Subsea & Offshore Magazine January 2016

January 2016 Issue

Subsea Expo Preview | Subsea: Diving & Underwater Services Lifting Equipment, Deck Machinery & Winches Cables, Glands & Connectors

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Contents Wi t h i n t h i s i s s u e ind u stry vi e w po i nt

4

ne w s i n b ri e f

6

i nd ustry ne w s

8

su b se a: d i vi ng &

The Underwater Centre explain the prerequisite requirements for experienced commercial air divers coming in to place in April 2016 (page 24).

Nautilus Rigging elaborate about their patented and award winning Subsea and ROV hooks (page 30).

On page 36, Craig Hatton of Cable Associates expresses his concerns on the UK cabling market with the quality in over-sea products excelling with all accreditations needed.

24

und e rwat e r se rvi c e s

li f ti ng e qu i pm e nt,

We wish you all a happy and prosperous new year and hope you enjoy the read of our newly designed magazine and as ever please keep your press releases coming in for inclusion.

30

deck mac hi ne ry & w i nc he s

c ab le s, gland s & c o nne c tor s

36

hazar d ou s are a

40

prod uc t spotli ght

44

A - Z D i r e c tory

51

W

elcome to the new re-launch of our January issue of Subsea & Offshore Service Magazine to take us into 2016.

You can expect the usual up to date industry news and product information as well as indepth articles.

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s ub se a e x po pr e vi e w

edi to r s l et t er

Once again have a great start to 2016 from myself and the rest of the team.

David Sullivan - Editor

Editor: David Sullivan

Publication Manager: Jon McIntosh

Publication Manager: Alex Wetton

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Publisher: Robert Robinson

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January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p3

What 2016 Holds for The Oil & Gas Industry Trying to predict the future trends of oil prices is hard and the results are disappointing most of the time, especially when we ignore the facts and figures and rely on hope and wishful thinking. A year ago following OPEC’s decision not to cut oil production and keep the oil market oversupplied, many of oil industry experts, analysts and CEOs were expecting oil prices to recover in a short time. Hence, the oil and gas industry’s reaction to the current downturn was not as fast as it should have been and the consequences in many cases were catastrophic.

A few days remain to officially close the door on 2015. As the eagerly awaited December 2015 OPEC meeting is over, and as the outcome tells us that the cartel is not going to cut back its current actual output level unless non-members cooperate in doing so, many questions have arisen concerning the oil and gas industry and whether 2016 will be another 2015 or a better year.

Where will oil prices be in 2016? How will the 2016 supply and demand outlook look, and could it change the course of events?

In general, what will 2016 hold for the oil and gas industry?

Such questions are what many oil and gas companies, investors and professionals want answers to.

Where Will Oil Prices Be In 2016?

OPEC is currently trying to make the return of high oil prices dependent on the cooperation of non-OPEC members to cut production and this was made clear during its last meeting.

That means OPEC will not cut oil production unless non-OPEC producers agreed to cooperate in cutting oil production as well.

It is extremely important to highlight here that it is highly unlikely that oil prices will go up to levels above $80 per barrel again even if non-OPEC producers cooperated with OPEC to cut production.

Why not?

The reason is very clear, it is about long term strategy. The return of high oil prices - to be precise, the return of oil prices that are slightly above high-cost oil producers’ break-even such as U.S. shale oil producers- means giving OPEC’s rivals the chance to come back and make money. And this poses a long term threat to conventional oil producers such as OPEC members. What OPEC is doing right now is keeping oil prices at levels where its members make money and their rivals do not - that is how they squeeze them out of the market and kill the shale revolution. What we can draw from this is that high oil prices pose a long term threat to OPEC. Regardless of how complex the situation is and the fact that oil prices are unpredictable, the bottom-lines are clear. The return of high oil prices to levels above the break-even of U.S. shale oil producers poses a long term threat to OPEC because it means allowing shale oil to be economical and consequently creating competition for OPEC. On the other hand, oil prices heading below

p4 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

$30/bbl is unlikely to happen due to the fact that OPEC will be losing much. Therefore keeping oil prices at levels between $35/bbl to $75/bbl is a key priority for OPEC to protect its market-share.

How 2016 Supply and Demand Outlook Will Look Like?

The supply and demand equation is a fundamental factor controlling oil prices. Therefore, how oil prices will change in 2016 depends mainly on how the supply and demand outlook for 2016 will look. The problem here is that predicting oil prices based on the supply and demand outlook is very complex, and its complexity comes from the fact that there are a few vital variables that have a huge influence on supply and demand outlook. Those variables are, but are not limited to, geopolitical flash-points, OPEC’s next move, and economic growth- these variables are unpredictable most of the time. Therefore -besides the facts and figures of the current supply and demand- taking into account these variables is essential in predicting how the supply and demand outlook will look in 2016.

Regardless of how gloomy the oil market looks like right now, there are a few important signs that tell us a lot about how the supply and demand outlook may look in 2016. On the supply side, the global oil markets remain oversupplied, and OPEC will not be the one to rescue the market. In fact, OPEC’s current actual production level is somewhere around 31.8 mb/d, which is more than the official target of 30 mb/d. Besides that, a few of OPEC members such as Iran, Iraq, UAE and Libya and aggressively working on increasing their oil output. For instance, Iran is planning to increase its production by 500,000 to 1 mb/d over the coming year or so.

And it is clear now that OPEC is officially allowing its members to increase oil outputs above the 30 mb/d official target.

The oil and gas industry in 2016 will continue to experience the negative effects of the current low oil prices but with less intensity as it adapts to a low-oil-price environment. It will continue to consolidate and we will see many mergers and accusations taking place. Global exploration and production (E&P) activities will experience a slowdown as E&P spending that has so far declined by 20 percent will also fall by 11 percent in 2016, according to Evercore ISI’s ‘Global 2016 E&P Spending Outlook: An Industry Mired in Recession.’

Crude oil global stockpile levels will continue to increase and a phase out of fossil fuel subsidies in many parts of the world will also continue to emerge as many countries take advantage of the current low oil prices. Demand will increase slowly but that will be counterbalanced by the overabundance of oil supply and the huge stockpile. And lastly, oil prices will remain in levels between $35 to $60 per barrel unless a sudden geopolitical event takes place, or an oil production cuts agreement is reached between OPEC and non-OPEC. Alahdal A. Hussein from Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE)

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THORDON COMPAC WINS TOP ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD FOR “COST-EFFECTIVE” POLLUTION SOLUTION

RMEC launches new service stream with key appointment - Investment marks latest step in ambitious growth strategy FORFAR based oilfield services firm RMEC has expanded its product offering by introducing seasoned pumps and valves industry veteran Steve Burgess to its growing team. The new addition brings an entirely new product line of pump equipment to the company, who recently expanded their Angus facility by 150% to keep up with their client demand.

The move, which follows the establishment of RMEC’s first international operation in the US and a six-figure investment to upgrade its planning software systems, is part of an ongoing strategy to grow the business to £16million turnover by 2019.

Steve brings 27 years of experience in his field, having worked with a broad range of industry services providers. He started his career supervising general ship maintenance before joining Dowell Schlumberger on the Big Orange XVIII achieving the position of operations supervisor. Steve then progressed onto become service supervisor in the coiled tubing and pumping department at Schlumberger’s base in Westhill, Aberdeen.

Steve then went on to assist in the development of pumping product lines and service support business segments for Aker Qserv and Intervention Rentals.

At RMEC, he aims to grow the pumping department into a successful service offering to the industry. Steve said: “I’m really looking forward to working with RMEC and developing this new product line with them and helping to continue their steady growth.

“I hope that my experience and time spent in this field will open doors to RMEC that previously weren’t an option. I see RMEC as a great example of a small company doing well and thinking smart during the downturn.”

p6 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

COMPAC, Thordon Bearings’ seawater lubricated propeller shaft bearing system, won the prestigious Tanker Shipping & Trade Environment Award last month following a verdict that the system allows shipowners to cost-effectively comply with stringent marine pollution rules.

Dr Karen Purnell, the Managing Director of the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF), who sat on the award judging panel alongside representatives from INTERTANKO, IACS, UK MCA and Scorpio Tankers, said: “It is a challenge to identify opportunities that assist shipowners in meeting environmental standards cost-effectively and that don’t end up creating new environmental problems. The COMPAC system meets this challenge and it is for that reason and the system’s simplicity that we were able to present Thordon Bearings with the award.”

Clearly delighted with the award, George Morrison, Thordon Bearings’ Regional Manager West Europe and Africa, said: “To have won this year’s Tanker Shipping & Trade Award is the icing on the cake of a very good year for Thordon Bearings.

“As a result of new regulations and endeavours to strengthen Corporate Social Responsibilities more and more shipowners are eschewing oil lubricated propeller shaft bearings in favour of seawater lubricated propeller shaft systems. We now have over 2000 ships equipped with Thordon’s COMPAC with many more on order.”

Below: Thordon Bearings’ George Morrison was presented with the Tanker Shipping & Trade Environmental Award for the COMPAC system

Seven ATR Group personnel complete modern apprenticeships SEVEN young employees at the Aberdeen office of the global equipment specialist ATR Group have recently completed a government-backed modern apprenticeship scheme, making them the company’s first ever modern apprentices in Business and Administration.

The employees, all under the age of 25 years, were awarded SVQ Level 3 Business and Administration qualifications and modern apprenticeship certificates after finishing the eight month course which saw them completing modules as they progressed.

Alix McGillivray, Eden Baxter, Danielle Bruce, Melissa Bruce, Beth Gibson, Emma Thomson and Gemma McIver all hold various admin positions across the company’s five business units. As well as receiving their SVQ certificates several who were under 19 at the date of enrolment, were also presented with £100 incentive cheques from the government scheme.

The modern apprenticeship programme, funded by Skills Development Scotland and arranged through JB Management, saw the employees develop their office-based skillset in areas such as document production, sales, logistics and customer services.

ATR Group is the market leader in the rental, sale and inspection of specialised equipment to the petrochemicals, marine, subsea and the offshore oil and gas industry. Its five business units are ATR Equipment Solutions, ATR Lifting Solutions, ATR Power Solutions, Safety & Technical Hydraulics Limited and Underwater Engineering Services (UES).

Above: ATR Group - Hazel Cummine, Keith Moorhouse and Findlay Moir with the company’s modern apprentices.

Industry leader to appoint new Business Manager HTL, part of the HTL Group are pleased to announce the appointment of Ian Mander as UK Business Manager. This appointment see’s Ian progressing from his existing role within HTL as Technical Manager specialising in Portable Machines to taking responsibility for delivering HTL’s extensive complete product and service portfolio to the UK Market.

Friction Testing Delivered by Industry Leader One of the North East’s leading engineering companies has successfully completed its latest testing project at its new Test Facility.

Commissioned by a leading global offshore contractor, Red Marine delivered a fast track test programme to investigate the friction properties of pipelay component interaction for subsea pipeline installation.

Red Marine’s scope included the rapid development and supply of a bespoke test rig to simulate offshore handling and to allow the evaluation of a large number of small scale pipe samples finished with range of surface textures and coatings.

Speaking about the project, Joe Orrell, Managing Director at Red Marine said: “We provide our clients with turnkey testing solutions to mitigate offshore risk. This was one of the first test projects to be completed at our new facility and showcased our full testing with intelligence service – from the development of the test procedure, the design and manufacture of the test rig, to working with the client to fully understand and extract maximum value from the results.”

Established in 2008, Red Marine has a team of 24 experienced engineers specialising in offshore installation engineering, subsea solutions and qualification testing. The company has a strong global presence in the oil and gas sector and is diversifying its extensive service offering into new sectors including nuclear decommissioning and offshore renewables. Clients include FMC Technologies, GE Oil & Gas, Technip and Subsea 7.

Ian is a qualified engineer with a breadth of expertise in both commercial and sales roles within Tier 1 Engineering Maintenance Service Contractors and Portable Machine OEM’s.

Throughout Ian’s career he has worked across many of the industry sectors served by HTL this ensures that his role as Business Manager will support the further expansion of the HTL product portfolio across the UK marketplace.

Paul Storey, Group Managing Director comments: “With Ian’s passion and industry knowledge his role will enhance the highly experienced HTL Sales team as well supporting HTL’s journey to lead innovation and deliver customer first solutions to industry.”

Ian comments on his appointment: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity

by HTL. I believe HTL are the UK’s leading supplier of controlled bolting, flange working and portable machine equipment and I am proud to be a part of this exciting time and their continuous journey of growth and innovation.”

HTL (Hire Torque Ltd) is part of the HTL Group of companies and is the UK based entity of the group. HTL specialise in delivering controlled bolting, flange working and portable machine solutions to an array of industries including: Oil and Gas, Power Generation, Renewable Energy, Subsea, Decommissioning, Chemical, Heavy Industry and Construction industry.

Penspen strengthens US offering with four senior appointments Penspen, a leading global provider of engineering and management services to the energy industry, has appointed four key members to its team, as part of its ongoing expansion in the Americas region.

Dirk van Oostendorp joins as Director of integrity, Americas, to lead the growth and development of Penspen’s integrity offering throughout the region. He has more than 30 years’ international oil and gas project experience, comprising infrastructure design and construction, as well as integrity and risk analysis. In addition, Dirk holds a Masters of Science degree in Chemistry, is a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry, Fellow of the Institute of Corrosion, a Chartered Chemist and a registered corrosion engineer with the National Association of Corrosion Engineers.

Gordon Jones has been appointed as Engineering Manager, Americas, and will be responsible for the newly started engineering and project management business across the region. Gordon has 40 years’ engineering procurement and construction management experience across upstream and downstream sectors and pipeline projects, with 25 years in senior management roles. He is a qualified mechanical engineer and joins Penspen from WorleyParsons, where he was responsible for the delivery of its North American pipelines business.

With more than 40 years’ engineering, procurement and construction experience, Andrew Trevino joins the company as Project Manager. His background is in oil and gas, LNG, LPG and chemicals (including CO2) and he holds an engineering degree from Texas A&M University. Andrew previously worked for Jacobs as Project Director.

Falck Safety Services fills the gap with new training course

A leading safety training firm is introducing an ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board) approved course to the oil and gas industry to help fill the competence gap in lifting operations.

Falck Safety Services UK (Falck), which has 32 training centres across the world, will deliver the new ECITB Moving Engineering Construction Loads Under Supervision (MECLUS) course from its two UK centres, Aberdeen and Teesside.

The comprehensive training programme, which takes place in four stages including a reassessment stage, is designed for personnel who are not primarily involved in lifting operations but require an element of lifting in their daily duties.

Stage one of the course will take place in a Falck training centre, with each delegate undertaking a two-day training programme. Stage two requires the delegate to complete a work-based task assignment (WBTA) covering a minimum of 12 lifts, to be signed off by a competent rigger in order for them to progress to stage three, a half-day technical trade test. Once completed, delegates will be

p8 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

awarded with an ECITB approved certificate and after two years, stage four of the process, a reassessment of the technical trade test, will be required.

Managing Director for Falck Safety Services UK, Colin Leyden, said: “As a leading safety training firm, we are continually researching training gaps within oil and gas industry. After speaking to many of our customers, we found that there was a requirement for more personnel to assist with the basic, daily lifting duties on platforms and vessels, and so we created this middle-ground course in order to provide a solution to fill the gap between competence levels.

“All of Falck’s technical instructors and assessors are industry competent in the field of lifting operations. It’s important to note that delegates completing this course are not certified as riggers but will be better able to support with the lifting duties and only under the watch of their certified supervisor.

“We are currently the only training provider to offer this specific course and believe it to be one positively received by the industry. The greater the number of competent workers and the higher the level of competency on platforms and vessels, the safer the working environment will become. At Falck we support and encourage safer working environments and practices across a range of business sectors.”

Falck provides realistic training in a safe and controlled environment to more than 340,000 people each year within the global oil and gas, shipping, renewable energy, military and aviation industries.

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IChemE safety training 2016 IChemE offers a range of courses to help you, your staff and your organisation improve safety and reduce risk.

For more information including the various dates and locations please visit the relevant website.

Applied Hazard and Operability Study www.icheme.org/appliedhazard Asset Integrity Management in the Process Industries www.icheme.org/assetintegrity

Alternatively email courses@icheme.org to request our 2016 course catalogue.

Comprehensive Explosion Science www.icheme.org/ces Consequence Modelling Techniques www.icheme.org/cmt Effective HAZOP www.icheme.org/effectivehazop Emergency Planning www.icheme.org/ep Establishing and Maintaining a Safety Culture www.icheme.org/emsc

NEW NEW

Fundamentals of Nuclear Safety www.icheme.org/fns Fundamentals of Process Safety www.icheme.org/fps Gas Explosion Hazards on LNG Facilities www.icheme.org/lng Gas Explosion Hazards on Offshore and Onshore Facilities www.icheme.org/gasexp Hazard Identification Techniques www.icheme.org/hazardidentification HAZOP Awareness www.icheme.org/hazopawareness

NEW

HAZOP Study for Team Leaders and Team Members www.icheme.org/hazopteam HAZOP Study for the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry www.icheme.org/hazopoil HAZOP Study, Leadership and Management www.icheme.org/hazopstudy Human Factors in Health and Safety www.icheme.org/humanfactors Inherent Safety in Design and Operation Development www.icheme.org/inherentsafety NEW Introduction to Risk Assessment www.icheme.org/riskassess

Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) www.icheme.org/lopa Managing the Hazards of Flare Systems www.icheme.org/flare Process Safety Awareness www.icheme.org/psa Process Safety KPIs and PSM Auditing www.icheme.org/pskpis

NEW

Industry news

The Depth of Innovation Overcoming challenging elements to achieve subsea success Some 20% of the remaining UK oil reserves are expected to be West of Shetland, a challenging environment on the surface and subsea.

In February 2013, Bibby Offshore was awarded a contract by Premier Oil to provide subsea support during the installation phase of its Solan field development project, in Block 205/26a of the UK Continental Shelf, in 135m water depth.

The facility at the Solan field has been designed to produce a flow rate of 28,000 b/d, peaking at up to 35,000 b/d across a 20-year lifeline. The production facility has been developed as a not permanently manned installation (NPMI), and will be operated remotely from an onshore control room in Aberdeen. The topsides facility supports produced fluid separation, gas treatment, all necessary utilities and power generation.

The field infrastructure also includes a 10,000-tonne subsea oil storage tank (SOST) capable of storing 300,000 bo. Produced oil is sent to the SOST before being exported, via a single anchor loading system (SAL), to shuttle tankers.

Preparation is Key To mitigate the impact of this, Bibby Offshore completed detailed weather analysis prior to mobilisation to allow a realistic expectation on the potential downtime that could be experienced. The project team also gathered regular forecasts from various sources to help build an accurate picture in the short term on how the weather would impact over a two to five day window.

p10 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

Bibby Offshore was also able to take a flexible multi vessel approach to the project, making use of several of the vessels in its fleet.

The Dive Support Vessel (DSV) Bibby Polaris was used extensively to complete much of the dive works. The DSV Bibby Sapphire and DSV Bibby Topaz and the Construction Support Vessel (CSV) Olympic Ares also made a significant contribution to the project.

Further to this the company used short term chartered Remotely Operated Vehicle Support Vessel (ROVSV) and a third party DSV.

phased with, as mentioned previously, additional vessel support.

This multi vessel approach helped Bibby Offshore tailor the various vessel capabilities to the technical challenges presented by the development and the flexible timeline required to complete the task in line with the clients programme. Crucially, it also helped to prevent any schedule slippages in order to maintain progress towards achieving first oil.

After completing the acoustic metrology, the Bibby Polaris was deployed to connect the pipeline to the SAL spool and the SAL to the offloading hose.

A Phased Approach The subsea aspect of the project was planned in two phases. Phase one saw the Olympic Ares carry out installation activities for the single anchor loading system (SAL), metrology, lay through spool removal, flexible and umbilical installation and wet storing of fabricated spools, . Phase two consisted of the diving support operations to complete installation, tie in, stability/protection and recommissioning of the flexible, umbilicals, spools and storage tank.

Each phase of the project had its own challenges. Due to adjustments in the schedule, Bibby Offshore successfully change managed the scheduled fleet workloads to accommodate its client’s requirements, resulting in the project becoming multi

During the campaign, a 72” structure pile was installed which required a large ninety ton ‘Fast Frame’ to be deployed to the seabed.

The loading hose itself presented a range of engineering considerations to the project team due to the inflexibility of the product and the fact it could not be pre-installed on a deployment reel onshore prior to installation on this occasion.

During the offshore operations, the project team configured an optimised deck layout on the Olympic Ares, thus creating the required working space. This was necessary due to a multi reel drive system taking up a significant amount of deck space and also the additional equipment required to install flexible and umbilical products before completing metrology between the newly installed platform and subsea oil storage tank.

In subsequent campaigns, two DSVs and one ROVSV were mobilised to carry out spool installations, flexible and umbilical tie-ins, mattressing and general storage tank works.

Bibby Offshore’s track record meant it was ideally positioned to execute the work.

However, this particular project posed a number of environmental and installation challenges that allowed the company to demonstrate further its all-round subsea project management and execution capabilities.

Industry news

Bibby Offshore secures multimillion pound subsea project with BP Bibby Offshore, a leading subsea services provider to the oil and gas industry, has been awarded a multimillion pound contract by BP to replace subsea infrastructure in the Central North Sea. The work is part of the $1billion Eastern Trough Area Project (ETAP) Life Extension Project announced by BP in the summer.

ETAP is one of the largest and most complex developments in the North Sea, comprising nine oil and gas reservoirs, six of which are operated by BP. The ETAP Life Extension Project (ELXP) will help secure the future of the fields until 2030 and beyond.

The Bibby Offshore ELXP contract involves installing new subsea control system infrastructure to safeguard power and communication links to ETAP’s Machar, Madoes and Mirren fields, some 150 miles East of Aberdeen.

From April 2016, Bibby Offshore will provide dive support and construction support vessels from its international fleet to deliver services including; umbilical installation, trenching, structure installation and commissioning through to final survey of the completed workscopes.

Howard Woodcook, Chief Executive Bibby Offshore said: “This is a significant contract win for Bibby Offshore, and we are delighted to be working with BP again, having previously undertaken subsea intervention work for BP in 2014.

“The contract award as part of this high-profile life extension project highlights our wide range of subsea services and affirms our capability to consistently and successfully deliver complex and challenging projects for our clients.”

Bottom Left: Howard Woodcook, Chief Executive Bibby Offshore.

Bottom Right: Bibby Offshore personnel on vessel deck.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p11

Industry news

Using technology to transform costs Call for proposals launched for Technology Showcase 2016 The Industry Technology Facilitator (ITF) is seeking proposals on the oil and gas innovations which can make the biggest impacts in transforming costs and increasing efficiencies for its Technology Showcase 2016.

The event, held in collaboration with Oil & Gas UK, comprises both a conference and an exhibition on Wednesday 9th March 2016 at the Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre.

It has the support of a number of organisations including the Oil & Gas Authority along with global operators and service companies that are hosting technical sessions including Shell, Baker Hughes, TOTAL, AMEC, Centrica, EnQuest and GE Oil & Gas. Dr Patrick O’Brien, CEO of ITF said: “The role of technology in addressing cost pressure challenges should not be underestimated; there are many examples where innovations have made marginal fields more profitable or delivered efficiencies to squeeze more life from older assets. The Showcase provides

Below: Dr Patrick O’Brien, CEO of ITF. Insert Right: Showcase.

p8 News | January 2016 12| Industry | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016 p

the opportunity to hear directly from operators about their current challenges and needs and discover the solutions being engineered to directly target those problems.”

Abstracts are being sought from technology developers addressing key focus areas: • Technologies for Well Plugging and Abandonment • Well Construction and Drilling

Automation • Asset Integrity, Reliability and Production Efficiency • Technologies for Marginal Developments and Small Pools The morning plenary session on ‘technology’s role in transforming costs and increasing efficiency now’ will focus on North Sea infrastructure and current plans and the second session on ‘changing the technology paradigm’ will profile speakers from alternative industries sharing their wisdom and experiences.

Oonagh Werngren Oil & Gas UK’s Operations Director, said: “In what

continues to be a lower oil price world, it is vitally important that the oil and gas Industry demonstrates that it can address cost and efficiency through the development and implementation of both new and existing technology.

The Technology Showcase is designed specifically to draw those innovators with bright ideas together with industry to address key challenges it faces in areas including drilling, ongoing operations and the decommissioning and abandonment of wells. With clear challenges in the room there is an opportunity for supply chain companies to offer their ideas and innovations in an effective way.”

Exhibiting at the 2016 Technology Showcase will give technology innovators the opportunity to be part of an industrysupported, collaborative event that will showcase their pioneering technologies and R&D capabilities to key individuals from operating companies and strategic industry groups.

Technology developers and academics interested in speaking at the event should submit an abstract by Friday 8th January.

Industry news

UTEC NCS Survey Wins Multi-Year Rig Move Positioning Framework Contract with Total E&P UK Limited UTEC NCS Survey, part of UTEC (an Acteon company) has announced the award of a multi-year rig move and positioning framework contract with Total E&P UK Limited.

Total E&P UK Limited recently awarded the three-year contract with the opportunity to provide positioning services on any of their fleet of rigs and support vessels in the UKCS region.

Crawford Tennant, UTEC NCS Survey Regional Manager EMEA commented: “We have a wealth of experience in rig moves dating back to 2005, and have completed in excess of 200 operations from our support bases in UK and Norway.

equipment packages. We have been providing rig services to Total E&P UK Limited since 2009, and the recent award recognises the strong relationship which has developed during this period.”

“Projects have been completed for most of the oil majors in our region thanks to our dedicated rig positioning teams and specialised rig and tug positioning

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p13

Industry news

OPITO welcomes Westminster delegation Oil and gas skills on the agenda during MPs visit to Aberdeen.

Maximising the recovery of the UK’s oil and gas resource and sustaining employment in the North Sea’s world-class supply chain will require collaboration and skilled people.

David Doig, Group Chief Executive, OPITO.

OPITO, the oil and gas industry skills organisation, this week welcomed a delegation of Westminster-based politicians on a fact-finding mission about how the sector is addressing its long-term skills challenges.

Shadow SNP Westminster group leader Pete Wishart MP; Aberdeen North MP and Shadow SNP spokesperson at the House of Lords, Kirsty Blackman; Conservative MP Christopher Chope; and Shadow SNP spokesperson at the Scotland Office, Margaret Ferrier MP visited OPITO’s UK headquarters on the outskirts of Aberdeen at the end of November to hear how industry is collaborating with employers

p14 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

Above (Left to right): Christopher Chope, Margaret Ferrier, David Doig, Kirsty Blackman and Pete Wishart.

and education to secure the pipeline of talent for the future of the UK Continental Shelf.

Group Chief Executive David Doig welcomed the delegation and outlined OPITO’s role as the focal point for skills, training and workforce development.

“A huge amount of work is underway to ensure the UK energy sector will emerge from the current downturn in safe and competitive shape to grasp

the opportunities that will continue to present themselves in the future.

“The Scottish and UK governments have a critical role to play in supporting the industry to build a sustainable, competent and safe oil and gas workforce to secure that future so we are pleased to have been able to highlight some of the initiatives currently underway and the benefit they will bring to UK plc.”

Industry news

World’s first real-time integrated environmental monitoring system at EMEC EMEC’s novel sub-sea monitoring system successfully deployed.

The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) has successfully recovered its novel Integrated Monitoring Pod following months of transmitting real-time data feeds from the seabed at the Fall of Warness tidal energy test site in Orkney, Scotland.

The first of its kind pre-commercial prototype is connected to the shore via a subsea cable to facilitate 24/7 real-time data collection, and has been delivering live data feeds back to EMEC which can be used by marine energy developers using the site.

The ongoing project is receiving funding from the Scottish Government via the Marine Renewables Commercialisation Fund (MRCF), which is managed by the Carbon Trust.

Scotland’s Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: “I am delighted that our £2.8 million innovation support programme, part of

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the Marine Renewables Commercialisation Fund, is funding EMEC’s integrated monitoring system. This has been successfully deployed at the Fall of Warness test site and highlights the role that such enabling technologies will play in the success of the first wave and tidal arrays.”

Angus Vantoch-Wood, Programme Manager of the MRCF at the Carbon Trust commented: “The Carbon Trust is very pleased to be managing this innovative project and its ongoing delivery on behalf of the Scottish Government. It is really exciting to see EMEC’s novel Monitoring Pod solution being deployed and look forward to seeing the results, which we strongly believe will help to reduce the cost of early array deployments for both wave and tidal technologies.”

The bespoke system, designed by EMEC to operate in high velocity tidal flows, integrates a variety of sensors to undertake comprehensive concurrent environmental measurements, providing improved

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Making real-time data feeds available to developers will assist in device design, enable more accurate assessment of device performance, and support operations and maintenance planning.

“It was an incredibly exciting moment when we saw the first live data feeds coming through from the Pod” said Neil Kermode, EMEC’s Managing Director.

“Credit goes to the team here at EMEC as well as Leask Marine, Bryan J Rendall (Electrical), RM Computing, Numerical Business and J+S. The Pod was deployed in a highly volatile tidal environment, and we’re glad to have such a competent local supply chain with the combined experience, ingenuity and seamanship to make a tricky project like this run relatively smoothly.

Having worked with these companies on many projects throughout the years makes the job a lot easier to manage.”

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January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p15

Industry news

Aberdeen oil & gas services firm finalises agreement with global leader An Aberdeen floating production solutions firm has agreed a new venture with a global leader in project management, engineering and construction, to develop marginal fields in the North Sea. Amplus Energy Services, which is headquartered in the city’s Grandholm area, has struck a deal with Technip in the UK to work together to contribute to the development of untapped oil reserves.

With much of the remaining reserves inaccessible using existing infrastructure, the two firms have joined forces using their individual expertise to provide an integrated and fit for purpose solution for challenging field developments.

There is an estimated 24 billion barrels of oil equivalent (boe) still to be developed and produced in the UKCS and Sir Ian Wood’s report last year outlined a requirement for collaboration to maximise recovery of the country’s oil and gas resources.

The collaboration between Technip in the UK and Amplus is in line with the recommendations of the report and will help streamline costs, allowing companies to safely tap into more challenging reserves.

Technip in the UK will bring its extensive project management, engineering and market leading products to the relationship, developing cost efficient subsea infrastructure, while Amplus has developed an innovative dynamically positioned (DP) versatile production unit (VPU).

The Amplus VPU utilises proven FSPO (floating, production, storage and offloading) and DP vessel technology.

The vessel has been specifically designed to meet the rigorous safety and environmental conditions of the North Sea and is also suitable for projects in other areas of the world such as West Africa, Gulf of Mexico, Brazil and South East Asia.

The VPU has evolved from proven DP FPSO technology, from a major oil and gas operator, and the Dis-connectable Turret System (DTS) is field proven in the North Sea, Gulf of Mexico and Australia. It boasts 200,000bbl oil storage capacity and a NOV designed topsides processing system. p16 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

Launched in 2008, Amplus has an experienced management team with over 100 years combined knowledge of the oil and gas industry.

With a team of four office based staff and up to 25 contractors, the company has a vast understanding of field development life cycle and is focussed on developing innovative solutions to access uneconomic or stranded reserves.

We have already invested more than $5 million in the development of our VPU and it has been specifically designed for small/medium sized fields or as an early production system on larger fields.

Working alongside such a global leader as Technip to support the subsea infrastructure brings immense benefits to Amplus and offers the industry a strong collaboration to get these smaller fields developed. Our VPU design coupled with Technip’s vast worldwide expertise in subsea infrastructure is a winning combination offering a strong, reliable and cost effective option for the industry.

Ian Herd, Managing Director, Amplus.

Right: Ian Herd & Steve Duthie

Bill Morrice, Managing Director of Technip in the UK, is delighted to be joining forces with Amplus. He said: “With the industry facing uncertain times, we are constantly striving to provide our clients with innovative technologies as well as smart and costeffective solutions to meet the world’s energy challenges. This collaboration with Amplus is exciting and is a positive news story for the industry as a whole, and one which we hope will open new avenues for challenging field developments.”

Amplus and Technip in the UK are already jointly evaluating two potential projects in the West of Shetland and the Central North Sea. In March this year the Oil & Gas Technology Leadership Board revealed that its three priorities for 2015 were technologies to improve recovery from small discoveries, innovations in well construction and advances in inspection methods to manage the integrity of ageing facilities.

Collaborations such as the one between Amplus and Technip in the UK will undoubtedly contribute to a productive and sustainable long-term future for the UKCS, whilst providing a cost effective development solution to deliver challenging projects on budget and on schedule.

Industry news

INEOS completes deal to acquire DEA UK North Sea gas fields INEOS has completed the purchase of the North Sea natural gas assets of DEA Deutsche Erdoel AG, which is owned by L1 Energy.

The platforms, infrastructure and the highly skilled team that runs them will form part of the new INEOS Breagh business division that will be based in London.

The transaction includes interests in the Breagh and Clipper South gas fields in the Southern North Sea. The annual production from the fields acquired in this deal account for 8% of the UK’s annual gas production, enough gas to warm 1 in 10 British homes.

INEOS has recently announced its intention to become the leading UK player in onshore gas development and, as part of the company’s growing interest in energy production, is now evaluating additional opportunities offshore.

As part of the company’s ongoing strategic business planning, INEOS AG has set up a new oil and gas subsidiary and is working with a number of top class North Sea oil and gas professionals. This group will continue to review potential opportunities in the North Sea to assess their suitability in the development of the business.

We are pleased to have completed the deal to acquire this strong portfolio of natural gas assets and bring on board a highly successful and experienced North Sea industry team.

Geir Tuft, CEO of INEOS Breagh.

NORTH STAR SHIPPING AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT AWARD North Star Shipping has won a prestigious Sword of Honour from the British Safety Council.

The company, which has the largest, wholly-owned British fleet engaged in the UK offshore industry, is a division of the family-owned global shipping and energy services firm, Craig Group.

North Star Shipping is one of 61 organisations worldwide, and one of only two in the North East of Scotland that achieved a Sword of Honour which is awarded to organisations that have demonstrated excellence in the management of health and safety risks at work.

In order to compete for the Sword of Honour, an organisation first had to achieve the maximum five stars in the British Safety Council’s health and safety management audit scheme in the period between August, 2014 and July, 2015.

They have also demonstrated to an independent panel of experts that they are excellent in their health and safety management throughout the business from the shop floor to the boardroom.

“This is a major industry endorsement for North Star Shipping and all the efforts of

our masters, crew and HSEQ team who go above and beyond Craig Group’s Flying the Flag for Safety, Service and Quality.

I would like to congratulate everyone involved across the business in working to achieve such a well-respected award.

“The Sword of Honour represents the pinnacle achievement in the world of health and safety management and as such, it reinforces Craig Group’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a living safety culture across our entire business. Safety beyond compliance is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that we work by best-in-class standards for colleagues and clients alike.”

Douglas Craig, Chairman & Managing Director of Craig Group.

Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of the British Safety Council, said: “Our warmest congratulations to 61 of our member organisations who have won the Sword of Honour and the eight organisations who have won the Globe of Honour.

These awards

recognise and celebrate the excellence of the winning organisations and their employees in managing health, safety and environmental risks.

“All of the Sword and Globe winning organisations share a commitment and resolve to achieving the highest standards of health, safety and/or environmental management. We are delighted that they are partners in helping achieve our vision that no one should be injured or made ill at work.”

North Star Shipping operates and manages Craig Group’s fleet of 35 offshore support, ROV survey, tanker assist, and emergency response and rescue vessels which provide 24/7 support to over 50 installations in the North Sea. Aberdeen-headquartered Craig Group remains one of Scotland’s top 100 companies, is in the Sunday Times Top Track 250 list of UK private mid-market companies and the top 15 of offshore service companies in the North Sea.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p17

Industry news

NorSea Group (UK) wins five-year contract with Wild Well Control NorSea Group (UK) Ltd has won a five-year contract with Wild Well Control for the storage of its emergency response WellCONTAINED System at NorSea Group’s facilities in South Base, Montrose.

“We extend a warm welcome to our new partners in this arrangement— NorSea Group (UK) and the Montrose Port Authority— and look forward to a healthy working relationship between all parties for the term of the agreement.”

Freddy Gebhardt, Wild Well President, who visited Montrose to view the facilities, said Wild Well was very pleased to make a commitment to the region for the exclusive use of warehousing facilities for the WellCONTAINED system.

Nik Scott-Gray, Chief Executive of Montrose Port Authority (MPA), said: “We are delighted that NorSea Group and Wild Well have forged this new relationship, which broadens the marine and offshore services portfolio we can offer at Montrose Port. The port is strategically placed as a service and logistics hub for the offshore oil and gas sectors, and this new agreement helps advance our ongoing development and expansion plans. We look forward to working closely with NorSea Group and Wild Well over the coming years. ”

“Having immediate access quayside in the case of mobilization and deployment offers an all-encompassing logistics solution for our consortium members,” he said.

“Providing 24/7/365 emergency response to ensure our clients get the timely service and support they need is a pre-requisite, and the set up at South Base guarantees that requirement will be met.

NorSea Group has a 15-year lease agreement with MPA on the South Base covering warehousing and 11,000m2 of external quayside laydown. Quayside support services include stevedores, forklifts, cranes, water and fuel. It also has additional internal and external storage at nearby Broomfield Industrial Estate in Montrose.

The WellCONTAINED system of services includes contingency planning and response from Source Control Emergency Response Planning (SCERP) through field deployment of the system capping a subsea uncontrolled well.

p18 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

This type of hi-tech intervention equipment is designed to minimise exposure in the event of an offshore emergency and a top priority is the ability to respond without delay. Our storage and supply base operations at Montrose, with direct quayside access and geographical proximity meet all the requirements for optimising response time.

Mike Munro, Operations Director at NorSea Group (UK).

Below: Freddy Gebhardt, Wild Well (left) and Mike Munro, NorSea Group (UK).

Insert Image: Wild Well Control’s WellCONTAINED System.

Industry news

Xodus wins over £5 million of vibration contracts Xodus Group has won a clutch of international vibration contracts bringing the total value for this year to £5 million.

Managed through its vibration specialists in the UK and the UAE, the projects involve identifying and reducing vibration in global oil and gas assets, a significant challenge for oil and gas operators that can lead to loss of production through downtime.

One of the latest contracts is with Zakum Development Company (ZADCO) for over £270,000 of vibration analysis on its North Satellite Platform and South Satellite Platform, offshore Abu Dhabi.

The Zakum field is the second largest field in the Gulf and the fourth largest field in the world. ZADCO aims to increase the production rate from Upper Zakum from 550,000 to 750,000 barrels of oil per day, sustainable for 25 years. Mr Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Marzouqi, ZADCO’s Operation Support Vice President for Maintenance said: “The need to manage long term performance and issues has led ZADCO to seek out a more economical future development concept. Reducing vibration has been a major challenge for us as we have increased production on these ageing assets in recent months.”

Mr Slahadin Ali Ashair, ZADCO’s Rotating Machinery Manager added: “Xodus was chosen to undertake this project as the team is considered the most knowledgeable and economical in this specialised field.

We have been in constant dialogue and had excellent schedule control from the Xodus team. The work is expected to be completed ahead of time, saving valuable project time and overall costs.”

This is the second contract Xodus has won with the operator this year following a £400,000 contract for vibration assessment and analysis on the oil train piping and structures for ZADCO at Zirku Island.

The work pulled in services from Xodus’ process, piping, instrumentation and structural teams and included a Front End Engineering Design (FEED) scope of work.

Other recent contracts include a three year vibration study contract in Algeria for a major operator and vibration work on a new FPSO, currently sailing from Korea to the North Sea. The team is also carrying out vibration risk management and trouble shooting in the Northern and Southern North Sea and investigating two vibration issues on sulphur recovery units in Abu Dhabi.

Wim van der Zande, CEO of Xodus Group said: “Our vibration specialists are solving complex challenges for global operators, delivering tangible results and cost efficiencies. Our engineers are carrying out valuable in field assessments and are backed by technical and analytical specialists based in the UK and United Arab Emirates.

Vibration and acoustic problems can affect old and new assets, severely impacting on operational uptime and we have the expertise to pin-point issues and take action to support production enhancement.”

ABB wins large order for Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline ABB has won a large contract for the 1,850 km Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) to bring Azerbaijan’s natural gas directly to Europe. ABB will deliver the control infrastructure to contribute to safe, secure and reliable operation of the pipeline throughout its lifetime. ABB signed the contract with TANAP and the order is booked in the fourth quarter.

The $11 billion pipeline will interconnect with two others: the South Caucasus at Turkey’s border with Georgia and the Trans Adriatic at its border with Greece. The gas will come from the Shah Deniz 2 field in the Caspian Sea and it will enter the European network in Italy. It will cross the whole of Turkey, with TANAP forming the central section of the $45 billion Southern Gas Corridor, which will be part of Europe’s future strategic energy infrastructure.future development concept. Reducing vibration

has been a major challenge for us as we have increased production on these ageing assets in recent months.”

Mr Slahadin Ali Ashair, ZADCO’s Rotating Machinery Manager added: “Xodus was chosen to undertake this project as the team is considered the most knowledgeable and economical in this specialised field.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p19

Industry news

MAERSK TRAINING’S TOP 5 TIPS TO BEING SUCCESSFUL IN THE WIND INDUSTRY James Costello, Careers and Employment Manager at Maersk Training gives his top five tips on being successful in the wind industry.

1. Safety

3. Flexibility and resilience

You must have an unwavering focus on safe working practice: In addition to the technical aptitude to perform the work, employers value high principles of safety as roles in wind energy involve working in extremely challenging environments with dangerous machinery and equipment.

As the industry is constantly changing, employers value staff who are flexible, reliable and reactive to sudden changes in location, are comfortable in working away from home and duties or rotation making it much easier when it comes to the logistics of mobilising multiple staff into projects.

2. In-depth industry knowledge Following project development and forming a strong employer network is key when looking for a new role, moulding you into a strong candidate at interview stage.

4. Continuing Professional Development Having in-date, relevant industry certification, technical skills and remaining informed of employers’ training

expectations can mean the difference between being selected for a contract or being overlooked. Ensure the certificates you are chasing are definitely relevant to the industry!

5: Communication and customer service skills Roles in wind energy often involve direct interaction with stakeholders and customers; often at senior levels.

It is therefore vital that you maintain a high level of customer service and communication. A negative experience could jeopardise your employer’s contract.

Russian Oil Companies Looking to the Americas to Boost International Long-Term Positions, says GlobalData Key Russian oil companies have refocused on strengthening their international positions through the acquisition of exploration and production assets in geographies outside Russia, with countries in the Americas providing a number of potential partnerships in the long term, according to analysts with research and consulting firm GlobalData.

According to Anna Belova, GlobalData’s Senior Upstream Analyst covering the Former Soviet Union (FSU), companies such as Lukoil, Zarubezhneft, Bashneft, Rosneft, and Gazprom are all pushing international diversification, an increasingly important strategy in light of the sanctions placed on Russian companies after its involvement in Crimea.

Furthermore, Adrian Lara, GlobalData’s Senior Upstream Analyst covering the Americas, notes: “With governmental support, countries not originally prioritized for international expansion are being

p20 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

identified as potentially strong political, trade and investment partners for Russian oil companies.

“Currently, they have their sights firmly on the Americas, having expressed interest in future gas projects in Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, and Bolivia, among others.”

GlobalData believes these countries could benefit from external help, as they are in need of financial aid and/or expertise in how to develop and explore their vast resources. Russian companies are strongly positioned to do this given their size and well-developed knowledge of the oil industry.

However, as Lara states: “Following the recent outcomes of elections in Argentina and Venezuela, which saw a shift towards more conservative governments, Russian companies might lose political and economic privileges, as relationships with these nations will be subject to stricter limitations.

“Involvement with Mexico would also incur obstacles, as Russian companies would have to compete with other key oil companies as shown in the second phase of Round One, where Lukoil’s high bid was outperformed

by ENI’s.”

Despite the fact that companies are actively strengthening their international positions, projects will not materialize soon, as they are in the early stages and have project economics that do not compare favorably with investment opportunities in the FSU region.

Belova concludes: “Russian upstream companies are now an established presence in the Americas and, given their focus on exploration and early stage projects, are instituting long-term objectives.

“Even if limited benefits are to be gained from Americas-based projects in the near future, they do offer a foundation that should reap benefits over the coming decade if consistently matured.”

Industry news

EMEC advising development of Nagasaki marine energy test centre The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) has furthered its ties with Japan having signed a contract to provide advice on the development of a marine energy test facility in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan.

EMEC will advise on the infrastructure needed to develop a test site, from subsea cables, and grid connection to resource data instrumentation, as well as the wider infrastructure required in the region to support marine energy deployments.

A review of the marine renewables industry will also be undertaken, alongside support in business planning, operational procedures, and health and safety.

The announcement today follows EMEC becoming a member of NaMICPA (the Nagasaki Marine Industry Cluster Promotion Association) earlier in the year, to help support the development of marine renewables in Japan and stimulate further collaboration between the two countries.

In October, a 28 strong delegation from NaMICPA visited Orkney, including representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Nagasaki Economic Research Institute, and Nagasaki Prefectural Government, to discuss how the two regions can work together to progress marine renewables.

Akihiro Suzuki, President of the Wind Energy Institute of Tokyo: “This project is a new challenge for the marine industry in Nagasaki.

The cooperation with EMEC, as well as the Scottish government, is essential for the successful planning of the new test

centre and the development of the local supply chain. We are very excited to work with EMEC as the advisor for this Nagasaki project.”

Makoto Takahira, Director of Nagasaki Marine Industry Cluster Promotion Association: “The creation of Nagasaki Marine Energy Centre is an important step to accelerate development of ocean renewable energy in Japan as well as to create new marine industrial cluster in Nagasaki. We would like to learn from EMEC how to effectively manage the marine energy test centre and exchange information with supply chain companies in Orkney. We are keen to contribute to the development of ocean renewable energy not only in Japan but also in Asia on the basis of the relationship between Scotland and Nagasaki, which have unique and long history. Having the support from EMEC, who has accumulated valuable expertise, we trust that Nagasaki Marine Energy Centre will be successfully realized.”

Paul O’Brien, Energy and Low Carbon Technologies at Scottish Development International: “This is an excellent example of how Scotland can help accelerate the ocean energy market in Japan through EMEC sharing their experience and knowledge, garnered over the last 12 years, to help speed up the delivery of Nagasaki Prefecture’s own tidal energy test centre.”

Having planned, developed and operated 18 real sea test berths of its own in Orkney, 14 of which are grid-connected, EMEC has overcome many obstacles, and has accumulated a great deal of learning about the do’s and don’ts of marine energy test site development.

We’re delighted to be working with the Wind Energy Institute of Tokyo to help them develop marine energy in Japan. Just as EMEC stimulated interest and investment for marine energy in the UK in 2003, a Japanese test centre has the potential to kick-start the sector in Japan. And that will benefit wave and tidal technologies currently in development as there will be a wider international market for them when they reach commercialisation.

Oliver Wragg, Commercial Director at EMEC.

Over the past five years the number of marine energy test centres around the world has grown, and EMEC has established relationships with many of them via a series of memorandums of understanding, commercial contracts, and by facilitating networking events for test centres to share learning and challenges, and ensure they are working on common standards.

EMEC has been building on its ties with Japan since 2012, when the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ocean Energy Association of Japan (OEAJ) to provide advice and support in the development of a Japan Marine Energy Centre (JMEC).

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p21

Industry news

Time for Transformation It was a year ago that the downward spiral in the oil price started to cause concern in the industry.

We are now faced with a commodity price which, everyone agrees, will be much lower, for much longer than most of us feared this time last year.

The cost-cutting has been severe and project delays and cancellations have had a major impact on many subsea companies.

Regrettably, we have seen companies forced into administration with the damaging knock-on effect across the subsea supply chain. Others are struggling to keep their heads above water and there will inevitably be further casualties both in terms of firms and individuals.

After the initial fear, panic and rationalisation, 2015 has ultimately been a year of realisation, a wake-up call to the industry that we have to

make fundamental changes to survive and eventually thrive.

The focus for all of us is now on collaboration and co-operation in a major drive to boost efficiencies and find better ways of working. Most of you will recall CRINE Cost Reduction in the New Era – and the initiatives which came out of this to cope at the time with $10 oil. Some great work was done then, some of which is still in use today, but I would argue that much of it was simply forgotten as the oil price crept back up again.

This time, the low price will be here for some time and we have an opportunity to define our future by truly embedding the behavioural change that will sustain our industry in the long-term and achieve the goals of Maximising Economic Recovery in the North Sea. Tackling the cost and efficiency challenge is of paramount importance if we are to secure the long-term future of our industry. It’s no longer enough to talk about collaboration and co-operation, the whole industry must act to get operating costs down and fast.

But collaboration must be a two way street, every part of the supply chain must appreciate and understand the objective of the other and work in a way that is aligned to each achieving those objectives.

If we can do this, we will be in a much better shape to thrive in the future, rather than just survive.

That’s why the theme for this year’s Subsea Expo is “Time for Transformation”.

Leading figures from the regulators, the operators and the supply chain will come together at Subsea Expo to tackle how we need to change, what we can do simpler and more effectively and where we need to reinvent ourselves. This is our time to demonstrate the pioneering attitude and ingenuity for which our industry has been renowned in the past.

While the repercussions of the low oil price are perhaps being more sharply felt in the North-Sea due to its very high cost base, the rest of the world is not immune.

However, there are some key regions which standout in terms of short to medium term potential. These are parts of Africa, South East Asia and Mexico.

Companies who are able to spread the risk across several geographical markets are weathering the storm better than others.

But it’s not about being a fair weather exporter, subsea firms must all be looking to new markets if they are serious about their long-term future.

British subsea expertise, experience and technology is in demand and Subsea UK will continue in its efforts to help companies capitalise on overseas opportunities. Collaborating with other organisations is an important element of Subsea UK’s strategy and we continue to work with SDI and UKTI to develop a strategic approach to growing the industry’s international capabilities and reputation.

At Subsea Expo we will be examining the best ways forward for our industry and look at where improvements can be made.

Where there are tough times there are also opportunities and the rewards are still out there. With the correct approach and cooperation of operators, the supply chain, industry bodies and the government we can ensure the UK’s energy sector continues to lead the world.

p22 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

The World’s Largest Subsea Exhibition and Conference Aberdeen AECC 03-05 Feb 2016

ORGANISED BY

Conference Sponsor

Principal Media Sponsor

Supporting Sponsors

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SUBSEA TRAINING CENTRE PREPARES FOR APRIL DIVING REGULATION DEADLINE Subsea training facility, The Underwater Centre, is preparing for changes to the prerequisite requirements for experienced commercial air divers which will come in to play in April 2016.

At the moment, candidates looking to take part in the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) or ADAS (Australian Diver Accreditation Scheme) closed bell diving courses need to have a minimum of 50 logged dives totalling at least 50 hours. This will increase to 100 logged dives totalling at least 100 hours, doubling the required dives a commercial air diver must have.

The decision to change the pre-requisites has come from industry agreement, from the IDRCF (International Diving Regulators and Certifiers Forum) and with input from IMCA (International Marine Contractors Association).

Industry agreed to make this change because of feedback that air divers training to become saturation or mixed gas divers sometimes lacked enough diving experience.

better it will be for the divers and the industry in general,” he said.

“The changes are being implemented in just a few months and this gives those wishing to train under the existing requirements a small window in which to sign up and complete the course, after which they will have to undertake significantly more logged dives.”

The Underwater Centre is a purpose-built subsea training and trials facility and is based on the shore of a seawater loch, well sheltered by the surrounding mountains. The Centre’s unique location allows it to provide year-round training and testing in a tidal, open-water environment with access to depths of over 100 metres.

On site there is a large range of vessels and equipment and a committed team of expert staff and instructors helping to make subsea training, testing or research work especially for the customer.

It is the ideal location to perform realistic and industry-like training while still being centrally located in the largest town in the Scottish Highlands.

Alf Leadbitter, Dive Training Authority at The Underwater Centre, who has been training commercial air and mixed gas divers for over 30 years, and contributed to the working group set up by the IDRCF, believes the changes are a positive move.

The Centre has a sister facility in Tasmania which was originally created to address the demand for commercial diver training in the Asia Pacific region. It is the only school in the world to offer all levels of the internationally-accepted ADAS commercial diver certification, from ADAS Part 1 SCUBA, right up to ADAS Part 4 Closed Bell.

“These changes to the pre-requisites are welcomed by us as a commercial diving training provider. The more experience commercial divers have in industry before furthering their careers the

Anyone interested in more information about The Underwater Centre should contact 01397 703 786 or fortwilliam@theunderwatercentre.com

Left: Alf Leadbitter, Dive Training Authority.

Right: Two divers at The Underwater Centre.

p24 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

www.theunderwatercentre.com

subsea: diving & Underwater services

Subsea compression innovator presented with President’s Award by SUT Thirty year old napkin sketch became a reality in 2015 The Society for Underwater Technology (SUT) has presented its President’s Award to Dr Kjell Olav Stinessen in recognition of his long term services to industry at the Society’s AGM and annual dinner in London.

and industry stakeholders and representing IMCA members’ interests throughout the world. Her contribution towards improving safety in the most challenging of industries has influenced regulations throughout the world.

Dr Stinessen has been an engineer for over 50 years and is now a First Chief Engineer at Aker Solutions. In 1985, he drew a sketch on the back of a napkin of his vision for how subsea compression might work in the future. In September this year, 30 years after the napkin drawing, that vision was transformed into reality with the offshore industry’s first full scale subsea compression station in operation at the Statoil-operated Åsgard field.

SUT awarded its Oceanography Award to Dr Karen Heywood, professor of environmental sciences at the University of East Anglia, for her outstanding contribution to the field of oceanography.

Dr Stinessen said: “Being awarded SUT’s President’s Award is a great honour. Countless engineering hours have been spent together by thousands of employees at Aker Solutions, sub-suppliers, Statoil and Shell to realise this vision and I am pleased that persistence can be awarded.

“Even at the age of 73, this inspires me to carry on for more years.

I am now working on the development of a new concept which I believe has the same game-changing potential as subsea compression. With the experience we’ve gained, it will not take as long as 30 years this time and I am aiming at seeing it operational while I am still in work.”

Jane Bugler was also presented with The Houlder Cup for her outstanding contribution to underwater operations at the event on December 1. Recently retired, Ms Bugler spent the latter part of her career with the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) as Technical Director.

She was responsible for all aspects of IMCA’s technical work addressing offshore diving, marine, offshore surveying and ROV activities by developing good practice guidance, liaising with regulatory

Dr Heywood’s research into the processes and dynamics of ocean circulation in the Polar Regions has led to new insights into how mixing and water-mass transformations at small and regional scales affect the global thermohaline circulation. She was also an early advocate for the use of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) as carriers of sensors and samplers in experiments. Her recent work on this topic has seen undersea gliders being used in the Antarctic, including under icebergs.

Dr Bob Allwood, CEO of SUT said: “The Society is honoured to present these awards to such well-deserving winners. All the awardees have contributed greatly to their professions over the years and it is clear to see that they are still as passionate as ever about their fields of work.”

SUT’s Aberdeen Branch Award of Merit was presented to Ian Murray at a ceremony at the Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, Aberdeen. He was recognised as supporter of the underwater community by encouraging membership, delivering project insights and making time to mentor and encourage newly graduated engineers.

Matthew Head, who picked up his MEng Mechanical and Electrical Engineering degree from Robert Gordon University earlier this month, was also awarded the tenth Martin Richmond Award at the dinner for demonstrating academic rigour and a passion for their chosen subject.

He was presented with a painting created by Gray’s School of Art student Dagmara Milosz.

Left: The winners pose with their awards Below: SUT president David Kirkley presents Dr Kjell Olav.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p25

subsea: diving & Underwater services

Underwater Metal Detectors for Law Enforcement and Commercial Diving Many commercial diving companies and law enforcement agencies are acquiring underwater metal detectors to help in their search and recovery operations.

Designed for use in the subsea environment, these detectors have a minimal number of controls making them extremely easy for divers to operate. They are an essential piece of equipment for locating and tracking pipelines, searching for lost tools and equipment, pinpointing the position of anchors and moorings, as well as finding weapons, evidence, and explosives.

New Jersey based Randive is one of the diving companies employing underwater metal detectors in their operations. In the five decades since its founding in 1959 by Randor Erlandson, Randive has continuously expanded their capabilities, and today its clients include some of the largest shipping companies in the world. They perform ship maintenance and repair, salvage and survey work, inspection and repair of dry docks, piers and a variety of other tasks.

Above: Indian River Fire Rescue diver surfaces holding 16 inch coil after recovering evidence.

Insert photo: Randive diver jumps in with Pulse 8X metal detector. p26 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

The company is affiliated with a number of professional organizations including the Association of Diving Contractors International and the Society of Maritime Port Engineers.

Panasoff reported on a recent project; “We used our Pulse 8X in 32 meters of water to survey the route of a buried gas pipeline for Israel Natural Gas Lines, and it worked perfectly.”

In a recent cable laying project across New York harbor, Randive’s divers used their JW Fishers Pulse 8X detector to locate metal obstructions and mark them for removal. For this job, the 16 inch search coil was attached to the detector’s electronics unit providing greater penetration into the muddy bottom. In another project, the 8X proved beneficial in the search for a 8 foot wide stainless steel propeller lost from a towboat. Although buried deep in silt, Randive’s Keith Michalski reports their experienced divers were able to quickly find and recover it. When the target of interest is buried down more than 6 feet, Randive puts their Fisher PT-1 pinpointing magnetometer to work.

This powerful detector finds iron and steel objects up to 16 feet under the bottom. It proved indispensable in locating and tracking a deeply buried natural gas pipeline running under the Hudson River near Manhattan.

Commercial divers are not the only ones using underwater detectors, a number of law enforcement and public safety dive teams are putting these devices to work in their search operations. State Police and FBI dive teams across the US are using the Pulse 8X to locate weapons used in the commission of crimes and disposed of in a waterway. Criminals mistakenly believe that by throwing a gun or knife into a river or lake, it will be lost forever.

In reality, law enforcement divers equipped with an underwater metal detector easily find these weapons.

Detectors can also assist in the recovery of evidence as witnessed by Lt. Kyle Kofke with Indian River County Fire Rescue in Florida. Recently the dive team was tasked with searching the mucky bottom of the Indian River Lagoon with their Pulse 8X looking for possible evidence in a homicide investigation.

Ma’agan Marine Ltd in Israel also uses their underwater detector to find subsea pipelines. Ma’agan is the largest provider of diving services and marine engineering works in the country. In addition to installing, repairing, and maintaining undersea oil, gas and water lines, their divers also do underwater welding, cutting, cable installations, construct mooring systems, salvage and recovery operations, rock blasting, mining, and excavation. Diving supervisor Shai

The 16 inch coil was attached to the detector allowing divers to search a large area quickly. Lt. Kofke reported divers found the victim’s cell phone which provided a time line for the day’s events, a key piece of evidence needed to charge the defendant with murder.

For more information on JW Fishers complete line of underwater search equipment go to:

www.jwfishers.com

subsea: diving & Underwater services

Training and Examinations For a successful career in Underwater Inspection Internationally recognised qualifications (CSWIP) specified by employers Technical industry knowledge with hands-on practical training Clearly defined career progression One-stop training and certification Categories available depending on the career path selected:

3.1U - NDT Inspection Diver 3.2U - NDT Inspection Diver 3.3U - ROV Inspector 3.4U - Underwater Inspection Controller

TWI Training and Examination Services Tel: +44 (0)1642 216320 E-mail: trainexam@twitraining.com www.twitraining.com January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p27

subsea: diving & Underwater services

On the Right Course Reliable and robust methods of positioning are crucial for safe vessel operations in an offshore environment. Increasingly, vessels are being fitted with Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems, which vary in complexity depending on each vessel’s classification.

Over the past 30 years, the acceptance and growing use of DP has resulted in improved DP technology across the offshore oil and gas industries. DP is utilised to automatically maintain a vessel’s position and heading by using its thrusters via an integration of computer controlled systems and functions.

Recent industry reports suggest that DP incidents are on the increase. In an attempt to prevent DP incidents and enhance the competence of its crews, Helix Energy Solutions sought Kongsberg Maritime Ltd, the UK arm of global marine technology company Kongsberg Maritime, to deliver a tailored DP emergency scenario training course to 11 of its employees at its training centre in Aberdeen.

Kongsberg Maritime Ltd has 30 years’ experience in delivering training courses to the offshore and maritime industry.

Having increased the number of courses delivered by 36% (2013-2014), the company has become the standard for industry excellence in the UK and the training provider of choice for Helix.

The bespoke course offered practical emergency response training using Helix company procedures, as well as focusing on operations carried out by Helix’s vessel, Well Enhancer. By demonstrating a number of scenarios and stress testing Critical Activity Mode of Operation (CAMO) along with the Task Appropriate Mode (TAM), it was clear that learning how the DP system responds to specific induced failures would be beneficial. On that basis, Helix took the decision to train its entire crew.

The course also included a talk from a leading industry expert from DNV GL who outlined the major changes that are currently underway in the DP community.

Course participants included the DP operational crew from Helix’s vessel, Seawell, which is engaged in diving p28 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

Above: Helix delegates in Kongsberg’s training simulator, K-Sim. K-Si.

operations in the North Sea. The most complex and dangerous operation a Diving Support Vessel (DSV) can undertake is working within an anchor pattern of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO), therefore a sound understanding of DP and related operational factors is crucial, to mitigate potential incidents.

The course consisted of one day familiarisation to the KONGSBERG K-Pos DP system, followed by three days of practical scenario training, including a review of significant industry DP related incidents, which resulted in the Dynamic Positioning Officer (DPO) taking manual control of the vessel.

The importance of human factors, which often influence a person’s decision making abilities during an incident, were acknowledged throughout the course.

After significant support and learning, delegates were placed into KONGSBERG’s training simulator, K-Sim, which provides the most realistic on-shore training environment possible. The simulator has been designed to replicate the bridge of a

ship, with large computer screens projecting 3D imagery of the marine environment, complete with production platforms and support vessels.

By placing delegates in specific environmental conditions and creating realistic DP scenarios, including close proximity emergency station keeping and emergency manoeuvring, the training instructor is able to assess participant responses.

This method of coaching encompasses human factors in a way which cannot be taught in a classroom-based environment alone. The K-Sim is designed to support operations, test procedures, increase competence and minimise errors, therefore reducing the amount - and ultimately the cost - of incidents during DP operations.

Utilising its position as part of the leading manufacturer of DP technology, Kongsberg Maritime Ltd’s training centre leaves delegates with an appreciation as to how their individual responses impact on others and operations in times of emergency.

subsea: diving & Underwater services

Underwater Inspection Courses from TWI internationally recognised training and certification TWI Training and Certification have established a global reputation as the go-to provider for personnel who want to acquire accredited skills, gain qualifications and increase their employment opportunities in NDT, welding, welding inspection, plant inspection, coatings inspection and underwater inspection.

Some of the most popular are within the Underwater Inspection Programme, which give commercial divers the skills and qualifications they need to become underwater inspectors. Instructors for the underwater inspection courses have a detailed knowledge and first-hand experience of subsea inspection, so they fully understand the implications of underwater inspection work and Diver/ ROV requirements.

A combination of multi-media materials in the classroom and hands-on practical training make learning interesting and more enjoyable.

TWI’s purpose-built Underwater Inspection Training Facilities in Middlesbrough in the UK and Chonburi in Thailand are complete with modern classrooms, deep-water dive tanks and all the latest equipment. The Underwater Inspection Training Programme includes the following courses: • Introduction to Subsea Inspection • CSWIP 3.1U – NDT Inspection Diver • CSWIP 3.2U – NDT Inspection Diver • CSWIP 3.3U – ROV Inspector • CSWIP 3.4U – Underwater Inspection Controller

Underwater inspection and many other courses from TWI lead to internationally recognised certifications issued by the CSWIP Certification Scheme. This scheme has become synonymous with competence and professionalism, and is one of the most highly regarded providers of certification in Welding, NDT, Inspection and allied disciplines.

To find out more about courses available from TWI, visit:

www.twitraining.com

or email:

trainexam@twitraining.com

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p29

LIFTING EQUIPMENT, DECK MACHINERY & WINCHES Patented Subsea and ROV Hooks from Nautilus Rigging Nautilus Rigging (UK) Ltd are internationally recognised as the leading innovators in safe lifting solutions as the manufacturers and suppliers of the Patented Nautilus Hook™.

The company achieved this recognition by focusing their design criteria to eliminate known industry concerns with respect to the inherent safety hazards incorporated in traditional style lifting hooks.

The innovative Nautilus Hook design was awarded the prestigious American Society of Mechanical Engineers - Best Mechanical Engineering Award at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston where

the unique, patented, safety features were deemed a tangible step change in lifting safety coupled with real global potential to reduce risk in the workplace in all lifting operations were cited by the judges as the deciding factors in awarding Nautilus Hooks this highest accolade.

Nautilus Subsea and ROV release hooks incorporate all the innovative safety features of the company’s topside hooks, including the integrated safety handle and dual sided sliding lock mechanism which makes topside handling a simple, safe and secure operation, removing fingers from the hazardous hook/ sling interface area and providing an easy one handed operation.

The ROV Hooks are currently available in 2 versions, both with a WLL of 22 tonnes, the Long shank NH-ROV22E and eye top release hook NH-SS22E. The hooks are fitted with a bespoke 316 stainless steel ROV activation wire tested to 1200 kg.

Nautilus Hooks are supplied with the manufacturers test certification which includes the individual proof test details and the unique hook number for simple traceability meeting all corporate compliance requirements.

“As with our Topside Hooks range the introduction of our Nautilus Subsea range has proved extremely popular with the major ROV and Subsea contractors who have been quick to recognise the unique safety benefits that our positive locking ROV hooks provide, where the patented “positive” locking mechanism eliminates the risk of unintentional release which is a known and inherent design hazard associated with the use of traditional style “snap on” ROV hooks.

The positive locking function of the Nautilus ROV hook ensures that load integrity is maintained at all times until released by the ROV manipulator.

This unique and patented function provides operators the cost efficient solution to eliminate the risks of incurring expensive downtime and/or equipment damage that invariably results from any unplanned, or uncontrolled, release of the load that is a well known risk associated with all traditional style ROV hooks” Managing Director, Mr Bill Toon Following their success with the initial 22t versions of the subsea/ROV hooks the company has now initiated their development plans to extend the range to include a smaller load rated version of 12.5t and larger 36t rated models to be released in early 2016 A short video detailing the unique operational and safety benefits, and the full product specifications can be viewed at:

www.nautilusrigging.com

Outward opening locking arm for ‘snag free’ discharge

Nautilus Rigging (UK) Ltd are manufacturers and suppliers of Nautilus Hooks™, offering bare hooks or complete certified assemblies to the customers requirements.

NH-SS22E

CE certified to European Standard BS/EN 1677-1 Nautilus Hooks registered trade mark TM

NH-ROV22E

316 marine grade stainless steel lock spring

Smooth external profile with no protrusions

4x safety factor

Unique internal load bearing profile. No internal obstructions

Long shank for ROV control of hook

Offset pivot pin for automatic locking under load

Operators can purchase direct from the manufacturers by contacting: sales@nautilusrigging.com Or call +44 (0)1224 772323 for quotes or enquiries.

Bespoke 316 marine grade stainless steel primary activation wire

NautilusRigging Safer lifting, efficient solutions

Topside and Subsea

lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches

New Modulift Subsea Spreader Beams Conform to Revised DNV Standard

Modulift, a manufacturer of spreader beams, lifting beams and other below-the-hook equipment, has timed the launch of its subsea modular spreader beams to coincide with publication of a revised offshore standard from DNV GL AS, titled DNV-OS-H206, that references the use of spreader bars. DNV, formerly known as Det Norske Veritas AS, a global provider of knowledge for managing risk, has updated the standard that covers loadout, transport and installation of subsea objects.

This is a new document in a series replacing the DNV Rules for Planning and Execution of Marine Operations (1996/2000).

The standard replaces Pt.2 Ch.6.

Extensive revisions have been made and three new sections have been added: loadout and transport; subsea lifting; and installation of pipelines, risers, cables and umbilicals.

Excerpts from ‘Section 5—Subsea Lifting’ read, ‘Subsea lifting is defined as installing, moving or recovering an object subsea by means of a crane or other lifting appliance.’ And, ‘The lifted object shall be documented as having adequate stability when lowering through the wave zone.’ It also directly references spreader bars.

Conforming to the revised standard, Modulift has launched a new nautical series of spreader beams for subsea environments, designed to safely lift weights of up to 500t.

Unlike standard spreader beams that are manufactured using circular hollow sections, the subsea range has an open section design, suited to water submersion by eliminating the risks associated with cavity or pressure issues. They are finished with a three coat paint system that is based on a two pack epoxy paint combination suitable for the marine environment.

Sarah Spivey, Managing Director of Modulift, said: “We have taken the concept behind the unique modular elements of our highly successful, standard and heavy spreader beam ranges, and have produced a versatile and efficient collection for deep water lifting that also conforms to the latest documentation and standards.”

As with regular spreader beams, they are fully and correctly assembled when combined with the recommended end units, drop links and shackles top and bottom, that also allow for the option to use ROV shackles where necessary.

Spivey added: “The new subsea modular spreader beam range is another example of our engineering expertise presenting an economical below-the-hook solution that allows products to be used time and again, in multiple applications. As is consistent with all Modulift products, the modular design facilitates easy transportation.”

The new nautical series is available to order, while the engineering team is prepared to discuss custom solutions and special requirements.

Modulift Launches Trunnion Modular Spreader Beam for Heavy Lift Applications The new Trunnion spreader beam is set to revolutionise the rigging industry by offering lifting professionals an efficient, lightweight and economic below-the-hook solution.

Modulift, a manufacturer of spreader beams, lifting beams and other below-the-hook equipment, has launched the product primarily to ease the attachment of slings when rigging heavy lifts.

The game changing Trunnion Modular Spreader Beam offers a myriad of benefits to high capacity lifting operations, including significant time savings when compared to similar applications using standard rigs below the hook, taking only half the duration in the rigging up phase, tests suggest.

A trunnion is defined in engineering as one of a pair of

p32 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

projections attached to opposite sides of a container to provide a support about which it can turn in a vertical. Practically, the Modulift spreader has been modified and a drop link removed to make way for the trunnion pin and cross pins. This allows for direct connection of slings to the spreader beam.

The trunnion spreader will initially be launched in three sizes; MOD250, MOD400 and MOD600, covering a range of capacities from 250t to 1,000t.

The shackle-less solution is in essence a standard modular spreader, using the same struts and bolting configurations and is, thus, fully compatible with current and legacy equipment.

Sarah Spivey, Managing Director of Modulift, pointed to other features of the trunnion modular spreader beam, including improved safety, given there are no heavy shackles and drop

lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches

links to manoeuvre; time saved due to more efficient rigging; cost efficiency over standard spreader rigs; and the Modulift hallmark of modular design.

At the capacity in which the trunnion spreader will operate, removal of shackles and drop links from the design can vastly improve the safety of the user. Shackles and drop links of this size can weigh up to 1,000kg, meaning they are difficult to handle and incidents can occur.

The three higher capacity models are anticipated to generated the highest demand. The MOD250 reaches 400t capacity at 8m and de-rated up to 20m; the 400 reaches up to 600t at 12m and de-rated up to 23m; and the 600 can be used to 1,000t at 15m and de-rated up to 26m as per the manufacturer’s standard 600XB/1000 spreader.

When it comes to lifting operations, nothing should be left to chance, stay safe...

insist on A It pays to insist on a TEAM card to ensure the safe operation LEEAefficiency Member companies have and of your lifting equipment • Proven standards of professionalism • Access to LEEA technical support • Trained staff holding TEAM cards • Demonstrated commitment to raising standards

To find a LEEA member company visit

www.leeaint.com LEEA – Lifting Standards Worldwide™

lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches

New LEEA Academy transforms training for overhead lifting equipment engineers LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association) has launched a new Learning Management System that will transform the training experience for students preparing for the association’s Diploma qualification for the test and examination of overhead lifting equipment. Providing more rigorous, flexible and engaging professional development, the LEEA Academy encompasses a range of delivery methods, including a new e-learning service that employs the latest 3D modelling and interactive techniques. The comprehensive range of options available also incorporates instructor-led practical training, and ‘blended learning’, which combines e-learning, supported revision and a final examination.

LEEA Academy e-learning can be accessed round-the-clock via PC, Mac, laptop or tablet. An extensive library of high quality, computer generated 3D images of equipment such as hoists and load lifting attachments has been created, making it easy for students to relate their learning to day-to-day working practices. In addition, fully interactive quizzes and revision assignments are used throughout each training course, providing students with immediate feedback on progress and helping to identify any gaps in their knowledge.

Students work at their own pace, and benefit from access to a dedicated tutor and technical helpdesk. A new online learning community connects fellow students.

The LEEA Academy will replace the association’s existing online and distance learning courses, whilst complementing and supporting its extensive portfolio of instructor-led practical training.

The ‘Part One Entrance Certificate’ course, comprising 28 separate modules, is the first to migrate to the new system. It will be joined by all the remaining courses by March 2016.

the association’s registration scheme for appropriately trained and experienced overhead lifting equipment technicians and engineers.

Originally established in the late 1950’s, LEEA Diploma examinations are taken by several hundred students every year, worldwide. Only successful candidates, employed by LEEA member companies, are entitled to carry the TEAM Card,

Introducing the Worlds Fastest 3 Tonne Air Hoist Red Rooster Industrial UK Ltd, are pleased to introduce their all new 3 Tonne TMH-3000 Air Hoist.

Not only is the TMH-3000 the fastest hoist in the world for it’s class, it also offers the most compact closed headroom of just 537mm. The TMH-3000 model supersedes the TCR-3000 model with a lifting speed of 5.4 m/min, compared to the TCR’s speed of 2.8 m/min, giving the operator a huge increase in productivity. The hoist has a full load capacity at 4 to 6.3 bar and is highly durable with a M4 rating.

With safety being our number one focus, the TMH-3000 comes standard with a mechanical upper and lower limit switch as a positive shut-off, where some hoists rely on less reliable means of limit switch.

An overload limiter is built into all Red Rooster Hoists as standard. A safety fixing point has been introduced to the body of the TMH-3000 for assisting installation which is designed to accept a shackle, sling or wire rope. This can also be used as a secondary support for the hoist and is rated to the SWL of the Hoist. p34 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

Offering precise variable speed, the TMH-3000 hoist lets the operator have greater control when lifting and lowering the load, with a noise level of only 80dBA. A main air shut off valve is incorporated into the hoist, so you can be assured that when the emergency stop button is pressed the air supply is also cut off from entering the hoist.

The TMH-3000 can also be modified to a 2-Fall TMH-6000, 6 Tonne Air Hoist and made to suit ATEX Zones 1 or 2 upon request. As with all Red Rooster Air Hoists, they can be supplied as Hook Suspension, or as a Hoist & Trolley.

For further information, please contact Red Rooster Industrial UK Ltd on: +44 (0)1651 872101 Email: sales@rriuk.com or visit their website: www.rriuk.com

lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches

Aberdeen-based IMES invests in inspection technology Leading marine and subsea firm IMES has invested £50,000 in new technology, expanding its existing service offering for clients in the oil and gas industry.

The Aberdeen based company, which provides inspection, monitoring and engineering solutions to the global energy, defence and industrial markets, has added the Viper Maxi MK II wire rope lubricator and Wire Rope NDT equipment to its range of products.

IMES is a UK distributor for Viper, the leading wire rope pressure lubrication system manufacturer, and NDT Technologies, which offers high-quality non-destructive testing of wire ropes.

Previously, IMES could lubricate wire ropes of up to 67mm in diameter, but using the new Viper Maxi MK II, ropes ranging from 8mm to 165mm can be automatically greased at speeds of up to 2,000 metres per hour.

This technology allows ropes to be cleaned and lubricated on site with less wastage, reducing the overall cost of the process and increasing safety by removing the need for manual greasing. Due to its lighter weight, the product can also be installed by one person, rather than two.

In addition, IMES has launched new Wire

Rope NDT equipment, expanding its capability for inspecting ropes from 83mm up to 115mm.

The technology provides assurances on wire rope integrity, detecting and measuring both surface and internal faults.

Assessments are performed on site and are unaffected by wire rope lubricant, paint, dirt or plastic sealing material. It has the added benefit of reducing the opportunity for human error by not relying entirely on the human eye, which has the potential to miss defects.

Chief Operating Officer at IMES, Jason Smith, said: “By making this proactive investment in new technology, we are able to offer our clients an even greater selection of services which can help them save both time and resources.

“Given the demand for our other Viper products, we fully expect the Maxi MK II to prove popular across a range of sectors, particularly for crane and shipping operators looking to increase the efficiency of their operations and extend the lives of their

Above: Jason Smith, Chief Operating Officer, IMES. Top Left: NDT Technologies wire rope inspection system.

Bottom Left: Viper wire rope lubrication system. ropes. Equally, the new Wire Rope NDT machine will bring significant improvements to clients’ safety operations in terms of speed and reliability.”

IMES is an independent specialist provider of lifting and inspection services, wire rope management, engineering and design consultancy and bespoke load measurement products, ensuring safe operation of cranes, lifting gear and other specialised structures.

The company is headquartered at Bridge of Don, Aberdeen with additional operations in Bristol, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rosyth and Sheffield. It also has an office in the US and agents in Singapore, Norway and Holland.

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machine or tracking solar panels to the sun to name a few • The TECDOS system is easy to install, robust & offers three-dimensional mobility • TECDOS chain solutions have been used across offshore wind tower installations

and maintenance

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p35

Saving Money on Cable Purchasing During my 20 years in the global cable industry I have seen many changes. The demise of UK cable-manufacturing sector has seen many other overseas cable factories enter the UK and many export markets. This was met with an initial reluctance by many cable buyers to dismiss them, due to concerns about quality, which was a valid consideration.

However, a lot of overseas cable factories have proven to be able to supply high-quality cables, with all relevant international accreditations particular the required industry.

For many years many purchasing executives accepted that they would have buy large MOQ’s (Minimum Manufacturing Quantities), which far exceeded their actual requirements, thereby adding an unwanted cost to cable purchases, especially for project procurement.

This also resulted in having to accept extra cables that would never be used and ultimately ended up being scrapped or sold-off cheaply. Another major issue was the long manufacturing times, as long as 18-20 weeks for intricate and special manufacture cables. These particular issues have resulted in over-budgets and delays to completing important projects, especially shutdowns.

My company, Cable Industrial Ltd, a business consultancy / commercial agency, based in North-East England, but with a global network of agents and distributors has unearthed some terrific and previously un-heard of cable factories that have broken the mould in many ways!

Due to seriously heavy investment in the latest, state-of-the-art cable-making machinery, international accreditation from the likes of BASEC. KEMA, DNV, NEK, UL and other certification and Right: Craig Hatton (MIEx) is the Director of Cable Industrial Ltd and has over 20 years’ experience in over 60 international markets working in the cable industry. p36 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

also investment in highly qualified / experienced cable-engineers some these previously unknown factories are leading the way in the cable industry!

Some of these factories can produce MOQ’s as low as 300m, which is a huge cost-saving if the “accepted” MOQ was 1,000-2,000 metres. Delivery times of 3 to 4 weeks can be achieved due to efficient plant and a commercially astute and flexible management! Manufacturing efficiencies result in zero-scrappages, maximum running speeds and therefore extremely competitive prices!

There is no way to make cables significantly cheaper than actual material costs. Any buyer should be wary of this as conductor materials, compounds and armouring metals all have to be procured through high-quality and equally accredited sub-suppliers.

The only way to reduce cable-making costs is through efficiency, skilled staff and plant investment.

Many buyers in traditionally “conservative” industries such as the Offshore, Mining and Railway industries are starting to “think outside the box”, but it is a slow process with an understandable reluctance to take a risk on a new supplier.

My partner-factories will always welcome any potential buyer and electrical engineer to carry out any factory visit / audit.

Large international companies such as Exxon-Mobil, Flour and ABB have all been pleasantly surprised!

cables, glands & connectors

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www.ses-marine.com January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p37

cables, glands & connectors

Exploring the Subsea Cable Market Sales Director, Graham Wilkie of Hydro Group plc, a global design and manufacturer of underwater cables and connectors for subsea, topside and harsh environment applications, details how they have stayed ahead in the rapidly changing subsea cable market.

Dynamic Design Most subsea cables designed and manufactured at Hydro Group’s Aberdeen, Scotland facility incorporate numerous specialist elements such as fibre optics, twisted pairs, triples or quads, Coaxial, VHF and high frequency RF, components.

performance are also simulated with the use of Optem software tools.

Thanks to the low oil price, the subsea sector is enduring a challenging period.

Operators are being forced to venture into more remote and harsher locations, requiring top tier equipment to meet demanding and dynamic environments.

As subsea equipment is becoming more complex with data management and collection systems transferring significantly higher volumes of information at faster rates the Transmission Characteristics, Low Loss and Shielding requirements need to be addressed in the design and composition of the cables.

The benefits of utilising optical fibres contained within stainless steel tubes are primarily two fold:

Systems being deployed require reliable power and communications connections suited to meet these demands.

Today, the team at Hydro Group are being asked more and more for increasingly complex composite and physically demanding cable designs, the days have gone when the company was simply asked to provide an underwater electrical connection.

To ensure the performance of the designs, increasing use of complex software modelling and analysis tools are employed.

Hydro Group engineers routinely utilise packages such as Comsol multiphysics software to model designs and provide virtual realisation of the cable characteristics under a variety of simulated conditions.

Transmission characteristics and

Hydro Group regularly incorporates stainless steel tubes, rather than PBT tubes, for all Subsea Cable designs incorporating fibre optics.

• The attenuation (signal loss) seen in the fibre due to the compressive forces on the glass is minimised as the stainless steel tube protects from the crushing action of the water pressure on the fibre itself.

• The addition of a hydrogen scavenging/ absorbing gel is used within the St/St Tube to prevent the potential darkening of the optical fibres due to the natural ingression of small amounts of hydrogen which are present in these extreme conditions.

www.hydrogroupplc.com

Left: Graham Wilkie, Sales Director, Hydro Group plc. p38 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

cables, glands & connectors

Both of these advantages over PBT Tubed fibre optics are deemed crucial in the demanding conditions seen by subsea optical cables.

Mechanical factors are extremely significant in the overall performance of subsea cable designs. Often these present a much higher risk in the reliability and durability of the design than all other constraints.

The application of FEA design and modelling tools such as Comsol and Orcaflex allow simulation and analysis of the design to ensure construction and incorporation of components that will meet the dynamic application requirements.

Under Pressure Understanding the static and dynamic forces that will be applied allow the incorporation of features and components such as Vectran braids and cords for tensile strength in light weight and more flexible applications and Contra Helical steel wire armouring packages where significantly higher mechanical forces will be experienced.

Hydro Group recently invested in a new state-of-the-art hydrostatic pressure vessel, which offers a broader range of testing with a more accurate output. The 2.5 by 1.5 metre vessel has the capacity to pressure test large cable assemblies and equipment up to100 bar, simulating depths of 1000 metres below sea level. This compliments the suite of existing pressure vessels that allow simulation of depths to 7000 metres of seawater.

Housed in the company’s Aberdeen headquarters, the equipment provides Hydro Group with the ability to design and pressure test complete cable assemblies built for deep waters projects, particularly for the subsea and defence industry.

Advanced Armour Hydro Group services a global client base, with ocean environments varying significantly in different regions and therefore different risks to consider such as salinity, water temperatures and seabed conditions. As industry explores deeper sea depths, this affects the design and material selection of cables, with challenges such as UV stability, marine growth, microbial attack and even the burrowing Teredo Navalis Shipworm to be addressed.

The combination of the above design factors and the fact that equipment demands are increasing rapidly is driving more customised solutions. In addition to the design approach employed and increased testing capabilities, Hydro Group has invested heavily in new machinery, significantly increasing and improving in-house cable manufacturing capabilities, to compliment this rapidly evolving market.

At the start of 2015, the company installed and commissioned an advanced armouring line, extending its product line providing the company with armouring expertise, offering custom-designed single and multilayered steel armoured cables in galvanised improved steel and corrosion resistant steels.

The new machinery allows the team to manufacture mechanically protected cables to improve and support subsea operations,

which can withstand higher stresses in subsea and defence operations. As well as contra helical armoured subsea control cables, which act to neutralise the tension and compression forces that occur in the wires each time the cable is bent or flexed.

With a full appreciation of all electrical, optical, mechanical and environmental requirements imposed on the application of the cable a robust and reliable cabling solution can be realised.

Hose Bundles To further support the needs of industry and in response to significant customer demand, Hydro Group combined expertise to develop a new hydraulics hose product, offering layup and over-sheathing of hydraulic hoses for use in umbilical, topside, well intervention projects in the oil and gas industry and any deepwater applications or where there is a high differential pressure between the external and internal pressure of the hose.

The bundled hoses, which are available in ¼” to 2” size from Hydro Cable Systems, a Hydro Group company, integrate hydraulic components with electrical and fibre optic cables, resulting in a more compact and easier to handle assembly.

This new capability allows the company to extrude up to 120mm diameter over composite bundles or single hoses. Final produced lengths can be supplied from 50 to 2000 metres depending on the size of hose, number of components and the finished diameter of the umbilical.

Hydro Group has seen significant investment in equipment, facilities and training, enabling the company to expand capability and offer technical skill and resource to respond to significantly varying demands from our customer’s applications. The Hydro Group team are open to exploring solutions that are technically challenging, in tight timescales and within budget. Continuous product development and investment in opening up new markets has enabled the Group to maintain momentum whilst the uncertainty in the oil and gas market has impacted subsea developments.

Above: Underwater cables being manufactured and packaged by Hydro Group plc.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p39

HAZARDOUS AREA DNV CERTIFIED IR WINDOWS ASSURE RELIABILITY AND SAFETY AT SEA Manufactured in 2013, the Maersk Intrepid is a drilling rig that has been designed to operate in the extremely harsh environment of the North Sea. Up to 150 people stay on the rig at any one time so, safety and fire prevention are paramount and to minimise the risk Maersk operates a rigorous preventative maintenance programme for all electrical equipment on board, in line with NFPA 70E and SOLAS regulations.

Thermal imaging is an essential element of this regime and Maersk has recently taken further steps to underpin the safe use of this method. It has chosen to install IRISS IR windows, the only products of their type to carry Lloyds, ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) and DNV accreditation.

Removing panels to gain access to switchgear for thermal inspection is a very risky business. The danger of arc flash – a short circuit through the air that creates a fireball explosion – is huge.

Simply dropping hand tools or a cover panel, making accidental contact with energised parts or changing the state of equipment are common triggers and the results can be fatal. These hazards are bad enough on land but at sea, they are even more acute.

Safe, live inspection

The use of an IRISS IR window effectively allows the switchgear to remain in an enclosed and guarded condition, so the IR scan becomes a non-invasive task.

Infrared passes through the window’s transmissive polymer lens without compromising the IP65/NEMA 4X seal on the enclosure panel.

This not only keeps personnel safe but it also allows the system to be thermally inspected under normal load conditions. As a result both quantitative

p40 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

and qualitative data can be acquired on the status of the electrical system.

Furthermore, applications previously considered to be too hazardous for thermal imaging, can be brought into the regular inspection schedule.

Maersk chose IRISS windows because they are the most tested windows on the market and comply with all safety standards required by the offshore industry. The products were recommended and supplied by TCAM AS of Norway, a local partner of IRISS that specialises in preventative maintenance solutions. The lion’s share of the thirty IRISS windows ordered by Maersk were custom rectangular CAP-CT 24 and CAP-CT 12 made from a transparent polymer with grill reinforcement.

They allow assets to be monitored in the visual, ultraviolet and all infrared spectrums.

The IRISS polymer window provides many advantages over a crystal alternative.

Firstly it is designed for harsh engineering use. Unlike crystal, it withstands vibration and won’t shatter. Nor will it lose its

transmission qualities in the presence of UV or salt water so for maritime and offshore use IRISS is a clear front-runner.

Another advantage is that an IRISS window can be virtually any size and shape.

The optimum size of a crystal window is just 4” in diameter and can only be round, the shape in which it is grown in the laboratory. IRISS CAP-CT Series windows are available in a wide variety of standard sizes from 10cm to 60cm in width but can also be supplied in custom sizes and to fit curved surfaces. Indeed Maersk took advantage of this design freedom by including a bespoke window in its order.

“We supplied the IRISS windows for Maersk Intrepid in September 2015 and they are now allowing rig engineers to undertake fast thermal inspection of critical components,” confirms Tormod Selbekk of TCAM AS. “Electrical inspection in heavy seas is extremely hazardous and this is why the IRISS products are particularly helpful in the maritime and offshore industries. They ensure the compliance with industry standards, reliability of assets and most importantly personnel safety.”

hazardous area

STS TROLLEYS SOLVING MANUAL HANDLING PROBLEMS STS Bespoke Handling Equipment specialise in solving manual handling problems and their unique designs are driven by the customer’s requirements.

The company is willing to offer the majority of their UK product sales on a sale or return basis. This enables the customer to check the suitability of the design before agreeing to purchase. This reflects the STS desire to ensure the customer receives a solution to their problem and to work with the endusers beyond the initial point of enquiry.

An initial enquiry to the company by phone or via their website www.sts-trolleys.co.uk is followed by an outline proposal. A site visit by the company’s technical engineers is then arranged to look more closely at the application. Concept drawings for consideration & approval move the proposal forward to manufacture for trial.

All products are fully compliant with CE Directives, the Manual Handling Regulations and ATEX Directive if required for use in hazardous Zoned areas.

All products are manufactured in a new facility and dispatched direct to customers such as AkzoNobel, Hexcel Composites

and Dow Chemicals as far away as Estonia, Japan and Vietnam.

The new STS brochure is now available and while stocks last you can also have the 2016 STS Calendar celebrating Engineering Inspiration.

Call: +44 (0)1736 851050 for your copy, or alternatively email:

sales@sts-trolleys.co.uk

STS pride themselves on creating units that are safe, efficient and versatile and the brand is recognised and valued by customers.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p41

hazardous area

ROTRONIC ATEX Certified Humidity and Temperature Sensors The ROTRONIC Intrinsically Safe HygroFlex5-EX series of humidity/moisture and temperature sensors was developed for easy installation in areas where there is a risk of explosion due to dust or gas in the environment.

They were designed to meet the demanding requirements of the oil & gas industry as well as the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and food industries, and will be suitable for hazardous applications elsewhere.

ATEX certified probes are available for all applications.

The intrinsically safe transmitters have two channel 4…20 mA outputs selected from temperature, humidity or a moisture value such as dew point or ‘absolute humidity’ (for example Mixing Ratio g/kg). These can be freely scaled exactly as required, using Rotronic HW4 software, for the process being monitored or controlled.

Conforming to the latest international standards, the Rotronic HygroFlex5-EX transmitter is galvanically isolated; there is no need for an intrinsically safe power supply, ‘clean’ earth or Zener barrier thereby saving costs and installation time.

Main features: • Stainless steel probes certified for ATEX Zone 0/20 • Standard & cable mount probes with a screw-in probe for pressure applications • HygroFlex5-EX measurement

transmitter certified for Zone 1/21 • An intrinsically safe power supply is NOT required; the transmitter is galvanically isolated • Wall and duct versions available An LC display is an option • 2-wire supply, 2-analogue outputs (option of dew point, absolute

humidity (g/kg) or another moisture value) • Robust aluminium transmitter housing; high IP66 protection • Range of calibration accessories for use in the Safe Area A Technical datasheet is available, visit:

www.rotronic.co.uk

ROTRONIC Instruments (UK) Ltd T: 01293 571000

E2S introduces SIL 2 certified BEx alarm horn sounders and Xenon strobe beacons E2S Warning Signals, the leading independent audible and visual warning signals manufacturer, has introduced a SIL 2 version of its flagship BEx range of explosion proof alarm horn sounders and Xenon strobe beacons.

The new IECEx and ATEX certified BEx horns and strobes are the perfect solution for designers and integrators of SIL 2 systems; they are designed and tested to ensure a 99.9% reliability rate, bringing plant safety to new levels. To meet the requirements of SIL 2, a combination of software and hardware in the new units accurately monitors and interprets the sound output of the horn or the light output from the Xenon strobe to check it is functioning correctly. The fault monitoring reports back to the control p42 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

panel utilising either separate fault contacts or by the introduction to the monitoring circuit of a series resistor.

Using the series resistor facility eliminates the need for any additional cables and can be used in a standard two-wire arrangement.

SIL 2 Compliant

The key benefits are:

been published to assist system designers and engineers.

• The correct functioning of the

signalling device function is checked and communicated to the control panel.

• Time consuming physical inspections are eliminated, reducing running cost.

• Plant safety is increased because all devices are confirmed to be operating.

• The BEx units are designed to integrate seamlessly into the SIL 2 environment.

A detailed technical and installation manual, downloadable from www.e2s.com/SIL2,

In high risk industries such oil, gas and petrochemicals, adopting SIL 2 (Safety Integrity Level) systems is becoming the norm, in particular for the safety-critical fire and gas detection systems. While the fire and gas control panel will normally initiate automatic process shutdown procedures in the event of an alarm, the audible and visual warning devices are critical components in ensuring that personnel are warned in an emergency.

hazardous area

Offshore oil and gas sector set to get a ‘lift’ VISTEM, a provider of gamechanging technology to the oil and gas industry, has launched an innovative mobile access platform for the offshore sector that is set to bring significant cost, time and safety benefits to clients.

The ATEX approved access lift, which reaches a height of 3.5m, is battery and motor free. Powered by a pre-loaded gas spring and gear system, the turning of the simple dead man handle raises and lowers the platform.

The lift offers an alternative to traditional podiums and stepladders, which present risks associated with working at height.

Personnel are fully enclosed in the lift prior and during the elevation, which drastically reduces the risk of fall.

The lift is very compact with a footprint of only 850mm (w) by 985mm (l) and can be raised in 11 seconds and lowered in 11 seconds.

The lift can operate in 28mph winds and can be used for a variety of routine offshore tasks. This includes mechanical and operational tasks, general inspections, routine lighting and general electrical maintenance, fabric maintenance, inspection of cranes and rigging and any other low-level work.

VISTEM’s lifts are able to save clients over £300 every time they are utilised as opposed to a scaffold, and the company’s ATEX onshore models have already been deployed in many refineries and power stations around the UK. One client reported that over a five-week period through the execution of six low-level work scopes, the VISTEM ATEX 4.2m wind-rated lift saved more than £15,000 and reduced working at height hours by 526.

Established in 2013 the founding members of VISTEM came together with two core aims – to minimise health and safety risks and reduce the costs of production for clients. As well as its onshore and offshore lifts, VISTEM has a suite of further innovative products, designed with these aims in mind.

One such product is an inflatable work shelter, a 7.5m (l) by 7(w) by 3.5m (h) structure which can be deployed in 30 minutes and inflated or deflated in five and a half minutes. The enclosure can

be used for work such as rig blasting, painting and welding, and the technology is currently being used by clients in the North Sea. VISTEM’s work shelter reduces downtime caused by bad weather, which in turn increases efficiency, reduces cost and contributes to work scopes being on schedule.

Mr Barter continued: “VISTEM is a huge advocate of ‘Smart Thinking’, and by addressing problems with new and different thought processes, we are able to innovate and deliver continuous business improvements.

“We consult closely with both existing and potential clients to understand their challenges in the current climate, before analysing and engineering potential solutions.

“Our solutions are being used by a growing number of oil and gas clients throughout the UK and we want to help our customers improve their procedures and operate more efficiently.”

“Safety is at the forefront of all that we do at VISTEM, and each product we create has a primary aim of reducing health and safety risks to personnel.

With falls from height being the biggest cause of injury in the workplace, our new lift is a step change in low-level access and will drastically reduce the dangers of working at height.

Thomas Barter, Head of Sales, VISTEM. Right: Thomas Barter, Head of Sales in the new VISTEM offshore lift.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p43

product spotlight Chinese pipelines select Rotork electro-hydraulic valve actuators for remote operated failsafe duty Rotork Skilmatic electro-hydraulic valve actuators have been ordered for increased safety ESD (Emergency Shutdown) duties on two new oil pipelines in China. Owned by the China National Petroleum Corporation, the Mahui and Yunnan Pipelines are attached to the network bringing oil and gas to China from offshore fields in the Bay of Bengal.

The Skilmatic actuators will be installed in automated and unattended valve chambers at pump stations, where they will provide isolating and failsafe ESD functions. These valves, known as ROSOV (Remote Operated Shut-off Valves), are designed to isolate sections of the pipelines in the event of a potential emergency. By providing swift and accurate valve movement in one direction and very reliable mechanical spring return movement in the failsafe direction, Rotork’s self-contained electro-hydraulic actuator design is successfully utilised for this type of critical application in many countries.

The Skilmatic actuator combines reliable failsafe performance with the benefits of Rotork IQ intelligent electric actuation technologies, facilitating remote supervision with a high level of asset management encompassing accurate control, monitoring and alarm signalling, operational data logging and diagnostics. The ESD function can be configured to operate on loss of mains power or control signal, with additional options including a second, independent ESD circuit and an ESD manual reset also available.

Partial stroke testing capability, enabling the valve to be function tested without interrupting the process - performed either locally or remotely from the control room.

The actuator is available with worldwide hazardous area certification, whilst the doublesealed electric enclosure is watertight and dustproof in ratings up to IP68 (submersion at 7 metres for 72 hours).

Right: Rotork Skilmatic electrohydraulic valve actuators are designed specifically for failsafe ESD (Emergency Shutdown) duties.

p44 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

product spotlight

Coatings estimator tool closes fire safety gap A fire design estimation tool is offering a new calculated solution to the issues of fire engineering safety. The software in the new Firetex Design Estimator 2.0 from SherwinWilliams offers the capability of providing calculations for coatings thicknesses of all shapes, sizes and combinations of apertures within cellular beams. It meets the very latest Steel Construction Institute (SCI) guidance documents as well as the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) Yellow Book Edition 5.

Offering efficient handling of unfilled voids with trapezoidal profiled metal decking systems, project sharing and designs to both British Standard as well as the emerging Eurocodes, the software is independently tested and fully verified under the Exova Certifire scheme.

The estimation and design tool also provides support where a limiting temperature has been specified, removing any assumptions from all parties.

Ongoing updates, guidance and support

on all legislative and industry changes are also made available through a new dedicated web download site to ensure the user is always up to date with current codes.

The estimation and design tool provides support where a limiting temperature has been specified, but where this is not the case the software handles that for the user.

For peace of mind the software is further verified by the University of Manchester for cellular and fire engineered beams, and embraces Building Information Modelling (BIM) with an integrated tool allowing 3D modelling data to be directly linked.

Under the current Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, those responsible for commercial buildings including the employer, owner, or any other person who has control of any part of the premises, must carry out a detailed fire risk assessment identifying the risks and hazards in the premises.

The responsible person usually has to call in a fire engineer or qualified person to assess the risk and make calculations about fire engineering design depending on the type of building and the risk.

We are well aware of the challenges facing estimators and structural engineers on some of the major projects around and we believe this software helps to eliminate any personal interpretations or assumptions. Many of the buildings currently being designed present difficulties further down the line in terms of fire protection design and this software supports the industry in keeping pace with advances in design and materials.

Bob Glendenning, Manager for Fire Engineering for Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings.

Smith Flow Control Custom Builds Operating Panel to Enhance Valve Safety and Efficiency Oil & gas company Eni Norge approached valve safety expert Smith Flow Control to help simplify its valve processes on the Goliat Field oilfield. Smith Flow Control provided a solution by developing a custom-built operating panel that enhances safety and increases efficiency. It does this by moving the control and operation of Eni Norge’s large number of valves to a single, safe location.

The electronic operating panel works as a communication and verification system and enables an operator to control a sequence of actuated valves directly from the panel.

Two operating panels were installed on a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading

vessel built-for-use on the Goliat Field, the first oilfield to be developed in the Barents Sea. Although the operating panel can be used in a wide variety of applications, in this case the panel was specifically designed for use with a pigging procedure. Each panel controlled four valves and incorporated two mechanical interlock key units to ensure a specific sequence of operation.

pig trap door to load or unload a pig.

Used in this way the operating panel enhances safety but also serves to streamline complex processes and boost efficiency by providing a one-stop control and verification system.

www.smithflowcontrol.com

For example, an operator can select to close valves from the panel. An LED lights up to confirm the valve has reached its fully closed status. The incorporation of mechanical interlocks allows the operator to safely continue the sequence of the pigging process; after the panel has been isolated and all the valves closed and locked, the final key is released to manually unlock the January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p45

product spotlight

GLOBAL MARINE RELEASES A FREE AUGMENTED REALITY APP AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE FOR USERS Global Marine Systems Limited, the UK headquartered world leader in subsea cable route design, installation and maintenance; showcased its capabilities in the power and offshore renewables markets at the EWEA Annual Exhibition in Paris. As part of the increased focus on this industry, Global Marine also released the GMSL APP, which is available for free download from the App Store or Google play, by searching ‘GMSL’.

C.S. Sovereign or the Q1000 ROV key assets for Global Marine in the power market.

Alternatively, switch to X-Ray View to read more information about each key feature of the two by pressing the hotspots shown in the 3D image. The images are available via the Global Marine website where the page can be printed or the images can be viewed through the App. Left: Q1000 ROV. Below: C.S. Sovereign.

The GMSL APP brings Global Marine’s images to 3D life. The technology shows digital information, in this case 3D models, overlaying static images in real-time via the camera view of either your smartphone or tablet. You can take a 3D tour of installation vessel

NEW ICE-LBG-SR Safety Turning & Rotating under Full Load without Chance of Bolt Opening Ultimate Safety in Lifting with RUD Chains: When undertaking heavy lifting projects it is important to use top quality lifting points, as well as it being a legal requirement.

Quality lifting points enable a range of lifting processes to occur safely and smoothly from production, assembly, to the end customer.

Without the appropriate lifting equipment projects can experience costs in potential damages to the goods and accidents to the operator, all resulting in overall additional costs.

RUD is known for their innovative lifting points which are used across a wide range of industries from construction, manufacturing, materials handling to p46 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

engineering and offshore to name a few.

Product development and innovation is key at RUD which can be seen in one of their latest innovations, the new ICE-LBG-SR load ring.

VLBG load rings offer the advantage of an unsymmetrical force introduction, meaning it always adjusts itself to the pulling direction of the load.

Consequently, avoiding any unintentional opening of the load ring, which can occur with DIN 580 / standard eye bolts.

RUD VLBGs adjust themselves in the force direction without loosening to the bolt.

However, lifting points are often used for turning, rotating and tilting which adds a considerable risk to the lift. When lifts are turned under full load it results in high friction between the bolt head and the rotating connecting element, which subsequently can lead to the opening of the bolt mid lift.

The NEW “ICE-LBG SR” load ring offers an innovative double ball bearing technology which means that lifting, turning or rotating

under full loads, vertically or horizontally can now be done safely without any chance of the bolt opening mid lift. The “ICE-LBG SR” therefore offers an ultimate safety factor to the user and the equipment.

The demand for safety lifting and turning at high working load limits resulted in the creation of the completely new bolt quality, the RUD “ICE bolt”. RUD developed the revolutionary patented fine grain steel, which offers an unbelievable impact strength of 56 Joule at temperatures as low of -60°C. It also offers the same insensitiveness against hydrogen embrittlement as an 8.8 bolt.

The RUD ICE-LBG-SR load ring with its ground breaking double ball bearing technology and robust ICE bolt has solved a real problem in the industry.

It has provided an ultimate safety factor when lifting, turning, rotating and tilting under full loads. The bolt will securely stay firmly fastened under full loads, vertically or horizontally. Ensure safety to your goods and your operators with the RUD ICE-LBG-SR load ring.

product spotlight

ZIEBEL CELEBRATES MILESTONE WITH 100th Z-ROD® INTERVENTION Ziebel, the market leader in composite rod well intervention, has completed its 100th Z-Rod® distributed fiber optic sensing job. The Z-Rod system consists of a 6500m carbon fiber composite rod with embedded fiber optic lines that make it possible to deploy both distributed temperature and distributed acoustic sensing along the complete wellbore.

With a diameter of only 15mm, the rod is injected into the well from coil tubing-like surface equipment and can travel up to 1,800m along the horizontal section of a well. Unlike traditional logging tools that can only survey a few inches of the well at a time, sensing provides a complete wellbore profile that is captured several times per second.

The Z-Rod’s small diameter results in significantly reduced choking effects versus traditional coil tubing, enabling the Z-Rod to determine which perforated zones along the length of the wellbore are actually contributing to production. This information allows unconventional field operators to optimize their completion strategies.

The 100 jobs were carried out using both land and offshore units in Norway, Denmark, Oman, Abu Dhabi, and the United States. Applications ranged from the evaluation of flow in unconventional wells to well integrity diagnosis, monitoring water injection schemes, gas lift optimization, and understanding inter-well communication and interference.

As operators of unconventional wells strive to improve recovery factors and reduce well costs, the data to enable this is becoming more critical. Ziebel’s ability to deliver this data across the reservoir is driving our increased activity levels. Our 100th job is a milestone that reflects the repeat work and value that our data provides.

Francis Neill, CEO of Ziebel

Picture: Ziebel Z-Rod system

The 100th job was performed for ConocoPhillips in the United States to determine the flow profile of zones within a fracked unconventional well.

Linear Motion Experts HepcoMotion to Exhibit at Southern Manufacturing 2016 closes fire safety gap Design decision makers in the South will be heading to Southern Manufacturing 2016, the UK’s largest regional manufacturing technology, electronics and subcontracting exhibition from 9-11th February 2016. As a world-leading manufacturer of linear motion systems, rest assured that HepcoMotion will be attending with its innovative range of products that can meet practically any requirement from linear to circular, and heavy duty to XYZ systems.

Hepco’s newest demonstration unit, the much anticipated HepcoMotion guidance for Beckhoff XTS (eXtended

Transport System), will be on the stand.

This solution utilises Hepco’s PRT2 and 1-Trak guidance systems to work with Beckhoff’s XTS circuit linear system to meet the needs of higher duty XTS applications where motion profiles and long term durability requirements are particularly demanding. The combination of technologies from market leaders Beckhoff and Hepco is sure to provide users with a robust, high production and flexible solution that will revolutionise production processes in many manufacturing applications. With a demonstration unit on the stand, visitors can see the new system in action.

Further key products on the stand include the DTS2 driven track system – an ideal

choice for applications that require high positional accuracy and a demanding duty cycle. Visitors will also be able to see the long life PDU2 linear actuator and space saving PSD80 screw driven actuator.

Hepco’s core GV3 Linear Motion System that is designed to serve a diverse range of automation and linear applications will also be on the stand.

HepcoMotion originated the V guide system now used worldwide for the control of linear, rotary and continuous motion, and continues to develop innovative linear products that offer new solutions to design engineers. Perfect for every design engineer, Hepco offers over forty-two major product lines with thousands of individual components in various sizes.

January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p47

product spotlight

KOREA INSTITUTE FOR OCEAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (KOIST) BUYS ADVANCED 3D PROFILING SONAR FROM MARINE ELECTRONICS LTD Guernsey, UK based Marine Electronics Ltd has supplied an advanced 2001 3D Profiling Sonar System to one of the world’s leading ocean science organizations. KOIST plays an important role in researching and developing ocean science and technology and undertakes basic and applied research to promote the efficient use of coastal and ocean resources.

This includes undertaking a comprehensive survey and study of Korea’s seas and open oceans.

It is also active in the Polar Regions where it supports other government, educational and commercial organizations in the development of marine resources and the protection of the ocean environment. Currently, KIOST also has several projects studying the development of deep seabed mineral resources in the South Pacific.

The 3D Profiling Sonar System that KOIST has acquired from MEL will enable it to capture short range 3D bathymetry data at high resolution and is likely to prove invaluable for some of its coastal research projects. The acoustic transducer scans a horizontal swath and is then rotated by a small angle and another swath captured until a complete circular area underneath the sonar dome is covered.

The images generated enable sand and silt movement to be seen clearly so that the effects of current action on the seabed can be observed in detail. This capability is particularly valuable for monitoring the effects of water movement around bridge piers or the base of wind turbines.

The underwater housing is typically mounted on a sub-sea framework or pole and deployed for several weeks or months. Internal scheduling software wakes the system from a low power sleep mode to capture data periodically.

For surveys in tidal waters a “wet-switch” p48 | www.sosmagazine.biz | January 2016

may be specified so that the sonar only captures data when it is immersed.

The model 2001 is available in either a cable connected or self-contained logging version. The sonar may be fitted with optional conductivity, temperature, pressure, pitch and roll sensors. With the full complement of sensors the logging unit can process the raw data to arrive at an ASCII “XYZ” file directly. The logging version has an internal Ethernet link that may be used to upload the stored data without opening the pressure housing.

The sonar also has the ability to be controlled over WiFi or a 4G network for remote live operation.

Marine Electronics Ltd is widely regarded as a leading manufacturer of advanced and specialised sonar systems.

The company has 32-years of experience in the development of acoustic technology that can be used to overcome unique and unusual problems. The company is able to work closely with customers in the development of products to resolve difficult acoustic challenges and to meet specific marine or industrial applications.

Products include sonars capable of following the movement of individual grains of sand in seabed surveys, others can observe the build-up of sludge in settlement tanks and ponds at nuclear installations, sewer pipes or oil storage tanks. The company has also developed a range of 3D forward-looking sonars that can be fitted to either surface or sub sea vessels to provide warnings of shallow water where grounding may be a problem or for detection of mid-water obstructions.

Above: 3D sonar image of seabed excavated by divers during construction project.

Above: The head for a MEL 2001 3D profiling sonar.

Left: MEL 2001 3D sonar head designed for tank monitoring.

Odyssey Marine Exploration goes to great lengths with Sonardyne GyroiUSBL New subsea technology which allows geophysical towfish to be tracked at distances far greater than current methods allow, has been successfully evaluated by Odyssey Marine Exploration during trials in the Bay of Biscay.

Developed by Sonardyne International Ltd, UK, the Ranger 2 GyroiUSBL system was able to track Odyssey’s latest deep tow side-scan platform at a slant range of 7,500 metres from their vessel, Odyssey Explorer. Only the depth of the ocean prevented greater ranges being achieved.

Long layback tracking of towfish has traditionally always been a major challenge for conventional Ultra-Short BaseLine (USBL) acoustic positioning systems due to the very long slant ranges involved and vessel noise degrading performance. Sonardyne first sought to address this challenge back in 2006, turning the problem on its head to create Inverted USBL (iUSBL).

In normal USBL operations, an acoustic transceiver is fitted to the survey vessel and an acoustic transponder is fitted to the target being tracked. With iUSBL, their positions are swapped; the transceiver is installed on the towfish looking up at the transponder deployed from the vessel. The net result is that the signal-to-noise ratio is dramatically improved which in turn, allows long ranges and greater precision to be achieved.

The new Ranger 2 GyroiUSBL system builds on this technique by exploiting the long term accuracy and precision of acoustic positioning with the continuous availability and fast update rate of high-grade inertial navigation sensors.

USBL alone. Combing both instruments into a single titanium housing depth rated to 7,000 metres enables organisations like Odyssey to quickly and efficiently mobilise deep tow technology without having to worry about navigation sensor offsets.”

Odyssey are pioneers in the salvage of historic, deep water shipwrecks and rely heavily on side-scan sonars to identify potential targets. The towfish being used during the recent trial has been designed to their exact specification to enable far deeper depths to be explored.

For the test, Odyssey used a high-powered directional Wideband Mini Transponder (WMT) in responder mode mounted to an over-the-side deployment pole from the Odyssey Explorer. This was interfaced via control room hardware to the GyroiUSBL transceiver mounted on the towfish. Power and communications to the GyroiUSBL was provided through a Nexus multiplex fibre optic telemetry system.

With the towfish fully deployed, Odyssey used the GyroiUSBL to passively listen for the WMT’s signal in a low noise, dynamically stable subsea environment. This meant that they were able to accurately track the position of their towfish at a previously unachievable slant range of 7,500 metres. Additionally, the acoustic transceiver component of the system incorporated Sonardyne’s unique ping stacking technology to provide a tracking update rate of 2 hertz, irrespective of range

and water depth.

“The trial went exactly to plan,” said Tom Bennetts. “As the layback grew and grew, GyroiUSBL just kept tracking until the ocean depth became prohibitive.

Analysis of the signal-to-noise data at the time indicated that we could have tracked to beyond 9,000 metres had the winch cable been able to extend further.” He added, “Even more impressive was that these ranges were attained using the lower end of the medium frequency band. This means that the multi-beam data quality is significantly enhanced due to less in-band interference at the source.”

Speaking about the positive results of the tests, Andrew Craig, Senior Project Manager at Odyssey Marine Exploration said, “The addition of the GyroiUSBL system has introduced a whole new dynamic to the positioning of towed vehicles at greater water depths and slant ranges that are not facilitated by traditional USBL. The ability to achieve accurate and precise positioning of our towfish mitigates the concerns of gaps in search blocks, unknown offsets from currents, and the influences of catenary in the cable that were by-products of traditional layback calculations. As a result, the positions acquired via the GyroiUSBL system have allowed for a great reduction in operational time spent locating and inspecting subsea targets. We look forward to pushing the capabilities of the system to its limits during future projects.”

“All USBL transceivers require motion compensation, whether vessel-based or installed on a towfish. Typically this requires an attitude and heading reference sensor to be co-located with the transceiver, which is both complex and time consuming to correctly align,” said Tom Bennetts, Projects Manager at Sonardyne.

“Inside our GyroiUSBL, we have combined the features of our sixth generation HPT acoustic transceiver technology with SPRINT, a subsea INS that can result in more than 10 times improvement in positioning precision over January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p49

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January 2016 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p51

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