Member news

Add Energy’s Canadian office secures significant business wins

The Calgary office of Add Energy’s Asset Integrity and Management (AIM) division has defied the global downturn to secure almost US$2.9m worth of new business contracts within six months of launching. The team has announced new contracts with three oil and gas companies to deliver inventory management optimisation solutions, physical data capture and verification services and maintenance improvement plans. A key team of maintenance experts from Aberdeen and Houston have been on secondment to Calgary since the new office opened in March 2020 to share industry experience and support with new projects. It is expected that a further 10 roles could be created over the next 12 months as the business continues to expand – with additional graduate placements also to be created locally.

Add Energy’s AIM team has already undertaken significant work in the region, delivering maintenance optimisation and training services for an oil and gas super major, a project which achieved significant cost savings and improvements in their equipment safety and performance.

With offices in Aberdeen, Norway, Perth, Saudi Arabia, Houston, Muscat, and now Calgary, the fast growing business provides innovative consultancy and software solutions to clients worldwide to optimise asset performance in sectors including oil and gas, power generation, mining, manufacturing and chemicals.

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For more information:

https://addenergy.no/

Balmoral FibreFlex™ cable protection system delivers unique benefits

At a time of renewed interest and heightened activity in the offshore wind sector developers are seeking technological innovation from the supply chain to assist in their efforts to maximise efficiency and minimise cost.

Much of the technology being used by the sector is derived from the traditional offshore energy arena, particularly where subsea-related product solutions are required and, with well documented cable failures eating up substantial resources, both in terms of cash and time, high performance cable protection systems (CPS) can play a key role in failure mitigation. Balmoral, recognised for its experience in extreme subsea environments, has adapted its polyurethane design engineering and manufacturing capabilities to develop a high performing costefficient patented CPS solution: Balmoral FibreFlex™. The fibre-reinforced system mechanically locks to the end connectors removing the need to rely on PU bonding, which is notoriously unpredictable, while providing market-leading strain and stiffness levels that are unachievable using traditional solid PU manufacturing methods. These innovations also contribute to greatly increased fatigue life.

Balmoral says FibreFlex’s long-term creep performance is a substantial improvement on traditional cable protection while bending and axial stiffness is optimised without having to qualify alternative PU materials.

Balmoral’s 40 year track record of providing tried, tested and proven subsea protection products is set to benefit the global offshore wind sector with the company recently achieving the soughtafter Fit 4 Offshore Renewables (F4OR) accreditation.

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For more information:

www.balmoraloffshore.com

Balmoral FibreFlexTM high performance fibre-reinforced cable protection system

Ofgem gives green light to £12.7m hydrogen trial project

Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition has approved a first of its kind offline hydrogen research facility to understand how transmission assets could be used to transport hydrogen in the future to heat homes and deliver green energy to industry. The facility will be built from a range of decommissioned assets, to create a representative transmission network. Blends of hydrogen up to 100% will then be tested at transmission pressures, to assess how the assets perform.

The hydrogen research facility will remain separate from the main National Transmission System, allowing for testing to be undertaken in a controlled environment, with no risk to the safety and reliability of the existing gas transmission network. DNV GL is the lead delivery partner designing, constructing, and operating the high-pressure hydrogen research facility at its site in Spadeadam, Cumbria. The HSE Science Division will support on the project, alongside academic partners Durham University and the University of Edinburgh.

DNV GL, through this ground-breaking FutureGrid project, is looking forward to delivering a step change in knowledge and confidence in the transmission of pure and blended hydrogen both in new and existing pipeline systems.

Hari Vamadevan, Senior Vice President, UK and West Africa, DNV GL – Oil & Gas

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For more information:

www.dnvgl.com

World’s most extensive range of MCPs has been improved – again

E2S Warning Signals manufactures an extensive range of manual call points, MCP, designed to be installed in hazardous areas, primarily for the control of fire and gas detection and alarm systems. They are available in different enclosure materials: STEx in 316L stainless steel for use in the harshest of environments, GNEx in anti-static, UV-stable corrosion proof GRP, and BEx in corrosion proof marine grade copper free LM6 (A413) aluminium with a chromated and powder coat finish. Specifiers can choose the most suitable enclosure for the installation location and operating environment. There is a choice of four operating mechanisms. The traditional break glass has a lifting protective flap to minimise accidental operation featuring a safety membrane to ensure that no glass fragments are released during activation. A push button where the operating mechanism is again protected by a latching lift flap and a tool is required to reset the unit after operation, a momentary action push button unit and a dual action push button, which requires the operating mechanism to be twisted through 90° and then pushed to activate. All versions are SIL2 compliant to IEC 61508 (2010). To reduce installation time and cost, there are dual cable entries in the top and another in the side of the enclosure. The backbox can be rotated through 180° to position the entries in the required direction. Two M20 stopping plugs, userdefinable in brass, stainless steel or nickel-plated brass are supplied as standard. ½ and ¾ inch NPT and M25 adaptors are also available.

The latest updates include the BExCP3C and GNExCP6C call points, now with extended approval temperatures and a wider range of EOL and series resistor values, approved to IECEx and ATEX standards with additional PESO, INMETRO and Ex EAC approvals.

The GNExCP7 Ex d units are globally approved to IECEx, ATEX, UL and cUL standard for all Zone 1, 2, 21 and 22 and Class I/II Div 2 installations with a variant approved to UL 38, manual signalling boxes for fire alarm systems and ULC-S528, manual stations for fire alarm systems. The flameproof STExCP8 is ATEX and IECEx approved for Zone 1 and 2 and also carries DNV type approval for exposed locations. For installation outside hazardous areas, IP66/IP67 weatherproof versions WP3, WP6 and WP7 call points units are now available.

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For more information:

www.e2s.com

HMi Elements offers computer solution for torque turn monitoring

Rob Gaines with HMi Elements’ 470-Z1

HMi Elements is offering a universally compatible Zone 1 certified rig floor display (RFD) computer to help those carrying out and monitoring mission critical drilling operations. The HMi Elements model 470-Z1 is a drop-in ready RFD/HMI solution for integration with torque turn monitoring, tong control, casing running tools and casing inspection software. It removes the need for oilfield services companies having to design their own as this unit is ready to synchronise with any casing system. ATEX, IECEx, AEx, CSA and EAC certification means it is fully compliant with all Zone 1/C1Z1 legal requirements and can be used globally as a mission critical computer. The rig floor display computer also has a precision-machined durable aluminium enclosure of only 4.6” weighing just 33lbs/15kg making it a semi-portable solution that can be packed away in a rugged travel kit. Its highly specified 12” screen size carries refined graphics resolution of 1024x768 giving better touch accuracy and video detail allowing a range of native software resolution to lay out perfectly. Multiple mounting options such as a folding desktop stand, pedestal yoke mount, built-in VESA pattern for wall mounting on every unit and a panel mount option are possible. Additional features of the 470-Z1 include quick plug-in explosion-proof connectors that can be supplied to synchronise with HMi Elements’ existing cabling. With hostile terrain in mind, the 470Z1 has a glove-friendly hardened touchscreen and a crisp sunlight readable display so it can be used even in the brightest environments with direct sunlight.

All six sides are waterproof and ingress protected to IP66/NEMA 4X standard and can operate in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +60°C (-40°F to +140°F). HMi Elements formed in 1980 and is one of just a handful of manufacturers in the world that make rugged standalone Zone 1 and Zone 2 certified computers suitable for full automation meaning less people in hazardous locations.

Our global oilfield services clients are carrying out mission crucial operations in harsh environments. Having the correct Zone-1 compatible hardware equipment to monitor tubular make up and ensure safety given it is a potentially explosive atmosphere means our computers play a crucial role.

Rob Gaines, VP Sales, HMi Elements

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For more information:

www.hmielements.com

MAN Energy Solutions expands German CHP plant

MAN Energy Solutions has won an order to supply another MAN 12V35/44G TS gas engine to the public utilities (Stadtwerke) of the town of Schwäbisch Hall in southern Germany. The genset will increase the output of the existing combined heat and power (CHP) plant to a total of 15MW, and will replace an existing, outdated engine.

The MAN 12V35/44G TS gas engine in the Schwäbisch Hall power plant

The new engine will deliver an electrical efficiency of 46%, compared to 39% for the existing unit, thus significantly increasing the efficiency of the entire plant; the overall efficiency of CHP operation will eventually exceed 90%.

The new engine will be operated for around 4,000 hours a year using combined heat and power technology. Due to the existing, district-heating storage, it will also be possible to decouple it from the heating network and to be used to generate electricity solely.

In addition to the engine and auxiliary systems, the scope of supply and services also includes an oxidation catalyst and the engineering of the heat extraction system. MAN Energy Solutions will remain a partner in the project after the planned commissioning in 2022 when the company’s global aftersales brand, MAN PrimeServ, will take over maintenance together with the staff of Stadtwerke Schwäbisch Hall.

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For more information:

https://uk.man-es.com/

The MAN 12V35/44G TS gas engine in the Schwäbisch Hall power plant Photo © Stadtwerke Schwäbisch Hall/Stephan Baraniecki

Ocean Infinity adds marine robotic vessels to its Armada fleet

Ocean Infinity has announced plans for the next phase of its Armada fleet of robotic vessels with a signed contract for eight 78 metre, optionally crewed robotic vessels. Designed for today’s tasks but with tomorrow’s in mind, these exceptionally fuel-efficient, onshorecontrolled vessels will initially only utilise a skeleton crew onboard. In due course they will be capable of working with no personnel offshore while also consuming solely renewable fuel such as ammonia.

The 78 metre vessels will supplement the current Armada fleet of nine 21 metre and 36 metre vessels, which are already in production and expected to be operational by early 2021. The first 78 metre vessel is expected to launch in mid-2022.

The vessels are being designed and built by VARD, the international shipbuilding group headquartered in Norway. “The impact and the scale of this robotic fleet will spark the biggest transformation the maritime industry has seen since sail gave way to steam. With our new fleet we will be able to provide sustainable services to all corners of the industry from offshore energy, to logistics and transport,” said Oliver Plunkett, CEO, Ocean Infinity.

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For more information:

https://oceaninfinity.com/

Proserv, Intelligent Plant sign strategic agreement to drive digital evolution

Leading controls technology company Proserv Controls has penned an innovative strategic alliance with Intelligent Plant, an award-winning software engineering firm.

The aim of the tie-up is to combine the two firms’ respective domain expertise in market-leading control systems and data analysis to provide operators with digital solutions tailored to their needs and feedback.

One of the main disruptive differentiators of the new collaboration, which will impact the wider industry, will be a commitment to transparency around data access, while ensuring essential security levels are always maintained.

A key component of the business model is to present two organisations that not only offer cutting-edge control systems and support, as well as a highly advanced means of capturing data from those systems, but can also facilitate and supply that necessary SME bandwidth and expertise to add context and extract value for clients, ultimately leading to state-of-the-art condition monitoring capabilities.

Ocean Infinity Group Ltd

The two firms intend to deliver this model right across the sector, and initially they are engaging with independent operators who currently struggle to find the internal resources, including bandwidth, to maximise gains from their data.

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For more information:

www.proserv.com

Reflex Marine’s award-winning work basket completes 100 projects

Reflex Marine’s STORM-WORK suspended work basket was successfully employed in its 100th offshore project in October 2020. The STORM-WORK was designed specifically for offshore industrial work activities and was well received by offshore operators across industries – heavy-lift, decommissioning, oil and gas and offshore wind. ConocoPhillips in Australia is using the customised enlarged version of STORM-WORK while the standard units have been employed in multiple projects throughout Europe. The design safeguarding both the workers inside the basket and the assets worked on thanks to the soft touch features and contoured shape is praised by users worldwide. The small footprint and light weight allows for improved manoeuvring while the highly durable, lowmaintenance materials used ensure long unit lifespan. STORM-WORK is available for purchase and hire and can be customised to meet the required size and capacity.

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For more information:

www.reflexmarine.com

Sea Gulf appointed as new GRP distributor in UAE

Sea Gulf Industrial Supplies LLC has been announced as the newest distribution partner for Dura Composites in the United Arab Emirates. The newly formed partnership will help expand Dura Composites’ global footprint and deliver on its ambition to make the use of composite products mainstream, with a particular focus on industrial flooring, access structures, hand railing, trench covers and platforms. Dura Composites’ Paul Fletcher says the new collaboration is the latest in a series of major developments for the company, which won its second Queen’s Award for Enterprise last year.

The distribution partnership follows Dura Composites’ recent introduction of its d2 Dura Grating series – which is a complete reinvention of GRP floor grating that offers outstanding safety, performance and durability. d2 Dura Grating has a Class B fire rating in accordance with BS EN 13501-1 and its advanced anti-slip surface is tested to over 1 million footfalls for greater peace of mind in industrial environments.

We’ve been very impressed by the technological advantages of their product range especially their new d² Dura Grating Series which we see as a game changer and are looking forward to working with Dura in expanding its presence in the oil and gas, marine and construction markets across the UAE.

Stephen Cooper, Director, Sea Gulf

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For more information:

www.seagulf.ae

Sennen wins funding to develop new technology

Technology company Sennen has secured grant funding to develop a new software feature that will help wind farm operators minimise lost revenue caused by wind turbine down time.

Lost production assessments are currently completed long after the event without access to detailed records of site status and activity. The calculations are used to assess contractual damages and bonus payments but do not provide a basis for improving O&M.

Sennen proposes to radically change how lost production metrics are generated and used. First, Sennen will incorporate analysis of downtime into the routine marine control process. This links downtime directly to operations processes, such as fault repairs, annual services, crew transfers. Also by making the metrics available in real-time, Sennen can provide live interactive dashboards for the whole operations team.

The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership (OWGP) awarded the grant to Sennen. Sennen’s lost production feature will integrate into users’ existing software and is expected to launch in Q1 2021.

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For more information:

www.sennen.tech

TÜV SÜD to build UK’s first mobile facility for testing at hydrogen refuelling stations

TÜV SÜD National Engineering Laboratory has secured government funding to build the UK’s first mobile primary standard facility for testing hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS) to ensure they deliver the correct amount of fuel.