.

Water Minister Simone McQurk says that the McGowan Government is committed to ensuring that water and wastewater services keep pace with the growing demand across the region.

“We live in a booming State with a strong job market, thriving economy and an enviable lifestyle, that will see our population continue to grow. Nowhere is that more evident than in Peel,” he says.

“Water Corporation’s upgrades to the Gordon Road Water Resource Recovery Facility will ensure the community continues to receive a safe and reliable wastewater service well into the future.”

The project is expected to be completed in late2024 and create 100 jobs during construction.

WA dishes out land for $70 billion green megaprojects

The WA government announced in early January 2023 that it had earmarked land for seven projects collectively valued at $70 billion at two heavy industrial estates near the Pilbara coastal towns of Port Hedland and Onslow.

BP, POSCO, Fortescue, Alinta Energy and UK firm Tees Valley Lithium were allocated land at the 4000-hectare Boodarie strategic industrial area (SIA) south of Port Hedland where most of Australia’s iron ore exports are loaded. Similarly, Equus Energy (a subsidiary of Western Gas) and Fortescue Future Industries were allocated land in the Ashburton SIA.

Santos will purchase a total of 36.5 petajoules of gas from the Walyering field over five years, commencing in the first half of 2023.

Santos Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gallagher says Santos continues to support Western Australian industry through the delivery of competitively priced domestic natural gas.

“We are delighted to sign this agreement with the Walyering joint venture and bring this gas to market in a timely manner, reinforcing our position as WA’s biggest supplier of domestic gas,” Gallagher says.

Golden Pipeline celebrates 120 years of service

The heritage listed scheme, commonly known as the Golden or Goldfields Pipeline, officially opened at Mount Charlotte, Kalgoorlie, on 24 January 1903, pumping fresh water 566 km east from Mundaring Weir to the Eastern Goldfields.

Water Minister Simone McGurk says that the iconic pipeline is the only reason people in the Goldfields get fresh water every day and how Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Coolgardie survived as towns through the gold rush and beyond.

“The scheme will evolve over the next 50 years, as sections of the above-ground pipework reach the end of their service life, to improve the reliability of the scheme, while also supporting population and economic growth well into the future.”

The brainchild of WA’s first Engineer-in-Chief CY O’Connor, the pipeline had a focus on delivering a reliable water supply to the arid Goldfields. It is considered one of Australia’s greatest engineering achievements and was the world’s longest overland pipeline at completion.

The Western Australian government announced in early January 2023 that it had earmarked land for seven projects.

Reinforcing gender stereotypes

By Margaret Gayen on behalf of the APGA

Advocacy Committee

Women are irrational. Men pay on dates. Girls are just naturally better at caring. Boys like cars. Most of us would agree that the first two of these statements are problematic, but how many of us would casually accept the last two?

All of these ideas are stereotypes: widely held, generalising ideas that create expectations of people by their “category”. Gender stereotypes in particular are frequently applied because gender is one of the first traits we recognise, and one we

always remember.

Stereotyping directly affects our lives: evidence shows that gender stereotyping in the workplace impacts access to training, promotions, pay rises, networking opportunities, mentoring, flexible work, and parental leave, among others1.

The thinking is insidious. Managers apply stereotypes to their team without meaning to. Recruiters apply them to job applicants. Team members apply them to other team members, and individuals apply them to themselves. You have probably seen, applied, or experienced stereotyping without noticing.

Most gender stereotypes derive from the historic division of labour; however, beyond the physical birthing and feeding of children by women, the reason for that division of labour is unclear. In today’s Australia, we recognise that women can do historically male activities, and can do them well. We also recognise that men can do historically female activities, and can do them well.

So why do these stereotypes continue?

There is a persistent belief in our society that women are “better” at historically female activities (caretaking, domestic work), while men are “better” at historically male activities (competitive, protective work). But this is selffulfilling: believing that women are better than men at caring supports a view that childcare responsibilities should fall exclusively on

WPF

Gender stereotypes in particular are frequently applied because gender is one of the first traits we recognise.

Margaret Gayen from APGA WPF says stereotyping directly affects our lives: evidence shows that gender stereotyping in the workplace impacts access.

women. It also suggests that men aren’t good at caring, which implies that fathers should not be primary carers. When these beliefs are used to justify division of labour, it becomes true: anyone with more experience at childcare will become better at it. Someone who has never performed childcare is unlikely to be good at it. In this case, it is not the genetic characteristics of the person, but the education and opportunity the person was afforded that created a skill divide.

These are also messages that we are internalising. As Paula Stone Williams said: “the more you’re treated as if you don’t know what you’re talking about, the more you begin to question whether you do, in fact, know what you’re talking about”.

Tell someone they can’t show emotion or display a caring attitude, and they will try not to let themself do so. Doubt their ability to perform domestic work, and they will lose confidence and interest in doing it.

Similarly, if we question a person’s logical thinking, scientific ability, or leadership skills, they will question their own ability in those areas. If we limit a person’s access to suitable facilities, or suitable clothing, or safe and accepting working environments, they will

not feel like they belong there.

Are we creating the stereotype of the “unemotional” man, the “stoic” and “uncaring” man, simply by expecting it? Are we enforcing the stereotype of the “less confident” woman, the “emotional” woman, the “non-technical” woman, simply by believing it?

Cordelia Fine investigates “essential differences” between sexes in her book “The Delusions of Gender”1. She shows that there is very little unbiased scientific backing to any of the well-known gender differences. However, there is proof that once supposed gender differences become known, they help to create those differences. Fine explains, “when the environment makes gender salient, we start to think of ourselves in terms of our gender and stereotypes, and social expectations become more prominent in the mind. This can change self-perception, alter interests, debilitate or enhance ability, and trigger unintentional discrimination. In other words, the social context influences who you are, how you think and what you do. And these thoughts, attitudes and behaviours of yours, in turn become part of the social context”.

So not only are stereotypes limiting access to education and opportunity, and imposing

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boundaries on our behaviour, but we are also affected by the preconceptions of the people around us to the extent that we internalise it – and unconsciously behave according to the expected social identity of our gender. In this way, stereotypes which may originally have been unfounded are reinforced again and again, exacerbating gender inequalities that would not exist without those stereotypes.

To break this cycle, we must work to challenge gender stereotypes. We must promote equality of respect, education, and opportunity. We must constantly question our assumptions. We must allow ourselves, and the people around us, the opportunity to develop skills, abilities, and possibilities free from imagined limitations.

Wouldn’t it be freeing to do what you are good at in the way you are good at it?

REFERENCES

1 Gayen, M., Nixon, C. (2022) Creating cultural Change to Support Gender Equality in Engineering”. APGA. https:// www.apga.org.au/sites/default/files/uploaded-content/ website-content/creating_cultural_change_to_support_ gender_equality_in_engineering_and_in_the_oil_gas_and_ pipeline_industry.pdf

2 Fine, C. (2010). Delusions of Gender: the Real Science Behind Sex Differences. London: Icon.

Inspection solutions and their role in pipeline repurposing

Achieving ambitious climate policy goals will require significant investments in energy efficiency, renewables, new low-carbon technologies, and grid infrastructure. It will also necessitate the close integration of the electricity and gas sectors and their respective infrastructures. A decarbonised Europe will be based on an interplay between renewable electricity and renewable and low-carbon gases in an integrated energy system, all aimed at transporting, storing, and supplying all sectors with green energy to deliver a reliable and affordable transition to climate neutrality.

Anumber of studies have shown that the existing gas infrastructure and knowledge can support the transition to net zero in the most efficient manner. As the energy transition advances, the valuable pipeline system will provide efficient transportation and

storage capacity for renewable energy in the form of molecular energy carriers, making the energy system more flexible and resilient. [1].

Energy systems

Over the past decades, energy systems around

the world have grown to connect supply and demand. Countries and companies have built electrical power transmission lines and pipelines for oil and gas to enable economic growth and prosperity. With this growth, consumption of fossil fuels, and therefore greenhouse gas

Figure 1: Sector coupling principle with different forms of energy in pipeline transport.

emissions, has increased. The current carbonbased energy system is undergoing profound changes driven by increased concerns over the longevity and security of fossil energy. Countries all around the world are looking for ways to transform their energy systems. Initiatives like the European Hydrogen Backbone illustrate the efforts to transform current European energy systems in order to lower their greenhouse gas emissions.[2].

Pipelines play a major role in the transformation of the energy system because of their ability to safely transport energy over long distances and act as storage at the same time. Compared to electrical power lines, pipelines can carry more energy and are directly connected to existing storage infrastructure, such as caverns. This integrated setup enables countries like Germany to integrate imported energy via pipeline from sources with lower energy production costs. Especially in light of international climate control goals, the high energy density and the established and partly global transport infrastructure (e.g., pipeline connections from Scandinavia or the Mediterranean or new terminals to import LNG from overseas), it can be assumed that a global market for CO2 neutral gases (and

fuels) will develop.[3].

A transformed energy landscape with significantly lower emissions will be based on the sector coupling principle, providing greater flexibility to the energy system so that decarbonisation can be achieved in a more costeffective way.[4]. Figure 1 illustrates the different sources of energy on the left; the right side highlights the different forms of energy that could be transported by pipeline (including carbon sequestration).

With more focus on the pipelines in the energy sector, it can be seen that the energy is transported in different carriers, such as hydrogen, ammonia, oxygen and/or biomethane. These carriers are called future fuels. Purpose-built pipeline networks transporting these products are already in use today but in a significantly smaller volume than will be needed in the future. [2].

The potential exists that low-carbon gases and their associated products can reliably and efficiently be transported, stored, and distributed in our global existing and newly built pipeline network. Pipelines will also be used to facilitate carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) projects by transporting carbon dioxide safely from emission locations to permanent storage or

end use locations. The transportation of these fuels through pipelines will require general as well as specific integrity threats and damage mechanisms to be considered to ensure safe and efficient operation. These challenges can only be managed with a comprehensive integrity management system. [5].

Inspection technologies and necessary changes for future fuels

In-line inspection (ILI) technology can be of significant value in repurposing activities, as it is highly utilised in today’s pipeline integrity management. The support of integrity decisions with measurement data has improved over the last decades, and technological developments in other industries (telecommunication, defense, IT, etc.) will further enhance these capabilities. ILI tools can be classified by integrity threat type or technology principle; widely used principles are mechanical calipers, magnetics, eddy current, ultrasound and electromagnetic acoustics. Knowing the integrity threats for pipelines related to hydrogen or other future fuels, ROSEN acknowledges that different kinds of ILI technologies can support the integrity management of such pipelines. Those ILI technologies could be technologies for the detection of, for example, deformations, mapping or corrosion. Technologies could also include those particularly applicable to future fuels, such as those for the determination of material properties or the detection of cracks and crack-like anomalies in gas pipelines. [5].

Today’s diagnostic ILI portfolio delivers solutions from simple cleaning applications to high-resolution crack detection services to understand feature populations and deliver data

Figure 2: Exemplary operational limit diagram to evaluate tool run behavior based on simulations for a single specific tool.

Table 1: Applications and technologies.

ROSEN is creating solutions to adapt its fleet of inspection tools, getting them ready for future fuels.

for integrity decisions. It is important that all these applications are also available in future fuel assets. Table 1 summarises the applications and technologies available. ROSEN is creating solutions to adapt its fleet of inspection tools, getting them ready for future fuels. Initial inspections in smaller-diameter product lines for hydrogen, ammonia and carbon dioxide have already been conducted [5], and the lessons learned and use of the solutions in larger diameters and longer pipelines are under development.

The main outcome of these development efforts are solutions for safe and successful inspections in future fuel pipelines. Independent of the technologies, the three main working areas are material compatibility, operational success and safety.

The inspection tools need to withstand the environment, which can be very different compared to oil and natural gas. Products like ammonia, carbon dioxide and hydrogen pose specific challenges for the materials comprising

the inspection tools, and intense upfront testing and an understanding of deterioration processes are key for inspection vendors to deliver highquality services. ROSEN is utilising its own hydrogen laboratory to execute material testing on all components used to build tools within the ILI portfolio.

Another key aspect of ILI is the ability to gather a high-quality dataset under the harsh conditions in pipelines. Speed control valves as well as low-flow/low-pressure setups enable a constant flow velocity without speed excursions or tool stops. [6]. The lower density of hydrogen compared to natural gas will increase bypass rates while also changing the behaviour of existing speed control implementations. Tool run simulations are a standard deliverable for proper inspection preparation, and these simulations have now been extended to also allow simulations to understand the tool dynamics in a hydrogen environment. Besides tool friction properties in the specific pipeline, the dynamic behaviour of ILI tools in gas

pipelines also depends on the density and compressibility of the fluid. In order to classify the behaviour of tools in different pressures, velocities and fluids, operational limits diagrams as shown in Figure 2 can be used.

In order to generate the diagrams, several simulations of the specific ILI tool in a pipeline are performed at different pressures and the results evaluated. Based on availability, bypass information from a pump test in water is integrated to specify a minimum gas velocity for future inspections.

The safety requirements for the operation of ILI solutions may change with the introduction of hydrogen into pipeline networks. Existing ATEX certificates might need to be updated to ensure proper consideration of the lighter hydrogen in on-site safety procedures. ROSEN is covering this aspect in current developments to implement a suitable solution for customers worldwide.

The damage mechanism of hydrogen embrittlement, and therefore the potential initiation or propagation of cracks in pipeline steel, is one of the big uncertainties in repurposing activities. Understanding the population of planar flaws is as critical to estimating remaining life as it is to making proper investment decisions. Table 1 shows ultrasound, electromagnetic acoustic transducer and eddy current as possible technologies to detect cracking in pipelines. Cracking (internal SCC) is also a potential threat for both CO2 and ammonia pipelines, meaning crack detection technologies are likely to be required for most future fuel pipelines.

There are different implementations of ultrasound technology available; one of special interest for non-liquid (hydrogen or CO2) pipelines is electro-magnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) technology. Mainly utilised in natural

Figure 3: EMAT principle.

Pipelines play a major role in the transformation of the energy system.

gas pipelines to assist in the management of stress-corrosion cracking and long seam integrity, EMAT has a significant advantage over conventional ultrasound: it does not require a liquid couplant, meaning it can be run in a gas line without the need for liquid batching. There are several generations of inspection tools available, with the latest implementations showing signification improvements in circumferential resolution and sensitivity. The technology allows for the detection, identification, and sizing of axial planar flaws, which can be helpful when inservice inspections in hydrogen or CO2 pipelines are required, or repurposing activities are executed in natural gas pipelines without the need to include a liquid batch.

Figure 3 illustrates the EMAT principle. EMAT induces an acoustic wave by generating an eddy current and magnetic flux field in the pipe. An additional benefit of EMAT is that it can give information about the external coating condition, which can be valuable when assessing external integrity threats. More information about the technology can be found in [7] and [8]. Figure 4 shows the latest

implementation of the technology in a larger diameter. These inspection tools are equipped with speed control units to ensure a proper velocity profile and thus adequate data quality.

Conclusion

There are three main challenges to overcome when it comes to inspection solutions for future fuel pipelines. Safe on-site operation depends on updated processes for the people and machinery involved. Furthermore, existing concepts for explosion protection (ATEX) may be upgraded to include the lighter hydrogen. Materials and components used on in-line inspection tools can be tested in a laboratory environment to characterise their durability and adapt them if necessary. High-quality datasets depend on proper tool run behaviour and sensor-to-wall contact. Simulations can support these assessments to understand fluid dynamics in future fuel pipelines before executing the inspections.

REFERENCES

[1] Siemens Energy, "Power-to-X: The crucial business on the way to a carbon-free world," 2021.

For more information visit rosen-group.com

[2] R. van Rossum, J. Jaro, G. La Guardia, A. Wang, L. Kuehnen and M. Overgaag, "European Hydrogen Backbone," Guidehouse, Utrecht, 2022.

[3] D. Bothe, M. Janssen, S. van der Poel, T. Eich, T. Bongers, J. Kellermann, L. Lueck, H. Chan, M. Ahltert, C. A. Quinteros Borras, M. Corneille and M. Kuhn, "Der Wert der Gasinfrastruktur in Deutschland," Frontier Economics, 2017.

[4] Frontier Economics, "Potentials of sector coupling for decarbonisation," European Union, Luxemburg, 2019.

[5] N. Gallon, M. Humbert and M. Tewes, "Energy Transition And The Impact On Pipeline Integrity," Pipeline Technology Journal, 2022.

[6] J. Becker, C. Richards, G. Sundag and R. Wittig, "Improving Data Collection With In-Line Inspection in Low-Pressure Gas Distribution Networks," in International Pipeline Conference, Calgary, 2020.

[7] R. Kania, K. Myden, R. Weber and S. Klein, "Validation of EMAT ILI Technology for Gas Pipeline Crack Inspection: A Case Study for 20″," in 9th Pipeline Technology Conference, 2014.

[8] M. Tomar, T. Fore, M. Baumeister, C. Yoxall and T. Beuker, "Graded EMAT Performance Specification Validated in Blind Test," in International Pipeline Conference, Calgary, 2016.

Figure 4: RoCD EMAT-C inspection tool.

A crucial step on the net-zero path

As Australia works towards net-zero by 2050, a pertinent question is how to innovate existing infrastructure traversing suburbs, towns and regions around the country that have been delivering the energy requirements of households and businesses for decades.

In many industries, changes in technology has created new ways of operating and businesses have accepted the transition which has led to the development of new, more sustainable assets.

Within the energy industry, one company is viewing its pipeline infrastructure, that has serviced Western Australian households and businesses for more than three decades, as part of the solution in the transition to net zero and long-term sustainability.

ATCO owns and operates more than 14,000 km of pipeline within Western Australia which has been providing natural gas to around 800,000 homes and businesses across the Perth greater metropolitan area, as well as Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Bunbury, Busselton and Albany in the regions.

According to ATCO Gas General Manager Renewable Fuels, Jim Richardson, the company’s 14,500 km of pipeline buried under Perth’s

greater metropolitan area is a significant investment that can be leveraged to be part of Australia’s emissions reduction targets.

“We don’t necessarily need to build new infrastructure to play a part in reducing emissions, but rather we can innovate and adapt existing infrastructure,” Richardson says.

“Through our existing network, ATCO has the opportunity to repurpose the infrastructure to provide customers renewable energy and help reduce their carbon footprint.

“With renewable and lower emissions gases blended into our natural gas network, the infrastructure can indeed play an important role as a critical and integrated part of a cost-effective sustainable energy future.”

Repurposing its network for the transition to blended renewable gas has been part of ATCO’s plans for a number of years.

In 2019, with the support of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), ATCO began testing the introduction of renewable hydrogen into its network at its world-class Clean Energy Innovation Hub in the Perth suburb of Jandakot.

“At our Clean Energy Innovation Hub, ATCO has been supporting Western Australia’s transition

to renewable energy through our clean energy testing facilities, our pilot Hydrogen Blending project, and using Hydrogen to power parts of our Jandakot operations through an on-site fuel cell,” Richardson says.

“With our pilot hydrogen blending project, we started blending small proportions of hydrogen with natural gas on-site at our Jandakot depot in blends of up to 10 per cent.

“This research is proving the reliability and safety of the blending process for the network and use within commercial and household settings.”

To transition from testing on-site to a functional pilot project ATCO worked extensively with WA’s Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) to develop in depth safety procedures that could validate and verify the project while ensuring all users would be safe.

The procedures cover system specification, identifiable risks, the regulations, codes and requirements that would govern the project, how ATCO would comply with each of those requirements, while also prescribing the continued proof and verifications reported for the life of the project.

ATCO’s connection to the local distribution network where renewable H2 can be blended in to the gas.

From the close collaboration with DMIRS and its support, ATCO was able to successfully launch its hydrogen blending pilot project in December 2022.

“ATCO began the blending project mixing a two per cent renewable hydrogen blend with natural gas into around 2700 customers’ homes of a discrete section of the distribution network within the City of Cockburn – Glen Iris, Treeby and Calleya estate neighbourhoods,” Richardson says.

“This project is providing valuable insights into how our existing gas distribution infrastructure can continue to benefit customers through renewable gases as part of the future energy mix.

“ATCO will continue building on the pilot project’s success and finding solutions to reduce carbon emissions through renewable energy.”

Building towards net-zero

In addition to its pilot Hydrogen Blending Project, ATCO is also working towards a 30 per cent reduction of Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.

A primary metric of ATCO Scope 1 emissions reduction for the gas distribution network is unaccounted-for gases (UAFG), which is the difference between the measured quantity of gas entering the gas distribution system from various supply points and the gas delivered to customers.

“One of the key aspects of our net-zero journey is how we reduce our own carbon

emissions and help support our customers on this path,” Richardson says.

“We work very hard to make sure every molecule of energy that we transport through our network gets to where it needs to be.

“Currently, we’ve got UAFG of around 1.5 per cent of all the flow-through on our network. This is a very tiny amount compared to the volume of gas throughout our network.”

ATCO is also researching how other types of renewable fuels can reduce its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.

“Whether that’s biomethane, hydrogen or something else, as long as it’s a renewable fuel,

and suitable for our network, we’re looking at it,” Richardson says.

ATCO isn’t just looking at what is transported through its gas distribution network, but how the network is utilised, saying one option is to repurpose the pipeline to enable renewable energy storage.

“We have this great existing asset that the community is already using, and that’s our gas distribution network,” Richardson says.

“This network can also perform another purpose, and that is essentially as a battery.”

The pipeline battery/storage concept is not new, and is known as the line pack within a network.

Line pack is the total volume of gas contained within the system, which can be “packed” –putting more gas into the pipeline than is being withdrawn.

Renewable hydrogen or other renewable fuels that are created through excess solar or wind energy in periods of low electricity demand can be held in the pipeline network as stored energy. When demand is high, the stored gas can be returned to the energy network to generate renewable energy.

Storage and use of renewable gases within ATCO's network present a unique opportunity for the company to reduce carbon emissions in the future.

“By repurposing our gas network to store and transport renewable gases, we can enable the widespread adoption of these clean energy sources, reduce our carbon footprint, improve energy security, and create new economic opportunities for Western Australia,” Richardson says.

For more information on ATCO’s journey towards net-zero, visit ATCO at www.atco.com.au

ATCO’s Clean Energy Innovation Hub – Jandakot.

ATCO's on-site electrolyser utilises solar energy to produce renewable H2.

Future Pipe and Empire Infrastructure partnership committed to reducing carbon emissions

Future Pipe Industries and Empire Infrastructure have partnered to deliver sustainable and efficient pipeline systems throughout Australia.

Design and pipe manufacturing company Future Pipe Industries (FPI), services the industrial, oil and gas, water and marine, offshore, as well as pipeline sectors.

Environmental protection is one of the main pillars of the company’s corporate purpose, forming an integral part of the business’ strategy and ranking equally with other company objectives in the form of a comprehensive environmental, health and safety management program.

Now, Empire Infrastructure and FPI have partnered to supply a range of composite pipe systems to pipeline projects throughout Australia.

Empire Infrastructure Director of Sales and Operations Aaron Mackley says Future Pipe Industries stated purpose is to “deliver water and energy to the world in the most efficient and sustainable way”.

“Our corporate purpose is rooted in the knowledge that by conducting our business operations responsibly we will create shared value for all stakeholders,” Mackley says.

“From Future Pipe’s corporate purpose through to the actions we take every day, we recognise sustainability is a business imperative which needs to take place at both a strategic and operational level.”

The company’s latest environmental product declaration is testament to the brand’s commitment to sustainability. With over 3300 staff members, there has been more than 190,000 m of FPI products installed around the world.

As with safety goals, each manufacturing facility has environmental initiatives focused on responsible use of energy and water and on waste reduction. Through its most recent environmental product declaration, FPI has proven how eco-friendly glass reinforced polymer pipe can be.

The declaration was peer reviewed by the IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute Secretariat of the International EPD System. This environmental product declaration

DN2400 Fiberstrong Pipe being installed at 9m deep.

DN3100 Fiberstrong Pipe breaks through the misty sunrise.

comprises the full life cycle of glass reinforced polymer, which is a composite material consisting of a polymer matrix and glass fibers.

The polymer matrix is typically an epoxy, vinylester or polyester thermosetting resin. The resin brings the environmental and chemical resistance to the product, while the glass fibers add strength to the composite material. With their material selection and advanced

processes, Future Pipe is able to deliver composite piping systems to projects which span petrochemical, desalination, sea water intake systems, brine lines, water transmission, wastewater treatment, sewer and drainage and topside piping as just a few examples.

Mackley says FPI’s products tick many boxes, as they are very long lasting and less energy is required to produce composite pipes, making

them environmentally friendly and sustainable.

“They are durable, cost effective and efficient, as well as versatile,” he says.

All manufacturing sites operate under a certified quality (ISO 9001), environmental (ISO 14001) and health and safety (ISO 45001) management system.

FPI prodcust are sold through Empire Infrastructure in Australia.

For more information visit empireinfrastructure.com.au or contact Empire Infrastructure per mail: sales@empire.team or phone: 1300 116664

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Long or short insertion length, operating pressures up to 82 bar, a variety of liquids, with or without bends, the Primus Line flexible pipeline is suitable for almost any application.

Since its introduction to the Australasian market more than six years ago, Primus Line, which is made in Germany, has proven its value in numerous projects. The system’s characteristics make it perfectly suited for projects in sensitive or hardly accessible environments.

Primus Line flexible pipeline system offers solutions for customers in the fields of oil and gas and water in terms of both the trenchless rehabilitation of pressure pipes and temporary above-ground transport.

Reduced footprint in areas of cultural sensitivity

Rio Tinto, the world’s second largest mining company, is targeting a 50 per cent reduction in its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 and is looking for solutions throughout its business to reduce its carbon footprint.

Rio flagged a section of a DN 550 mild steel cement-lined potable water pipe that supplies the remote mining town of Paraburdoo, Western Australia, as a considerable risk due to the pipe condition.

The 1km section of the pipeline runs through areas of cultural heritage sensitivity and crosses a creek. Instead of replacing the main by traditional dig and lay, Rio Tinto looked for a non-invasive, more eco-friendly approach.

Primus Line was the perfect fit for the project. By inserting the flexible aramid-reinforced pipein-pipe system into the existing main, the life expectancy of the asset will be extended by at least 50 years.

Only a small amount of equipment is needed to install the Primus Line technology. This is a decisive advantage for projects in remote regions like Rio Tinto’s, since the transport to the installation site is low.

The 1km flexible Primus Liner was delivered coiled on a single transport spool that can cover up to 4500 m depending on the diameter of the system.

Only one truck was required to transport the spool and the corresponding fittings on-site. It would take at least five trucks to transport the same amount of new steel pipes to a small mining town like Paraburdoo.

To gain access to the existing pipe, only one small pit on either end was necessary and that was

created using a mini excavator. This also helped to ensure the areas of cultural heritage sensitivity remained untouched during the duration of the project.

In addition to a smaller physical footprint, the technology also helps reduce the carbon footprint.

According to the global management consulting firm McKinsey, diesel emissions in the mining sector contribute to 100 million tonnes of CO2 globally. By using the Primus Line technology, CO2 emissions on site, as well as the amount of earth movements, can be reduced by over 90 per cent compared to traditional dig and lay.

The system is also designed to be easy to install. Besides a pulling winch, only some specialist tools are required to install Primus Line in an existing pipeline.

That said, exact project planning remains a prerequisite because support services or subsequent deliveries would quickly lead to major project delays with a remote location like Paraburdoo.

The town of Paraburdoo sits on the edge of the desert, which means it sees temperatures in excess of 40°C on more than 70 days per year.

Compared to traditional methods, a trenchless approach reduces the installation time to a fraction and therefore the hours that the crews are exposed to the heat. The installation of the nearly 1km Primus Liner could be realised in a single pull within only one working day.

The Paraburdoo project is not the first in which Rio Tinto has used the AS/NZS 4020-certified Primus Line technology for drinking water.

In Cape Lambert, a WA port facility operated by Rio Tinto, Interflow already successfully rehabilitated over 2 km of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipeline using the Primus Line system.

Onshore and offshore applications in the South Pacific

A unique advantage compared to rigid rehabilitation systems is that Primus Line is a highly flexible pipeline after installation in the host pipe.

This feature means Primus Line can be pulled through construction bends of up to 45° as a standard, and up to 90° under certain conditions.

Only a crew of five people was necessary to perform the renovation of the pipeline in Australia’s outback.

The 1 km flexible Primus Liner came pre-folded on a transport reel.

It is a self-supporting system that does not require attachments to its host pipe.

While the host pipe is needed to bear the soil loads, the Primus Line system itself absorbs all the internal pressure. After installation, an annulus will remain between the Primus Liner and the host pipe’s inner wall. The minimal annulus is 1mm in a straight pipe, and otherwise 8 mm.

These benefits make Primus Line valuable for rehabilitation projects in the oil and gas industry, particularly for onshore and offshore applications on distant islands.

Tanker discharge wharf pipelines in the Fiji Islands

One of the world’s largest international oil and gas companies owns a multi-buoy mooring facility in the Fiji Islands.

This facility is used to discharge fuels through a twin subsea pipeline and an above-ground wharf line into the shore bulk tanks. The two subsea lines for jet A-1 fuel, diesel and unleaded petrol are made of DN 250 carbon steel with epoxy coating, lying 13 m below sea surface on the ground.

The rehabilitation of these two lines with the Primus Line system could only be executed outside of cyclone season.

This project covered all works associated with the installation of two 750 m Primus Line systems for both subsea lines, including diving and marine support through a barge, the cleaning, and the insertion, in one pull per line.

The Primus Liners were inserted at the end manifold and pulled towards the designated onshore location. The connectors were assembled offshore on the barge and then lowered to the sea bottom.

Fuel pipeline in the Cook Islands

While the pipelines to be rehabilitated in Fiji were mainly under the sea, the carbon steel pipeline DN 150 suffering from corrosion in the Cook Islands runs along the docking edge of the wharf through a concrete gutter covered by steel plates.

Other parts of the pipeline run underground and are surrounded by concrete. Tankers use this pipeline to discharge diesel, unleaded petrol and jet A-1 fuel at a wharf, offloading to a terminal.

This pipeline cannot be shut down for more than 21 days since incoming vessels cannot be rescheduled. This means a total pipeline replacement was not an option for the client.

Primus Line proved to be the best alternative to minimise costs, avoid downtime and significantly extend the lifespan of the existing pipeline within the seven-day rehabilitation window offered in this location.

Pulled in from the waterside, the Primus Liner finally reaches land in Fiji.

Keeping fugitive emissions at bay

An established manufacturer of ball valves, EMICO has been focusing its attention on developing low-emission valves for several years.

It is no secret that manufacturing and production plants around the world contribute to emissions, and about 60 per cent of these fugitive emissions come from piping systems and valves.

There is also a world-wide drive to substantially reduce emissions of methane, H20, CO2, and graduate to a greener and cleaner environment.

In fact, Australia has set itself an ambitious target of transitioning to net-zero emissions by 2030, assisted by implementing various strategies such as electric vehicles, and solar, hydro and wind farms.

Fugitive emissions from valves and piping systems are centre stage when it comes to the race to net-zero and, as such, a majority of new pipeline projects are now demanding valves that are fugitive-emissioncertified.

EMICO can work with clients, whether they have an existing installation or are working on a new project, to provide suitable valves that are certified to international industry fugitive emission design standards.

Valve features

EMICO low-emission ball valves meet global emissions standards using enhance in-house technology. The company’s low-emission portfolio includes floating ball valves in soft and metal seat

designs, as well as cryogenic and trunnionmounted units.

The valves work to reduce and even prevent unwanted harmful emissions released into the environment that are often associated with oil, gas, chemical and toxic plant operations. They also increase plant efficiency and pass periodic leakdetection for emissions monitoring over valve’s full lifecycle.

EMICO’s Low-E floating ball valves are certified ISO 15848-1, having passed the most stringent test level conducted by the valve testing service Yarmouth Research and Technology in the US.

Low-E ball valves have specialised packing and body gaskets, using proprietary technology, including machining of surfaces, to achieve optimal performance.

Castings of these valves meet RT Level II quality (MSS-SP55).

Selecting the right valve technologies, and maintaining them properly, is the best way to minimise or prevent fugitive emissions. Targeting these emissions presents a low-risk, high-yield opportunity to reduce environmental impact.

EMICO valve technology, maintenance services and support help to deliver long-term operational value.

Whether operators have an existing installation or

are working on a new project, EMICO experts can walk them through available valve types and testing, certification, and maintenance options so they can install what they need and keep it operational for years to come.

The Low-E valve portfolio includes traditional, well-known types such as floating (cryogenic, metal seat) and trunnion-mounted ball valves. These valves are certified to industry fugitive emissions design standards API 622, 641 and ISO 15848-1.

Sustainable development goals

EMICO has been focusing its attention on four sustainable development goals and has made progress towards these objectives through the awareness and implementation of corporate social responsibility.

EMICO stands with the world, striving to solve sustainability problems for a better global environment.

The company invests considerable funds and labour towards research and development (R&D) every year. Since its establishment, one of EMICO’s R&D directions is to save on labour and energy, as well as focus on the continued development and promotion of low emission valves.

EMICO’s goal is to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in valve-related products and equipment.

EMICO’s Low-E floating ball valves are certified ISO 15848-1.

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Silver lining as STATS Group marks 25 years

STATS

Established in February 1998 close to Aberdeen Airport, STATS is now one of the leading global suppliers of pipeline intervention solutions to the energy industry. The company is headquartered near Aberdeen and has operations in Canada, USA, Qatar, the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and Australia.

Its core business remains in the operational maintenance of oil and gas pipeline and piping infrastructure, but STATS is also attracting new clients engaged in the energy transition because of its emission-reducing technologies and associated ESG benefits.

In 2021 STATS posted annual revenues of just under £50 million ($93 million) and expects to improve on that performance when reporting its 2022 figures, laying the foundation for further growth in its 25th anniversary year and beyond.

"We’re experiencing substantial growth, particularly in North America and the Middle East, and are expecting that revenues will grow by some 20 per cent in 2023, adding to what has

already been a successful 2021/22,” says STATS Group Chief Executive Officer, Leigh Howarth.

"There’s a growing market awareness of the integrity of our patented equipment and the sustainability features offered by our technologies, particularly in helping reduce carbon emissions for our clients.

"The decommissioning of oil and gas assets and repurposing of infrastructure for use in generating and storing renewable energy is another important area where STATS will play a key role as operators continue their energy transition journey.”

New markets will also play a role in future growth, with STATS increasingly being called upon to support major gas transmission networks in the UK, which echoes the success of its North American business in supporting landbased strategic gas infrastructure operators.

“We’ve already had some initial success with our BISEP technology and hot tapping capability being used on a major UK gas transmission line project, which mirrors a longer and successful track record of gas transmission related work in North America,” Howarth says.

"As our technology becomes better

understood and accepted in this sector, we believe that over the next 10 years we can secure a substantial market share of work on the UK and European gas transmission networks.”

Buoyed by a strong pipeline of project work in the year ahead, STATS is expecting to hire an additional 60 staff of which around 20 per cent will be graduate trainees, and steps are being taken to expand the company’s global footprint with the opening of another strategic base.

"Investment in training and the development of our staff has been a central tenet throughout STATS’ 25 years in business, ensuring we have highly competent teams who really understand our technology and its application to clients’ needs,” added Howarth.

"As part of our localisation strategy, we’ll be recruiting up to 60 new staff across our operating regions to support and enhance our reach into the global pipeline market.

"In our first 25 years we’ve passed many important operational and commercial milestones and we’re excited about the opportunities which lie ahead in the next quarter of a century, both in traditional oil and gas sectors and the lower-carbon economy.”

For more information visit statsgroup.com

Group will celebrate 25 years in business with an expected 20 per cent rise in revenue and an increase in its headcount to 400 staff.

Six-inch BISEP DS Quad being installed in Perth, Western Australia.

STATS Group will celebrate 25 years in business with an expected 20 per cent rise in revenue.

Could hydrogen microgrids replace diesel generators in remote areas?

By Jaron Whalley, Principal Mechanical Engineer, Hydrogen & Hydrocarbons, Fyfe, APGA member

Energy procurement is an ongoing issue for communities and projects operating off the national grid in remote areas.

• Highly configurable to end-users’ energy needs and goals.

Why hydrogen?

• Requires water which is an abundant feedstock for electrolysers.

• Critical to achieving net zero.

• Affordable to produce electricity once the infrastructure is in place.

• Can be stored for a long time.

• High energy content.

• Can be used for electric generation and mobility.

• Does not produce any greenhouse or carcinogenic gases.

• Can be scaled up from a few kg/day to 1000 kg/day.

• Has been shown over many years to be used safely in oil refineries and fertiliser manufacture processes.

energy and a battery energy storage system (BESS), for example, can seem like the smart choice initially. However, battery efficiency losses and deterioration of battery capacity over time must also be considered.

On the other hand, an advanced microgrid that produces highly efficient green hydrogen from renewables and stores it in metal hydride requires more investment and a steady supply of desalinated water.

Another consideration across systems is the availability of maintenance and support, not all equipment vendors can provide maintenance, and this can be a determinant factor.

In remote areas, the market for renewable microgrids is expected to increase in the short to medium term. The hybridisation of existing diesel generators with local Renewable Energy Source (RES) based power systems is helping this growth.

Diesel-powered energy generation is expensive, it is also emissions-heavy, making it hard for companies to reach or maintain their carbon reduction goals.

Microgrids that use solar, or wind, and a battery storage system are increasingly popular in Australia, but as Horizon’s microgrid project in Denham, Western Australia shows, microgrid technologies are already moving towards hydrogen.

More resilient in terms of environmental factors than diesel generators (and more costefficient in the long-term), sustainable hydrogen microgrids could replace generators in remote farms, islands, and commercial and industrial sites — while helping companies to decarbonise.

Microgrid basics

• Local energy systems that incorporate generation, storage and demand response and management systems in a single network.

• Can be connected to a national or main grid or operate independently in ‘island mode’.

• Can generate energy from a range of sources: natural gas, solar, wind.

• Play a key role in decarbonisation efforts.

Microgrid options

The configurable nature of microgrids is one of the technology’s greatest selling points. It is also, from an investor’s point of view, one of the trickiest to navigate.

A lower cost microgrid that utilises solar

Given their increasing performance and declining costs, batteries are currently the first choice of Electric Energy Storage (EES) system, making RES-based energy supply more reliable and effective.

However, batteries fall short when it comes to long-term storage and large loads, becoming

Fyfe's Jaron Whalley.

Hydrogen energy system diagram.

expensive. Hydrogen represents an effective storage option in these cases, thanks to its longterm capability.

After comparing battery storage and hydrogen storage systems, *an academic study found that battery storage has a higher net present value (NPV) compared to hydrogen storage. Regarding the component costs for hydrogen storage, the study showed that the cost of the electrolyser is the most significant factor affecting NPV. A hybrid storage system that combines both battery and hydrogen storage can benefit from the strengths of both individual systems.

Early research is key

Fyfe’s hydrogen engineers have conducted both internal rate of return (IRR) studies and feasibility studies on microgrids for clients. We have found that early studies allow clients to make better-informed investment decisions.

Investors need to be aware of numerous factors, including but not limited to:

• Net power requirements.

• Sourcing equipment that’s compliant with

Australian regulations.

• Environmental constraints, such as cloud cover and footprint.

• Federal and state planning requirements.

• Available government funding.

• Energy model constraints. We believe that hydrogen microgrids could, at

some point, replace diesel generators in remote areas and operation sites. Content like this features in the Moving Molecules APGA webinar series.

REFERENCES

* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egypro.2016.11.284

Fyfe is a fully integrated engineering, environment, planning and survey firm.

Pollard’s Pack Tuff for pipeline projects

One of Australia's leading manufacturers, Pollard’s Sawdust Supplies provides an effective and economical solution for pipeline projects with its Pack Tuff bags.

The practical packaging solution is also designed to break down after disposal to avoid generating excessive land waste.

McConnell Dowell Senior Pipeline Engineer Andrew Tsitas has used Pollard’s products for many years across various applications such as storing and transporting pipes.

His team at McConnell Dowell use the Pack Tuff bags to lift and protect heavy loads and to prevent jostling during freight.

“While it isn’t particularly sexy technology, it is a key ingredient for ensuring the integrity of pipe cuttings,” Tsitas says, who has worked in the industry for over 25 years.

certainly withstand far greater exposure times than hessian alternatives,” Brennan says. “Companies are also using our Pack Tuff Bags to store the pipes in their laydown yards prior to transporting them to the construction site.”

Pollard’s Pack Tuff bags are available to be shipped across the country, with each pallet arriving on site stretch-wrapped and weatherproof.

With each Pack Tuff bag to 80 per cent lighter than comparably sized sandbags, the easy manoeuvrability lowers occupational risks, which is key in any pipeline construction project.

Since 1968, Pollard’s Sawdust Supplies has been providing simple and effective packaging options by processing virgin timber byproducts into sawdust and wood shavings and packaging them in poly-woven or hessian bags.

Today, Pollard’s is a leading manufacturer and distributer for the pipeline industry, with its Pack Tuff bags used by many pipeline and infrastructure contractors throughout Australia.

The Pack Tuff bags are an economical, reliable and simple solution for pipeline bedding. Each Pack Tuff is an eco-friendly polywoven, strong and durable bag, which supports weights up to 15 tonne.

“Pollard’s provides a reliable and efficient service for all our projects around Australia.”

Pollard’s director Peter Brennan said that the durability of the product has assisted companies “Unlike competitors’ products, our bags can take a great deal of rough handling and tossing about on job sites,” Brennan says.

“We’ve been told our bags are preferred because they withstand a lot of hammering.”

Each Pack Tuff bag is durable, which is essential when facilitating multiple re-uses in the heavy-duty pipeline industry.

“The degradation process will depend on exposure to the weather, but our Pack Tuff bags will

The product has been used across various projects involving companies such as Steel Mains, MPC Kinetic, Spiecapag, John Holland, Nacap, as well as McConnell Dowell and Trans Global Project Logistics.

These projects have included the Victorian Desalination Plant, Northern Gas Pipeline, the Lake Way Gas Pipeline, Adnew Gas Pipeline, the Victorian North-South pipeline, the WORM and the Wentworth to Broken Hill pipeline where Pollard’s provided approximately 25,00 bags.

Pollard’s supplies sawdust and dust-extracted shavings in both hard and soft woods throughout Australia. The company’s variety of graded sawdust products have a multitude of applications with pipe bedding being one of several specialty areas.

For more information visit the Pollard’s website at sawdust.com.au

Pollard’s remains the distributor of choice for pipe transport solutions around Australia.

Pack Tuff bags won’t balloon under pressure and support all manner of pipe dimensions.

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- Flushing capacity of 320 l/min

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Lift up the design game with Vertex G4Plant

Thanks to Vertex’s new 3D graphics engine, working with large 3D models is now much faster than before. In addition, up to 100 designers can collaborate on the same 3D project, and the software runs on more than 10GB size of plant models.

Vertex CAD/PDM Systems Pty Ltd, also known as Vertex Australia, will bring the Vertex G4Plant software solution to the Australian market, offering something new to the industry.

The speed of plant design and modelling in Vertex G4Plant software is based on powerful special functions for most plant design areas, together with all the functionality of Vertex G4 mechanical engineering software.

This allows users to quickly design even large

facilities and related equipment and structures.

“Vertex G4Plant is a perfect solution, whether you are designing small or large-scale projects with one designer or a hundred,” Vertex Australia Area Manager Brett McDonaugh says. Vertex G4Plant is an adaptable software which is currently used in Europe within a variety of industries, such as environmental and chemical engineering, energy generation and mining.

“The product is used in Northern Europe by companies such as Watrec, which is a Finnish environmental engineering company specialising in waste-to-energy solutions, and Planora which is an energy solution company with extensive knowledge and experience in municipal

engineering design as well as industry and automation planning,” McDonaugh says.

“Vertex is constantly looking to advance our product to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of the industries to which we supply our products.

“With our introduction of G4Plant into the Australian market, we are looking forward to creating new relationships with companies within the mining, energy and power industries as well as with the consulting and engineering businesses that support these industries.”

With Vertex G4Plant, users can expect a versatile design software which enables them to work with large plant models for all plant suppliers.

Users will be able to detail manufacturing drawings with ease while also being able to import and export most industry file types, such as IFC, STEP, IGES, SAT, 3ds, STL and the usual 2D files such as DWG, DXF and PDF.

Piping designers will be able to open a diagram alongside a plant model and extract locations as 3D components to be placed in the model.

This way, the data between the model and the chart is consistent and up to date.

The process designers can track the progress pipeline modelling with a specific view.

The position contents of the PI diagram and the plant model can be compared with each other, and possible correction needs can be identified.

All these features allow the user to work seamlessly with other designers utilising other software packages.

Vertex G4Plant is easy to learn with its clear

Using

Vertex G4Plant makes design work easier and faster. Plan effectively with parametric components.

Chemical storage tanks.

Biopower plant with steel frames.

The papermill.

modern interface, and it comes with access to Vertex’s extensive online documentation and tutorials which are helpful in getting started with the software.

“It’s how you use the features that makes the program easy to use, and with the software comes the support team to match,” McDonaugh says.

This year marks Vertex’s 15th anniversary in Australia. To celebrate this milestone, the team looked back at the company’s achievements, successes and challenges.

“When we started here in Australia and New Zealand, our main product was Vertex Building Design software,” Vertex Australia Managing Director Juho Suomalainen says.

“As always, in a new market area you have to make your product and your company brand familiar to the people in the industry.

“That means we have had to do a lot of footwork and target marketing.”

Bringing a European product into the Australian market was challenging at first.

“When companies were looking for new solutions, they always wanted to see some local

references and most of our references back then were from Europe or the USA,” Suomalainen says.

“Fortunately, there were some pioneer companies who saw the potential of the Vertex BD software, even when it wasn’t such a wellknown product in the local markets, and they were eager to start with us.”

For more information visit

The hard work has paid off and Vertex Australia has gained trust in the local industry, making it easier to introduce a new Vertex software product into the market.

“During these 15 years Vertex has built a local organisation in Australia so now that we are starting here with G4Plant, we are ready,”

Future Pipe Industries and Empire Infrastructure: working together to deliver water and energy to Australasia in the most efficient and sustainable way

Empire Infrastructure is now supplying Future Pipe Industries’ (FPI) range of composite pipe systems to pipeline and trenchless projects throughout Australasia.”

How to use point cloud model as a reference.

A kwik solution

kwik-ZIP spacers recently played a supporting role on a major water project in Victoria.

Manufactured from kwik-ZIPs engineered thermoplastic blend, kwik-ZIP casing spacer and centraliser products are used, recommended and specified by pipeline and civil contractors, commercial plumbing companies, water authorities, water well drillers, and international engineering firms throughout Australia.

When it came to working on the recent Barwon Water DN450 Relocation Project in Victoria, McConnell Dowell utilised kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers to facilitate the slip-lining of a 560 mm high-density polyethylene (HDPE) carrier pipe over a 260 m run.

The decision to use these spacers was not only motivated by the fact they are easy to install, but also by kwik-ZIP’s premium level of customer service.

“kwik-ZIP spacers were simple and quick to install, and any queries were promptly answered by the sales team,” McConnell Dowell Senior Project Engineer Paul Pomfret says.

kwik-ZIP also maintains a focus on price effectiveness, simplicity and rapid on-site assembly, to ensure that its centraliser and casing spacer systems deliver significant cost, time and operational advantages to end users.

As well as the installation benefits, the use of kwik-ZIP products also helps contractors such as McConnell Dowell comply with the

Figure 3: kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers with kwik-ROLLER® wheels on each alternate runner.

McConnell Dowell used kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers to facilitate the slip-lining of a 560 mm HDPE carrier pipe over a 260 m run.

numerous regulations that go with using pipeline centralisers or casing spacers and slippers, including wastewater and sewerage codes and water well construction standards.

“kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers without wheels were selected for this project as they were the most appropriate fit for the annulus, plus the solution needed to meet Melbourne Water Retailer Agencies (MRWA) standards,” kwik-ZIP general manager Paul Jeffreys said.

“The HDXT is one of the kwik-ZIP products approved by MRWA for use in their pipeline systems and infrastructure.”

Jeffreys says one of the benefits of kwik-ZIP products is the range of runner or bow heights avaliable for each product. These different heights ensure that pipeline installers can handle a very broad range of carrier pipe OD and casing (host pipe) ID combinations, and customise pipe position for grade control or “centering”.

kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers were specified at 1.5m intervals for this project, as

per MRWA standards.

kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers can accommodate the kwik-ROLLER® wheels, although they were not utilised on this particular installation. These clip-on wheels are ideal for use in longer runs to minimise wear and to provide significantly reduced coefficient of friction. kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers with kwik-ROLLER wheels on each alternate runner as shown in Figure 3.

As the pipes at the Barwon Water project would not be fully grouted after installation, the spacers were required to support the pipe and water for the life of the installation (pipe weight 83kg/m empty;246kg/m full).

The HDXT’s unique load-sharing design maximises the load-bearing capacity of each runner and reduces point loading. The simple and efficient installation process does not require any special tools.

kwik-ZIP spacers have no metal parts and are made from the company’s engineered thermoplastic blend, which is flexible, tough and has a low co-efficient of friction.

For

» Quality and collaborative HDD design and construct services

» Expertise to advise at the right time in the project delivery cycle

» Gas, water and sewer, rail, road, power, telecommunications, mining, residential development, renewables and hydrogen

» Maxi-rigs capable of long and wide diameter bores in hard rock and difficult conditions

» Building a future we all look forward to

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING HDD SPECIALIST

Maxibor is using its design and construct expertise to deliver better project outcomes to asset owners and principal contractors alike

kwik-ZIP HDXT-58W spacers were specified at 1.5 m intervals, as MRWA standards.

Digital quality assurance

McElroy’s new equipment inspection app

When it comes to improving its equipment, McElroy does not sit still. The company knows it needs to offer the best and most up-to-date tools.

The DataLogger® is one such example.

The quality assurance tool records fusion data and ensures quality joints. McElroy is continuously updating the DataLogger to meet the needs of owners and operators and, coupled with the Vault™, gives operators and owners the information to save time, money, and manpower when fusing with McElroy machines.

The latest addition to the company’s quality assurance line-up is the McElroy equipment inspection app, which is now available online.

The app allows machine owners to manage and maintain their fleets, ensuring each piece of equipment is ready to perform. With a variety of applications, the process can be used with rental equipment, as well as inspections required by companies and governmental agencies.

Optimised for the DataLogger 7, the equipment inspection app is available on Google Play and the Apple store. It is best viewed using McElroy’s DataLogger, but it can be used on any device.

Machine owners can use their Vault credentials to access the app to view existing

another

is

reason the company remains a leader in the fusion industry.

The inspection app seamlessly guides users through the inspection process with pre-populated checklists for machines and components.

Through the app, owners and technicians can share jobs and create detailed reports at the push of a button.

inspections. For those without a Vault account however, the login screen provides a link to create a new account.

A McElroy ID is required to enable inspection functionality, and this is assigned after the successful completion of the McElroy University inspection module.

The app seamlessly guides users through the inspection with pre-populated checklists for machines and components. The built-in DataLogger camera can be used to snap pictures of machines, allowing for easy identification.

To streamline operations, the app allows users to create customised inspection surveys for any piece of equipment they own – not just McElroy fusion machines.

For McElroy products, the app provides access to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement part numbers, allowing owners and distributors to easily create a list of replacement parts if repairs are needed.

Rental and maintenance

Two separate modes are available in the app: rental and maintenance.

In rental mode, users can easily view the check-in or check-out status of any piece of equipment in their fleet. Intuitive filtering options make it a simple task to find the correct machine, every time. For quick reference, each item will also display a check-in or check-out status on the ‘Asset’ tab.

In maintenance mode, machine owners can maintain their inventory or perform annual inspections. This mode lets users view all assets and inspection histories in one place.

Maintenance mode is recommended for managing inventory and annual inspections, while rental mode can be used to manage rental fleets. But both modes can be tailored to each owner’s individual needs.

For an inspection, machines can be located by asset number, model number or serial number. From there, a set of custom

instructions is displayed, walking individuals through the inspection process and making it easier to spot any parts that need repair or attention. At any point in the process, inspectors can save their progress and continue later.

The app allows owners and technicians to share jobs and create detailed reports at the push of a button.

Inspection reports that include statuses, images and comments can be downloaded from any device worldwide, giving operators the added assurance that their machines have been inspected and maintained according to McElroy’s leading standards.

McElroy University has developed an online training module to educate users on the proper inspection process, as well as how to use the inspection app.

Contact Customer Care at customercare@ mcelroy.com for further information and get started now.

To learn more, visit mcelroy.com/website/university

The latest addition to McElroy’s quality assurance lineup is the McElroy Equipment Inspection App, which allows machine owners to manage and maintain their fleets.

The EZIpit is always the easy decision

The demands of water authorities for a water-tight, corrosion resistant, stable and durable sewer system is now a reality with the Iplex EZIpit system.

Having been designed and constructed for Australian conditions, the Iplex EZIpit modular plastic pit solution maintenance chamber is being used in a number of water authority sewer networks.

“The EZIpit range has a competitive advantage by making sewer inspection and maintenance much easier by being lightweight, modular and quick to install,” Iplex Product Brand Manager Nathan Swaffer says.

“Additionally, the EZIpit system has a higher safety standard compared to conventional systems as it can be assembled and backfilled with the sewer pipe simultaneously, reducing both labour costs and risks associated with open excavation.”

When the EZIpit was being developed, product designers also considered the soil type, including coastal environments, which are prevalent in Australia.

The system also aligns with environmental, technical and economical demands of water authorities for a water-tight, corrosion- resistant, stable and durable sewer system.

That’s also the motto at Iplex: for more than 80 years, the company has prided itself on delivering innovative, sustainable, practical

water infrastructure solutions for potable water, wastewater, stormwater, and irrigation systems.

These water infrastructure challenges include climate change, population growth, and a variety of sustainability and carbon-neutral targets set by local, state and federal governments.

“Concrete has traditionally been the material of choice,” Iplex Senior Sales Engineer Don Tasevski says. “But products made from polypropylene are resistant to sewage gas attack.

“They won’t corrode like unprotected concrete can, they’re not affected by acid sulphate soils, as standard concrete could be, and they’ll last for over 100 years.”

“The sewerage system is the primary application for these systems,” Tasevski says. “But you could also use them for scour pits, air valve pits and comms pits. Wherever you’ve got a vertical structure that’s conveying either a fluid or electricity cables, you could consider them.”

To learn more about the EZIpit, request a presentation, or download the EZIpit technical guide. Scan the QR code or visit uqr.to/ezipit

Contractors installing the Iplex EZIpit modular plastic pit solution.

The installation of an Iplex EZIpit 1000.

The Iplex EZIpit 1000 enabling a safe entry via the EZIpit core.

Australia-based operations with permanent local resources

Fully integrated with our global team at international headquarters

Multiple NASTT Project of the Year awards

Horizontal Directional Drilling

· Completed record breaking 4.7km long HDD

· 235 Intersect crossings completed since 2000

· 12 crossings completed over 3km since 2009

· Rigs available with push/pull capacity up to 815 tonne

· Pipe Installations up to 1.5m

Direct Pipe

· 26 projects completed in the US and Canada since 2010

· Foremost Direct Pipe Contractor

· Land-to-water outfalls

· Pipe Installations up to 1.5m

ROTHENBERGER’s ROWELD leads charge on pipe welding systems

With the use of plastic pipes on the rise in Australia, ROTHENBERGER’s ROWELD system is the leading plastic pipe welding solution for optimal performance and productivity.

sales-au@rothenberger.com

ROWELD’s standard range is suitable for pipelines from 315 to 1200 mm in diameter, with the ability to manufacture build to order machines up to 3 m diameter, designed and manufactured to perform at the highest standard.

The range includes butt and electrofusion welding systems which are applicable for pipe

diameters from 20 to 1200 mm and on a range of plastic pipes, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyvinylidene fluoride however, distributors are required for larger buttwelding applications.

Established in Germany in 1949, ROTHENBERGER is focused on developing, producing and marketing pipe tools and machines for plumbers, pipe fitters, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigeration and the maintenance trades. The manufacturer’s tools and machines are used every day throughout the world across a variety of industries, including pipeline construction.

Butt fusion

ROWELD offers both manual and CNC hydraulic butt-welding machines which are suitable for PE and PP pipes and fittings with an outer diameter from 315 to 1200 mm. The machine features hardened and hard-chromeplated guide shafts guaranteeing torsion-resistant

use of the machine.

ROTHENBERGER is now prospecting for local distributors and service agents for the range of ROWELD butt-welding solutions.

ROTHENBERGER Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Trent Carter says the company is excited about the prospect of establishing partnerships with state distributors and service agents in the Asia pacific region, with local distributors working directly with the manufacturer based in Germany and China.

“We have customers all over the world who rely on the performance and productivity of the ROWELD system for their plastic pipe welding,” Carter says.

“Importantly, our equipment welds in accordance with DVS 2207/ISO 12176 and other international standards and guidelines.

“We are excited to see Australian installers use ROTHENBERGER welding machines and tools to help tackle new challenges knowing we can assist in any conditions and requirements.”

For more information visit, rothenberger.com/au-en/products/installation/plastic-pipe-welding

The ROWELD P355 B Professional. For more information, contact

ROWELD offers both manual and CNC hydraulic butt-welding machines.

ROTHENBERGER is searching for Australian distributors.

ROTHENBERGER’s ROWELD range includes butt and electrofusion welding systems.

The company has a range of butt-welding solutions.

WE MAKE IT HAPPEN

Helping

Austrack is passionate about providing the construction, mining  and agricultural industries with quality new and used equipment

We have a long history in the construction and mining industries within Australia, and this experience serves to ensure it’s clients find the right equipment solution for their needs.

Austrack believes in raising the bar with great service, effective solutions, competitive prices and ongoing support.

Our industry knowledge keeps us consistently seeking equipment that will make your projects easier, cost effective and time effic ient.

Pro Pipe Services completes one of the largest high-pressure isolation in Australia

When it comes to experience and know-how, the team at Pro Pipe Services provides it all.

install two 34-Inch (DN850) full bore ball valves, weighing approximately 14 tonne each, and to retract and remove the LOCK-O-RING Plugs through the valves to provide gas for a new compressor station.

Using a TDW 936 tapping machine, the first retrieval was completed in a matter of days, however the second plug proved to be more difficult than the first.

Some of the segments that hold the plug in place on the second LOCK-O-RING flange would not retract and after several attempts, it was decided that a line isolation was required to depressurise a section of pipe, to allow for the removal of the plug and installation of the new 34-inch ball valve.

A TDW 34-inch Class 600 STOPPLE fitting was welded onto the pipeline and Pro Pipe Services was engaged to complete the 34-inch high pressure hot tap and line isolation.

This then allowed the Pro Pipe Services technicians to use the TDW 936 tapping to remove the LOCK-O-RING Plug.

During the removal process, it was discovered that some of the segments holding the plug in place had possibly been damaged 46 years ago, therefore making it difficult to remove the plug the conventional way.

The team at Pro Pipe Services developed a method to safely retract the damaged segments allowing for the safe removal of the plug.

Once the plug was removed, a 34-inch gas bag was installed into the fitting to allow the technicians to overhaul and rebuild the LOCKO-RING flange.

The flange was pressure tested and the 34inch valve installed, the bag removed and the valve closed.

Pro Pipe Services was recently engaged by one of Australia’s major pipeline operators to remove two 34-Inch (DN850) Class 600 LOCK-O-RING Plugs installed over 46 years ago on the Moomba to Wilton Pipeline.

The job had many challenges associated with it including the remote location, the extreme weather with flooding and heat, and the fact the plugs were installed over 46 years ago.

Pro Pipe Services was initially engaged to

“This was a very challenging job, given the temperature at the time was around 39˚ Celsius, it was extremely hot, the equipment is very heavy, the Sandwich Valve weighs 8 Tonne, and big Cranes were required to make the lifts,” the company says.

The hot tap and line isolation were all completed safely and without any issues. The Pro Pipe Services team achieved an excellent isolation with no leak coming from the sealing element.

The Pro Pipe Services technicians then retracted the STOPPLE plugging machine and installed the completion plug.

Whilst there were a number of challenges associated with the job, the customer was satisfied as the project was delivered on time, safely and without any incidents.

Pro Pipe Services is proud to be an Australian owned company, utilising Australian technicians and resources to service Australia’s pipeline industry. It is also proud to be associated with the largest high pressure line isolation performed in Australia.

For all your hot tapping, line isolation and pipeline services, contact Pro Pipe Services at www.propipeservices.com

Despite the challenges, the Pro Pipe Services team delivered the project successfully and safely.

Pro Pipe Services provides safe and reliable hop tapping, line isolation and pipeline services.

Pro Pipe Services was engaged to remove two LOCK-O-Ring plugs installed on the Moomba to Wilton Pipeline.

The triple bottom line benefits of trenchless technology

Gone are the days where project selection criteria was based solely on the benefits to corporate and business leaders.

Nowadays, it’s no longer enough to focus on these benefits alone, and more contractors are on the hunt for equipment options that look at the bigger picture and offer triple bottom line benefits.

What is the triple bottom line?

The term triple bottom line (TBL) refers to the economic, environmental and social benefits of a project (these three terms are also sometimes referred to as profit, people and planet).

TBL as a concept was first introduced in 1994 by John Elkington, the founder of a British consultancy called SustainAbility. He argued that all companies that report on their profit and loss should also be reporting on their bottom lines as they relate to how socially responsible their organisation is (people), and how environmentally responsible their organisation is (planet).

Since the term was first introduced in the 1990s, the broader concept of sustainability has exploded in popularity. A pivotal moment for the sustainability movement came on 1 January 2016, when the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable

Development — adopted by world leaders in September 2015 at a historic UN Summit — officially came into force.

It is intended that over the next fifteen years, the goals will mobilise efforts to end all forms of poverty, fight inequalities and tackle climate change, while ensuring that no one is left behind.

What does this have to do with trenchless technology?

In 2023, there is pretty widespread agreement that a focus on TBL reporting and sustainable operations are admirable and important goals for businesses to work towards.

And according to Jeff Lawson, General Manager of Sales at Vermeer Australia, when it comes to trenchless technology, the good news is that many of the different technologies that fall under the trenchless umbrella stack up well when it comes to sustainability and the triple bottom line.

Using the example of horizontal directional drilling (HDD), let’s take a closer look at how this technology can impact the triple bottom line of a project.

Environmental benefits of HDD

HDD offers a number of significant environmental advantages over the alternative of open cut trenching. The act of trenching displaces a significant amount of soil –particularly when looking at a pipeline with a large diameter that needs to be buried at significant depth.

This disruption can also disperse dust into the surrounding environment, which can have a negative impact on air quality in confined urban areas.

Lawson says that by employing a HDD rig for pipeline installation instead, there is no displacement of existing soil, and no need to move displaced soil to another location (which in itself is an emissions intensive activity).

Social benefits of HDD

“For the community, utilising HDD for pipeline installation over open cut trenching also offers a number of benefits,” says Lawson.

Open trenches for pipeline and cable installation can cause significant disruption to the local community, particularly in built up

areas. It can lead to the closure of roads and footpaths while major works are being undertaken, which can inconvenience road and footpath users. Traditional trenching in areas where businesses operate can also have a negative impact on their ability to trade during a construction period.

“When installation by HDD is chosen instead, the site footprint of a project is reduced significantly, with only a small area blocked off around the entry and exit points for the drilling rod,” he says. “The installation path is generally untouched, with businesses able to operate as normal and traffic proceeding as usual.”

Economic benefits of HDD

Finally, it’s important to note that installation of pipe and cable via HDD can in fact be cheaper than traditional open cut installation methods – especially when the above factors are considered.

“While open cut trenching can be cheaper than utilising sophisticated HDD rigs, when you account for some of the hidden costs of traditional trenching, such as community

disruptions, loss of business and potential environmental cost, HDD can in fact work out to be a more economical option for utilities, councils and tier 1 contractors to employ on their major projects,” says Lawson.

Thinking beyond the immediate

When undertaking large and complex infrastructure projects, the benefits of trenchless technologies such as HDD quickly add up.

In 2023, the triple bottom line and sustainability impacts of any works undertaken should always be undertaken by project proponents – and when doing so, trenchless technologies such as HDD come out on top.

Vermeer Australia's Jeff Lawson says when installation by HDD is chosen, the site footprint of a project is reduced.

"When installation by HDD is chosen instead, the site footprint of a project is reduced significantly, with only a small area blocked off around the entry and exit points for the drilling rod."

TRACTO strengthens Prime Drilling partnership, delivers new machines

TRACTO Australia’s partnership with fellow German HDD manufacturer, Prime Drilling, has entered a new phase, moving from an agent to a distributor. The change coincides with TRACTO delivering two Prime machines to local contactors, backed-up by the company’s industry leading training, services, support and spare parts.

Prime Drilling was founded in 1999 by Werner Wurm and Frank Auringer with the specific goal of designing and manufacturing high-quality horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs from 30 to 500 t. The company started out with 12 employees working from headquarters in Wenden, Germany approximately 75 km east of Cologne in the country’s west, but has since grown to accommodate more than 80 employees.

TRACTO’s close relationship with Prime Drilling stretches back to the turn of the centrury when, in 2000, the two organisations entered into an agreement for the company’s Australian subsidiary to act as an agent for Prime’s machines in the local market.

The partnership with TRACTO supports customers with technical training, planning and preparation from the conceptualisation of projects through to on-site execution. TRACTO Australia Sales Manager Daniel Toms says the pivot from agent to distributor means the company will now deliver the same after sales support for Prime machines as it does for TRACTO rigs.

“This is the natural progression of our existing partnership with Prime,” he says.

“At the end of the day, this is a positive development for local drilling contractors, including those already using TRACTO or Prime machines, or those in the market for a new rig. It extends our relationship with Prime, giving the end-user a direct line to the factory and engineers

in Germany.

“We will still continue to stock a full range of spare parts which can be express delivered throughout Australia, New Zealand and Asia. In addition, we will now be delivering the highest level of training and support for the machines, like we do for TRACTO rigs, which the industry has come to expect and demand.”

New machines in the ground

The maturation of the partnership coincides with TRACTO negotiating the sale of two Prime machines, to be delivered to two separate Victorian-based contractors operation in and around Melbourne.

One is a PD 45, which is a consistent bestseller from Prime’s range of compact equipment. The machine demonstrates great efficiency and a small footprint, setting the standard for compact HDD rigs.

It was designed with specific attention to optimising weight and size, keeping the cost of transport and set-up to a bare minimum. Its 205 kilowatts of power and 19,000 Nm of torque make the PD 45 the rig of choice for customers who need guaranteed fast, economic, and uncomplicated operation.

It’s equipped with a CAT 7.1 ACERT motor, featuring the latest emission standards and

A Prime Drilling PD 100 CU+ rig for a European client.

An aerial view of Prime Drilling's headquarters and manufacturing facility in Wenden, Germany.

adjustable cooling systems, minimising fuel consumption and further optimising efficiency, while its feed and pull back functions for the hydraulic power rotary head are carefully driven by an internal rack and pinion feed system.

The other machine also comes from Prime’s range of compact machines; however, the PD 150 sits in a higher performance category, with 1500 kN of pull force. The machine delivers unparalleled flexibility and maximum performance.

Positioning of the drill and setting up of the mast are minimised, while the integrated mud pump has a capacity of 1600 L per minute. All driving and functionality of the machine are controlled remotely via the comfortable cabin, which can rotate 90°.

The PD 150 can be customised according to the end user’s requirements, including Prime’s drill pipe supply system.

Toms says the popularity of Prime and TRACTO machines in the region shows the preference for trenchless technology is growing.

“We have done a lot of work to educate contractors on the benefits of trenchless

alternatives and the strength of TRACTO and Prime machines, especially in local conditions with challenging geologies including hard rock,” he says.

“With all the challenges which have come in recent years – particularly related to supply chain issues – we have intentionally positioned ourselves as more than a supplier, providing best in class

The whole world of HDD Technology

after sales support, training, spare parts and servicing. We’re looking forward to seeing what these new machines can do once they’re in the ground.

“At the end of the day, the power, performance and dependability of TRACTO and Prime machines in challenging conditions speaks for itself.”

A PD 45 MCU drilling rig.

One-of-a-kind pipeline pigs collaboration

Piping Specialty Supply Services and Royal Mechanical Group have announced the launch of their Australian designed and manufactured foam and steel-bodied pigs under the Royal Poly Products brand.

The collaboration between Piping Specialty Supply Services (PSSS) and Royal Mechanical Group marks the first of its kind within the Australian market

Royal has established Royal Poly ProductsAustralia’s first Pipeline Pig Manufacturing facility in Perth, with PSSS becoming the exclusive distributor for its outstanding product offering.

The partnership means a comprehensive range of locally manufactured foam pigs is now available down under.

“Perhaps one of the biggest and most exciting benefits for our customers is the significant reduction of lead times and exorbitant freight costs, as we are no longer relying on overseas

providers,” PSSS General Manager Jan Hodges says.

From standard foamies to coated and full wire pigs, the product range is available across a broad range of densities – 18–200kg/m3.

Another expected outcome of the PSSS–Royal collaboration is to educate the market about the supply of a high-quality Australian-made product off the shelf and where required at short notice.

“We can now deliver what the customer needs within days rather than offering something from conventional stock,” Hodges says.

This is an exciting step for PSSS. Given the brand has been selling pigs in Australia for 10 years, offering a true-blue locally made pig is a great leap forward for the company’s ever evolving product range.

“This also enables us to offer customised pigs, tailored to your specific pipeline needs,” Hodges says.

The enthusiasm is shared by PSSS’ partner.

Royal Managing Director Sahil Thathu says Royal was looking forward to the collaboration with PSSS.

“We are equally excited at the opportunity our collaboration with PSSS brings to both companies,” he says.

“This collaboration allows us to focus on the manufacturing of our pig range, while utilizing the extensive sales network of PSSS - being one

PSSS' Jan Hodges and Royal Poly Products Sahil Thathu.

Royal Poly Pipeline Pigs.

of the largest pig suppliers in the country.”

For Thathu, manufacturing pigs within Australia has been a dream come true. It makes even more commercial sense considering the substantial – and quickly rising – costs associated with the importing products.

“Additionally, our engineering capabilities to work with clients and offer pig trials and qualification as an add-on service will hugely benefit the Australian pipeline and pigging industry,” he says.

“I am incredibly proud of the success that our collaboration with PSSS has achieved thus far.”

The strength of this collaboration resides in the core values shared by PSSS and Royal: a passion for quality and service, as well as a vision for growth and success.

“Both PSSS and Royal have an unwavering drive to see and ensure that the other are promoted with the necessary tools, training, process, and support to ensure long term success,” Hodges says.

“Our ability as a collaboration to manufacture and promote a high-level Australian-made range

of foam pigs for the Australian pipeline pigging industry is only strengthened by our mutual trust, respect, and shared belief in quality and service.”

By leveraging PSSS’ sales network in Australia, while also tapping into Royal’s local manufacturing capabilities, the partnership is able to provide a reliable and consistent supply of pigs to the industry.

With this assurance of supply, the industry can plan with more confidence and focus on other aspects of their business.

“It’s always exciting to see collaborations like this that benefit the local industry and help drive economic growth,” Thathu says.

This collaboration might just be the start of many great partnerships between the two

companies. Looking forward, PSSS and Royal intend to further expand their portfolio of products and develop greener, more sustainable chemistries.

The two companies are indeed already exploring the possibility of making their products re-circular in their lifecycle.

“We also plan to increase our presence in Perth by adding another warehouse and machinery to increase output and stock PSSS products in Western Australia,” Thathu says.

“I am confident that our collaboration will continue to achieve great things in the future, and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish together.”

The Australian made foam pigs will be exhibited at the 2023 APPEA Conference.

Pollard’s Sawdust Supplies has been a trusted national supplier of graded and bagged sawdust and wood shavings products for over 50 years. The pipeline construction industry has been entrusting our business to provide support for their pipe assets for many decades. Our pipeline bedding Pack Tuff bags are:

"Our ability as a collaboration to manufacture and promote a high-level Australian-made range of foam pigs for the Australian pipeline pigging industry is only strengthened by our mutual trust, respect, and shared belief in quality and service."

Pipe Tek and Enduro make invaluable impact

Since Pipe Tek formed an exclusive global partnership deal with Enduro Pipeline Services in 2019, this collaboration has allowed Pipe Tek to branch out and be more diverse.

From the beginning of the company in 1988 to the present day, Enduro offers services and sales to assist oil and gas industry professionals, focussing on their potential pipeline problems.

The product offering of the brand is one of a kind and ranges from bidirectional, bi di magnet pigs, brush pigs, scrapper tools, pig links/chains for faster cleaning and movement

of debris in the pipeline, as well as MFL and DFL tools on both gas and petro chemical and water pipelines.

Chief Operating Officer Taddam Farrant tells The Australian Pipeliner that Pipe Tek wanted to find a product to bring into Australia that would perform above its competitors and provide more efficient and reliable data to its clients.

“Having Enduro being able to supply the best cleaning tools in the industry, and all the other products they have, we thought they were the best fit for us as we work directly with the owner and the dedicated, long-standing team

they have rather than a large board of people,” he says.

“We have great admiration for its tools and work culture. Enduro is a highly credible company, bringing more efficient and smarter solutions to the industry that we wanted to be a part of and bring to the Australian oil and gas industry.”

The free trade agreement between the US and Australia also makes things easier in terms of freighting the tools which facilitated the genesis of the partnership between the two companies.

Today, both organisations are adamant: the partnership has borne its fruits, as the collaboration with Enduro has allowed Pipe Tek to branch out and be more diverse.

“Partnering with a reliable and professional ILI tool manufacturer was the missing piece to the Pipe Tek puzzle,” says Farrant.

“We can now offer our clients a full turnkey solution. Before we could only offer the testing and cleaning services, and demobilising, while someone else came in for the caliper tool or ILI tool running and then re-mobilise for the drying.

“Now we can offer the ILI tool service and can complete with all aspects of testing and commissioning.”

Pipe Tek personnel are also trained to run all aspects of this and stay onsite to ensure continuity throughout. Farrant says the company now has the MFL, caliper and cleaning tools based on the east coast of Australia.

“The tools remain there and can be calibrated and rebuilt in Australia to be used for future jobs. This reduces costs to our clients and saves a phenomenal amount of time in freight as we drive the tools straight to site with the team,” he says.

In addition to providing pigging, testing, and commissioning services around Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, Pipe Tek also provides leading pig trains on its projects.

The hard-working pipeline testing firm based in Brisbane chose Enduro as a partner because the two brands both have one core value in common: quality.

Thanks to the partnership between Pipe Tek and Enduro, caliper pigs can pair with geometry pigging tools to measure and remap an entire pipeline.

These tools create a 3D rendering of the

Pipe Tek and Enduro Pipeline Services’s partnership has had an invaluable impact on the local pipeline industry and, despite still being in its infancy, is continuing to develop and expand.

Pipe Tek Chief Operating Officer Taddam Farrant and Enduro Sales Manager J.R. Morgan at the Pipeline Pigging and Integrity Management (PPIM) event in Houston, Texas, this year.

entire pipe run, which operators can use to see blockages, sections of pipeline that have been knocked out of alignment, deformations to the

says the collaboration between the two companies is “like a family”.

“Enduro is extremely supportive and appreciative of what we do for the brand in Australia,” says Brannelly.

The companies are aiming for the stars, and the future of their partnership is promising, with both to continue to grow and expand in Australia to position Pipe Tek as the go-to service for ILI and testing.

Brannelly says the partnership also aims to provide professional support and advice to asset owners for pipeline integrity, helping them effectively and efficiently maintain and manage their assets.

“We are extremely fortunate to have the support of Enduro’s highly experienced and knowledgeable engineering and design teams so we can design, and manufacture custom made tools for all our clients,” he says.

“We have the ability to put together pigging programs which assists with the longevity, safety and preparation for ILI to provide the best possible data, and continue benefiting the Australian oil and gas industry.”

Process Control Innovation Leading Technology Experience

Pipe Tek Managing Director Myles Brannelly

We apply induction technology to solve seemingly intractable problems.

Bending, shaping, extruding and heating.

J.R. Morgan and Taddam Farrant with Enduro's Director of Business Development Matthew Peterson in Houston.

The wonders of temporary flange coatings

Flange faces on the end of pipe segments form a critical connection for pressure containment in process industries. Temporary flange coatings ensure these surfaces don’t corrode.

Piping is everywhere in process industries such as chemical and petroleum production, and protecting flange faces from corrosion is critical for containing pressure within these pipes.

Any deterioration of these surfaces could diminish the integrity of that connection, making preservation imperative for safety and performance concerns.

Removable coatings are a great way to ensure faster installation and less downtime by keeping corrosion away from the flange face.

Removable coatings for flanges

Cortec® recommends two removable coatings for flange face protection. VpCI-391 is a water-based temporary coating with low volatile organic compounds (VOC) of 0.4 pounds/gallon (48 grams per litre).

It leaves a clear non-tacky film that is virtually unnoticeable and can be easily removed with alkaline cleaners such as Cortec®’s VpCI-41x Series (which offers flash rust protection) before the pipe spool is installed.

VpCI-391 provides protection in harsh, outdoor, unsheltered applications and has excellent UV resistance. Since the coating leaves a dry film, it is ideal for transit applications where pipes and flanges may be repeatedly handled.

For the most extreme conditions, VpCI-368 offers even heavier duty protection. This fastdrying solvent-based coating leaves a slightly brown waxy finish and should be removed prior to flange installation using an alkaline cleaner

from the VpCI-41x Series.

Removable coating advantages

As previously suggested, the main benefit of removable flange coatings is to avoid the ramifications of corrosion.

Cortec® Technical Sales and Product Manager Eric Uutala, who has extensive field experience with oil and gas industry preservation, explains an alternative.

“If a raised face is damaged, either from corrosion or mechanical impact, it can cause significant delays in construction in start-up activities,” he says.

“In the case of gramophone-raised faces, the re-surfacing process can be very time consuming which could lead to further downtime (and money loss).”

By taking the removable coating route, the protective mechanism conforms directly to the surface of the metal, not requiring an additional covering (e.g. plastic film) except for what is needed for standard mechanical protection. In the case of VpCI-391, there is minimal change to appearance and the coating is easy to remove.

Best practices for coating flange faces

Uutala reminds workers that flange preservation can be done at any point in the pipe life cycle – at the manufacturing plant, in the storage yard, or at the final site of operation. He outlines the flange coating process as follows:

• Make sure the flange face is clean and free of

rust, dirt, coatings, and any other contaminants.

• Apply either VpCI-368 (for brown, waxy film) or VpCI-391 (for clear, dry film) by

Savcor supplies Cortec's removable coatings for flanges.

Australian Pipelines and Gas Association Membership

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR

Alltype Engineering

Directhitt Pty Ltd

Enscope Pty Ltd

Global Engineering & Construction Pty Ltd

HH Civil Pty Ltd

Maxibor Australia

Michels Corporation

Mitchell Water Australia Pty Ltd

Moody Civil & Pipe Pty Ltd

National Australian Pipelines

P and G Welding Pty Ltd

Pipecraft

Pipeline Plant Hire Pty Ltd

Service Stream

The Newham Group

Valmec Limited

CONSULTANT

ACIL Allen Consulting

Australasian Corrosion Consultants Pty Ltd

CNC Project Management

DNV GL Australia Pty Limited

dss+

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Future-Proof Solutions

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Veris

ENERGY DISTRIBUTOR

ATCO Gas Australia

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A J Stack Solutions Pty Ltd

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NSW

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Pipeline Research Council International, Inc

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Ampol Australia Petroleum Pty Ltd

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AusNet Services

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Beach Energy Limited

Brookfield Infrastructure Group

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Fortescue Future Industries Pty Ltd

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Limited

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CORPORATE MEMBERS

Pipeline Owner/Operator

Methanex NZ Ltd - CMBL INT - Ahmed Al-Jumaily

Adviser/Consultant

Future-Proof Solutions - CMBR - Andrew McFarlane

Lochard Energy (Iona Operations) Pty Ltd

Locusview Ltd

Mipela GeoSolutions

NDT Global Pty Ltd

Oceaneering Australia Pty Limited

ORIX Commercial

Peter Norman Personnel Pty Ltd

Picarro, Inc

Pipe Tek Pty Ltd

Piping Specialty Supply Service Pty Ltd

Prime Creative Media

Pro Pipe Services Pty Ltd

Project Communications Australia

QIC Protective Coatings (Aust) Pty Ltd

Qube Energy Pty Ltd

Red Rock Oilfield Service

ROSEN Australia Pty Ltd

Scape Consulting Pty Ltd

STATS Group

T D Williamson Australia Pty Ltd

TFG Group Pty Ltd

Turbo Systems Australia Pty Ltd

Viega Pty Ltd

Wasco Energy Group

WRAP Resources Australia

Zinfra

SUPPLIER OF EQUIPMENT OR MATERIALS

Aegis Pty Ltd

Anode Engineering Pty Ltd

Anti Corrosion Technology Pty Ltd

Aquip Systems

AtlasGas Pty Ltd

Austrack Equipment Sales and Rentals

Australian Pipeline Valve

Bao Australia Pty Ltd

CRC-Evans Pipeline International

Delnorth Pty Ltd

Denso (Australia) Pty Ltd

EagleBurgmann Australasia Pty Ltd

EDMI Gas Pty Ltd

Fast Fusion, LLC

Gasco Pty Ltd

GF Piping Systems

Heath Pipeline Services Pty Ltd

Herrenknecht AG

Horizon Industrial Pty Ltd

Inductabend Pty Ltd

iPipe Services

Iplex Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd

Jindal Saw Limited

Laurini Officine Meccaniche Srl

LFF Australia

Lincoln Electric Company (Australia) Pty Ltd

Man Industries India Ltd

McElroy Australia

Ozzies, Inc.

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Amy Farrugia

PAC

Pipeline Equipment Rentals

Pipeline Machinery International LP

Pipeline Supplies Australia

PipeServ

PSAH Pty Ltd

RAEDLINGER PRIMUS LINE PTY LTD

RazValve Pacific

RDO Equipment Pty Ltd

Richmond

RTi Asia Pacific PTY LTD

Savcor Products Australia Pty Ltd

Scapeworks Australia

Shawcor Pty Ltd

Shipman King

SICK Pty Ltd

SP Group

Tapex Industrial

TIB Chemicals AG

TRACTO-TECHNIK Australia Pty Ltd

Tremco Pipeline Equipment Pty Ltd

Universal Corrosion Coatings Pty Ltd

Vacuworx Australia

Vinidex Pty Ltd

Vlentec Australia Pty Ltd

Welspun Corp Limited

Western Process Controls

Worldwide Group

Future Fuels CRC

APGA would particularly like to acknowledge the generous support of its Owner Members

• APA Group

• Australian Gas Infrastructure Group

• Epic Energ y SA Pty Ltd

• Jemena

• SEA Gas

• Tasmanian Gas Pipeline Pty Ltd

APGA would also like to acknowledge the strong support of its Lead Members

• AGL Energy Limited

• Australian Portable Camps

• Esso Australia Pty Ltd

• McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd

• MPC Kinetic

• Nacap Pty Ltd

Honorary Life Members

• Ken Barker

• David Curry

• Keith Fitzgerald*

• D C Gore*

• Robert Gration

• Max Kimber

Individual Members

• Dean Barker

• John Blain

• Bevan Boocock

• Grant Bowley

• Stephen Callaghan

• Ken Cameron

• Chris Carter

• Mark Cooper

• Andy Lukas

• Tony Marletta

• Mick McCormack

• Stuart McDonald

• Jim McDonald*

• Allan Newham

• QGC

• Quanta Services Australia Pty Ltd

• Solar Turbines Australia

• Spiecapag Australia Pty Ltd

• Verbrec Ltd (ASX: VBR)

• Worley Services Pty Ltd

• Geoff Cope

• John de Robillard

• Stephen Dykes

• Amy Farrugia

• JP Fortin

• Gretchen Gagel

• Chris Gatehouse

• Lynndon Harnell

Employee Members

• Michelle Andersen

• Eric Bardy

• Geoff Barton

• Lauren Beynon

• Rick Boreham

• Andrew Bourke

• Liz Brierley

• Peter Bucki

• Mark Bumpstead

• Francis Carroll

• Philip Colvin

• Jeff Cooke

• Vera Corso

• Craig de Laine

• Edwin De Prinse

• Yuyu Fang

• Daniel Faulkner

• Matt Felvus

• Sean Fleming

• Nick Flint

• Tom Forde

• Mark Fothergill

• Paul Frederick

• Tom Fuller

• Tess Gardener

• Jarrod Gilby

• Calvin Gordon

• Peter Hanily

• Mark Harris

• Chris Harvey

• Graeme Hogarth

• Justine Hyams

• Jeff Jones

• Ashley Kellett

• Steven Liddell

• Cameron

• Stephen Ohl

• Mark Twycross

• Phil Venton

*deceased

MacDiarmid

• James McMahon

• John Millett

• Mick Murphy

• Trevor Nichols

• John Piper

• David Pollock

• Brett Reay

• Shaun Smith

• Ian Spence

• Jasper Tieland

• Andrew Wood

• Peter Harcus

• Geoff Harrison

• Chris Hewson

• Ian Israelsohn

• Linda Johnson

• Hugo Kuhn

• Trent Leach

• David Levy

• Stephen Livens

• Nicole Lowndes

• Paul May

• John Messent

• Stephen Mudge

• Matthew O'Connell

• Brian O'Sullivan

• Neil Parry

• Tawake Rakai

• Ben Rees

• Darren Rogers

• Josh Row

• Craig Sheather

• James Smith

• Colin Symonds

• Soheil Taherian

• Warwick Tidswell

• Andrew Tsitas

• John Walsh

• Sean Ward

• Louise Watson

• Rob Wheals

• Paul Williamson

• Michael Xanthopoulos

People on the Move

In this new and regular column, The Australian Pipeliner is tracking new appointments in Australia, New Zealand, Papuan New Guinea and the Pacific’s pipeline sector.

AARON LONG, PRODUCT SUPPORT REPRESENTATIVE, TRACTO

Aaron Long hasstarted his new role as TRACTO’s Product Support Representative.

With over 15 years in the trenchless industry as a diesel mechanic, product specialist, sales representative, and supervisor, Long’s role with the German-based company is to support

TRACTO’s products, company and being part of continuous improvement.

When reflecting on why he was drawn to this role, Long says it was the opportunity to be part of a small team with a good understanding of the industry with a well-built product.

MARK READ, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, VERBREC

Australian engineering services company Verbrec has appointed Mark Read as the company’s new CEO.

Read has more than 30 years’ experience working for publicly-listed and privatelyheld engineering service companies across the globe and has a proven track record of leadership, management and

change management of technical services and project delivery organisations.

He will take over from Linton Burns, who last year announced his retirement from the roles of CEO and Managing Director.

“I am honoured to have been selected

CLEMENCE CARAYOL, EDITOR, PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

Clemence Carayol has joined the Energy team at Prime Creative Media at the start of March 2023. She’s working on Trenchless Australasia, The Australian Pipeliner and Trenchless

Carayol is “thrilled to have joined a

dynamic team” and to have the chance of immersing herself in the resources industry.

Previously, Carayol has worked as Managing Editor of The Australian Design Review and countless

VIVIEN TOPALOVIC, JOURNALIST, PRIME CREATIVE MEDIA

Vivien Topalovic joined the Energy team at Prime Creative Media in April 2023, where she works across The Australian Pipeliner, Trenchless Australasia and Energy Today titles.

“I’m thrilled to join Prime Creative Media

If

and work with my talented colleagues across The Australian Pipeliner, Trenchless Australasia and Energy Today,” she says.

“I look forward to learning more about these industries and gain valuable insight from the organisations

“I had a friend that worked in the industry, and he spoke highly of TRACTO, and I decided that it sounded like something very interesting,” he says. Long is looking forward to seeing how TRACTO’s products evolve and spending time with clients.

to take over the helm of a company with the capability and heritage of Verbrec at such an opportune time,” says Read.

“Verbrec is now ideally positioned to expand its current client offerings as well as developing new markets."

other magazines.

Prior to her moving to Australia in 2021, Carayol was a journalist in Paris and wrote about politics, society and trends for numerous local publications.

within them.”

Prior to joining Prime Creative Media, Topalovic worked as a journalist across the music, technology, sport, lifestyle, and brewing industries.

your company has recently employed a new person within your business you would like profiled in ‘People on the Move’, send details of the career news alongside a high-res photo to Journalist Vivien Topalovic at vivien.topalovic@primecreative.com.au

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