March 2017 Issue
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March 2017
edi to r s l et t er Welcome to the March issue of Subsea & Offshore Service Magazine, the monthly trade journal delivering extensive coverage of the offshore Industries worldwide.
Contents
With Ocean Business 2017 coming up next month from 4th – 6th April 2017, our event preview will give you all of the important info you need, should you plan to visit the show (p22).
W ithin this i s s u e i nd ustry ne w s
6
ne w s i n b ri e f
8
Oc e an B usi ne ss 2 0 1 7 Pr e vi e w
20
li f ti ng e qu i p m e nt, d e c k m ac hi ne ry & w i nc he s
26
T r ai ni ng & D e ve lo p m e nt
32
hazar d ou s are a
36
f low m e asu r e m e nt
40
S e als & gask e t s
42
f i re p rote c ti o n i nd ustry f oc u s
44
T e c h S POTLIGHT
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David Ponchon and Jonathan Petit of Trelleborg Fluid Handling Solutions discuss the importance of hose management and how it is vital to take a consultative approach to ensure the most suitable, safe and reliable solution (p36). Jason Pendlebury, Director of Oil, Gas & Marine at Tyco gives a detailed account of Tyco’s evolution in the fire protection sector of the oil and gas industry (p44). Coming up in the next issue, we will be taking an in-depth look at each of the following market sectors: Diving Equipment & Underwater Services, OSVs & Cable Installations, Bolting Solutions, Pumps, Valves & Hydraulics. If you would like your company to be noticed within any one of these features, please send us your latest news releases to editor@sosmagazine.biz. Our Publication Manager, Jon McIntosh is on hand to help out with your advertising requirements. jon@sosmagazine.biz. Thanks for reading!
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March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p5
INDUSTRY NEWS Jersey Oil & Gas expects North Sea rig to start drilling in summer AIM-listed Jersey Oil & Gas expects that its rig in the North Sea will start drilling a well in the summer. The explorer said that Statoil, the operator of licence P2170 in which the company holds an 18% stake in, is currently undertaking a tender process for a drilling rig and is expected to be awarded in the near future, in respect of the planned exploration well to be drilled on the Verbier prospect this summer. Jersey is also benefitting from the 10% carried interest arrangement with its other co-venturer CIECO Exploration and Production for the reimbursement of related costs for the well programme.Statoil is funding all costs up to $25m for the drilling of the first exploration well on the licence.
In the company’s other licence, P1989, its partner Azinor Catalyst will drill an exploration well in the Partridge prospect later this year, and if a discovery is made that satisfies certain technical criteria, a $2m payment would be paid to the company from Azinor. If that discovery also results in an approval of a formal field development plan, a further $2m will be paid.
progress being made by Statoil in preparation for drilling the Verbier prospect this summer, as well as our ongoing additional technical evaluation of the prospect.
Jersey also said that it is involved in several potential sales of licences in the North Sea and is confident that its experience and knowledge will enable oty to deliver shareholder value from pending acquisitions.
Shares in Jersey Oil & Gas were up 4.63% to 203.50p at 1006 GMT has the option of up to two, one year extensions, will see iSURVEY provide non exclusive rig and surface positioning services, subsurface positioning and dimensional control and platform surveys to Shell’s mobile offshore drilling units.
Chief Executive Andrew Benitz said: “We are pleased to report the continued
“Our team also remains actively involved in multiple sales processes targeting possible production acquisitions in line with our stated strategy.”
Scottish Labour Call to Nationalise North Sea Rigs That Could Cost Taxpayers Millions Scottish Labour is to demand crisis-hit North Sea oil platforms are nationalised in a move that could cost taxpayers millions of pounds. The party is expected to call for the state to step in by bringing key assets into temporary public ownership to prevent oil and gas reserves being “turned off prematurely.” More than 100,000 workers in the sector are feared to have lost their jobs following the collapse in prices.
A motion to be discussed at the Scottish Labour conference in Perth on Friday urges both Holyrood and Westminster to “agree a co-investment plan to support the industry, taking a public stake where necessary, to protect vital offshore infrastructure.” The motion, which has been put forward by the Aberdeen South and North Kincardine branch, also calls for action from ministers to “maximise the opportunities from future decommissioning.”
Latest official figures show North Sea oil has posted a loss for the taxpayer for the first year in its history. The Treasury put £24million more into investment and decommissioning than it got back in petroleum revenue tax (PRT) in 2015/16.This could see both platforms and pipelines bought up and brought under state control. It is the first time the oil balance sheet has been in the red since records began in 1968/69.
North East Business Rates Capped for Office and Hospitality Premises The Scottish finance secretary has promised to cap increases to business rates for hotels, bars, clubs, and restaurants; and North East office premises. Derek Mackay says increases for the hospitality sector will be capped at 12.5% across Scotland. The SNP government says that will aid 8,500 firms nationally. Ahead of the announcement, hundreds of p6 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
businesses had criticised the hikes and warned they could be forced to cut jobs or even close with firms potentially facing a near-doubling of rates in the current climate. Mr Mackay vowed to find a “local solution” on a visit to the North East last month – and has now said rises will be limited to 12.5% for those owning offices in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire too. HIt is a turnaround for the Scottish government, who have been facing mounting pressure for weeks from North East business leaders and
politicians – as well as hoteliers across the country. The relief measures are in place for the coming financial year, with the Barclay review of the rates ongoing. Mr Mackay has moved to encourage Aberdeen City Council to follow Aberdeenshire’s example, in setting aside money to help businesses in other industries with the rates increases. Aberdeenshire councillors agreed to set aside £3 million for a local relief scheme.
Industry news
Digital Edge Subsea Digital Video Recording and Inspection Systems Diving Workclass & Inspection ROV Platform & Pipeline Inspections Construction and Decommissioning www.digitaledgesubsea.com
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March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p7
Merger success for UES Seanic with first contract win Scottish Enterprise welcomes £5m Decommissioning Challenge Fund Greencarrier Freight Services establishes Polarbase facility to serve Norway’s oil and gas market
A new £5 million Decommissioning Challenge Fund was recently announced by Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon.
Greencarrier Freight Services has opened an office in Polarbase, the main hub for oil and gas related activities in the Barents Sea, after winning a contract to provide transport solutions and port logistics for ENI Norge.
Welcoming the fund, Managing Director of growth companies, innovation and infrastructure at Scottish Enterprise, Adrian Gillespie, said:
“We already provide other customers in the area with similar logistics solutions, and we want to give the new contract the focus it deserves, so we decided to commit to opening our own office there,” says Georg Skivik Moltu, Director Global Energy & Project Solutions. Under the new contract, Greencarrier will support ENI Norge’s activities in the Goliat Field, an offshore oil field that is expected to be in production for at least 15-20 years. The logistic contract award was based on evaluation criteria like Health-Safety Environment and Quality, Risk Management, Information & Communication Technology, Organization and local Establishment, working processes, staffing competence and experience and commercial aspects, says Mr Moltu. The new office in Polarbase, which is situated 5km from the town of Hammerfest in northern Norway, will be set up by Kyrre LØge from Greencarrier Freight Services’ Energy & Project Solutions business unit in Norway. He previously worked in Greencarrier Freight Services’ Stavanger office. The Scandinavian company, which offers the full range of freight forwarding and logistics services, identified project forwarding and the energy industry as two of its main target areas for growth several years ago and has continued to expand its activities in the sector ever since. “We have provided transport and logistics solutions in the oil and gas sector for many decades, so we have the experience and expertise that customers in this very demanding industry need,” says Moltu. “The northern Norway area has great potential and we are very optimistic about this new contract and winning new business for the Polarbase office.”
p8 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
“While the focus should remain on maximising recovery, Scotland has the ambition and potential to position itself at the forefront of the global decommissioning industry, using our decades of oil and gas expertise. We’re already seeing Scottish companies winning business in this market and the new challenge fund will help to unlock even more opportunities for Scotland’s supply chain. “Through our Decommissioning Action Plan, published in December, we are focussed on supporting Scotland’s supply chain to maximise opportunities in this growing sector. With around £17.6 billion estimated to be spent on decommissioning on the UK Continental Shelf alone, our focus is around supporting innovation, promoting our capability, helping develop new technologies as well as ensuring the right infrastructure is in place for Scotland to fully capitalise on this significant opportunity. Working in partnership with other public sector agencies as well as industry bodies will be key to driving this opportunity forward.”
The newly merged Aberdeenshire-based Underwater Engineering Services (UES) and Houston headquartered Seanic Oceans Systems has secured its first contract in Tunisia, a region which neither firm had previously operated in. As part of the merger between their parent companies ATR Group and Centurion Group last year, the newly formed business of UES Seanic will support Oceana Subsea on a decommissioning campaign in Tunisia, North Africa. UES Seanic was formed on 1st January this year with 11 personnel based in the UK and a further 43 in Houston. The merger sees the company operating globally with locations in Aberdeen, Houston and Singapore with distribution centres in Perth, Norway, China and Brazil. Personnel in the Aberdeen office will manage the scope of work which includes the supply of a ROV launch and recovery crane, ROV operable hydraulic breakers, as well as ROV tooling manifolds, hydraulic power unit and jetting / dredging equipment Centurion Group chief executive Keith Moorhouse said: “The combination of both subsea equipment design and manufacturing companies has vastly extended our capabilities and strengthened our position to be able to offer a complete ROV and intervention tooling range and design expertise to our existing clients and also to the wider international marketplace. “The oil price may have stabilised over the past few months but this hasn’t changed our attitude towards maintaining cost effective solutions to help our clients with their complex subsea operations. This first contract award with Oceana Subsea reflects the experience and sector knowledge held within UES Seanic, our capabilities to design and build bespoke equipment for specific projects as well as our vastly expanded ROV tooling hire fleet. We look forward to working with Oceana Subsea.” Centurion Group and ATR Group merged in July 2016, creating a global player in the oil and gas rental and services market. The Group, headquartered in Aberdeen, also operates from bases in Newcastle, Great Yarmouth, The Netherlands, Azerbaijan, Singapore, Australia and the USA.
HTL Group further enhance service levels with expanded customer support fleet HTL Group, specialists in controlled bolting equipment continue to focus on second to none customer service with the latest addition to their Customer Support Fleet; the HTL Expo Mobile Unit.
SPE/IADC DRILLING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION PROMISES TOP SPEAKER LINE UP AND STRONG TECHNICAL PROGRAMME Bringing together drilling professionals from around the world, the leading SPE/IADC Drilling Conference and Exhibition returns this month on the 14-16 March 2017 at the Hague. This year’s technical programme features high calibre peer-selected papers and sessions covering current applications and emerging technologies within all phases of E&P. The conference will provide an unparalleled opportunity for learning and collaboration during sessions, forums, and training courses, while the exhibition running alongside will showcase the latest technologies from around the world. International petroleum professionals, and industry leaders, innovators and investors will be in attendance including panel session speakers from Schlumberger; Energy Ventures; BP; McLaren Applied Technologies; Maersk Drilling; European Space Agency (ESA) and Evercore. Renowned for it’s excellent technical content, it provides the opportunity for producers, contractors, and service company professionals to meet, discuss, evaluate, and share ideas to promote advancements in worldwide drilling operations, address challenges, and to deliver improved performance. For more information about the SPE/IADC Drilling Conference and Exhibition, please visit: www.spe.org/events/en/2017/ conference/17dc/homepage.html
Headquartered in Cramlington, Northumberland with a number of strategically placed global facilities, HTL Group offer a wide range of solutions including: OEM Controlled Bolting Equipment, Flange Working Equipment, Portable Machines, High Pressure Solutions, Fully Approved Training and much more. The Expo Mobile Unit together with HTL’s fully equipped Calibration Unit brings everything HTL direct to customers at their convenience. The Expo Unit is essentially a mobile HTL exhibition which can be booked to visit customer premises anywhere whether that be office or remote site locations. It offers access to safe and innovative product presentations, minimising interference to your daily schedule. Paul Storey, Group Managing Director comments: “Adding the Expo Unit to our fleet was another obvious step towards making our customers’ lives easier during these current challenging market conditions. It allows us to demonstrate practical, cost effective solutions on site to any number of individuals in one visit ensuring minimum disruption to the customer. We envisage the vehicle having a busy diary for 2017, showcasing our ever growing portfolio of innovative solutions to a wider audience.” To discuss your requirements and to book any one of the mobile units within HTL’s Customer Support Fleet contact our Dedicated Customer Support Team, email: info@htlgroup.com or call: +44 (0) 1670 700 000.
L&N Scotland successfully upgrades to new ISO standard L&N Scotland, an Aberdeen-based subsea manufacturer, has announced that it has been successful in upgrading its ISO 9001:2008 certification to the new International Quality Standard ISO 9001:2015. Demonstrating its dedication to operating efficient management processes, this revised quality standard will aid L&N Scotland in the delivery and improvement of its services, to meet adapting industry requirements. The 2015 revision of the ISO 9001 standard focuses on performance, and supports continual practise improvements to ensure that company management systems are used as a structural tool for achieving continually high levels of quality. Certified companies are committed to demonstrating a framework for continuous improvement, and are assessed annually to ensure company progress is maintained. Verified by Lloyds Register, L&N Scotland has developed and qualified specific procedures and standards in line with ISO 9001:2015, to ensure that the most onerous of customer requirements are exceeded. This prestigious approval is applicable to the design and turnkey manufacture of subsea equipment and control systems, including associated specialised orbital T.I.G welding and corrosion resistant weld overlay services. In addition to ISO 9001:2015, the company was also recently accredited to ISO 3834:2 by Lloyd’s Register. This standard provides independent verification of a company’s quality attributes, processes and controls in relation to best practices of all fabrication, welding and related activities. By adhering to the latest ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 3834-2 standards, L&N Scotland aims to maintain its proactive approach to quality, utilising qualified procedures and processes, as well as regular monitoring and analysis to directly influence the development of efficient business practise and operations.
Subsea Expo Hailed Extraordinary Success as Industry Adapts to New Norm Over 4,500 unique visitors made their way to Europe’s largest subsea event, Subsea Expo, held in Aberdeen last month. Delegates flew in from all corners of the world, including Brazil, China, Japan and Mozambique. The largest wholly-focused subsea event in Europe, Subsea Expo is organised by industry body Subsea UK. Neil Gordon, Chief Executive of Subsea UK, said: “The worst of the pain appears to be behind us and there are promising signs of recovery. The subsea opex market should remain relatively robust and there are signals that delayed projects may be getting back on track. “It’s clear that our industry is making the adjustments needed to meet and then prosper within the current market conditions. But we do need a greater sense of urgency in tackling some of the underlying issues around leadership, behaviours in the supply chain and aversion to risk. “We must believe in our industry and do more to share the renewed confidence particularly among the young people who may have become disengaged through the impact of the downturn. Otherwise we will lose another generation which could lead to another over-heating of the market.” As part of Subsea Expo’s ‘Global Opportunities’ programme, the Department of International Trade (DIT) hosted one-to-one meetings with in-country experts in a bid to match UK expertise with demand from key oil and gas provinces, including Azerbaijan, Brazil, Mexico, Mozambique, Nigeria, Norway, Tanzania and the US. The show, which is now in its 12th year, hosted 150 exhibitors, bringing new products, technologies, efficiencies and services to the fore. Tony French, director of RockSalt Subsea said: “Subsea Expo is a highly focussed event, which for a fairly young company like ourselves provides a fantastic platform to showcase who
p10 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
we are and what we can bring to the market. We have been overwhelmed by the number of enquiries we have received and contacts we have made over the past three days. We will definitely be back next year.” Ernie Lamza, Chief Operating Officer of the Oil & Gas Innovation Centre, said:
We are always very impressed by the level of technical discussion at Subsea Expo and this year was no exception. The conversations we have had with companies looking to undertake R&D projects have been very encouraging. There is a recognition that the development of new technology is vital for the subsea sector in the North Sea and internationally. Subsea Expo has provided an excellent platform for companies and some of our academic partners to come together to share ideas and discuss issues currently facing the sector. Andrew Wylie, Scotland Subsea and Pipelines
Manager, Xodus Group, said: “Subsea Expo has been very productive for us this year, catching up with key contacts as well as building new relationships. There has been an enthusiastic mood at the show as the industry looks to adapt to the new norm.” Alan Kennedy, Partner and UK Head of Oilfield Services with professional services firm KPMG, said: “We have a world-leading subsea service sector here, which has developed its expertise in the UKCS where almost half of the offshore industry’s subsea installations are located. Subsea Expo provides an opportunity to assess the sector’s priorities and outlook. Subsea entered the current downturn behind the curve as projects and orders completed, so its recovery will lag behind other sectors, but companies need to balance appropriate survival measures with maintaining an eye on the upturn to ensure they are positioned and ready for growth. Internationalisation is a clear priority for our clients within the industry and with the right strategic approach there are opportunities within the global offshore sector, particularly in deep-water developments where North Sea technologies and knowhow are applicable.”
Industry news
BP group chief executive Bob Dudley to lead opening plenary at SPE Offshore Europe 2017 BP Group Chief Executive Bob Dudley will underline the value of the North Sea in the oil major’s global portfolio when he leads the opening plenary session at SPE Offshore Europe 2017 being held in Aberdeen from 5-8 September 2017. Dudley, who calls BP’s UK North Sea business one of its “crown jewels”, will address the hundreds of delegates expected to attend the opening plenary session at Europe’s foremost exploration and production (E&P) technical conference and exhibition. Other senior level plenary speakers will be announced in due course. BP expects to bring two of the largest new developments in the North Sea – the Quad 204 redevelopment and the new Clair Ridge project - into production over the next year or so, as well as continuing to invest in other North Sea assets. Over the same period, BP plans to participate in five exploration wells in the region and in around 50 new development wells over the next three years. BP’s North Sea production output is expected to double from 2015 levels to 200,000 barrels of oil a day by 2020. Conference Chair Catherine MacGregor, President, Reservoir Characterization Group, Schlumberger Limited, commented: “As one of the most eminent figures in our industry, Bob Dudley will provide an inspirational scene-setter under the conference theme Embracing New Realities: Reinventing our Industry. Bob’s insight will kick-start OE2017 as we encourage the industry to think beyond cost efficiency and embrace new technologies, new types of business models and collaborations that will lead to sustainable ways of working.”
Bob Dudley became Group Chief Executive of BP in October 2010. He has spent his whole career in the oil and gas industry since joining Amoco Corporation in 1979. In 1997, he became general manager for strategy for Amoco and in 1999, following the merger between BP and Amoco, was appointed to a similar role in BP. Between 1999 and 2000, he was Executive Assistant to the Group Chief Executive, subsequently becoming Group Vice President for BP’s renewables and alternative energy activities. In 2002, he became group vice president responsible for BP’s upstream businesses in Russia, the Caspian region, Angola, Algeria and Egypt. In 2003 he became Chief Executive Officer of TNK-BP in Russia until 2008 before returning to BP and joining its board in 2009. Under the theme ‘Embracing New Realities: Reinventing our Industry’, SPE Offshore Europe 2017 will offer more than 85 free-to-attend technical presentations and 11 keynote panel sessions combined with business breakfasts and topical lunches. A ‘new for 2017’ Decommissioning Zone will feature a themed exhibition and conference space. Also free-toattend, the zone will include over 40 decommissioning technology and service providers in the exhibition as well as a conference programme organised by key industry associations including Decom North Sea, ITF and IMechE. SPE Offshore Europe has been held biennially in Aberdeen since 1973. It is the largest E&P conference and exhibition outside North America. Visit:
www.offshore-europe.co.uk for further information.
FUGRO DISCOVERY TO COMMENCE FRONTIER SEEPS SURVEY OFFSHORE KENYA Fugro has been awarded a contract by Shell/BG Kenya for the execution of a seabed survey to detect natural leakages of hydrocarbons. The seeps survey complements a seismic exploration programme that was completed recently offshore Kenya. Undertaking a four week campaign of multibeam data acquisition and precise sampling, Fugro will mobilise its specialised survey vessel, Fugro Discovery, to Kenya in March. Seabed sampling will be carried out using a drop corer and multibeam data will be acquired with the latest deepwater high resolution multibeam echo sounder, installed in a newly designed gondola on the vessel hull. The project is one of many seeps campaigns completed in the world’s oceans for Shell by Fugro and demonstrates the added value of consistent execution of site works and standardised deliverables. Managed under a joint Fugro-Shell Safety Leadership programme, the project optimises both companies’ expertise in efficient and safe delivery. Peter Boon, Regional Business Development Manager for Fugro in Africa comments, “Seeps surveys are an important part of Fugro’s site characterisation services and we’re very pleased to reintroduce the Fugro Discovery to African waters, where she will demonstrate the excellent value they represent when exploration budgets are limited. These important seabed surveys support the decision making process for drilling operations, especially in frontier regions like East Africa.”
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p11
Industry news
Craig International signs global agreement with Shell Craig International has signed a global agreement with energy major, Shell to provide services for equipment stock resale. The oilfield procurement specialist recently launched Craig Collaboration to provide companies with the opportunity to reduce wastage and duplication, recoup financial outlay and sell unwanted items which are often sitting in storage, this is considered a radical shift in the approach to procurement in the oil and gas industry. Craig Collaboration connects companies looking to sell spare equipment with those looking to buy. Oil and gas companies around the world have substantial surplus equipment stock, much of which is sitting in costly storage, and Craig Collaboration will allow them to realise value from this. Jill MacDonald, joint Managing Director of Craig International, said: “There is a lot of equipment going unused in the oil and gas industry and it makes sense from a business and environmental point of view to reuse it. “We have developed a system that leads the way in improving efficiency right
p12 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
across the supply chain in the oil and gas industry. Rather than waiting for things to improve, Craig International is delivering inventive approaches and investing in products that make life easier and provide value for clients.” As well as the ability to buy and sell equipment stock, a further function of the Craig Collaboration approach is that it allows businesses to use the platform as an inventory controller. “Our system will flag if a customer is looking for a piece of kit in Aberdeen which their Dubai business has available,” said Ms MacDonald. “This eliminates waste and means customers can be fully confident that they are getting best value for their money. “The system we have developed is unique in its capacity to service the equipment buying and selling requirements of the entire oil and gas industry. Any company can sign up and their surplus equipment will be offered to buyers globally with whom we are in contact regularly.” Ms MacDonald added: “With 19 years’ experience, we are harnessing our knowledge, expertise, contacts with
buyers and our global buying power to benefit the industry as whole. “We have generated a great deal of interest in Craig Collaboration since it launched with many well-known operators and drilling companies coming on-board in an easy way for them to increase efficiencies and reduce waste.” Stuart Hay, appointed as E-commerce Inventory Coordinator at Craig International, will be the focal point for Shell. Mr Hay has 18 years of oil and gas procurement experience and has worked across the drilling, engineering and construction, subsea and offshore accommodation sectors. He will be supported in his role by an inventory administrator due to be appointed in the coming weeks. Craig Collaboration also provides sellers with an analysis of the interest expressed on their surplus equipment, allowing clients to make an informed decision on whether or not to dispose of it. More information on Craig Collaboration can be found at: https://vimeo. com/162525220/54b20e9093
Industry news
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Industry news
ITF steps up action to solve costly pipe-walking problems The Industry Technology Facilitator (ITF) is welcoming additional participants to a new joint industry project (JIP) to develop pipeline anchoring and monitoring systems which could mitigate the risk of pipeline walking and cut pipeline anchor installation costs in half. The Anchoring Pipeline Technology (APT) JIP currently involves Shell. The initial phase of the project will run for eight months and will bring together major global operators and pipeline installation companies to collaborate with ITF and Crondall Energy, an independent oil and gas consultancy. It aims to investigate alternative and less costly solutions and create a roadmap on how to manage and mitigate the pipe-walking challenge. Pipe-walking, or axial ratcheting, has been observed on a number of pipelines and can cause integrity concerns, including very large global axial displacements of the pipeline. In some cases, this has resulted in tie-in connector failures or subsea intervention to mitigate or control high rates of walking.
Large suction anchors, with a capacity of around 100 tonnes are typically installed at the end of the pipeline to control walking. In more recent projects, some long pipelines have required several anchors to be installed over the pipeline length. The potential overall saving from the deployment of optimised distributedanchoring systems is expected to be up to 50% of a typical installed cost. For example, this could result in a cost saving of more than USD5m for a project planning to install several anchors on a single long pipeline. The study will complement existing research by using the extensive experience of JIP participants. It will provide design strategies to simplify the design process and present a roadmap for projects to manage and mitigate the walking challenge over the project cycle. This will include the development of a ‘wait and see’ approach based on effective monitoring of pipeline walking by applying mitigative measures only when and where they are required.
Crondall Energy will be exhibiting at the ITF Technology Showcase - Technology in Action at AECC in March. Now in its fourth year, the event brings together some of the brightest minds from inside and outside of oil and gas to challenge current thinking and bring fresh focus on progressing new solutions. An Innovation hall will be dedicated to supporting the innovator community and showcasing the very best in new technologies, products, solutions and services. The technology sessions are facilitated by oil and gas operators with a keen interest on getting technology to market through the most effective and efficient routes possible. The three sessions this year will focus on: • Applied Digital Technologies to Improve Operational Efficiency and Performance • Transformational manufacturing and new materials to reduce costs • Emerging Inspection and Condition Monitoring Technologies to Prevent Failure in Operation and Avoid Downtime
www.itfenergy.com
Open Day Success for HTL Group Scotland Controlled bolting specialist HTL Group Scotland has opened its doors to showcase their full suite of capabilities at their new facility in Dyce, Aberdeen.
the facility allows for ECITB Approved MJI training to be delivered with fully equipped practical training rigs and premium quality classrooms for theory elements.
The company welcomed visitors from a range of sectors to see the extensive group capabilities first hand including demonstrations of their core OEM products and Joint Integrity Software, an exclusive tour of the new facility and HTL’s brand new mobile exhibition, the HTL Expo Unit.
Marc Gerrard, Business Manager, HTL Group Scotland comments:
The opportunity to see the new facility and HTL’s OEM Controlled Bolting and Ancillary products on display offered attendee’s the chance to discover and learn more about the customer focused solutions available from the experienced and friendly team at HTL Group Scotland. An insight into the ECITB Approved training offered by HTL Group Scotland also formed part of the busy day. The dedicated training centre within p14 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
“With over 100 current and perspective clients passing through the doors, the event was a huge success for us, there was a genuine buzz about the facility all week! Many of our guests were only aware of a fraction of our capabilities and can see clearly where the HTL Group portfolio can add additional value to their business. I am confident to announce that with the tremendous attendance and feedback from the event, HTL GROUP SCOTLAND has arrived! ” Stuart Broadley, CEO of The Energy Industries Council (EIC) (pictured top right) commented on the success of the day: “Many thanks to HTL for inviting me
to the new facility’s opening event in Aberdeen. HTL Group is an extremely innovative bolting solutions OEM and the open day has been the ideal means to highlight this. By allowing visitors to see the complete range of solutions readily available whilst meeting the whole team, they have presented themselves as the hub to deliver the Group’s comprehensive capabilities in Scotland. We are delighted to have HTL as a global member of the Energy Industries Council (EIC).” Due to its great success, the open day is planned to be one in a series of open door facility visits over 2017. Below: HTL Group Scotland, Dyce, Aberdeen.
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March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p15
Industry news
Rovco Dives into International Waters UK ROV Company Completes First Overseas Contracts UK based start-up Rovco has taken its firsts steps into international waters and made significant progress towards growing its global footprint following the completion of two subsea survey contracts in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The contract awards saw Rovco perform advanced subsea survey work in Fiji and Oman, utilising its state-of-the-art SubAtlantic Mojave, Seaeye Falcon and VideoRay Pro 4 ROVs. Launched in September, the company has also been awarded its first ROV consultancy project with one of the UK’s leading engineering solutions providers and recently employed two new ROV pilots. It is now looking to appoint a chief technology officer as it continues to grow its UKCS position and gear up for further overseas expansion. With an increasing pipeline of work, the firm aims to become a leading ROV and inspection company within the next three years, with expertise and capacity to carry out underwater inspection
projects across the globe.
complex projects across the globe.”
Currently tendering for work in the Gulf of Mexico, the Middle East and across the UK and Europe, Rovco is poised for further success both at home and further afield.
With an expanding fleet of ROVs, sized from micro to large inspection vehicles, Rovco has the resources required to provide inshore/offshore services and inspections anywhere in the world. Offering a unique approach to technical subsea challenges, Rovco has the expertise to deliver a high quality, cost effective solution for underwater hydrographic survey and inspection services, using high resolution state-ofthe-art 4K cameras, scanning sonars, multibeam echosounders and sub bottom profilers.
Rovco Chief Executive and Founder, Brian Allen commented: “It has been an incredible first few months in business. We have far exceeded our initial sales predictions and we are currently preparing for a number of projects that are due to start in March. “These contract wins are testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who have made a concerted effort to explore markets and developments which could really benefit from the expertise of the UK oil and gas industry. “Looking ahead, we aim to form strategic partnerships with local companies across the globe in a bid to increase trade opportunities, exporting our skills and expertise to overseas markets. We are in a strong position to support both existing and new clients, delivering cost-effective engineering methods for even the most
For more information about Rovco, visit:
www.rovco.com
Above: Rovco Chief Executive and Founder, Brian Allen.
First Subsea Pipeline Recovery Shell awards Airborne Oil & Gas contract for deepwater subsea Tool for Tex-Mex Pipeline TCP jumper spool qualification Allseas has awarded First Subsea a contract to supply a 42” Ballgrab Pipeline Recovery Tool (PRT) for the Sur de Texas-Tuxpan pipeline project in the Gulf of Mexico, a 700-kilometer subsea gas pipeline that will interconnect with the Nueces-Brownsville pipeline and the Tuxpan-Tula pipeline. The PRT is designed and constructed in a modular manner, accommodating different pipe specifications as well as permitting various pigging, dewatering and sealing scenarios. Ballgrab PRT’s were first used in 1994 and have been supplied for over 125 major projects worldwide. “It’s great to be working with Allseas again, especially on this prestigious project” says Phil Day Proposals Manager, First Subsea. For more information on First Subsea and Ballgrab Pipeline Recovery Tools visit: www.firstsubsea.com E-mail: info@firstsubsea.com Telephone: +44 (0)1524 387777
p16 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
Airborne Oil & Gas, the world’s first and leading manufacturer of Thermoplastic Composite Pipe (“TCP”) has been awarded a qualification program from Shell for a high-pressure, Deepwater TCP jumper spool. Its first application is anticipated in the Gulf of Mexico region. Tom Moroney, Shell’s Vice President Deepwater & Wells Technology comments: “Airborne Oil & Gas’ Flexible Composite Pipe is light weight and flexible, which could considerably help reduce the cost of subsea developments in deep waters. In addition, the high-pressure jumper spool represents a relevant step towards future deployment of Deepwater composite risers”. The TCP Jumper Spool will be manufactured using carbon fibre, and designed for application in depths greater than 2000 meters at pressures in excess of 10,000 psi. Gavin Leiper, Vice President Airborne Oil & Gas North America, comments: “This is a fantastic step forward in our qualification and product portfolio. We are very pleased that Shell have recognised the opportunity that our cost effective technology brings to the full operational life-cycle of subsea field infrastructures. We are looking forward to working closely with the Shell Technology Centres in Houston and Amsterdam, as we deliver this exciting product to the market.”
Industry news
Forum seals Mojave ROV deal with Norwegian firm Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. has delivered a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to ESEA Submarine AS to perform a variety of offshore roles, including inspection, survey and salvage work. The powerful and compact Sub-Atlantic™ Mojave will also be used by ESEA Submarine’s sister company, ESEA Marine AS, which has customers that include fish farms, port authorities and insurance companies. In addition, the Mojave will play a training role in helping ROV pilots to develop their skills. Georg Stranden, General Manager at ESEA Submarine, said: “We see opportunities in the Norwegian inshore market and found the Mojave suitable for the purpose because it is a truly mobile system which is very powerful for its size.” ESEA Submarine AS was established during 2016 by Mr Stranden, an industry veteran
with more than 30 years’ experience of working with ROVs. Malcolm Johnston, subsea vehicles Sales Manager, said: “The Mojave is a wellbalanced vehicle that is highly-responsive and powerful for its size. It has a variety of tooling options which makes it an ideal fit for ESEA Submarine with the range of work it will be expected to perform.” Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. is a global oilfield products company, serving the drilling, subsea, completion, production and infrastructure sectors of the oil and natural gas industry. The Company’s products include highly engineered capital equipment as well as products that are consumed in the drilling, well construction, production and transportation of oil and natural gas. Forum is headquartered in Houston, TX with manufacturing and distribution facilities strategically located around the globe. For more information, please visit:
www.f-e-t.com
Above: Forum’s Sub-Atlantic Mojave will perform a variety of roles for Norway’s ESEA Submarine AS.
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p17
Industry news
iSURVEY secures rig positioning and surveying contract with Shell iSURVEY, a leading provider of survey and positioning services to the global oil and gas, offshore renewables and telecommunications markets, has secured a non exclusive call-off contract with Shell UK Ltd, Shell NAM, Norske Shell and Shell E&P Ireland for the provision of rig positioning and surveying services.
Andrew McMurtrie, Managing Director of iSURVEY Offshore Limited said: “This is a significant win for iSURVEY in what has been a challenging time for the entire market. We are pleased that our capabilities and service offering have been recognised by Shell, proving our reputation in offshore positioning within the European markets, and is testament to our highly skilled and experienced team.
With an effective date of 1 January 2017, the three year contract, which has the option of up to two, one year extensions, will see iSURVEY provide non exclusive rig and surface positioning services, subsurface positioning and dimensional control and platform surveys to Shell’s mobile offshore drilling units.
“We look forward to supporting Shell’s operations, and intend to use this positive development as a springboard for growth throughout 2017 and beyond.”
and offshore renewable energy sectors. The Group operates from its bases in Aberdeen, Oslo and Singapore. Below: Andrew McMurtrie, Managing Director of iSURVEY
iSURVEY Group is a leading provider of survey and positioning services to the global oil and gas, telecommunications
Operators, Contractors & Technology Providers Collaborate for Better Information CFIHOS Standard brings standardisation for information handover across the supply chain. February saw the face to face meeting for the CFIHOS standard organised by USPI. CFIHOS (Capital Facilities Information Handover Specification) is a joint industry effort to standardise information handover requirements for stakeholders across the supply chain. The goal of the standard is to improve the information handover, reduce costs and improve efficiencies. Operator led, the standard has substantial backing from the likes of Shell, Chevron, BP, Total, Exxon and RIL, INPEX; EPC contractors such as AmecFW, Technip, Petrofac and L&T as well the key technology providers such as Aveva, Intergraph, Datum360 and Kraken IM. Attended by over 70 information professionals from all over the world the two-day event saw substantial progress
p18 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
on making the information requirements the same for every project. Project Leader Paul van Exel, Director of USPI, said
It is fantastic to feel the motivation of the participants of the CFIHOS event and see what great potential CFIHOS offers to them.
• Reduced cost for Contractors through a standardised set of requirements for data handover on every project • Standardised & repeatable information requirements for Equipment Suppliers
The next steps for CFIHOS are to increase awareness to equipment suppliers and vendors to increase engagement as well as feed existing feedback into a new version of the standard. Benefits offered by CFIHOS will be felt by every stakeholder in the plant supply chain: • Improved data integrity for all stakeholders
requirements for their supply chain
• Reduced effort and cost for owner operators in specifying information
• Common definitions for all software suppliers The USPI Mission: To develop, maintain and promote the use of international information standards and best practices for product and plant life cycle information. As well as to achieve quality engineering information required in the delivery of products and installations that are safe, reliable and environmentally friendly. With shorter project delivery time, lower costs and support innovation. The organization of the CFIHOS project is a global initiative in coordination with ENAA, the Japanese consortium for EPC contractors.
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Class 5 Rotary Docking Torque Tool Durable Stainless Steel construction offering repeatable high accuracy, delivering 6,780N.m (5000lbf-ft) torque; providing torque feedback, (Directional) Quadrature output turns count, optional ‘latched’ or ‘un-latched’ versions and visual motor turns indicator, this unit is built to last.
Repeatable high accuracy delivering 2,711N.m (2,000lbf-ft) torque; providing torque feedback, (Directional) Quadrature output turns count, auto gear box selection with high / low pressure and visual motor turns indicators, planetary gear standards. Optional Petrobras adaptor or full Petrobras front end effector.
Subsea ‘In Line’ Contamination Monitor (ICM) Prevents unseen minor faults from developing into major contamination problems with ‘GO/NO GO indication. Designed to monitor hydraulic system fluids (NAS, ISO & AS cleanliness standard), water contamination % RH (Relative Humidity), low pressure and temperature. Stores 4000 (retrievable) previous tests with stand-alone or 485 link to provide ‘live’ continual monitoring.
Jupiter 2 RCU System Latest intelligent valve pack to join the Jupiter range offers powerful control system that integrates high flow application, torque tool control & deployment or skid functions into a single unit with sensor inputs and powerful software control.
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Ocean Business 2017 – the global ocean technology show combining an exhibition and programme of hands-on training and demonstration sessions Ocean Business 2017 is due to take place at the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, UK from 4 - 6 April 2017. Firmly established as one of the most important international events in the ocean technology calendar, Ocean Business is FREE to attend and is expected to attract more than 5,000 visitors from over 60 countries. Meet face to face with exhibitors from across the globe… At the very heart of Ocean Business is a three-day exhibition of more than 340 companies, bringing together the world’s leading manufacturers and service providers in the industry. The purpose built exhibition centre is located directly on the waterfront at the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, UK and provides visitors with the opportunity to see companies displaying the very latest in the industry all under one roof and all free to attend. New for 2017, first time exhibitors US based 3D at Depth, will showcase the success of their technology by providing real-world examples of how subsea LiDAR can increase offshore efficiencies especially in the areas of decommissioning and other applications where 3D mapping is critical to a project’s success. Another exhibitor new to Ocean Business is Norway’s Ecotone which has developed a unique system for visual mapping and monitoring of the seabed and installations, such as pipelines, drill sites, environmental mapping and sea farm inspections.
Sessions held in the dockside waters will demonstrate some of the latest advances in autonomous vehicles with ASV Global demonstrating how to execute advance autonomous operations at sea and Teledyne - Benthos / SeaBotix giving a live demonstration of a mobile vehicle based, subsea communication system. Other interesting sessions include Kongsberg Maritime presenting the latest developments in subsea inertial navigation, survey APOS and subsea monitoring and BluHaptics using Telerobotics software to deliver on the Lean Promise in subsea operations.
Get your hands on the latest technology and services… More than just a static exhibition, Ocean Business provides visitors with a rare opportunity to test-drive equipment and systems with more than 180 hours of live, free to attend, training and demonstration sessions. Unique to Ocean Business, products and services are demonstrated in their real environment with sessions held on board vessels, in dockside waters, in a test tank and in classrooms.
Keep up to date with what’s new and exciting… Many organisations within the industry choose Ocean Business as the place to hold associated meetings. Attend a variety of seminars held by leading organisations in the industry from around the world and keep abreast of the latest developments in ocean technology. The NOC are hosting a programme of workshops, including a seminar about the support they have provided on the decommissioning of the 475 offshore oil and
p20 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
gas installations in the UK. All free to attend. Running alongside the exhibition and workshops is a conference designed to keep visitors at the forefront of the industry. This free to attend conference will target maritime dual-use opportunities in autonomous systems and satellite applications, both of which are on a growth curve for investment, and are attracting widespread interest across public and private sectors.
Network and socialise with industry colleagues… Ocean Business is well known for organising some very special social events and 2017 will be no exception. The social programme offers plenty of enjoyable events for informal and formal networking. On the night before the show opens, all exhibitors and visitors are invited for complimentary welcome drinks. On the first day of the show, the popular wine trail will be held in the exhibit halls and on the second day the highly anticipated gala dinner will be held at The Grand Cafe, one of Southampton’s most prestigious venues.
ocean business 2017 preview
Discover a wealth of career opportunities‌ Running alongside Ocean Business is Ocean Careers, offering advice and career opportunities within the ocean technology, marine science and offshore industries. Incorporating a mix of one-to-one meetings and presentations from industry leaders, Ocean Careers is an interactive event designed for all those looking to move into the industry. It is clearly becoming harder for many graduates, newly qualified engineers and the unemployed to find work. Whether your skills are in engineering, science or mathematics, Ocean Careers can help you realise how these skills can be utilised in this vast, exciting, forward thinking and diverse industry. Register for FREE The Ocean Business exhibition, workshops, conference, associated meetings, ocean careers and many social events are FREE to attend by registering online at: www. oceanbusiness.com/register. There is a fee to attend the gala dinner. Visitors are encouraged to register online in advance to beat the queues onsite.
For more information on Ocean Business 2017, please visit: www.oceanbusiness.com Email: info@oceanbusiness.com or call: +44(0)1453 836363 Keep in touch with the latest Ocean Business 2017 news by following us on: Twitter @OceanBusiness #oceanbiz, on Facebook and Instagram OceanBusinessShow, or by joining our LinkedIn group OceanBusiness
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p21
ocean business 2017 preview
exhibitor profiles
Dynamic Load Monitoring (UK) Ltd DLM are leading designers and manufacturers of load Cells, load monitoring systems and specialist offshore equipment. Successfully trading for over 20 years and with a proven track record in supplying high quality and reliable products, DLM have grown to be the leading supplier of shear pin load cells and systems to the offshore industry.
T: +44 2380 741 700
E: sales@dlm-uk.com
Argus Remote Systems AS
Based in Bergen, Norway, Argus Remote Systems AS was established in 1992 . The company has been manufacturing electric propulsion ROV over the last 25 years, due to its increased efficiency in comparison with hydraulic propulsion ROVs. Argus RS specializes in the design and manufacture of electric-powered ROVs for fishfarming, universities and offshore industries. The company has a wide variety of systems, such as the Argus Mini to the large work-class T: +47 56113050
With a comprehensive range of standard products including tensile link load cells, running line monitors and compressive load cells, DLM can cater for all load monitoring requirements. Recent developments include an Acoustic Bight Release Hook and Acoustic Subsea Shackle, which will be exhibited at Ocean Business on stand V35.
Visit Genrov on stand J2 to see the Inovatum Inoshackle the water/air operated Subsea shackle. Now available with additional options – Acoustic release/ option to daisy chain multiple shackles from a single stab release/remote LED indication panel - watch the videos on
Stand Number: V35
Argus Worker XL. Argus RS can also supply various subsea components such as Led lights, HD cameras, Pan/Tilt units, compensators, manipulators and connectors. The production processes of the control systems are performed in-house, from drawing the circuit boards to assembling the finished product, which means that clients have a reliable source for spare parts for the next 20 years.
E: sales@argus-rs.no
Genrov
W: www.dlm-uk.com
W: www.argus-rs.no
Stand Number: W9
bespoke to your requirement. Standard valve pack software can be operated with a Xbox joypad controller configurable by the user.
www.inovatum.no.
Also available from Genrov subsea hydraulic valve packs and control systems T: +44(0)191 5438953
E: info@genrov.com
W: www.genrov.com
Stand Number: J2
VALEPORT Valeport are UK manufacturers of Oceanographic and Hydrographic measuring equipment, supplying markets from inshore, coastal to full ocean depth in commercial, academic and military applications worldwide. Products include Sound Velocity Sensors & Probes, Tide Gauges, Current Meters, CTD’s, Fluorometers, Altimeters, Bathypacks, Depth Sensors, Echo Sounders and Wave Recorders. T: +44(0) 1803 869292
Innovating designs and new directions are key to Valeport product developments along with useful software or apps to make the customer experience trouble free and time-saving. These developments and the revision of existing technology to suit new applications and platforms will see Valeport technology evolving in many areas from AUV sensors to water quality during 2017 and beyond.
E: sales@valeport.co.uk
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W: www.valeport.co.uk
Stand Number: M1
ocean business 2017 preview
Copenhagen Subsea - The Green Advantage Copenhagen Subsea A/S has introduced a new standard for subsea thrusters with a reliable and sustainable profile. POSITIVE SIDE EFFECTS: THE GREEN ADVANTAGE Conventional thrusters use oil lubrication for mechanical parts and for pressure compensation in the cavity between the rotor and the housing. In contrast, Copenhagen Subsea’s thrusters use only the surrounding sea water. Manufactured as a unit of two solid molded parts, there is no enclosed space or cavity in the thruster that needs pressure compensation. One of the advantages in relation to conventional thrusters, – which use a fluid for pressure compensation, is of course that the new solution is 100% pollution-free and spillage will never occur. What is even more surprising, however, is that water functions as good as, or even better, than oil in the permanent and necessary lubrication process in the operating thruster. In the groundbreaking article ‘Water lubricated bearings,’ S. Hother-Lushington concludes that: “Provided the bearing and its lubrication system are designed properly, the reliability of a water lubricated bearing should be as high as or higher than the more conventionally lubricated bearing (and seal) which it replaces.” Tribology International, volume 9, issue 6, 1976 Reliability and sustainability – these are keywords at Copenhagen Subsea A/S. The world has already seen its fair share of oil catastrophes. The images of BP’s burning Deepwater Horizon platform in the Mexican Gulf in April 2010 make it clear that the efforts to become greener must affect all industries. As the world moves towards a greener future, we expect our customers to demand still more reliable and sustainable products. Accordingly, our mission is to develop and manufacture subsea thrusters that will lift the state of the art to unprecedented levels. DEDICATED TO RELIABILITY The new standard for testing subsea
thrusters implemented by Copenhagen Subsea A/S dictates a remarkable 1,000 working hours of continuous operation at maximum power. Once tested and validated, the thruster must still maintain full functionality and unaffected performance. When operating in open water, the cost of a failing subsea thruster is critical. Every malfunction, delay or maintenancebreak related to the subsea exploration vessel will set back the entire operation. Right from the beginning, Copenhagen Subsea has been striving to extend maintenance-free operating time well beyond 1,000 hours to secure optimal functionality for its customers. THE 1,000 HOUR TEST At its premises in Copenhagen, Copenhagen subsea performs a continuous test of its thrusters. 1,000 hours of operating time comprise 42 days during which the thruster operates 24/7 at maximum power. During this period, the thruster is constantly monitored for performance and energy consumption, and any deviance is registered.
Above Allan Nygård Bertelsen, Managing Director of Copenhagen Susbea A/S. and they are indeed the most important concerns that our customers express. To us, these discussions confirm that we have made the right choice when investing in developing reliable thrusters to meet the demands of an industry that is becoming increasingly aware of the reliability and sustainability of thrusters in subsea exploration. Right from the beginning of our development process, we have been convinced that we needed to aim for ambitious goals. Goals that would distinguish us from all other manufacturers of subsea thrusters. By producing evidence that we have fulfilled this goal, we have reached an unprecedented and remarkable milestone in the process of improving reliability, sustainability and reducing maintenance costs in the subsea industry.” Says Allan Nygård Bertelsen Managing Director of Copenhagen Subsea A/S
www.copenhagensubsea.com
The subsea industry is clearly pressing for higher reliability standards. With time, Copenhagen Subsea expect the 1,000 hour test to become the valid standard for a reliability certification of subsea thrusters. OBSESSED WITH QUALITY The thruster is just as critically important as any other component on board the subsea vehicle. For years, however, thrusters have suffered from having the lowest reliability factor among vessel components. Thus, the thrusters have become the weakest link in the chain of operation - with considerable maintenance costs as a result. Customer applications for Copenhagen Subsea in the subsea industry ranges from ROV, manned submersibles, cleaning robots and AUV: “The customers continue to return to us for discussions regarding robustness, maintenance and spare-part strategies. These are all issues related to reliability,
Right (clockwise): Copenhagen Subsea A/S Thruster in transport casing -ready for shipment & Copenhagen Subsea A/S thruster Version Extra Large (VXL).
SEE US ON STAND
V31
ocean business 2017 preview
exhibitor profiles
Deep Ocean Engineering USA Deep Ocean Engineering started as a small engineering company in 1982 and has grown to become one of the leading manufacturers of sophisticated ROV systems being used in the field worldwide. Based in the Silicon Valley, CA, we continue to build, design, and manufacture the highest quality ROV systems in the world.
T: (408) 436-1102
Here at Deep Ocean Engineering, we are able to accommodate all of your ROV and USV needs encompassing sales, service, production, instruction and installation of the most advanced systems in the world. We’ve got you covered above and below the surface. Let us know what you want to accomplish and we can help!
E: sales@deepocean.com
W: www.deepocean.com
Stand Number: W1
Forum Energy Technologies UK Forum Energy Technologies (FET) was formed in the summer of 2010 in a five-way merger among Forum Oilfield Technologies, Triton Group, Subsea Services International, Global Flow Technologies and Allied Technology. Since then we have grown through acquisition and organically. Today we’re going places none of us could have reached alone. We are a global oilfield products T: +44 1224 744000
company, serving the drilling, subsea, completion, production and infrastructure sectors of the oil and natural gas industry. Our products include highly engineered capital equipment as well as products that are consumed in the drilling, well construction, production and transportation of oil and natural gas.Forum is headquartered in Houston, Texas with manufacturing and distribution facilities strategically located around the globe.
E: subsea.sales@f-e-t.com
W: www.f-e-t.com
Stand Number: H6
PREVCO Subsea, UK & USA We continue to grow our product line as we learn more about the diverse needs of our customers. Over the years, we have expanded our product offerings to include subsea housing accessories such as Pressure Relief Valves, Dual Seal Vent Plugs, oil-filled compensators, Camera Windows, Internal and External Brackets and Chassis, Zincoids and other items. T: +44(0)1892 731528
PREVCO’s engineers have a wealth of general experience in Ocean and Marine engineering. We specialize in the areas of subsea housings, and have expertise in subsea connectors, cables, buoys and flotation, subsea system integration, and deployment and handling systems. We encourage you to ask questions, toss us ideas and let us help you solve your difficult problems.
E: stephen.ashley@prevco.com
W: www.prevco.com
Stand Number: J7
Tritech International, UK Tritech International Limited [Tritech], a Moog Inc. Company (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B), is a high-technology business dedicated to providing the most reliable imaging and ancillary equipment for use in underwater applications. The company has 3 UK sites; in Ulverston, Cumbria, Westhill, Aberdeenshire and Edinburgh, Scotland and an office in Katy, Texas, USA. Tritech also has a global representative and customer network. T: +44 (0)1224 744111
Tritech is a Moog Inc. Company, a worldwide designer, manufacturer and integrator of precision control components and systems. Moog offers a host of products and solutions for the Oil & Gas industry as well as being a provider of high-performance control systems for the aerospace, medical and wider marine and energy markets. Additional information about the company can be found at:
www.moog.com
E: sales@tritech.co.uk
p24 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
W: www.tritech.co.uk
Stand Number: D6
ocean business 2017 preview
ASV Global has announced it will be demonstrating its C-Worker 5 Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV) at the Ocean Business exhibition in Southampton, 4-6 April 2017 Designed, built, and operated by ASV Global, C-Worker 5 is the ideal platform to support construction and survey operations in combination with cutting-edge hydrographic, positioning and communication systems from leading manufacturers such as Kongsberg Maritime. The 5.5m ASV is designed for up to 7 days endurance at survey speeds of up to 7 knots, minimising launch and recovery operations and increasing survey efficiency.
C-Worker 5 has a proven track record of reducing the cost of survey work, having carried out data collection in conditions up to sea state 5. In 2016, survey company TerraSond used the C-Worker 5 alongside their survey vessel to run a major hydrographic survey in the Bering Sea region of Alaska. The C-Worker 5 collected 2,275 nautical line miles of side scan and multibeam data – 44% of the project total. Using the C-Worker 5 resulted in an on-site time saving of
almost 25 days. Ocean Business visitors will be able to see the vehicle and sensors operating throughout the show. Visit the ASV Global stand (U4) to book your personal demonstration, email: sales@asvglobal.com to pre-book in advance. Kongsberg Maritime will also run demonstrations on its Ocean Business stand (P2), focusing on the live data collected from the Kongsberg systems aboard the C-Worker 5.
C-Worker 5 will be hosting a variety of Kongsberg Maritime systems during the demonstration, including EM2040P, Seapath 130, MicroPAP and Maritime Broadband Radio. Underwater positioning will be provided by Kongsberg Maritime’s cNODE transponders. This selection of sensors will show C-Worker 5’s capabilities as a survey and subsea positioning platform and enable visitors to see the ASView® control system in action.
NOC Hosts Exciting Series of Workshops at Ocean BusinesS 2017 The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) will be delivering a programme of workshops at Ocean Business 2017. The workshops will address a variety of issues facing the ocean technology community, both currently and in the future. On the first day of Ocean Business (Tuesday 4 April), Prof Matt Mowlem, head of the NOC’s Ocean Technology and Engineering Group, will present the NOC’s sensor and instrumentation technologies that have just become available commercially. Further workshops include: business opportunities to network and work with the newly created South Marine Cluster; meetings with innovative companies operating in ocean observation to identify barriers to commercialisation, as part of the FixO3
Horizon 2020 project (Fixed point Open Ocean Observatory network) and a presentation about the collaborative development of a shore-based marine radar system which provides crucial hydrographic data, information on wildlife activity and acts as a vessel traffic tool. A major highlight of the programme is the NOC’s executive director, Professor Ed Hill, whose presentation focuses on the strategic priorities of the Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans (POGO) that advance efficiency in monitoring the world’s oceans (Wednesday 5 April). Also on the second day, the NOC is conducting a seminar about the support they have provided on the decommissioning of the 475 offshore oil and gas installations in the UK. Other highlights include a technological update about the
NOC’s development of pressure tolerant lithium sulphur batteries. Industry Applications Using Marine Data The potential use of arctic shipping lanes will be an interesting subject for discussion on the final day of the show (Thursday 6 April), as well as a seminar with NOC’s data modelling experts explaining how to translate marine data into industry applications. All these workshops will be free to attend and visitors simply need to register by sending an email. The NOC will also open its doors for tours of the key testing facilities that are available for commercial hire.
www.noc.ac.uk March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p25
LIFTING EQUIPMENT, DECK MACHINERY & WINCHES Six steps to safer overhead lifting Geoff Holden, chief executive, LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association)
With a history that stretches back to the building of the Pyramids, overhead lifting has long played a key role in a wide range of industries – including the subsea and offshore sectors. For the most part, the equipment involved is familiar and, in many cases, relatively straightforward. However, despite (or perhaps because of) this high level of familiarity and ubiquity, lifting remains a common cause of accidents. And given the typically tough working environments involved, it is not surprising that the risks are often greater in subsea and offshore applications. For employers, the good news is that implementing a safe and legal lifting programme is not usually an unduly complex process. Furthermore, practical guidance and support is readily available. As a starting point, here are six useful tips for safer lifting, along with some of the most common errors and oversights. 1. Get to grips with LOLER Anyone with responsibility for lifting in the UK should of course be familiar with LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations), as well as the broader demands of PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) and the Health and Safety at Work Act. Introduced in the UK in 1998, LOLER takes a modern, risk-based approach, and emphasises the need to use competent staff for all aspects of lifting operations. However, it is not unduly prescriptive, giving employers flexibility to tailor their approach to suit individual circumstances. LOLER is generally regarded as a sensible piece of legislation. Reflecting this, over recent years an ever-increasing number of companies operating outside the UK, particularly in regions that lack lifting-specific regulations, have chosen to adopt LOLER as best practice. 2. Plan properly Inadequate planning is the root cause of p26 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
most lifting-related accidents. Often this is reflected in last minute attempts to deal with an unexpected or awkward load, compounded by the use of untrained and/ or poorly supervised staff. Nearly all such incidents could be avoided by the implementation of effective planning procedures. Naturally the extent of such planning should reflect the complexity of the lifting operation in question. A complex operation, for example, might be characterised by a dangerous or abnornmal load, the need to perform the lift in unusual circumstances or difficult conditions, and/or involve the use of more than one piece of lifting equipment. In such cases, a written plan is generally essential. Even when the lift is routine, planning should always include processes such as a careful assessment of the load and the route it will take, selection of appropriate equipment, and a trial lift. With the load lifted to a nominal height, its balance, stability and security can be assessed prior to the lifting operation proper.
To assist in the identification of effective training courses for end users, LEEA runs an Accredited Training Scheme. To achieve accredited status, LEEA member companies must pass a rigorous audit, including criteria such as the qualifications and experience of trainers, the standard of training facilities, and the quality of student assessment.
For certain applications it is well worth considering the benefits of specialpurpose equipment. Similarly, many potential problems can be avoided by simply ensuring that the designer of the load in question incorporates a suitable lifting point or points.
Particular attention should be paid to LOLER’s requirement that lifting equipment is subject to periodic thorough examination by a competent person. Above all else, employers should appreciate that thorough examination is a specialist task requiring specialist skills. LEEA’s Diploma is long-established as the industry-recognized qualification in this field. Furthermore, to help employers ensure that only genuinely competent staff take on the job of thorough examination, LEEA issues ‘TEAM’ identification cards to employees of member companies that hold the Diploma qualification.
3. Take ‘competence’ seriously When organising staff training, employers should recognise that four distinct job functions are involved in a safe lift: planning, supervision, operation, and the thorough examination of the equipment. Whilst an individual may fill more than one of these roles, it is important that selection of candidates and training reflects the unique requirements of each one.
4. Don’t overlook small or simple items LOLER demands that all lifting equipment is subject to periodic thorough examination. Typically this includes a wide range of relatively simple and straightforward products such as shackles and eyebolts. In practice, is it all too easy to overlook such items. However, they invariably play a safety-critical role – securing the load throughout the lift. What’s more, they are
lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches subject to damage and wear and tear each and every time they are used. Employers should therefore ensure that they are properly specified in the first place, and not neglected when it comes to periodic thorough examination. 5. Take into account the conditions Anyone working in the subsea and offshore sectors will appreciate the impact that hostile operating conditions can have on a wide range of procedures. Lifting is no exception. Factors including the combination of salt water and air, extremes of temperature, and the additional dynamic loads imposed by the movement of vessels and/or installations can all have a detrimental effect on the integrity of lifting equipment. Reflecting this, LEEA produces a dedicated guide on the use of hand chain blocks and lever hoists offshore. Key recommendations include using equipment specifically designed for such conditions, and implementing a more frequent programme of thorough examinations. 6. Avoid over-reliance on thorough examination Some employers rely too heavily on thorough examinations to ensure that
lifting equipment remains safe to use. Depending on the type of equipment involved, LOLER generally requires that thorough examinations take place every six or twelve months. However, as already mentioned, lifting equipment is often vulnerable to damage. Indeed some of it can even deteriorate whilst in storage. That’s why it is important to ensure that lifting equipment is also subject to regular inspections in the periods between scheduled thorough examinations. Generally these in-service inspections are relatively quick and simple procedures that can be done by the operator. However, it is vital that staff have the confidence and authority necessary to withdraw from service any equipment that gives cause for concern.
for the Safe Use of Lifting Equipment (COPSULE) and the aforementioned guide to safe use of hand chain blocks and lever hoists offshore. It should also be pointed out that, to achieve full membership of LEEA, companies must pass a wide-ranging technical audit conducted by the association’s officers. And they are subject to further audits as long as they remain members. As a result, full LEEA membership provides independent verification of a commitment to professionalism –a commitment that should be reflected in the quality of advice such companies can offer end users of lifting equipment and related services.
Clearly this is a far from comprehensive list, both in terms of the range of potential risks encountered and the detailed procedures needed to address them. However, for employers looking to ensure that they stay on the right side of the law and avoid the potentially catastrophic consequences of a liftingrelated accident, help is usually within easy reach. This includes the official code of practice that accompanies LOLER, as well as LEEA’s own Code of Practice
Below: LEEA Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Lifting Equipment Guide.
RUD Chains Ltd
www.leeaint.com
Tradition in Dynamic Innovation
VRBG Heavy Duty Load Ring 10-50 Tonnes • VRBG Load Ring can be loaded 90° to the vertical with a full working load limit • Supplied with 4 bolts offering a working load capacity of 10-16 tonnes • Supplied with 6/8 bolts offering a working load capacity of 31.5 - 50 tonnes • Safety factor 4:1 in all load directions & min working load limit clearly marked • Suitable for heavy lifting, engineering, turbine lifting & steel structure assemblies
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p27
lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches
RUD VRBG Load Ring on Plate for Bolting
Can be loaded at 90° to the vertical with a full working load limit: RUD Chains offers over 600 different tested and certified lifting and lashing points which cover a working load capacity range of 0.6 to 250 tonne. RUD’s lifting equipment is used across a wide range of working environments from Heavy Lifting, Engineering, Materials Handling, Offshore, Construction, Rail, MOD and many more. The VRBG load ring on plate for bolting offers a range of advantages and lifting options for the user. Firstly it can be supplied with 4 bolts offering a working load capacity of 10-16 tonnes or it can be supplied with 6/8 bolts with an impressive working load capacity of 31.5-50 tonnes. It can be loaded at 90° to the vertical with a full working load limit, the suspension ring pivots 180° and offers a safety factor of 4:1 in all load directions. The VRBG is operational from -20° to plus 350°.
highlight when the lifting equipment is no longer fit for service and needs to be replaced. Therefore, offering an ultimate safety factor to the user. The VRBG is easy to assemble and has 100% working load limit at 90° in the load ring plane. The minimum working load limit in all directions is clearly marked and the RUD bolts are available as spare parts. The VRBG is typically used across heavy engineering, shipbuilding, turbine lifting, s teel structure assemblies and in lifting and final positioning of new machinery.
For more information call: 01227 276 611 Email: katie.crane@rud.co.uk or visit us at: www.rud.co.uk
RUD provide standard and tailored solutions to meet even the most demanding environments. Top quality products combined with technological innovations and experience make RUD a top choice for all your lifting requirements
RUD patented wear marking indicator helps
Rope and Sling Supplies Lifting Gear for Major Falklands Project Rope and Sling Specialists (RSS) has supplied lifting and rigging equipment for the Mare Harbour upgrade project, part of a massive modernisation of the military infrastructure on the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory off the coast of Argentina.
Alan Varney, Depot Manager at RSS headquarters in Bridgend, Wales, said: “The opportunity to supply such a landmark and important project represents a great start to 2017 and once again demonstrates our capability to manufacture and source lifting equipment for demanding applications to a short lead time.”
Mare Harbour is a small settlement on East Falkland, on Choiseul Sound, primarily used as a port facility and depot for RAF Mount Pleasant, located about 15km north. An upgrade is underway to make the harbour suitable for larger vessels, namely the POINT Class ships, with roll-on roll-off capability of the Falkland Islands Resupply Ship (FIRS). There are approximately 10 FIRS sailings per year, which deliver military supplies including hardware, food and commercial freight to the Falkland Islands.
RSS received the order on 9 January and committed to delivery to Morecambe in Northwest England two weeks later. The shipment, which filled 15 pallets, included 35t and 25t capacity wire rope slings manufactured by RSS in addition to chain slings of various sizes that were also assembled at the South Wales facility.
RSS has supplied wire rope slings, web slings, round slings, shackles, hydraulics, chain slings and wire rope to civil engineering and maritime service provider VolkerBrooks, part of VolkerStevin, which agreed the £19m upgrade—£180m will be invested in the Falklands over the next 10 years—with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO). p28 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
Varney added: “Our 1,000t Sahm Splice hydraulic press enables us to manufacture slings up to 55t working load limit (WLL), which is a capability that is generating significant and ongoing interest from industry. We have adapted our manufacturing processes to enable us to meet this demand within the stringent time constraints often associated with orders for such equipment.” VolkerBrooks (formerly Humby and Brooks), acquired by VolkerStevin in 1937, placed the
order with RSS, which already supplies, hires and inspects lifting equipment for the specialist service provider. VolkerBrooks is committed to maintaining the highest standards of workmanship supported by its suppliers, systems and facilities to provide an efficient and effective service. Rob Coupe, Managing Director at VolkerStevin, said: “As a specialist in marine construction works, we look forward to working on this design and build project for the roll-on roll-off facility upgrade. We’re pleased to be working as part of this investment to modernise military infrastructure on the Islands and look forward to starting.” Below: RSS uses its 1,000t Sahm Splice hydraulic press to fulfill orders for major projects such as the Mare Harbour upgrade.
lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches
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KTR manufacture hydraulic and electromechanical floating caliper disc brakes in compact designs with clamping forces up to 1400 kN! KTR-STOP® and EMB-STOP® offer active and failsafe designs which ensure maximum protection for operation in hazardous environments such as mining, marine and other industrial applications. KTR also offer Intelliramp® - an intuitive touchscreen system for controlling stopping times or distances.
www.ktr.com March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p29
lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches
Sparrows Group Retains BP North Sea Contract Sparrows Group has successfully retained its current North Sea Mechanical Handling and Crane Management contract with BP, which will extend the working partnership between the two companies to over 50 years. The contract sees the lifting and mechanical handling specialist operating and maintaining all 21 of BP’s pedestal cranes in the North Sea across eight assets. This includes the soon to be commissioned Clair Ridge platform and Glen Lyon FPSO. The full scope of the Mechanical Handling and Crane Management contract covers the supply of crane operators and maintenance of the pedestal cranes as well as all other mechanical handling equipment which includes inspection, repair, refurbishment and spares management. As part of the contract Sparrows also deliver training and engineering support for all lifting scopes which includes equipment change-outs and decommissioning activities. The firms have a long history together, with Sparrows servicing all of BP’s North Sea crane operations and maintenance requirements since 1975. Sparrows first sent crane operators to the Forties Alpha and Charlie platforms in June of that year. The lengthy association has enabled the companies to develop a highly effective understanding focused primarily on safety and performance.
LEEA and ICHCA publish new guidance on safe use of shipping container lugs LEEA has co-produced a new pamphlet that provides practical guidance and advice on the safe use of container lugs, which are commonly used for connecting ISO shipping containers to lifting equipment. The briefing document has been written in collaboration with ICHCA International, the leading representative body for the cargo handling industry, and is available to download free-of-charge from the LEEA website (www.leeaint.com). Container lugs are designed to fit in the top corner castings of ISO shipping containers, providing a means of connection for slings, shackles and lifting frames, for example. They therefore play a safety critical role during lifting operations and the new pamphlet covers vital issues such as the correct means of attaching lugs to the load and crane, appropriate storage and handling, and basic requirements for inspection, maintenance and thorough examination. An overview of documentation and product marking requirements is also included. A PDF version of the briefing pamphlet, titled ‘LEEA – 066 General guidance on the safe use of container lifting lugs’, can be found at: www.leeaint.com/uk/Guidance-Documents
Stewart Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer of Sparrows, said:
Reaching this impressive milestone with BP is something we are very proud of. We have built an enduring relationship with them, which began in the very early years of the North Sea, based firmly on true partnership. To be involved as the new generation of platforms come online is hugely satisfying and underlines that there is a lot of life left in the North Sea. Over the years, we have together developed and implemented best working practices, with a true spirit of collaboration focused on performance and safety.
Four-Year Plan to Position Gaylin as Market Leader in Vietnam Singapore-headquartered Gaylin, a specialist supplier of lifting, rigging and marine equipment, has initiated a plan to reposition its Vietnam facility to address changing trends in the local oil and gas, refining and chemical plant sectors. In essence, Gaylin will build on more than a decade of experience supplying slings and shackles to expand the portfolio, creating rental and labour-based revenue streams. Gaylin has five other global hubs in the region South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and China —across which a dedicated training and competency programme has been rolled out to ensure personnel are trained on the latest legislation applicable to their respective geographies and marketplaces. Ongoing development of the Vietnam operation, which is located in the Dong Xuyen Industrial Park (since 2014), is focused on implementation of a more robust quality management system coupled with a driven, long-term training plan. Gaylin will introduce a much wider range of rental assets locally that includes specialist equipment such as load cells, spreader beams, testing equipment, winch systems and spooling capabilities.
p30 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
North Sea Winches design state of the art quadrant handling system for DeepOcean North Sea Winches (NSW) have recently designed, manufactured, commissioned and supported a state of the art quadrant handling system for offshore contractor DeepOcean. Working for a leading international developer DeepOcean have delivered class leading efficiency completing inter array cable installations from the vessel Maersk Recorder for a U.K. east coast wind farm development. Working closely with DeepOcean, NSW supplied equipment including a 20 tonne active heave compensated winch a 5 tonne constant tension winch and three 110KW HPU’s to operate the two winches and an overboarding A-Frame. The new equipment has greatly improved cable lay times, of at least two completed lays in a 24 hour period and with the active heave function meant working through what would be hold points in poor weather conditions.
Lee Smith, DeepOcean Project Manager commented:
This project one of the first combined Active Heave / Constant Tension deck layouts for NSW and MJR, it has proved their abilities beyond doubt. The winches and controls were installed over a ten day mobilization and then put straight into operation on a time critical cable deployment, everything went according to plan. Robert Gretton, Managing Director of NSW said:
lifting equipment, deck machinery & winches
DeepOcean needed a safe, reliable and operator friendly system. We were only too happy to help, with winches and controls already developed and tested by NSW and MJR using the X-Wave system it was a perfect opportunity to flaunt our capabilities. While NSW and MJR (ActiveWinch) are currently working towards a range of AHC Hire Units they are also undertaking the development of a AHC winch for a subsea trenching vehicle and also the retrofitting of a pair of 30 tonne AHC offshore cranes.
NSW are in a joint venture with MJR Controls of Stockton to deliver active heave and constant tension solutions to the offshore and marine markets.
New floating caliper brake with one-piece brake caliper KTR developed a floating caliper brake which is made of one single piece. The new XS series is optionally available with a hydraulic or electromechanical operating principle and can both be operated in an active and passive mode. The brakes are suitable for subzero applications with temperatures ranging down to -40 °C. The brake caliper of the new XS series combines the housing, spacer plate, and counter plate as one piece and is made of special LT nodular iron. This makes the floating caliper brakes suitable for sub-zero applications with temperatures ranging down to -40 °C. All other components such as pad retainers, pistons and guide pins are made of steel. The brake pads are made of “organic mixture” or “sinter metal” and can easily be replaced by one single person. Depending on the application’s preference and basic conditions, the XS brake can be operated either hydraulically or electromechanically, with clamping forces up to 15 kN being generated in the passive
design and 16.5 kN in the active design. The brakes are mounted to the respective machine each by two screws size M16. “Since the brake caliper of the new series is made of one piece, there are no more exposed contact surfaces“, Fabian Liekam, Product Manager for Brake Systems in KTR explains. “In doing so we improved the brake’s corrosion resistance. In addition, the one-piece design allowed us to extend the guide pins and double the number of bushings, improving the brake’s floating operation and the efficiency of transmission of force from the caliper to the base plate. This makes the brake even stronger.“ The new floating caliper brakes series “XS” are intended for applications in the most demanding environmental conditions, both above or underground, onshore or offshore, and can be used both as service brakes, for high numbers of cycles, and as holding brakes. The brakes are selected and adapted in the “KTR Competence Centre for Brake Systems” located in Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock/East Westphalia. At this location KTR pool their
activities for brakes under the umbrella of KTR Brake Systems GmbH. Apart from developing and producing brake systems, tests and functional testing of prototypes and serial products are performed here as well. As an example, tests are performed on a universal brake test bench for rotor and yaw brakes, a tension test bench, a vibrating table or a cryogenic temperature cooling chamber allowing for tests with ambient temperatures down to – 40 °C.
www.ktr.com
Above: Using this image for editorial purposes is free of charge (© KTR Brake Systems GmbH). March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p31
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT SAAB SEAEYE INVESTING IN ENGINEERS Investment in new technologies sees Saab Seaeye, the world’s largest manufacturer of electric underwater robotic systems, launch a recruitment drive to find software and electrical engineers at all levels, including senior engineering management, for their Fareham, Portsmouth, Head Office and manufacturing base.
advanced technology and efficiencies to an ever widening range of complex tasks across many different market sectors.
With markets in oil and gas, renewables, hydro engineering and marine science, amongst others, Saab Seaeye has been established for over 30 years and has offices in Sweden, America and the UK, and is part of the Saab Group.
Right: Engineers at Saab Seaeye continue to create pioneering electric robotic systems for a wide variety of tasks across many different market sectors. Here, the company’s smallest vehicle is seen undertaking scientific research into the ocean’s ecosystems at depths of 1000m. Larger systems can operate down to 6000m.
Increased investment comes as rapid advances in miniaturisation and control architecture are creating smaller, smarter robotic systems that are more agile, more powerful and are bringing
Saab Seaeye says engineers will join a company with a worldwide reputation for pioneering engineering that has long led the industry with cutting edge designs and technologies.
www.seaeye.com
Transform a love of diving into a rewarding career with training from TWI International travel, exciting work and ample progression opportunities: a career in underwater inspection is not short of benefits. If you have a commercial diving licence, or an interest in diving and a desire to get one, moving into underwater inspection gives you the opportunity to turn an enjoyable activity into a ticket to see the world and a rewarding career. Over the last few decades TWI has delivered training to hundreds of divers from all over the world at its specialist facilities. Courses are currently offered in Middlesbrough in the UK, Baku in Azerbaijan and Chonburi in Thailand – each venue featuring modern diving equipment and hosting training provided by experienced industry professionals. For UK-based trainees, TWI is the p32 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
only place in the country where divers can carry out their training and gain CSWIP certification in the same location. Once qualified you will be eligible to work all over the world: CSWIP certification is the internationally recognised industry standard, and a specified requirement of many employers. There are four courses available in TWI’s underwater inspection suite: 3.1U NDT Inspection Diver, 3.2U NDT Inspection Diver, 3.3U ROV Inspector and 3.4U Underwater Inspection Controller. They combine classroom-based theory with practical tuition, either in a dive tank or topside, depending on the programme. Each qualification requires recertification every five years, to refresh divers’ knowledge and ensure their skills are up to date. This can be carried out at any of
TWI’s underwater training facilities. If you would like to find out more about what a career in underwater inspection entails, an overview of TWI’s diver inspection courses can be found on TWI’s YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/TWIltd TWI Training and Examination Services is the world’s largest provider of training in NDT, welding and welding inspection. Thanks to its excellent global reputation, it has established offices around the world, and last year delivered training to more than 25,000 students from more than 70 countries. For more information, including an underwater inspection career progression map and a complete list of courses, including dates and venues, visit:
www.twitraining.com
or e-mail: trainexam@twitraining.com
training & development
ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW PERSONNEL HIRING & LAUNCH OF NEW AUDIT COURSE IN ABERDEEN, UK KBA Europe strengthens its Senior Management Team and Rolling out New Initiatives in the Coming Months! KB Associates Europe (KBAE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Chesshire to fill the newly created role of General Manager and Natasha Attrill as Subsea Consultancy Manager. These new positions are a significant demonstration of KBAE’s commitment of continuous growth development to enhance the strength of its service offerings in Europe, America and Africa. Tim brings with him a scientific background and more than 40 years of diving and offshore experience. He previously fulfilled the roles of Diving Safety Advisor and Technical Authority in the UK after a range of work worldwide as diving consultant and 25 years with a major Operator culminating as global Diving Technical Authority. Tim commented, “I am delighted to join the KBA family and am very much looking forward to working with such a motivated and professional team with a vast range of skills and experience as we expand and develop
our business around the world.” Natasha qualified with a BSc Physics in 2006, and since then has worked within the Subsea Energy industry primarily providing consultancy services to dive, ROV, construction and IRM scopes of work for Operators and Contractors globally with a focus on competence assurance and high quality deliverables. Natasha commented, “I am excited to join KBA Europe to be a part of the continued growth of both the consultancy and training services to the Energy Industry in support of safe and efficient operations. In a challenging market the timing is ideal for a ‘fit for purpose’ and cost effective service.”
We are very excited to welcome Tim and Natasha to our KBA team, they both bring a wealth of experience in subsea safety management, diving consultancy and training that compliments with KBA Europe’s business development while supporting
regional and global clients. This expansion of expertise within KBAE reinforces our strategic plan and together will strengthen our goal to be the preferred subsea safety consultancy and training provider in the region and globally working with our Singapore Office. Brendan Kearns, Managing Director. On a different note, KBAE is launching a new combined course of Diving System Assurance Training and Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis Awareness course with the first run scheduled on the 15 to 19 May 2017. The five-day combined course is aimed at enhancing the knowledge of personnel who already work in the diving industry and equip them with the basic foundation necessary for auditing or FMECA consultancy or to work with auditors in a constructive sense as an auditee when the auditor visits the asset on which they are working. In this way, the combined course extends the delegates working potential or enhances their present situation.
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Setting the trend for Supporting Diving and Marine Operational Safety
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Diving, ROV, Marine Consultancy Auditing - Company/Diving/ROV/ Vessel System Audits Auditing - Medical Facilities Offshore Supply of DMAC 15 Medical Kit Health, Safety & Environmental Consultancy Technical Authorship of Diving/Safety Management Procedures
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Singapore: +65 6546 0939 | www.kbassociates.org | enquiries@kbassociates.org UK: +44 (0)1224 872741 | www.kbaeurope.org | enquiries@kbaeurope.org March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p33
training & development
Are your Auditors up to the task…… ISO 9001:2015 Foundation Training 1 Day IRCA Course No.9151 Intended for Students requiring a basic knowledge and understanding of the ISO 9001:2015 standard and its implementation and/or Internal Auditors wishing to meet the ISO 9001:2015 Foundation requirement for registration under the IRCA Internal Auditor Registration Scheme. As a result of attending you will be able to: • Understand the purpose and intent of the ISO 9000 series of standards • Understand the ISO 9001:2015 requirements • Understand the relationships between the clauses of ISO 9000:2015 This course provides students with a working knowledge of the ISO 9001:2015 International Quality Standard. It covers the following topics: • The purpose of a Management System • The ISO 9000, ISO 9001 & ISO 9004 Series of standards • The 7 Fundamental Principles of Quality Management • The and the Plan, Do, Check & Act Cycle • Interpreting the ISO 9001:2015 standard
The course is designed to meet the training requirements of the International Register of Certificated Auditors Internal Auditor Registration Scheme, (IRCA), and in conjunction with our 2-day Internal QMS Auditor course, successful completion may lead to registration as an Internal Auditor under that scheme.
Internal QMS Auditor Training 2 Days IRCA Course No.9152 Intended for Personnel involved in the management and/or conducting of Internal Management System Audits. As a result of attending you will be able to: • Plan and organise an audit using the latest techniques • Write a non-conformity report (NCR) based on objective evidence obtained during an audit • Understand the role of bodies such as IRCA, UKAS and have knowledge of any recent developments in the certification infrastructure • Understand the differences involved in performing an audit against a management system standard (other than quality) e,g, environmental, safety, self-assessment preassessment etc. The course is based on the ISO 19011 Guidelines for Auditing Management Systems. It covers the following topics:
• Quality, Quality Assurance and Quality Management • Quality System requirements • 7 Fundamental Principles of Quality • Interpreting the ISO 9000 Series standards • Selecting and training auditors • Setting up the audit programme • Initiating and preparing for audits • Carrying out audit reviews • Presenting and reporting audit findings • Corrective action and follow-up audits • Using audits to improve the business This course provides students with a working knowledge of the ISO 9001:2015 International Quality Standard along with the basic auditing skills needed to plan and conduct Internal Audits within their own organisation. Satisfactory completion of the course fully meets the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard in terms of the “training requirements” for Internal Auditors. All QMI courses involve a high level of student participation. A full set of student notes will be provided and a Certificate of Successful Completion awarded. All QMI courses involve a high level of student participation. A full set of student notes will be provided and a Certificate of Successful Completion will be awarded to students meeting the course assessment criteria.
www.qmi-scotland.co.uk
Industry collaboration signals renewed demand for training and competency services Two Aberdeenshire firms have joined forces to offer enhanced training services to businesses operating across a range of highrisk industries.
ensuring continued high standards of delivery.
Polaris Learning and AquaTerra Training have agreed to deliver complimentary training, development and competency management courses targeting onshore and offshore personnel. This approach will result in greater availability and choice for end-users as well as
will be added to AquaTerra’s training programme. Similarly, the company will promote AquaTerra as an approved provider for an extensive range of training services.
p34 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
Several courses developed in-house by Polaris Learning, including assessor, verifier and leadershipmanagement,
While both companies work globally,
the initial focus will be on developing business relationships in the North-East and across the rest of the UK. In addition, the two businesses
will share intelligence on a variety of other key industries including oil and gas, renewables, food and drink, distilleries and construction, among others – which will allow each company to diversify further into these specific sectors.
Lively, informative and locally based Quality Auditor training from
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(5 Days) ISO 9001:2015 QMS Auditor/Lead Auditor (IRCA Certified) £1195 +VAT
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March 27th - 31st April 24th - 28th May 15th - 19th
(2 Days) ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Course (IRCA Certified) £555 +VAT
Aberdeen:
March 21st - 22nd April 11th - 12th March 7th - 8th April 4th - 5th
(1 Day) ISO 9001:2015 QMS Foundation (IRCA Certified) £335+VAT
Glasgow: Edinburgh: Aberdeen: Glasgow: Edinburgh:
March 20th April 10th March 6th April 3rd
(2 Days) BS OHSAS 18001:2015 Internal Auditor Course (IRCA Certified)
Aberdeen:
July 20th - 21st
(1 Day) BS OHSAS 18001:2007 Foundation Course (IRCA Certified) £555 +VAT
Aberdeen:
March 23rd
(2 Days) ISO 14001:2015 Environmenal Foundation Course (IRCA Certified)
Aberdeen:
May 11th - 12th
(1 Day) ISO 14001:2015 Environmenal Foundation Course (IRCA Certified)
Aberdeen:
March 24th
(2 Day) ISO 9001:2015 Transition Course (IRCA Certified)
Aberdeen: Glasgow:
May 30th - 31st April 6th - 7th
If you would like to talk to us about your training needs or would like further details about our courses, please call us on: 01224 626290 or visit our website at: www.qmi-scotland.co.uk
Training & Consultancy Environmental
Quality
Health & Safety
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p35
HAZARDOUS AREA Delivering to safety and efficiency expectations - even in challenging environments and hazardous areas By David Ponchon, Technical Manager and Jonathan Petit, Product Manager, Trelleborg Fluid Handling Solutions It is clear that, even though the worst of 2016 may be behind us, the oil industry has been, and needs to continue to be, adapting to a ‘new normal’ in terms of cost management. Recent research from DNV GL reveals that 85% of oil and gas professionals have cost management as a top or high priority for 2017, and a majority (63%) see current cost-efficiency measures as marking a permanent shift towards leaner ways of working. Organisational restructuring (37%), reducing Opex (35%), and improving efficiency from existing assets (29%) are the top three priorities for cost control in 2017. The aim for suppliers to the industry will be to ensure that these new opportunities continue to encompass best practices that have ensured safety, but also maximise efficiency. It is vital that this move towards rationalization does not come at the expense of the significant safety gains made in the last few years. This will require suppliers and customers alike to adapt their approaches to oil transfer to make sure that they are both safe and strategic when operating in hazardous areas. Understanding the environment in which a hose will function is a crucial first step in ensuring safe hose management in hazardous Below: Connection of REELINE hoses with hydraulic wrenches.
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Above: two images: REELINE Submarine line. areas. Suppliers know that equipment can be put to the test in extreme environments OCIMF estimates that a floating hose string can be subjected to 30,000 wave cycles per day – and more in areas with challenging weather conditions. Extreme weather presents several obstacles: ice can potentially stop production equipment working, freeze personal protective gear or safety devices, or render a vessel unstable thus increasing risk of breakaway. Extreme wave and wind activity inflicts a significant strain on facilities and hoses, and can be particularly challenging to predict. Recent research from the Australian Maritime College has found that despite the probability, most platforms today are not designed for the decks being hit by a wave – highlighting the need for designers to plan for every eventuality. The complexity and variety of these environmental considerations is why Trelleborg’s R&D department is involved as early as possible on any project. To accurately assess the impact of environmental and situational conditions, R&D teams typically use prototypes to undergo rigorous mechanical and chemical testing, and hydrodynamic analysis, to model hose behaviour allowing them to recommend the ideal product for each environment. This is the methodology used in projects that adhere to API 17K spec standards. This testing considers temperature, pressure, the type of product,
as well as the wider environment to minimise risks in hazardous areas. In most cases, the most suitable solution for non-harsh, low cost of extraction environments will be a single or double carcass nipple hose, such as Trelleborg’s SEALINE offering. SEALINE hose design consists of binding steel wires which are fixed on the nipple, using a standard metallic flange and pipe to connect with the hose body structure. High operational resistance is achieved using a perfect link and adhesion between hose body structure and flange. The advantage of such a configuration is the ubiquity of its application. Many sites around the world use this technology which is certified to GMPHOM 2009 guideline – the standard for offloading hoses. These are also often the most affordable solutions; they can withstand all but the most extreme environments with ease. Nipple hoses can be used in both floating and submarine offloading configurations. In order to take a flexible approach and ensure the right solution is used, having a choice is vital. For extremely challenging environments or long service life, for example, more specialized solutions may be utilised. In this case, a nippleless technology may be required, such as Trelleborg’s TRELLINE or KLELINE offerings. This technology means that there is a compact flange to increase the flexibility and the minimum bending radius (MBR) of the hose is decreased. This is
Hazardous area particularly important in situations in which a hose needs to be reeled, when the REELINE type of hose is ideal. These hoses can be used in both submarine and floating situations; environments that would be too challenging for a nipple hose. Additional innovations can come from examining the context in which a hose will function. Trelleborg engineers identified that, in high-traffic areas, hoses may need to switch between floating and submerged modes to allow traffic to pass. Secondly, it is often necessary to adjust the shape of a submarine line under a Calm Buoy to accommodate density changes in the conveyed fluid. To address these issues, Trelleborg developed adjustable buoyancy modules that can be placed along the hose line at any point, maintaining the ideal shape and configuration of the hose to minimize loads and fatigue, and improve safety and service life. Suppliers must support projects throughout their execution to ensure that the highest safety standards are upheld, as well as guaranteeing the benefits of proper lifecycle management. This approach includes on-site inspection and testing for requalification,
hose maintenance and inspection programs, and on-site repairs to ensure that hoses are not only performing correctly, but are meeting the required standards in safety and quality. This may need inspections, tests on site or in the factory such as OCIMF and burst tests, or ageing analysis of the components such as adhesion tests or elastomer property analysis.
By working with suppliers to identify the right product and creating best practices for handling, storage, and maintenance, companies will be sure they are operating safely, while also delivering to the new 2017 mantra of instigating cost-efficiency measures, even in the most challenging environments and hazardous areas.
In addition to inspections and testing, manufacturers and suppliers can ensure safety by working on best practices for storing and handling hoses. The sensitivity of rubber to elements such as ozone, ultraviolet rays, humidity, and heat requires the following some simple storage rules to protect the product against ageing. Storage time should be minimised, and hoses should be kept away from sources of aging acceleration (such as lamps or mercury vapour tubes, high voltage electrical equipment, and solvents). Hoses and hose assemblies must lie unconstrained, and piling should be limited whenever possible.
www.trelleborg.com
Above: Installation of a REELINE submarine line.
Careful design and a collaborative approach to maintenance can deliver significant benefits in terms of lifecycle cost and efficiency. Moreover, this should be augmented by access to a choice of solutions.
Left: REELINE Floating hoses.
E2S Warning Signals showcases its hazardous area and marine approved equipment at OMC 17 On Stand A9, Hall 1 at OMC, the Offshore Marine Conference, Ravenna, Italy 29 – 31 March 2017, E2S Warning Signals, the world’s leading independent manufacturer of ATEX and IECEx approved audible and visual warning signals, are presenting the latest developments in their extensive range of explosion proof, hazardous location and intrinsically safe audible and visual warning devices for the onshore and offshore oil and gas industry. Amongst the new product releases will be the DNV approved and MED compliant signals for fire and general signalling use in marine applications. For corrosive environments E2S will be showcasing their ‘STEx’ family of IECE and ATEX approved warning signals, call points and junction box, all featuring 316L stainless steel
enclosures. Also on show are the ‘GNEx’ GRP enclosure warning signals, call points and junction box which are IECEx, ATEX & EAC Ex approved for Zone 1, 2, 21 and 22. Additional audible and visual warning signals include the ‘D1x’ family , approved for Class I/II Division 1, Zone 1 and Zone 20 environments and the compact, high performance ‘D2x’ and ‘E2x’ signals, globally approved to UL, cULs, ATEX & IECEx standards for Division 2 and Zone 2 and 22 applications.
dispatch along with a customer service centre serving global markets. Additionally, a dedicated distribution hub and sales operation is based in Houston, Texas principally serving North and South America. The stand is manned by Richard O’Leary, E2S Business Development Manager and Fabio D’Errico, from CONTACTA sas, representative agent for E2S in Italy. sales@e2s.com
www.e2s.com
For 25 years (since 1992) E2S Warning Signals have specialised in the design and manufacture of high performance audible and visual signals for commercial, industrial, marine and hazardous locations. The head office and manufacturing operations are located in London, UK with extensive facilities for design, manufacture, quality assurance, testing and March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p37
Hazardous area
Explosion Proof Equipment: Catering to Safety Standards in Hazardous Areas The world has witnessed rapid industrialization and urbanization with the advent of time. Several technological advancements and changes in the industrial scenario have brought about a major improvement in the safety norms for industries. The swift growth of various industry verticals has enhanced the production efficiencies and improved the outcome of processes. However, it has also added to the risk aspect, due to the widespread use of dangerous substances or procedures, which could potentially cause an explosion. The emergence of explosion proof equipment can be touted as the next step by regulatory authorities for improving their safety standards and precautions in hazardous areas. These equipment are designed specifically to withstand the worst in the case of an explosion and have to be certified as explosion-proof. The global industry for explosion proof equipment is emerging, owing to the stringency of government regulations on industrial safety. The use of such protective gear and products has now become a clear precautionary protocol, especially in the areas terms as hazardous.
various classified areas. The oil & gas industry has been a strong participant in the entire explosion proof equipment industry, and this segment is expected to dominate the market share in the next few year. The growth of the segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.3% till 2022. The several products that are available on the market include cable glands, junction boxes & enclosures, lifting and material handling systems, lighting & signaling devices, and surveillance modules that are resistant to explosions or any outbreak of fire. The products are designed strategically to be used in oil rigs and harnessing facilities. They are meant to withstand the explosions, if any, caused by the gasses and sparks emitted by electrical apparatus set up on these rigs. A tiny spark or fuse if ignited in the vicinity of these electrical devices could potentially lead to a series of explosions, which can eventually cause the entire system to break down.
The global explosion proof market is an emergent industry and is touted to scale major growth opportunities for expansion in hazardous industries that are susceptible to witness potential explosions. A detailed study of the market, by experts at Allied Market Research, reveals that the industry is set to reach a value of $8,217 million by the year 2022. This is possible with a projected CAGR of 9.3% during the period 2016–2022. The market expects a significant growth with a rise in demand from industries that have classified hazardous areas, such as oil & gas and chemicals sector. Even geography-wise, the industry is estimated to fare considerably well in the Asia-Pacific and LAMEA region in the near future.
Industry’s reliability on graded and certified products Electrical products that are to be used on onshore and offshore oil platforms are supposed to be certified for use by regulatory authorities. While it is the CE mark which decides the safety of such apparatus in Europe, the industries in North America use products that are graded and tested by the Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. The labels are given according to the divisions and classes of classified hazardous areas, depending on the complexity and risk factor of the area in question. Thus, a large number of product manufacturers are ensuring their products and equipment satisfy the set criteria and are available at competitive prices in the market. This has also ensured a dynamic competitive scenario with several products demonstrating remarkable ability to withstand the effects of an explosion when used in such industries.
A prerequisite for safety in oil & gas sector The oil and gas sector is a multi-million dollar industry with several stakes involved in it. The operations of this industry are the most vulnerable to catastrophes due to the sheer volatility of the elements functioning within. It is believed to be one of the most hazardous sectors and safety standards call for use of explosion proof equipment within the
Tailoring industry-specific solutions for oil & gas The industry is swiftly expanding to cater to the needs and growing demand for explosion proof products in the oil and gas sector. Competitors have realized the need to create products and solutions that optimize the safety factor and offset the risk of eruptions on oil rigs and platforms. Products are being tailor made for industry specific demands and to sustain
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in conditions that could arise in specialized processes. Given below are some of the explosion proof products and solutions that were recently launched and are concentrated for use in hazardous areas. For instance, EATON has recently offered the FlashGard MCC among its latest technologies to hit the market. The recent product launch demonstrated several features including bus isolation, stab indication, and lockout. These are essential for enhancing the workers’ safety and protection of equipment from hazardous arc flash. Arc flashes are dangerous conditions that occur when explosive energy is released by electrical arcs, caused mainly due to phase-to-ground- or phase-to-phase faults. The product prevents insulation & isolation and removes the dangerous voltages with its advanced features. It is also being touted as an effective solution for ensuring personnel and equipment safety. Other companies, such as Siemens, Intertek Group, and Extronics are also developing efficient solutions for explosion proof enclosures. Manufacturers in the industry are focusing on the addition of surveillance techniques to monitor the enclosures and get real-time data on potential casualties. The introduction of CCTV systems and HMI (Human-machine interface) devices as a part of a complete unit is quickly proving as an ideal solution for both offshore and onshore oil & gas applications. Cooper Industries is also another player in the market which offers explosion proof products and enclosures. It has recently offered a new hydraulic hose monitoring system that keeps a continuous watch on the health of hydraulic hose assemblies. Moreover, it gives out notifications regarding hose failure, further enabling safety, reduction in system downtime, and prevention of damage to the machine platforms. With such products making pathways in the market, and several manufacturers venturing into product design and development, the industry is set to earn revenues. The sale of explosion proof equipment in the oil & gas sectors, in particular for hazardous areas accounted for a total revenue of $874 million in the year 2016. This is a clear testimony to the market potential possessed by such products in providing industry-specific tailored solutions.
www.alliedmarketresearch.com
Hazardous area
Low Profile LED Lighting for Zone 1 Areas Abtech have launched the Nimbus LED panel for use in Zone 1 hazardous areas. This lowprofile luminaire provides significant weight savings over traditional T8 recessed fluorescents that have for many years been the standard for internal illumination on offshore platforms and FPSO’s. With its launch, the benefits of long life and minimum maintenance associated with LED technology can become a reality for control rooms,living quarters and corridors that require the use of Ex-rated luminaries.
such a dimming can be much more easily achieved. The Nimbus has been designed with a push-to-dim functionality as standard.”
To ensure the highest levels of safety the emergency Nimbus also features battery and driver status monitoring with a bicoloured LED to indicate healthy operation of highlight fault conditions.
The emergency version has a 6V 4.5Ah, Ni-Cd power pack that provides 120-minute emergency duration with 50% of the mains mode light output. There is also a 90 minute, 100% output version.
Further details and a full specification can be found on the Abtech website:
www.abtech.eu/latest/nimbus/
The intrinsically safe (Ex ib) Nimbus comes in a range of sizes from the 13W, 150x150mm to a 20W, 300x 600mm panel. Light output and distribution for the Nimbus compares to that of a recessed fluorescent. Users can also choose from pure white (5700K) or warm white (3000K) LEDs to provide a colour temperature suited to their application. The Nimbus panel is both ATEX and IECEx certified for mains and battery backup options. The LED panel is designed to be flush mounted below ceiling tile and is compatible with the multiple variants available on the market. The Nimbus driver unit is housed in a separate IP rated enclosure that can be mounted up to four metres away allowing potential space saving in the ceiling void. As mounting is achieved with minimal (M4 sized) penetration through the tiles, the integrity of fire rated ceilings is maintained. The Nimbus is also supplied with a low smoke, Zero halogen cable between the LED panel and driver unit. “We have seen significant interest in this LED product from modular accommodation providers who are looking to take advantage of the benefits that solid-state lighting can offer. The barrier has always been the availability of an Ex-certified emergency luminaire.” comments Gareth Bruce, Marketing Manager at Abtech.
Display instrumentation for use in hazardous and safe areas
“Unlike fluorescents, LED technology is digitally controlled. Thus, desirable features for living and working areas
www.beka.co.uk sales@beka.co.uk
beka_general_90x130_SOS.indd 1
Hitchin, SG5 2DA UK Tel +44 (0) 1462 438301
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz 39 PM 1/4/2017| p 3:45:39
FLOW MEASUREMENT GOING WITH THE FLOW: World Fuel Services welcomes the introduction of mandatory mass flow metering in Singapore In a move, which has been widely hailed as a landmark moment for the bunker industry, the use of mass flow metering (MFM) for heavy fuel oil bunker deliveries in Singapore became mandatory on January 1, 2017. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s (MPA) efforts have been warmly applauded by many in the industry – including World Fuel Services – who see MFM as an important tool for developing more transparency and accountability for the bunker supply chain. What is MFM? How does MFM work and why is it so important to the bunkering industry? When a mass of liquid passes through an oscillating tube, the inertia effect of the moving liquid will cause the tube to twist – and the twisting will be in direct proportion to the liquid‘s mass flow. MFMs are composed of one or more tubes, and they use sensors to calculate the degree of vibration, and therefore the mass flow directly. This means there is no requirement to change the conventionally measured volumes of fuel to mass as MFM measures the mass directly. MFM is an established, proven technology. It has already shown its worth in the bunker industry over the past few years – and it has been employed for many decades in other sectors of the oil industry, especially on land and in refinery operations. MFM is extremely accurate. Indeed, TR48 requires that MFMs operate to an accuracy of +/- 0.5%.
Above (left to right): General bunker operation ( a typicval MFM barge arrangement.
display of critical parameters such as flow rate and pressure, which means that any potential problems or abnormalities can be addressed, and corrected, immediately on site. Additionally, the actual quantity delivered at any given time is displayed in real time. Dispute resolution Bunker disputes over fuel quantity and quality can be time-consuming, costly and highly damaging to the relationship between buyer and seller. While it will never be possible to eradicate disputes entirely, the procedures that the MPA has put in place will help to remove some of the key causative factors. Supply chain partners With the migration to MFM, the role of a key partner in the bunker supply chain – the bunker trader – will be as important as ever. World Fuel Services has been monitoring Singapore’s MFM plans closely, and it has been putting this knowledge and expertise to work for its clients – giving continuous updates on how to navigate the new market conditions with the least possible stress.
Win, win Using MFM should be a “win, win” for both the bunker supplier and the buyer. Firstly, MFM’s greater accuracy ensures that ship owners get exactly the amount of fuel that they paid for and the supplier is not giving away any extra fuel. Secondly, MFM is much faster and more efficient than using soundings, so it saves time and money for both parties.
Shipping companies who bunker regularly in Singapore may already have some experience of the new technology. However, there will be some ship owners who will encounter MFMs for the first time in 2017. They may be sceptical about the benefits of the new technology and unsure of the procedures. However, World Fuel Services will be at hand to offer practical advice and help.
There are other operational benefits too. MFMs can provide a real-time digital
Next steps in Singapore… The mandatory use of MFMs for fuel oil
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deliveries in Singapore is part of an ongoing process. In Singapore, the MPA and other stakeholders will be closely monitoring MFM’s progress, checking to see how it is helping to overcome bunker quantity issues. The MPA will also work on the continuing “digitalization” of the bunkering process, as the live data captured by the MFMs can be used to generate more reports and analysis. And now that all fuel oil barges are employing MFMs, there will be a focus on equipping gas oil barges too. … and globally Singapore is the first port in the world to make MFM mandatory for heavy fuel oil bunker barges. The question is: will it be the first of many? Although no other port authorities have currently indicated that they plan to follow the mandatory route, MFM is steadily gaining traction in markets across the bunkering world. With over 25 marine offices globally, World Fuel Services are set up to support their customers wherever and whenever MFM is implemented. More suppliers worldwide are introducing MFMs on their barges not because they have to, but because they see a benefit for the industry in doing so. MFM can help to bring greater efficiency, transparency and honesty to the bunker business – and these are qualities that have a global currency. World Fuel Services applauds the MPA’s leadership, and we also welcome the opportunity to work with bunker partners and customers who are interested in using MFM in other ports around the world.
flow measurement
Bifold Pneumatic Actuator Controls The Best Technology at the Lowest Cost – At Least 22% to 39% Cost Saving.
output is limited by the change in the bore size through the tubes and fittings.
Bifold offer configurable valve control products, simplified for ease of selection with the highest safety factors and reduced spares requirements, offering the highest flow at the lowest cost.
Maximise flow of typical nippled systems with Bifold components With traditional nippled pneumatic control circuits Bifold elements are capable of the highest possible flow in the market but the output is restricted by the diameter of the nipples.
Maximise flow of typical tubed systems with Bifold components With traditional tubed pneumatic control circuits Bifold elements are capable of the highest possible flow in the market but the
Optimise flow with Bifold patented modular solution Bifold developed an unrestricted common bore system that optimises the high flow capability of their components.
Bifold have furthered this logic and developed a range of patented Filter Boosters removing as many elements as possible from the flow line including the filter and regulator, amplifying the possible flow for any given tube size. This principle results in smaller tube sizes being used and can be supplied in up to a 2” connection. If you are interested in the lowest cost solution for your application, please visit: bifold.co.uk for further details and a video outlining the above. You can also contact Bifold on: +44 (0) 161 345 4777.
Bifold are dedicated to maintaining the excellence of their products and their new facility confirms their commitment to shortening lead times and meeting customer demands. Bifold Group would like to take this opportunity to thank all their customers for their continued support.
www.bifold.co.uk
World Renowned Flow Measurement Expert Joins NEL NEL, the flow measurement R&D specialist, has appointed Dr Bruno Pinguet as senior consultant. The new appointment will strengthen NEL’s existing expertise in an area which is becoming increasingly important, as the pressure for economic recovery continues to grow. Dr Pinguet is one of the world’s leading experts in multiphase flow measurement and research, with more than 25 years’ international experience. Recognised as a world authority, he has published over 140 scientific papers and holds a number of patents.
His appointment will help NEL to drive forward the next generation of multiphase flow measurement challenges and focus on helping industry achieve the cost-effective exploitation of reserves in technically challenging production environments. In particular, he will be working on the verification of in-situ meter performance, a key gap in the current measurement traceability chain. Dr Brian Millington, Managing Director, NEL, said: “NEL is already internationally recognised as one of the foremost authorities on flow measurement. Bruno has joined
to help us remain at the cutting edge of multiphase flow measurement, at a time when the discipline faces a whole new set of exciting challenges. Bruno’s appointment will also strengthen our capability in all aspects of the fundamental science that underpins the whole area of flow measurement.” March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p41
SEALS & GASKETS STATS Group Complete Challenging Isolation of 42” Subsea Pipeline Engineers at STATS Group had a hattrick of challenging issues to overcome when commissioned to isolate a 42” subsea pipeline in the Middle East. The dead leg pipeline was housed within an oil storage tank and the Middle National Operating Company owner was concerned the integrity of the pipe was suspect after identifying irregular flow characteristics. Aberdeen-based STATS Group had to overcome three main challenges. Firstly, as the pipeline was constructed of thin wall pipe, consideration needed to be given to ensure the weight of the isolation plug would not pose a risk of rupturing the pipeline during the deployment process. Secondly, the isolation plug is required to provide leak-tight isolation for at least 25 years, so suitability of seal material for long-term deployment was essential.
supplies suction to three topside pumps and the main 36” NB feed transfer line. The solution required the provision of a secure isolation which could be deployed subsea via divers into the 42” dead leg through an open flange entry point.
maximum potential isolation pressure in turn, and once the seal integrity was proved, the annulus was then vented to ambient to create a zeroenergy zone, providing effective double block and bleed isolation.
The isolation plug would need to negotiate two mitre joints and travel up a five-degree incline before reaching its final isolation position 38 metres away, directly ahead of the Plenum weld. A triple seal mechanical isolation plug was chosen and provided the option to remove the plug at a later date, if required.
To allow the Tecno Plug™ to reach the desired isolation location, STATS engineered a hydraulicallyactuated deployment frame to allow stem bars to be installed in sections, pushing the Tecno Plug™ to location in a controlled manner. Flexible control lines attached to the rear of the Tecno Plug™ provide communication to set the plug, test and monitor the seals.
Due to the thin wall pipe of the dead leg, a standard Tecno Plug™ would be too heavy to deploy safely on this occasion, therefore, the plug was re-engineered to reduce the overall weight.
Finally, the storage tank had to remain fully operational throughout the workscope, so STATS had to ensure that the subsea deployment, setting and testing of the isolation plug, could be conducted by divers within a strict 14-day window.
As standard, STATS Tecno Plugs™ feature two elastomeric seals, the dual seal configuration providing an annulus void which is pressure tested to verify both seals are leak-tight. However, as a contingency measure a third seal was incorporated into the design, this additional seal provided a facility to fill the seal annulus with grout if additional sealing was required.
The 42” dead leg is connected to a 96” Pump Plenum, housed within the oil storage tank which
Once the Tecno Plug™ was deployed and set at location, each seal was leak tested at 110% of the
Prior to the offshore deployment, STATS conducted a client witnessed Factory Acceptance Test at their operational base in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, which also included two-days of diver familiarisation training on a full-scale replica pipe fixture.
Flexitallic increases Change™ gasket production with European manufacturing investment Flexitallic, the global leader in static sealing solutions, has expanded its manufacturing capabilities for its innovative Change™ gasket with an investment in new production technology. The company has invested around £200,000 in state-of-the-art machinery at its facility in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, to supplement its existing Change™ gasket manufacturing operation in Texas, United States. The introduction of the manufacturing equipment will enable Flexitallic to increase production in line with the industry demand for the ChangeTM technology and enable shorter lead-times for Europe and the Eastern Hemisphere. Change™ has become the most significant development in the gasket and sealing industry p42 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
in the past five years with more than 50,000 sold into sectors such as Steel, Power, Chemical, Refining, and Pulp and Paper, around the world. Developed by Flexitallic in direct response to customers’ long-term heat exchanger sealing problems, Change™ is a highly-resilient metalwound gasket, designed to deliver the most dynamic static sealing technology ever. Manufactured using proprietary equipment, Change™ has a proven track-record showing it outperforms conventional gasket technology in challenging environments, especially in applications with mechanical and thermal cycling conditions. It has also achieved independent industry accreditation from TALuft for its ability to deliver the tightness of a Kammprofile with the recovery of a Spiral Wound Gasket.
This is achieved through the application of a unique metal spiral profile, which is more advanced than those found in standard gaskets. This profile, combined with a laser welding process, facilitates the construction of a robust and dynamic seal. For more information on the Change™ Gasket please contact their Applications Engineering Team on: +44 (0)1274 853 463
FIRE PROTECTION INDUSTRY FOCUS Tyco in oil & gas: a heritage of security Jason Pendlebury, director oil, gas and marine, Tyco Tyco’s roots in the fire protection industry, has a long and storied history in the world of oil and gas fire safety solutions. With experience going back to the mid-19th century, the company provides staff and asset protection for many of the world’s largest operators in every oil-producing region of the globe. It generates over $11.5 billion in annual sales and employs 90,000 people across the globe, making it uniquely well-resourced to provide effective solutions for the oil & gas industry. Tyco operates across a wide range of industry assets and is just as capable of ensuring the functional safety of drill ships and supply vessels as it is of protecting high-capacity offshore platforms. Tyco’s roots in the fire protection industry began in 1845 when engineering giant Mather & Platt acquired the manufacturing rights to the Grinnell sprinkler system, the first patented automatic sprinkler in the world. Wormald International, a subsidiary company designed to distribute the system across the globe, went on to major success, developing a wealth of expertise and eventually buying out its parent company in 1976. Tyco Laboratories, which had originally been founded as a public research organisation, acquired the firm during a period of strategic expansion during the 1980s. So began a transformation that would culminate in the fire and security giant of today, as Tyco International (as the company became known) built on Wormald’s industry-leading knowledge to serve the changing needs of the oil and gas industry. Fire and water: industry challenges Throughout its long life Tyco has seen numerous changes in the industry. Fire protection is never static in such a high-pressure sector and the p44 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
www.tycoifs.co.uk
company has reacted flexibly to major transformations wherever they happen. The Piper Alpha disaster, for example, rightly prompted a rigorous rework of the industry’s regulatory framework, pushing operators and suppliers alike to redesign their safety processes to ensure risk on board is as low as reasonably practicable. Even on a relatively small level regulatory changes have pushed suppliers towards measures such as the introduction of closed-circuit hydraulics to avoid the discharge of fluids into the sea, requiring a major safety system redesign. In the last twenty years particularly, the ongoing search for new reserves has pushed the industry into ever more difficult locations and conditions testing its fire protection to the limit. The conditions on board oil rigs have also changed massively with developments in technology. From the early days of the Tyco family there’s been a continuing need for innovation in fire safety. Offshore platforms are undergoing a major reduction in personnel, partly as a result of dropping profits amidst the oil price crash. These changes mean that fire detection and suppression systems must operate more efficiently and automatically with less supervision. Tyco has been at the forefront of these changes, using its long heritage in the sector to provide the best solution for evolving requirements. Finally, the future growth of the oil and gas sector is set to compound the difficulties to the fire and security industry. Platforms are increasingly being commissioned for longer lifespans and older installations are being extended to maximise cost-efficiency - so on-board fire suppression technology needs to be future-proof, resilient and self-
sustaining. Enhancements to fire suppression technology will be essential in making rig life extension sustainable and safe. Tyco is perfectly placed to provide not only the hardware required, but also to incorporate innovative solutions and service structures which can help operators get the most out of their safety budget without compromising on quality. Tyco – bridging the gap As the industry has evolved, so has Tyco - from fire suppression sprinklers in 1870 to high-tech fire detection in the 1990s, the company has remained at the cutting edge of technology. In the present day, Tyco provides a comprehensive range of products and services to help shipping companies, navies, fuel transporters and commercial lines to effectively protect their staff and assets. Take a look at the areas it now operates in - the culmination of over a century of development. Fire protection Tyco can arrange the installation of suppression systems to help combat every type of on-board fire, from dry chemical powder and CO2 for in-hand fire extinguishing to deluge, deck foam and local area watermist for automated wide-reach suppression. Tyco is a specialist in gas- and fluid-distribution extinguishing systems for oil fires, and can provide tailor-made, nonhazardous solutions to suit the individual application. Life safety Staff safety is a major priority across the industry and Tyco has decades of experience providing personal and general equipment to keep crew
fire prOTECTION industry focus
protected in the event of a fire. This ranges from gas detection and personal breathing devices for crew members to general alarms and emergency shutdown systems, as well as onboard hospital and healthcare resources. Communication Once a fire or security incident has been verified Tyco provides the necessary networking of audio, video and data signals to alert passengers, communicate with staff and record information for future analysis. This includes general alarm systems with speech intelligibility evaluation to ensure urgent messages are received loud and clear. Integrated service Tyco operates a unique integrated servicing model, dispatching a single highly trained, multi-disciplined maintenance operative to provide support for several systems at once - for example, deluge, detection and alarms. This innovative approach can help to reduce costs by combining offshore visits to save duplication of engineering support, with a single management fee across all disciplines and consolidation of tooling deliveries – ensuring that significant savings can be generated without compromising compliance, safety reliability and customer service. Total service The offshore environment is dangerous and challenging. It takes a company with a deep, well-rooted understanding of the unique issues faced by platform operators to provide the necessary protection. In a constantly hazardous and difficult environment, Tyco is the premier choice for everything from fire protection and video surveillance to gas detection and life-protection equipment. Whatever the need, however challenging the environment and no matter how remote the location, Tyco has the specialist tools and expertise to keep platforms, staff and assets safe. Without sufficient protection all are at serious risk - now is the time for managers to review their processes and ensure their installations can withstand the unique dangers of fire at sea. March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p45
tech spotlight
tech spotlight VERSATILE CRANE SYSTEMS COMPLY WITH INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS & STANDARDS The Fusion is a breakthrough in hybrid underwater vehicles. In a unique way, it combines AUV and ROV capabilities with diver navigation and propulsion- into just one system. Why was Nortek’s DVL essential to make this leap forward possible? Crafty engineering and high-end bespoke sensors have produced an underwater vehicle with efficient, capable and robust design. Jesse Rodocker, President at Strategic Robotic Systems, emphasizes the importance of Nortek’s innovations in DVLs to make this possible. ”Both the electronics and transducers are smaller and have a better form factor for the Fusion underwater vehicle. The higher frequency for increased accuracy is of huge value for aiding the Fusion’s automated control and navigation system. The added
Right: The Fusion combines AUV, ROV and diver navigation and propulsion into just one system.
dedicated altimeter provides more accurate altitude directly below the Fusion for better terrain following.” Nortek’s 1 MHz DVL has a bottom track that ranges from 20 cm to 50 m, and its housing is available with a 4000 m pressure rating. Even when offering this capacity, it is the industry’s smallest DVL, and is easy to integrate and operate. More efficient, capable and cost effective The Fusion underwater vehicle has a unique in-line transducer arrangement and Nortek has been there to help with this design. Nortek’s contributions included recommendations and minor tweaks to make the vehicle work optimally. ”The Fusion is a real first”, says Jesse Rodocker, emphasizing that it is a true hybrid that has extended capability in all modes. The Fusion breaks with tradition by uniquely
combining several underwater systems into a single platform. ”There isn’t a system on the market that combines the AUV, ROV and diver functionality in the same way. Fusion is also really the only system to be built from the ground up with a specific suite of sensors in such a tightly integrated package,” Rodocker explains. The specific suite of sensors refers to inclusion of a multi-beam forward-looking sonar, side-scan sonar, USBL, DVL and AHRS. Most other platforms do not include these as standard and certainly not integrated as tightly as in Fusion. This design makes the Fusion more efficient, capable and cost effective. For example,its design means reduced need for training and greater mission capability.A fresh perspective on underwater systems A fresh perspective on underwater systems Strategic Robotic Systems was founded with the premise of developing the next generation in underwater systems by approaching this challenge from a fresh perspective. They needed a partner with an equally fresh perspective as they were looking for navigation technology to be integrated in their new underwater vehicle. ”One of Nortek’s clients recommended us to work with Nortek because of the new technologies in its portfolio and the company’s ability to collaborate with partner companies. I was struck by Nortek’s progressive, forward-looking thinking and soon found out we had common interests,” says Jesse Rodocker.
Left: Crafty engineering and high-end bespoke DVL sensors from Nortek have produced an underwater vehicle with efficient, capable and robust design.
p46 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
tech spotlight ”The collaboration has been fantastic. The team at Nortek has been very knowledgeable and responsive. There hasn’t been a “it can’t be done” or “too hard” or “very expensive.” Potential for future product development As Strategic Robotic Systems shifts into production and delivery of the Fusion, collaboration with Nortek will continue to make the Fusion truly the best vehicle out there.
Above: Nortek’s 1 MHz DVL is the industry’s smallest DVL, and is easy to integrate and operate. Left: ADCP specialist Nortek helped set up underwater vehicle Fusion’s unique transducer arrangement.
”Who knows what future products might be developed from this fruitful collaboration?” Jesse Rodocker concludes.
Forum Energy Technologies – VisualSoft Product Releases Forum Energy Technologies’ VisualSoft product line marks the beginning of 2017 with the release of many new features and capabilities within their software suite. The VisualSoft Suite is a well-established toolbox of applications used during survey and inspection of subsea assets, in particular pipelines and cables. The first of these releases features a multichannel, high definition version of VisualDVR (digital video recorder). This system will be available with up to four channels of high definition video recording with in-built dynamic overlay. The new recorder can distribute live video and overlay channels without the requirement for additional hardware. Video files are recorded using H.264 encoding for optimum storage efficiency and playback compatibility.
version 11 will bring a host of refinements to the existing software and includes a new 3D Graphics window within all VisualEdit editions. The tool provides improved and faster display of multi-beam echo sounders (MBES) and profiler data, it also features an intuitive user interface to allow the user to configure the appearance of the pipeline, seabed and anomalies for faster and easier review of data. An audio logging and display feature is included in V11. This tool can be accessed when using VisualEdit or VisualReview to identify and navigate to regions within t he recording which have audio usually
associated with event observations. Also new from the VisualSoft range is VisualOverlay, a standalone dynamic overlay system with all the same features and user friendly configurator that is found within the VisualDVR overlay. This unit is provided with up to four HD or SD channels and is supplied in a compact 3U chassis. VisualSoft products and representatives can be found on the Forum Energy Technologies stand (H6) at Ocean Business 17.
www.f-e-t.com
In recognition of the widespread use of H.264 as a recording format within the subsea industry, VisualSoft will be releasing an unlimited codec-free player for use within their editing suite (VisualEdit) and their freely available viewer (VisualReview). The player will have improved window handling to allow optimum use of high definition video playback. The forthcoming release of VisualSoft Suite
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p47
tech spotlight
James Fisher Subsea Excavation designs Twin T8000 for large diameter trenching in response to its client’s needs JFSE developed the innovative Twin T8000 to respond to SapuraKencana Mexicana’s large diameter trenching need. The Twin T8000 is the only M/CFE tool capable of trenching pipelines of more than 60” in a single pass. With a maximum volume output of 16,000 litres per second, the Twin T8000 is the most powerful M/CFE in the world. The technology will now be deployed globally. Subsea excavation experts at James Fisher Subsea Excavation (JFSE) – the leading mass/ controlled flow excavation (M/CFE) company have developed the world’s most powerful M/CFE tool capable of trenching large diameter pipelines in a single pass. The Twin T8000 was developed to support SapuraKencana Mexicana’s trenching requirements. The offshore construction company needed more than 14km of a 36” pipeline with concrete coating to be trenched one metre on top of the pipe. The tool was developed utilising JFSE’s patented T8000 technology which has been responsible for the successful completion of hundreds of subsea excavation projects worldwide over the past 19 years. JFSE engineers created a solution which combined immense power with precision controllability by bringing two units together and developing the existing technology further. The Twin T8000 has a total maximum output of 16,000 litres per second and had to achieve 0mm + 300mm accuracy of trench on this project. There were 15 crossings to negotiate. Tomas Valdes Aldama, Technical Engineer at SapuraKencana Mexicana, said: “We were impressed by the professionalism, innovation and commitment to delivering great results demonstrated by the JFSE team. “Due to there being a tight window, we required this pipeline to be trenched in a single pass. “The results from the Twin T8000’s inaugural project have been great and it is certainly a technology we will consider utilising again in the future.” The Twin T8000 equipment spread was p48 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
mobilised on board the offshore supply vessel, Ocean Carrier, in the Gulf of Mexico as part of SapuraKencana Mexicana’s contract for the procurement and construction of a sour gas pipeline for Pemex covering five fields. Graham Murdoch, Technical Director at JFSE, explained: “Although we designed the Twin T8000 with this particular project in mind, the technology will greatly benefit clients with large diameter trenching needs. The proven combination of power and controllability of this tool is second to none. “JFSE is proud to be a true partner to our clients, providing a trusted and innovative service. This maiden project for the Twin T8000 for SapuraKencana Mexicana perfectly illustrates that mutual trust and respect. “We look forward to rolling out this technology worldwide to support more clients.” JFSE’s fleet of tools provides a non-contact form of excavation that eliminates the risks associated with other excavation methods especially around complex subsea assets. Further enhancing their capabilities, the tools have the additional benefit of realtime sonar imaging which enables precision excavation in confined areas, as well as for all cable or pipeline scopes from 1” through to more than 60” scopes. The tools are used for applications including pipeline and cable trenching, deburial, rock dump dispersal
and seabed clearance and preparations. The M/CFE spreads are ideal for moving materials such as sand, silt and mud, drill cuttings, clay and rock dump. JFSE’s fleet includes 30 M/CFEs and experts at the company, who are responsible for the successful completion of almost 450 projects over a period of 19 years, are currently developing two further excavators which will be launched to the market in 2017. Graham Murdoch added: “Our fleet is market-leading in providing proven results for our clients. As well as our established world-class solutions, we are committed to continuously innovating so our clients can be assured that whatever M/CFE solution we devise for their subsea excavation requirement, it will be the most time and cost-effective one available.” With strategic hubs in the UK, UAE, Singapore, Venezuela, USA, Brazil, South Africa, China and Mexico and tools based in five continents, it is the only M/CFE company capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously. As part of the James Fisher group, JFSE has access to bases and sister company expertise in more than 40 countries worldwide.
www.jfsubseaexcavation.com
tech spotlight
Modus unveils next generation survey and inspection capability Modus Seabed Intervention has completed system integration and trialling of one of the subsea industries first commercially available hybrid unmanned underwater vehicles; driving high performance, quality and cost-effective delivery of survey and inspection projects in the offshore, defence and oceanographic sectors. The Modus hybrid is one of the first Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) to feature the capabilities and characteristics of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Working in partnership with Saab Dynamics for over three years, global subsea service provider Modus has developed the Saab Sabretooth specification for greater endurance and speed, and is also developing advanced sensor payload packages and operating methodologies. Having completed a programme of integration tests and trialling both in Sweden and in the UK, the company is preparing the advanced spread for its first commercial deployment. The system will be used in survey and inspection projects in the oil & gas, interconnector and offshore renewables sectors to support pre-engineering, construction support and life-of-field condition monitoring requirements. The company is also working on a number of applications in the oceanographic and defence sectors.
The vehicle can be operated fully autonomously or as a tethered ROV, offering unrivalled flexibility and cost benefits from one platform. Whilst conventional AUVs are designed to remain in motion, the hybrid AUV features a thruster pattern that enables it to hover and operate with 6 degrees of freedom, providing a highly differentiated capability for inspection and light intervention applications. Modus has armed the vehicle with increased thrust to support high speed survey, as well as additional batteries for extended autonomous endurance. The first vehicle is depth rated to 1,200 metres, which can be upgraded to 3,000 metres to meet project-specific applications. Modus have also developed two deployment and recovery systems; a floating dock for surface deployment and recovery, and a subsea garage allowing for a full de-coupling from the support vessel and for the vehicle to navigate autonomously in and out of the garage on the seabed. As part of its advanced survey technology payload, the spread features as standard, a suite of sensors including the latest Edgetech 2205 combined triple frequency sidescan sonar, co-located bathymetry and subbottom profiler; HD video and stills cameras, IXBlue Phins3 INS, RDI workhorse DVL and 3D imaging sonars. Additional equipment available for integration includes R2 Sonic
2024 MBES, Cathodic Protection (CP) probes, magnetometer, cable tracking and laser scanning systems. This new vehicle is part of a significant development programme by Modus, to introduce advanced and disruptive technologies across its range of services. In addition to new technology platforms, Modus is also developing a fullymanaged service to provide a cost-effective and efficient service for holistic data harvesting and data and asset management, in combination with advanced mission planning and execution methodologies. Modus and Saab have entered into a collaboration agreement, focussed on research and development to generate a road map to define the future capabilities of hybrid AUV technology. The company is heavily focussed on full subsea residency for life of field support, with the autonomous vehicles remaining permanently in situ rather than being deployed from a vessel.
Kongsberg Maritime: Reshaping Underwater Operations – Live Footage of Groundbreaking Robotic Subsea ‘Snake’ Released MEelume AS has released the first live video footage of its game changing take on underwater intervention vehicles. With the support of Kongsberg Maritime as a development partner, the unique new Eelume robot has torn up the marine robotics rulebook to create a futuristic, snake-like vehicle designed to live permanently underwater and carry out underwater intervention tasks that would normally require the mobilisation of expensive surface vehicles for divers or to launch and retrieve ROVs or AUVs. The footage captured at the PREZIOSO Linjebygg Subsea Test Center during trials in the Trondheimsfjord shows the potential of the Eelume vehicle to significantly improve
inspection and light intervention operations on subsea installations. The modular, snake-like design allows the Eelume vehicle to access hard to reach points on subsea structures while its ability to shift into a U-shaped dual arm configuration allows intricate interactions using a diverse toolset including torque tools, grippers and specialised maintenance equipment. The trials verified and demonstrated the features of Eelume’s snake-like underwater robot in a deep-water, marine environment. Eelume confirmed that its vehicle has superior manoeuvrability, in a stable sensor and actuator platform, and can provide easy access to constrained areas not accessible by conventional underwater vehicles. The Eelume solution will dramatically save costs by reducing the use of expensive surface
vessels. The solution can be installed on both existing and new fields where typical jobs include; visual inspection, cleaning, and operating valves and chokes. These jobs account for a large part of the total subsea inspection and intervention spend. Eelume AS is a company sourced from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), and has teamed up with the NTNU Technology Transfer Office, Kongsberg Maritime and Statoil to develop the next generation of underwater robots.
March 2017 | www.sosmagazine.biz | p49
tech spotlight
FALCON EVEN SMARTER The winning formula of the Falcon – the most successful underwater electric robotic vehicle of its class in the world – has received a considerable boost. Saab Seaeye has enhanced the Falcon’s already smart intelligent control system with their advanced iCON behaviourbased intelligent control architecture. It means the Falcon can now host many new features, making it an advanced platform for further automation and behaviour-based software development. Station-keeping and fine position adjustment is an important new attribute that reduces the operator’s workload by allowing them to concentrate on the task at hand. Fitting a Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) and interface node has made this possible.
iCON’s building block simplicity is key to the company’s ongoing success as it allows harmonious migration of technology throughout Saab Seaeye’s range and is currently accelerating new systems development. The Falcon’s winning concept comes from a careful balance of five powerful thrusters and an intelligent distributed control system in a small, easily manhandled 1 x 0.5 x 0.6 metre size versatile chassis. Its power and control make it highly manoeuvrable and able to master strong crosscurrents whilst undertaking precision tasks with steadiness and precise manoeuvrability.
distributed intelligence provides each device on the vehicle with its own microprocessor, thereby allowing tools and sensors to be easily added or changed, and custom options to be integrated – making it an ideal platform for numerous intricate and demanding applications. Now the building block characteristic of iCON offers a ready platform for future enhancements to the Falcon range, which, coming in 300 and 1000 metre depth ratings and can undertake a vast range of widely varying tasks across all key market sectors.
www.seaeye.com
Proven since introduced in 2002, the Falcon’s pioneering
It is also now possible to add higher accuracy sensors for heading, depth and altitude. The iCON enhancement is available on all new Falcons, or as an upgrade to existing vehicles. It comes as a new design surface control consul that incorporates the iCON software – already a feature of Saab Seaeye’s successful Leopard work system. The new control consul features a wide, high-resolution touchscreen monitor, customisable graphic user interface and an ability to record video and still images. It also offers userfriendly system configuration and diagnostic pages.
Left (clockwise from top): Falcon – the world’s most successful underwater electric robotic vehicle of its class now boosted with the highly advanced iCON behaviour-based intelligent control architecture.
The new surface control consul incorporates Saab Seaeye’s iCON behaviourbased intelligent control software.
Phantom L6 Inspection-class ROV Deep Ocean Engineering, Inc. has introduced the 500m-rated Phantom L6, developed for uses such as infrastructure inspections (bridges, tunnels, pipelines, ships), hydroelectric system monitoring (power plants, dams, reservoirs), homeland security and exploration (oil and gas, salvage, search and recovery). The PhantomL6 comes equipped with active roll stabilisation and heading gyro stabilisation, allowing the pilot to control with precision, while p50 | www.sosmagazine.biz | March 2017
minimising exhausting, repetitive movement. As with other Phantom-series ROVs, an open-frame architecture for easier mechanical integration and dedicated expansion bulkhead connectors are provided as standard. Its six Tecnadyne thrusters provide sufficient power to raise the ROV out of areas that could otherwise trap a smaller ROV.. The Phantom L6 platform features include: - Advanced dynamic rolling manoeuvres. - 110 pounds vertical lifting force.
- Motion eliminating cleats available. - Diverse sonar integration options. - Five DOF manoeuvrability. - Easily reconfigurable and customizable. - 18,000 lumens high output illumination.
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