The Australian Pipeliner November 2023

ISSUE 200 | NOVEMBER 2023

Safety is priority ENHANCING SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE WITH PROPER EQUIPMENT – page 18 Managing major gas projects

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From strength to strength

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A young gun making a name for himself 42

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CONTENTS

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Enhancing safety and compliance.

Image courtesy of Vermeer Australia.

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EXECUTIVE REPORTS CEO’s Message

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POLICY Household decarbonisation’s role in the energy transition

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FUTURE FUELS CRC Citizens have a central role in the energy transition

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PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION From strength to strength

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25 years of leadership in vaccum lifting

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How to prepare for pipeline hydrotesting works

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Get to know Inductabend

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REHAB & REPAIR A partnership built on trust

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Growth on the horizon

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A young gun in underground asset protection

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COVER STORY Enhancing safety and compliance with proper equipment

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Filling in the gaps

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PIPELINES IN VICTORIA Pipeline projects surge in Victoria

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EMISSIONS REDUCTION Driving decarbonisation efforts with pipeline simulation

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Revolutionising methane management

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PE PIPELINES A system for complex maintenance

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WOMEN’S PIPELINE FORUM Diversity and exclusion

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APGA CONVENTION 2023 Convention wraps

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McElroy’s Tritan 560 heads to Australia

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Meet the new board

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The impact of plastic pipes

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Highlights in pictures

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REGULARS Members & memos

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PIPELINE PEOPLE Managing major gas projects

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APGA members

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A staple in pipeline supplies

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People on the Move

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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PUBLISHER

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

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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EXECUTIVE REPORTS

Chief Executive Officer’s report

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ow is it that in November we are consistently asking ourselves ‘where did the year go’? It has been a remarkable year on many levels, not all of them positive. I suspect the years ahead will each equally be remarkable, especially in the next 10 years of the energy transition.

I do feel that 2023 has been spent ensuring the industry and the association are well placed for what lies ahead. We have improved advocacy, communication and collaboration across our members and are focused on securing the role of gas infrastructure to help Australia achieve 2030, 2035 and 2050 targets.

We are also coming off the back of a great Annual Convention and Exhibition in Perth.

With over 500 registered attendees across the event, it was a welcome return to the pre-covid days and an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues and share the challenges and learnings of 2023 with each other.

The association will now turn its attention to the next strategic plan, due to commence in July 2024. Having just said the years ahead are going to be remarkable, the Board, Secretariat, and I, are considering the actions we need to be taking, or putting in place, to maintain the strength and role of the association into the future.

We’ll also be working on the next strategic plan with a new look board. Speicapag’s John Stuart-Robinson is our new President, with Jemena’s Sean Ward our new Vice President and McConnell Dowell’s Leon Richards our new Treasurer. We have had four directors’ step down this year and following the election at

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the Annual General Meeting, we now have four new directors in place.

That is a big injection of new talent and enthusiasm to the Board and wish our new Directors the best in helping us best manage the years ahead. I’d like to thank all eight nominees for the positions. We all know how busy everyone is at the moment and being willing to put yourself forward, knowing that success means you’ll be even busier, is a significant offer of service to the industry and association that is much appreciated.

I’m going to close this opening message with a massive vote of thanks to our Immediate Past President, Donna McDowall. It has been a big two years for the association, coming out of COVID-19, rebuilding events and services, stepping up advocacy as the public discourse around the energy transition becomes increasingly ideological. Donna has provided input and support to the team and me at every step of the way.

Thank you, Donna, for your service to the association for the last two years and I am sure you will continue your contribution in the years to come.

Actually, I’ll close by reminding you all that Christmas events are just around the corner – see you there!

STEVE DAVIES CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

ABN: 29 098 754 324 APGA Secretariat Registered Office: 7 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 (PO Box 5416, Kingston ACT 2604) T: +61 2 6273 0577 E: apga@apga.org.au W: www.apga.org.au Chief Executive Officer Steve Davies Corporate Services Manager Michelle Wickson National Policy Manager Jordan McCollum Communications Manager Lawrence Shelton Engagement Manager Gayle Burns Membership Officer Katy Spence Events Coordinator Matthew Freeborough Policy Manager Catriona Rafael Government Relations Manager Paul Purcell

MEMBERS & MEMOS

APA Group opens NGI pipeline The Northern Goldfields Interconnect (NGI) pipeline will provide greater energy security within the Western Australia resources sector.

The new 580km buried pipeline connects the Dampier to Bunbury National gas pipeline to the Goldfields gas pipeline and will provide better access to existing and new natural gas production.

APA Group Managing Director Adam Watson said the NGI covers 2690km, supporting the long-term growth of the resources sector.

“For years an interconnected gas grid on the east coast has helped manage supply and demand challenges across key markets,” Watson said.

“With the completion of the NGI, linking Western Australia’s two major north- south gas pipelines, APA will ensure greater flexibility and security to meet the state’s long-term energy needs.

The NGI pipeline provides better access to natural gas production.

The pipeline starts at Ambania, approximately 50km east of Geraldton and connects to the Goldfields gas pipeline, which is approximately 40km south of Leinster.

Newry pipeline finishes construction Southern Rural Water has finished work on the main Newry Pipeline, in Victoria, with 17.25km of new pipeline constructed.

Work on remaining outlets and connection pipelines is nearing completion, with water now flowing through the new pipeline.

The new pipeline will deliver 4300 megalitres in water savings and increase delivery efficiency to customers to over 90 per cent.

The $39.8 million project first began construction in February 2023 as part of Phase 2 of the Macalister Irrigation District 2030 project.

At the time, Southern Rural Water Managing Director Cameron FitzGerald said project was a significant milestone for the region.

“This major infrastructure upgrade is a win for Gippsland and will markedly increase both water delivery efficiency and customer service levels,” he said.

The Macalister Irrigation District is the largest irrigation district in southern Victoria. Modernisation began in 2013, with a focus on improvement service, water savings and environmental outcomes.

The Newry pipeline will deliver 4300 megalitres in water savings.

New pipeline for Tanunda SA Water has begun work on a new pipeline at Tanunda, South Australia (SA), which will continue supply of drinking water to local residents and businesses.

Around 150m of new water main will be installed beneath Julius Street, limiting the impact of leaks on the community.

The new pipe is made from polyvinyl chloride, which is known for its flexibility.

“While it’s difficult to completely stop water main breaks from occurring due to soil movement, weather, and a variety of other environmental factors, we’re committed to limiting their frequency and any potential impact on our customers.

“These works are part of an ongoing drive to ensure South Australian communities, like here in Tanunda, continue to have access to reliable water services.”

SA Water General Manager of Sustainable Infrastructure Amanda Lewry said the new pipeline will ensure safe supply of drinking water.

“Water mains have an approximate lifespan of up to 100 years and the installation of this pipe will help to ensure a secure supply of clean, safe drinking water to local customers well into the future,” she said.

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

The new Tanunda pipeline is made from polyvinyl chloride, known for its flexibility.

MEMBERS & MEMOS

Senex Energy signs deal with CSR The company has agreed to a new domestic gas supply agreement for up to 17 petajoules of natural gas with CSR Limited.

Senex Energy said the agreement will begin in January 2025, with the company supplying natural gas from its Atlas expansion in Queensland’s Surat Basin.

The supply will be used for CSR’s manufacturing facilities on Australia’s east coast.

CSR Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Julie Coates said that the agreement will be a crucial energy source for the manufacturing plants.

to continue its partnership with CSR. “We know manufacturers are facing significant challenges in securing gas, and our domestically focused Atlas expansion is part of the solution to bring new gas supply to market and put downward pressure on prices,” Davies said.

“Having gas for the manufacturing industry is absolutely paramount, and the only way that’s going to stay reliable is for there to be more investment, not less.”

“Having secure and reliable gas supply for the next decade will ensure stable Australian manufacturing jobs and the ability to produce essential building products,” Coates said.

The domestic gas supply agreement will begin in January 2025, with gas supplied from its Atlas expansion in Queensland’s Surat Basin.

Senex Chief Executive Officer Ian Davies said the company is excited

Basslink to be regulated asset sustainable flow of electricity between Tasmania and Victoria,” Tasmania Minister for Energy and Renewables Guy Barnett said.

Basslink will be in line with other interconnectors in the National Electricity Market once it becomes a regulated asset.

“It will also mean that, for the first time, Victoria will pay for a share of the benefits accruing from the interconnector.

“Regulation provides an open, transparent process around driving those outcomes.”

APA Group is progressing with the Australian Energy Regulator to make Basslink a regulated asset, supporting Tasmania’s ambition as a producer for renewable energy.

Acquired by APA Group in 2022, Basslink will be in line with other interconnectors in the National Electricity Market once it becomes a regulated asset.

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“Basslink’s transition to a regulated asset would bring surety to the

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When purchased in October 2022, APA Group Managing Director Adam Watson said Basslink will provide energy security and reliability.

“Our vision for Basslink is to safeguard its critical role of providing energy security and affordability to Tasmania while harnessing its potential to drive a lower emissions future,” Watson said at the time.

“Everyone wants to see the cable put on a sustainable footing and as a leading Australian energy infrastructure business, APA is proud to be part of the solution.”

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POLICY

Household decarbonisation’s role in the energy transition

By Jordan McCollum, National Policy Manager, APGA

Electrification and renewable gas advocates often hold opposing views on gas use decarbonisation in the home.

A new study shows that this difference in opinion may come down to a simple difference in how household decarbonisation costs are calculated.

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he renewable energy transition has always meant that how we do things today will need to change. Early in the transition, this meant that all energy use would need to eventually more to electricity. This brought with it some harsh realities – one of which being the electrification of gas use in the home.

The harshness of this reality came on two fronts – people who genuinely enjoy using gas in the home could no longer make this choice, and electrifying all gas use in all homes is more difficult and costly than leaving things the way they are.

Now, most aspects of the gas supply chain and gas appliances could remain the same, but households could instead pay a premium to receive gas which produces net zero emissions.

With two options available to decarbonise homes, electrification and renewable gas advocates turned to consider cost. Both sides could see they had the better option. But how can both groups of well-meaning experts be right and wrong at the same time? The devil is in the data.

A recent study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) takes two revolutionary new approaches to analysing the costs of gas use decarbonization in the home. First, they combine net present value (NPV) analysis of both energy bill costs and energy appliance costs together. Second, they consider that households with similar energy needs will experience a range of different energy bill costs and energy appliance costs.

The importance of considering the range of bill and appliance costs becomes clear when viewing the results of BCG analysis.

The bars in Exhibit 1 of the report shows average NPV of gas decarbonisation options for three household circumstances. More important than the average is the range displayed overtop. These ranges indicate the span of possible cost outcomes from maximum and minimum for each combination of home and decarbonisation choice.

Comparing the minimum end of new build and end of life (EOL) appliance household cost ranges shows that the all-electric option will be lowest cost

Cost comparison for electricity, green hydrogen, and biomethane for residential users in 2040.

Source: Boston Consulting Group, 2023, The role of gas infrastructure in the energy transition.

for some households. This aligns with the electrification advocates view of the world.

Comparing the minimum end of early replacement households shows that the renewable gas options will be lowest cost for some households. This aligns with renewable gas advocate view of the world.

From these results we can also imagine that if BCG performed this analysis considering minimum bill and appliance cost data alone, their result would only produce minimum combined cost results from which it would be reasonable to conclude that electrification is the cheaper option unless requiring early replacement of appliances.

By performing the analysis using bill and appliance cost ranges, BCG produced combined cost range results. Importantly, the ranges produced

by BCG analysis overlap – and overlap significantly.

Where ranges overlap, it is possible that customers could achieve equal, better or worse cost outcomes using either all-electric or renewable gas options. While in some cases, households can achieve better results with one option, this is not the case for all households.

This conclusion completely changes the

household gas decarbonisation debate. There is no one size fits all solution for all households. Rather, both renewable gases and electrification are needed to support all households accessing their individual least cost gas use decarbonisation pathways.

More than that, this conclusion means that the Australian public no longer has to accept the consequences of 100 per cent electrification to decarbonise.

No longer do we have to accept the upfront cost of all-electric appliances or possible connection upgrades; that apartments and high density homes will have to undergo costly renovations to supply all electric appliances via constrained services corridors; or that renters won’t have a choice to decarbonise if their landlords fail to install all electric appliances, increasing rental costs in the process.

If renewable gas is cost competitive with renewable electricity in the home, then household gas customers have greater choice, greater opportunity, and greater capacity to choose from a wider range of gas use decarbonisation options.

Surely even electrification advocates can agree with that.

For more information, find a link to the BCG report The role of gas infrastructure in the energy transition on the APGA website under Research and Other Reports.

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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FUTURE FUELS CRC

Citizens have a central role in the energy transition

By David Norman, CEO of Future Fuels Cooperative Research Centre

In this column, David Norman explains how there is huge potential for real support for future fuels. He's also adamant: public support will be vital as future fuels develop.

The Australian public has a real opportunity to support hydrogen and biomethane as a part of the energy landscape.

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or many across the pipeline industry, engaging with the public is a natural part of the job. Landholders, local communities, new connections, or existing customers, we work with them every day. I’ve participated as a subject matter expert in recent customer forums for gas network access arrangement and they highlight how well the industry can connect with the public. But how much does our industry really understand the upcoming role that citizens will have in the energy transition, and just how vital that role could be?

As part of our research into how the public responds to future gaseous fuels like hydrogen and biomethane, the University of Queensland (UQ) used citizens’ panels made up of different representative groups across Australia. The project (RP2.1-07) was led by a group of social scientists, business sustainability and energy experts from UQ. The five panels were held across Greater Melbourne, Illawarra/Wollongong, South Australia, Western Australia and a national panel made up of young people. These panels met online over many weeks to learn about the issues of hydrogen and biomethane, then consider, discuss and come up with recommendations and points of view. This method creates far deeper insights than an

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opinion survey and allows citizens to explore their own thoughts on the issue; what they really value and the trade-offs they are willing to accept.

The participants valued choice, diversity, safety, affordability and resilience and many of the panel participants viewed future fuels as having a valuable role in their future energy mix.

They saw the potential for economic benefits, future jobs and new career opportunities for existing fossil fuel workers. They also acknowledged the uncertainty about impacts and trade-offs and wanted more information and education about future energy and its effect on their household. The panels also showed real interest in broader issues including the lack of leadership, how cost burdens will be shared, waste, and social justice particularly for vulnerable members of the community.

The analysis of these panels showed that the more people learn about the opportunities of future fuels, the more they could support them in the future. The research report is openly available in-full on our website, under the publications tab. So please delve into the details and see the potential support that the Australian public could have for hydrogen and biomethane as a part of their energy landscape.

Across the energy sector, from new projects to The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

upstream developments and transmission, citizens are taking a vital, central role. There is potential for real support for future fuels. This research was just a starting point and it shows the opportunities for industry that engages widely and deeply with the public to understand the details of what they value as the energy system transitions to net-zero.

Public support will be vital as future fuels develop. In October, the Federal Government and ARENA launched the Hydrogen Headstart program, providing up to $2 billion of revenue support to enable large-scale renewable hydrogen production projects. This is industrial-scale support and shows how far renewable gas has come in a short amount of time. These projects and their associated infrastructure will need to be built and operated with public support, which will be just as vital to success as the government support. By working to understand the public’s values and priorities our industry can position itself to build that support for the long term.

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

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PIPELINES IN VIC

Pipeline projects surge in Victoria Significant gas and water contracts have been awarded in Victoria (VIC) over the past 12 months, as the state navigates the energy transition.

Significant gas and water contracts have been awarded in Victoria over the past 12 months.

energy consumers and other key stakeholders to convert Basslink to a regulated asset.

“As owner and operator of Basslink, a major sub-sea electricity cable, APA Group has expertise to potentially support the development of the Australian offshore wind industry via sub-sea electricity cables.”

Jemena appoints pipeline construction partners for LNG import terminal

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n October 2022, energy infrastructure company APA Group announced the acquisition of Basslink, a 370km high voltage direct current (HVDC) electricity interconnector between VIC and Tasmania.

Jemena partnered with engineering and construction firms Zinfra, NACAP and Wasco to connect Australia’s first LNG import terminal at Port Kembla to the Eastern Gas Pipeline (EGP).

Woodside Energy entered into a gas sales agreement with Qenos for the supply of natural gas from its equity position the Bass Strait.

In the water sector, Central Highlands Water announced a $15 million investment to build a new 14km pipeline in Daylesford.

Southern Rural Water finished work on the main Newry Pipeline, with around 17.25km of new pipeline constructed.

A joint venture was awarded the contract for the $72 million Dingley Recycled Water Scheme project.

APA Group acquires Basslink The acquisition added a third electricity interconnector to APA Group’s energy infrastructure portfolio and will be funded from existing debt facilities.

APA Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Adam Watson said the acquisition supports the group’s strategy to increase its electricity footprint.

“APA Group is committed to putting Basslink on a sustainable footing and ensuring the cable is ready and able to support Tasmania’s energy security long into the future,” Watson said.

“We look forward to working with the Australian Energy Regulator, the State of Tasmania, the State of Victoria, Hydro Tasmania,

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Jemena, along with its partners, will build a 12km underground pipeline which will transport up to 130 petajoules of gas annually from Squadron Energy’s Port Kembla Energy Terminal to customers in New South Wales (NSW) and VIC via the EGP. Once commissioned, the pipeline will be able to transport enough gas to meet more than 75 per cent of NSW’s current gas needs.

Former Jemena Executive General Manager of Gas Markets Antoon Boey said the partners would work well together to deliver the project.

“We’re proud to be working with highly regarded construction service providers like Zinfra, Nacap, and Wasco on a project which will help deliver more gas to Australia’s east coast gas market,” Boey said.

“We will be leveraging the skills of our project partners in different ways, with Zinfra set to provide overarching project management and engineering services for the project; Nacap will construct the pipeline itself; and Wasco will deliver the Kembla Grange Metering Station, where this pipeline connects to the Eastern Gas Pipeline.”

Woodside signs gas supply agreement with Qenos The gas sales agreement covers the supply of 4.5 petajoules of gas in 2023 for use at Qenos’ polyethylene manufacturing facilities at Altona in VIC as well as Botany Bay in NSW. Woodside’s Executive Vice President for Marketing and Trading Mark Abbotsford said the agreement ensures affordable gas supply to an important large-scale industrial consumer.

“Woodside is pleased to be able to deliver reliable and competitively priced gas to support the energy needs of an essential domestic manufacturer and major employer in Victoria and New South Wales,” Abbotsford said.

Gas production from Bass Strait currently The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

supplies approximately 40 per cent of the Australian east coast domestic gas demand.

Central Highlands Water funds new pipeline The water pipeline will run underground, complementing the Wombat and Bullarto reservoirs – Daylesford’s two existing surface water supplies.

The pipeline will terminate at the Daylesford water treatment plant.

Central Highlands Water’s (CHW) Chair Angeleen Jenkins said that the funding would ensure the water security of the region around Daylesford.

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

Newry Pipeline finishes construction The new pipeline will deliver 4300 megalitres in water savings and increase delivery efficiency to customers to over 90 per cent.

The $39.8 million Newry Pipeline project first began construction in February 2023 as part of Phase 2 of the Macalister Irrigation District 2030 project.

It is part of an investment in modern infrastructure projects Southern Rural Water is undertaking.

Work on remaining outlets and connection pipelines is nearing completion, with water now flowing through the new pipeline.

Dingley water pipeline contract awarded The new 42km pipeline is set to deliver recycled water to Melbourne’s south-east in Kingston and Monash.

It will unlock 1.8 gigalitres per annum of recycled water supply and will deliver recycled water to 46 sites.

The project is expected to generate $92 million for the local economy and is expected to start delivering recycled water by 2025.

“Using fit-for-purpose water is an important sustainability initiative in our response to climate change – it’s projects like this that are securing long-term water supplies for our growing communities and keeping our open spaces green,” Minister for Water Harriet Shing said.

The joint venture consists of Abergeldie, BMD and KBR (ABK), Minister Shing announced.

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COVER STORY

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The Vermeer D100x140 S3 HDD in action.

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afety and compliance considerations in construction are multifaceted and are dependent on the project’s size and scope.

Whether it's a small-scale residential utility installation or a large-scale gas pipeline project, contractors must navigate a complex landscape of regulations, safety measures and environmental protections to ensure the successful and responsible execution of construction projects. Beyond legal

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ramifications, failure to achieve compliance can be detrimental to a business’ reputation.

Partner in safety In the realm of pipeline installation, a single oversight or deviation from safety and compliance standards can have far-reaching consequences. Therefore, investing in advanced and dependable machinery is essential to ensuring success.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

With over 30 years of experience operating in Australia, Vermeer Australia has partnered with some of the country’s largest contractors to safely deliver significant infrastructure projects, as well as supporting contractors, municipalities and utilities in the installation, maintenance, and renewal of their assets. Vermeer’s range of equipment is underpinned by a commitment to safety and the latest industry standards, ensuring businesses remain compliant.

COVER STORY

Trouble-free operation From horizontal directional drills (HDD) to track trenchers, Vermeer's machinery cabs put worker comfort and safety at the forefront of design. Features such as self-contained heating and air conditioning with sound attenuating foam prioritise the well-being of operators and help them stay alert, reducing the risk of accidents caused by fatigue or distraction.

The HDD remote lockout mechanism bolsters safety by enabling equipment to be quickly shut down in unsafe conditions or emergencies. A rollover protective module (ROPM) and falling object protection (FOPS) offers enhanced protection. User-friendly display screens make it easy to visualise and troubleshoot problems onsite.

Where appropriate, wireless remote-control capabilities offer full operator function remotely, reducing exposure to hazardous materials,

unstable terrain and confined spaces while still maintaining control of equipment.

Reducing environmental footprint In today’s construction landscape, local laws and regulations around environmental impact are constantly evolving due to growing awareness of conservation and sustainability.

Traditional excavation methods not only involve more heavy labour and safety risks, but they are also more disruptive to the environment and communities. One critical factor in complying with environmental regulations is reducing the risk of soil or water contamination by preventing overfilling and spillage.

Vermeer’s vacuum excavators feature a telescoping boom with a remote-controlled hydraulic valve for vacuum shut-off, which allows operators to maintain more control over

the excavation process, preventing overfilling, spillage, or leakage of collected material.

Additionally, the Cam-Over auto-locking design ensures equipment stays closed, preventing leaks and spills during the excavation process.

Minimising noise Adhering to noise regulations is paramount during construction projects, especially in urban areas or near sensitive ecosystems. High noise levels can be disruptive and potentially harmful to both the environment and surrounding community.

Vermeer’s vacuum excavators are equipped with integrated silencing systems that mitigate noise levels. These advanced systems make these machines suitable for noise-sensitive job sites, helping contractors meet noise-related compliance requirements.

The Vermeer T1055 Trencher onsite.

For more information call 1300 VERMEER or visit www.vermeeraustralia.com.au The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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WOMEN'S PIPELINE FORUM

Diversity and exclusion – what do they have in common?

In our industry, gender is all too visible. With women far outnumbered by men, it is significant when a woman joins an all-male team. It is noticeable when there is more than one or two women in a meeting, and it becomes even more obvious when we try to do something about it.

By Margaret Gayen on behalf of the APGA WPF Advocacy Committee

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he enduring effects of historical gender discrimination are many and varied. Low representation of women, low retention of women, low respect for women, unconscious bias, sexual harassment, parental discrimination, gender stereotyping, unfriendly workplace cultures and more.

In an attempt to combat some of these effects, our industry has created the APGA Women’s Leadership Development Program, developing a new generation of female leaders, and the Women in Pipelines Forum, assisting women to build a support network in the industry. Some APGA member companies have established quotas for the recruitment of women to build representation in the industry, others have established their own female mentoring programs.

All of these things are beneficial: when surveyed last year1, most respondents were positive about the existence of female-specific training and mentoring initiatives; they recognised that many women miss out on these opportunities (training, development, etc.) without a female-specific program, and many women appreciated the opportunity to build a network of individuals with similar experiences.

But what do all of these things have in common?

They target women and women only.

Companies with established quotas, or genderfocused initiatives, have drawn criticism from some men who have observed a preference for the recruitment or promotion of women over themselves, or who have identified that they miss out on training opportunities that are female-specific.

These observations have led to hostile attitudes about the selection of ‘token’ women: women notionally hired to fill a gender quota or to make the company look diverse, despite not being the most technically qualified person. As a result, many women have been told that they have not earned their positions: “you only got that [role/ opportunity] because you’re a woman”. Others have been targeted with snide comments about favouritism and merit.

These attitudes undermine women who have earned their success. These attitudes discount the

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“These attitudes undermine women who have earned their success. These attitudes discount the multitude of relevant and useful skills those women bring to their roles. And these attitudes contribute to women experiencing imposter syndrome, loss of confidence, and even harassment or exclusion.” multitude of relevant and useful skills those women bring to their roles. And these attitudes contribute to women experiencing imposter syndrome, loss of confidence, and even harassment or exclusion.

Equally, female-specific initiatives can apply an unwanted spotlight on people who are just trying to fit in. Some women feel like they are being overly celebrated for just doing their job.

Non-binary people can feel like they have to “pick a side”.

In this way, gender-targeted approaches are contributing to a gender divide: where gender was already prominent, it is made even more so. When hostile, an “us versus them” mentality is created. A well-intentioned diversity initiative can become detrimental to inclusion.

That is not to say that female-specific initiatives are bad – far from it. They are a good starting point in a gender unequal workplace, to build the number of women in the industry and to provide opportunities that have historically been withheld from women.

However, it highlights how essential it is that the workplace culture can support the women in it.

It is just as important to create a positive environment for women in the workplace as it is to get women into the workplace in the first place.

Because ultimately, driving the hire of women into a hostile workplace to make the gender count look good does an injustice to those women.

So, what do we do about it?

We need a multipronged approach. It’s more complex, but diversity and inclusion cannot be solved with one initiative. Concurrent with initiatives such as the ones discussed above, we should: 1. Include men in gender equality discussions. Too The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

many women’s day lunches feature women sharing stories of gender bias with each other while their male colleagues go blissfully unaware.

2. Educate everyone on why gender equality initiatives are necessary. Discuss unconscious bias, the different definitions of merit and learn about the “paradox of meritocracy”. A workplace must be aware of the need for change in order to embrace it.

3. Confront the subtle and pervasive nature of systemic patriarchy and historical sexism. Allow open and vulnerable discussions amongst everyone in your team. It is not just women who are disadvantaged by gender bias.

4. Be open and transparent on promotions, hiring practices and pay structures. Create leave and flexible arrangements that are accessible to all.

And remember gender bias, discrimination and harassment are not the responsibility of women to combat. Don’t rely on the women in your organisation to perform gender equality actions.

Men need to step up too. After all, these activities benefit the culture of a workplace, build psychological safety in a team, and ultimately boost workplace performance.

If you would like to help to introduce any of these topics or conversations to your company, the WPF Advocacy Committee is looking to support D&I practice in our industry. Please get in touch at wpf@apga.org on our LinkedIn page.

References 1 Gayen, M., Nixon, C. (2022) Creating cultural Change to Support Gender Equality in Engineering”. APGA.

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APGA CONVENTION

55 years supporting the pipeline and gas industries The 55th APGA Convention and Exhibition was another success, with more than 500 professionals in the pipeline and gas industries gathering in Perth, WA, for the annual event.

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ffering an unmatched platform for sharing knowledge, expanding learning, and networking with peers, it’s no wonder this event has become a highlight of the industry’s calendar.

The festivities kicked off on Saturday, October 14 with the golf day, sponsored by Vermeer Equipment of WA & NT at the Maylands Public Golf Course.

Saturday also saw a night of fun and reconnection with PIPE TEK sponsoring the Young Pipeliner Function at Bell Functioned. This was followed by a welcome reception sponsored by PIPE TEK, SEAS Gas and ROSEN, giving attendees a further opportunity to reconnect while taking in the views of the Perth CBD. There was lots to see on Sunday, October 15 too, but the highlight for many was attending the official exhibition opening and dinner. Held at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, the exhibition opening was sponsored by Tremco Pipelines and Solar Turbines. The dinner, sponsored

by Bao Steel, Spiecapag, Iplex Pipelines, Jemena, Land Partners, Qube Energy, Vacuworx, was yet another marvellous opportunity to come back together and mingle. Networking was abounding that night, with exhibitors teasing all that will be on display over the coming days at the convention.

Monday was soon here, with the conference and exhibition beginning. Attendees heard from Barry McGuire of the Balladong, Wadjuk, Noongar People for welcome country, before outgoing APGA President Donna McDowall and APGA CEO Steve Davies discussed the state of the industry. Monday rounded out with the Fancy Dress event, sponsored

by Tremco Pipelines, Solar Turbines and Peter Norman Personnel at Optus Stadium.

One of the most anticipated parts of the annual convention is the APGA Awards. This year a high

number of distinguished recipients were recognised for their remarkable contributions and achievements in the pipeline and gas industry.

Their dedication and hard work continue to push boundaries and set new standards for excellence.

The following award winners are: - Young Achiever Award: Margaret Gayen.

- Outstanding Contribution Award: Susan Jaques.

- Jeff Shepherd Construction Excellence Award: Richard Cherney.

- Diversity and Inclusion Award: MPC Kinetic.

- Safety Award: APA Group.

- Environment Award: MPC Kinetic.

GPA Engineering congratulated Senior Mechanical Engineer, Margaret Gayen on being awarded the 2023 APGA Young Achievement Award.

Gayen was recognised for her valuable contribution to the pipeline and gas industry, not only for her technical knowledge and skills which have contributed to leading edge studies in new energy technology and the Hydrogen Pipeline Systems Code of Practice, but also for her passion to drive cultural change within engineering.

A superstar young engineer, whose care and commitment has already made a significant impact to Australian Engineering.

“To me, it signifies a changing landscape for women in the gas and pipeline industry.

I have not only been recognised for technical contributions, but also for speaking up about gender bias and discrimination in the industry," Gayen said.

“This shows how an established industry listened to our demand for change, celebrated it, and acted on it. At the convention this year, we saw a Women in Pipelines Forum booth, a female keynote speaker talking about fighting the sexism of AFL, a record

The welcome reception at the Western Australian Art Gallery.

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

Fancy Dress night.

TRAC The APGA Gala evening.

number of female presenters and panellists, and two women winning the individual awards.”

Gayen said she was proud of her achievements and of her work, but also proud of the industry, for being willing to change and adapt and build a stronger workforce going forward.

“Here’s to another well-deserved accolade. Your successes and achievements are already inspiring many young engineers and students to follow in your footsteps. As demonstrated in the award acceptance speech, with the crowd encouraged to ‘be brave, seek out those unheard voices, have those difficult conversations, let experience break your assumptions, rather than make them and let's change the world together,” GPA shared on LinkedIn. In other awards, PipeServ took out this year’s Innovation Award for its pipeline lifting and inspection solution. PipeServ was asked to assist in plans to lift a DN450 crude oil pipeline to allow for pipe inspection and the replacement of several pipe support materials. PipeServ was able to assist the inspection company by supplying the Ovolifts Multi-Jack tools to engineer a safe lifting solution.

APGA Convention and Exhibition will be back next year in Adelaide, SA.

Phone: 1300 794 096 Email: sales@psssa.com.au Website: www.psssa.com.au

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APGA CONVENTION

Meet this year’s board As tradition goes, the annual general meeting at the APGA Convention and Exhibition was held on the last day, with members voting for who they want to lead the industry.

The new APGA Board elected at this year's convention.

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PGA is the peak body representing Australasia’s pipeline infrastructure.

While many members have a focus on gas transmission, many are active in all aspects of the industry including transportation of other products, such as oil, water and slurry.

Its members include constructors, owners, operators, advisers, engineering companies and suppliers of pipeline products and services.

The Board of Directors has a prime APGA CEO Steve Davies.

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responsibility for formulating policy and for managing APGA. In accordance with the APGA Constitution, Directors on the Board are elected for a two-year term. The term of the President is two years, and the positions of Vice President and Treasurer are each held for one year. The day-to-day operations of the association are the responsibility of the Secretariat.

The APGA Board has welcomed four new members this year, with John Stuart-Robertson New APGA President John Stuart-Robertson.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

being elected as the next President.

Outgoing President Donna McDowall finished her term, and now taking the role of a board member.

New to the board this year is James Smith, Sales Manager for PAC, Matt Nash, Sales Manager for PAC, and Scott Pearce, CEO of CNC Project Management.

Kevin Lester, Leon Richards, Liz Brierley, Sean Ward, and Clayton Warner will remain as ongoing board members.

APGA CONVENTION

Highlights in images

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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PIPELINE PEOPLE

Managing major gas projects The Australian Pipeliner sat down with Zinfra’s Acting General Manager of Projects and Infrastructure Justin Anderson about his role and his team’s work within the pipeline industry.

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ustin Anderson has worked at Zinfra and Jemena for over seven years with his current role responsible for executing all of Jemena's major natural gas and renewable gas projects.

Zinfra and Jemena are part of the same Group – Zinfra builds, operates and maintains energy infrastructure assets across Australia, while Jemena owns and operates some of the country’s most significant

electricity and gas transmission and distribution assets.

What is your role at Jemena and Zinfra?

I am currently the Acting General Manager of Projects and Infrastructure. I have a team of 330 people who execute projects in gas and electricity transmission on the east coast of Australia.

How does the Zinfra Gas Projects group assist the pipeline industry?

My group traditionally executes projects to design and build Jemena’s gas transmission pipeline and facility infrastructure in Australia.

Our engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) model provides opportunities to contractors and suppliers to the industry such as engineering consultants, line pipe manufacturers, valve and fitting suppliers, installation contractors, and commissioning specialists.

Jemena and Zinfra are at the forefront of the transition to renewable gas, pushing into areas such as green hydrogen and biomethane, to ensure that the Australian pipeline industry has an exciting and profitable future.

What are some projects you and your team have worked across?

There are three “Australian first” projects that we have worked on in recent years that we are very proud of.

The first is the Malabar Biomethane Injection Plant, which is Australia’s first biomethane to gas network injection projects.

The second is Jemena’s Western Sydney Green Hydrogen Hub, which is one of Australia’s first and most comprehensive green hydrogen proofof-concept projects.

And third, Jemena’s Port Kembla Pipeline Project connects Australia’s first LNG import terminal to the East Coast gas grid, providing much-needed security of future gas supply.

Can you expand on your work with the Port Kembla Pipeline project?

Anderson’s current role is responsible for executing all of Jemena's major natural gas and renewable gas projects.

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

The Port Kembla Pipeline is relatively short, about 12km, but a very complex 18inch pipeline.

It traverses from Squadron Energy’s LNG import terminal to Jemena’s Eastern Gas

PIPELINE PEOPLE

Pipeline, through land that has been used for heavy industry for over 100 years.

The pipeline route includes 10 horizontal directional drills (HDDs), the longest of which is 1km and goes under the Princes Highway, Princes Motorway and a train line.

We are grateful to our key contractors, Nacap and UEA, for their expertise in completing the construction of this project.

The other interesting thing about the Port Kembla Pipeline is that we have procured 100 per cent hydrogen capable pipe (designed to ASME B31.12) and have selected welding methods that give this pipeline the best possible chance of transporting 100 per cent green hydrogen when it becomes available and feasible in the future.

What are some upcoming projects you are set to deliver?

Zinfra is currently assisting Jemena with concept and front-end engineering designs (FEED) for a couple of interesting natural gas developments in Queensland.

Zinfra has also started doing work for clients

outside of Jemena, including a carbon capture and storage (CCS) concept design for a client in Western Australia and a hydrogen pipeline study for a client in New South Wales.

We are confident of progressing these projects to the next phases and continuing to expand our horizons in terms of novel energy transition projects.

What do you envision for the pipelines sector for the next five years?

It is going to be a time of great change but also unprecedented opportunity.

For example, I think we will start to see most new gas pipelines being built “hydrogen ready”, following the lead of Europe.

I also think Australian networks will see biomethane, initially, and green hydrogen, closely following, replacing fossil fuels at an everincreasing rate.

Carbon dioxide will be captured, used, and stored, with new and existing pipeline networks being instrumental in the economic feasibility and “do ability” of this technology.

Zinfra Acting General Manager of Projects and Infrastructure Justin Anderson.

We will see the advent of e-fuels and sustainable aviation fuels being produced and transported in Australia.

It is a very exciting time to be working in the pipeline industry.

For more information visit www.zinfra.com.au

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PIPELINE PEOPLE

A staple in pipeline supplies With over 12 years of experience under its belt, Piping Specialty Supply Service (PSSS) continues to grow its reputation as a trusted supplier for the pipeline industry.

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he Australian Pipeliner caught up with Managing Director John Wilton at the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) Annual Convention and Exhibition in Perth, WA, to discuss the business’ growth and evolution of the industry.

“I’ve been running PSSS for 12 years now, but I’ve actually been a supplier to the pipeline industry for well over 30 years,” Wilton said.

“Having attended almost 30 conventions, our participation this year saw PSSS displaying our products over three exhibition bays offering visitors an opportunity to discuss business with our dedicated business development team.”

PSSS also had a separate large machinery stand showcasing a range of products from its international partners, including some of the big players in the industry such as Axis Machines, Fast Fusion, SPC coatings and Royal Pigs. The comapany works closely with these manufacturers to ensure it brings the very best quality and innovative products to the pipeline market.

“Working hand in hand with these partners gives us and our customers unequalled opportunities to connect directly with genuine problem solvers in our industry, which in turn also supports our commitment to being the go-to supplier for all things piping. As problem solvers, PSSS also offer a broad range of rental options to support the requirements of specific projects,” Wilton said.

PSSS are also committed to developing and bringing Australian-made products to the market such as the Royal Pigs which were showcased at the exhibition.

PSSS showcased a range of products from its international partners.

“Through our association with Royal Oil and Gas, we can now supply Australianmanufactured pigs from its manufacturing facility in Perth. This allows us to remove the uncertainty of supply and high cost of importing from overseas, and again we have access to the expertise of this manufacturer,” Wilton said.

Introduced in 2021, the APGA Innovation Award aims to highlight innovation in the pipeline industry and bring attention to the products, services and new technologies that hold numerous benefits for the industry.

PSSS are committed to dealing with manufacturers who have a proven record for providing quality products and bring new and

The AF224 - Bore Mount Flange Facing Machine.

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innovative product solutions to the market. Over the last few years some of these products have successfully featured in the short list for the APGA Innovation Award. This year’s submission was the Axis AF842 Flange Facing Machine, and it has been nominated as a finalist. Described as a “new age” machine, the Axis AF842 is poised to revolutionise ‘in field’ machining in Australia and across the world. Flange Facing machines have been around for decades but this is bringing the technology to the 21st century.

“This new technology promises to shake up the industry and PSSS will be supporting our customers offering both sale and rental options,” Wilton said.

The PSSS team at the 2023 APGA Convention.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

PIPELINE PEOPLE

“The industry has evolved tremendously, as has our business. Since its inception, our company has grown from providing a small selection of products to quickly recognising opportunities through supporting the demands of our clients, growing our business to be one of the most trusted and largest suppliers within our field.

“And our business is at an exciting stage, we now have three branches in Queensland with the ability to provide products and services throughout Australia.”

With a strong client-based focus, PSSS continues its commitment as a supplier of highquality equipment.

The staff of PSSS include a dedicated major projects team, available for consultation prior to and during major projects. This team works closely with clients to make sure they are supported throughout the process.

They also have a wealth of knowledge in the pipeline industry, bringing real value to these larger projects. Other teams include a sales team with dedicated business development managers supporting customers with all aspects of their requirements. The procurement and logistics

Pipeline people at PSSS' equipment stand.

team in PSSS help build and develop processes to make sure there is a strong and reliable supply chain in place.

A collaborative approach within PSSS encourages ongoing brainstorming across all teams and PSSS have found this type of working together has improved overall staff knowledge

outside their normal scope and also increases the success rates of finding solutions for customers.

With a continued commitment to providing high quality equipment, solutions and services to its clients, PSSS will undoubtedly see continued growth of their reputation as the go-to supplier for all things piping.

For more information visit www.psssa.com.au

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PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

kwik-ZIP: From strength to strength How kwik-ZIP's 23 years of innovation and growth has led the company to where it is today.

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fter joining the family’s third generation water well drilling business, Bunbury Drilling Company, in 1995, Jason Linaker established kwikZIP Spacers.

Following his development of the industry’s first patented non-metallic plastic bow spring centraliser in 2000, Linaker founded kwik-ZIP Spacers to continue producing and marketing centraliser and spacer products for wider use.

Since then, the kwik-ZIP team has developed and been awarded patents on various other centraliser and spacer products for applications in many industries including production drilling, trenchless pipeline installations and ground engineering just to name a few.

Today, kwik-ZIP manufacture and supply a centraliser and spacer system for many industry sectors including production well drilling, trenchless pipeline, horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and the general civil and construction markets. “kwik-ZIP spacers and centralisers have been developed to solve support, grading and centralisation challenges in the trenchless and Kwik-ZIP spacers on high-strength steel line gas transmission pipe with an external epoxy coating.

pipeline, vertical production drilling, and ground engineering industries,” Linaker said.

“Manufactured from high grade thermoplastic, kwik-ZIP products are used and recommended by pipeline and civil contractors, water and gas utilities, drilling companies and international engineering firms.

“With no metal parts and made from kwikZIP’s engineered thermoplastic blend, the centralisers flexible, tough and have a low coefficient of friction.”

Like all kwik-ZIP’s products the HDX/ HDXT spacer system series are aligned with the company’s ethos to provide simple, costeffective, and high-quality solutions.

Manufactured and designed to be utilised on and in many types of pipes, including corrugated pipe installations, the HDX/HDXT series are one of the most versatile and adaptable spacers on the market.

The HDX casing spacer comes in four runner heights, 38mm, 65mm, 90mm and 125mm.

The HDXT casing spacer comes in five runner heights, 43mm, 58mm, 63mm, 103mm, and 153mm.

In addition, the HDX and HDXT Series has been certified against WSAA Product Specification Product Specification # 324 (Casing Spacers).

The use of kwik-ZIP products helps contractors to comply with the numerous regulations that require casing centralisers or pipe spacers (slippers or spiders), including

HDXT 103's utilised on Te Maunga Landward Section outfall project.

wastewater and sewerage codes and well construction standards.

Linaker said as one of the only Australianowned spacers on the market, kwik-ZIP provides clients with a cost-efficient solution to its spacer and centraliser requirements. “kwik-ZIP has established stockist in Australia, US, UK and New Zealand, and operates from our head office in Perth and warehouse facilities in Sydney, Texas, and the UK,” he said.

Kwik-ZIP Spacers shown on corrugated pipe.

For more information visit www.kwikzip.com

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

Vacuworx – 25 years of thought leadership in vacuum lifting technology Bill Solomon attributes nearly three decades of leadership in vacuum lifting technology at Vacuworx to a dedicated team, responsible growth, and making core capabilities and improvements a continual focal point alongside its customers.

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hen talking about Vacuworx's equipment and capabilities Bill Solomon said it can sound foreign or even unbelievable. He said it begins to make sense when pictures are shown, and video is shared. “The ‘dots’ connect and when the systems are used it is such a wow factor the customer can’t imagine doing another project without one of our handling systems. The support and services provided seals the deal,” Solomon said.

The Vacuworx launched in 2023 – its 25th anniversary – with one of the most diversified global offering of vacuum lifting systems and equipment available for an array of manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure-related materialhandling tasks and applications.

Vacuworx’s material handling systems are proven to be effective in all unusual types of industrial situations, tight or confined workspaces, expansive outdoor environments, rigorous weather, and diverse field conditions.

The company is proud to help meet the needs of lifting and handling professionals operating in a wide variety of sectors, from oil and gas pipelines to concrete, water utility, precast, landscape, mining, and manufacturing.

From concrete road barriers to solar panels, burial vaults, and electrical transmission and distribution poles – to name a few material handling applications where safety and precision are imperative.

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Vacuum lifting: The right foundations Since 1999, Solomon and his wife, Christy, have continued developing their original idea to create a faster, safer, and smarter way to lift and move heavy, bulky objects.

Vacuworx systems have now been rented and sold in over 25 countries – as more sectors are introduced to the safety aspect, as well as the time and labor savings associated with using this innovative vacuum lifting equipment, and its increasing versatility.

The foundation for Vacuworx was being laid as major advancements in protective coating technologies were being rolled out – and having tremendous impacts – on traditional methods used to handle oil and gas pipes.

Early on, Vacuworx centered only on a few product types, including its flagship RC Series lifters. It had then – and has now – all the right capabilities to handle virtually any type and diameter of pipe length effectively, with no need for chains, slings, or hooks.

Peering into the future – Solomon can see engineering even more products with the demonstrated ability to outperform traditional lifting

and handling methods safely and cost-efficiently.

His goal has always been to protect people by keeping them out of lift zones and removing them from other places where they don’t need to be.

Material handling innovation: A reliable start Based in Tulsa from the start, with expanded manufacturing capabilities in the US and Australia, Vacuworx developed a strong presence in Oklahoma, a global network of qualified vacuum lifting equipment dealers touching six continents, and a customer base extending around the world.

From humble roots in an 8500-sf shop to a stateof-the-art 155,000-sf headquarters and manufacturing facility with more than 60 employees and the advantage of all in-house precision machining and custom fabrication capabilities – Vacuworx has evolved.

Over the years, greater acceptance of the benefits associated with vacuum lifting technology in key sectors, including pipeline construction, road and bridge work, and airport runway rehabilitations, among others, have followed original demonstrations of Vacuworx machines on major infrastructure projects, and involving various applications.

Word-of-mouth testimonials, and countless videos and images, soon began surfacing as visual proof that the lifters could be relied on – 100 per cent.

As original word and news of Vacuworx’s story spread organically, Solomon said one early adopter would Vacuworx systems have now been rented and sold in over 25 countries.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

The company is proud to help meet the needs of lifting and handling professionals.

unswervingly lead to the next.

“We were in the right place at the right time,” he said. “It didn’t just happen overnight. One contractor would see the benefit of our product because another contractor was using it. ‘Where did you get that? ‘We need one of those.’ That’s how we got started.”

Seeing is believing: A consultative approach Both the Solomons’ company and the industries it serves have come a long way since 1999 – including the accelerated rate of pipe handlers’ adoption and utilisation of vacuum lifters in the past 10 years, alone. Ultimately, vacuum lifting has left an indelible mark on the pipe-handling industry.

Vacuworx material handling systems have become one of the best-recognised innovations over the past 25 years. But they didn’t stop there. The company listens to its customers and a quarter of a century later is still busy refining their positive comments and critical feedback into new material lifting innovations that work – for a growing number of established markets.

“We’ve gotten through some extraordinary things,” Solomon said. “We are going to get on the phone. We’re going to get on a plane. It’s part of our covenant with our customers. You can get a hold of somebody to help. We’re going to be available.”

In turn, the Vacuworx product line has expanded and diversified to match louder calls for greater safety, throughput, and velocity across a range of sectors that value staying safe while mitigating unnecessary downtime.

The Vacuworx offering includes 24-hour-a-day, 365-days-a-year customer service; quick access to technical support and parts; a complete inventory; a full line of sales and rental options; and US and North American supply chain relationships.

From larger companies to smaller, independent contractors, they present options and do business with people in a way that makes it easy for them to see that Vacuworx is a partner.

For Solomon, this often equates to helping future customers “connect the dots” – with access to the right engineering conversations, actual demonstrations, or compelling visual representations of lifters in action. “There’s been an entire sea change from, that’s the way we’ve always done it, to I can’t imagine doing a job without one,” he said.

“Everything about what we are trying to do ties back to continuous improvement and growth in areas where we can make a difference.”

Vacuum lifting technology: New line of thinking Perhaps the greatest breakthrough for Solomon in his take on operating a 25-year-old and growing manufacturing company has been the vast diversification of its products, at the same time holding 100 per cent true to its original mission and values.

“We are an innovative manufacturing company focusing on the design and fabrication of equipment to make material handling a safer process,” Solomon said. “We always knew our tech was useful for other types of applications, in other markets. Big bulky, hard-to-reach things that require a great deal of labor investment.”

The pursuit of steady growth, continuous improvement, and a passion for industry-leading products and services have carried the Vacuworx organization forward. In recent years, the capabilities of its RC Series equipment were thoroughly expanded and modernized with improvements and next-generation changes made with greater durability and longevity in mind.

From the original RC and MC Series units to compact and versatile SL 2 lifters, PS 1/PHD machines, and more, Vacuworx material handling equipment is available with the right capabilities, dimensions, and lift capacities to suit virtually any job.

In preparation for the next 25 years, Solomon is considering the future of even faster, safer, and smarter machines, which will be put to work by qualified operators in even more semiautonomous and fully manufacturer-supported lifting and handling operations.

Vacuworx Lifting Systems are already adaptable to multiple applications and host machines, such as modular systems for heavy-duty manufacturing, battery or electric systems for various in-plant or field operations, and an alternative system for using anchors and chains when handling precast, among others.

Right now, Vacuworx offers the most useful, reliable, service-and-support backed line-up of machines for compact, mid-range, and specialty lifting scenarios in the world.

Pictures connect the dots In light of the 25-year milestone, Solomon reflected on his years building Vacuworx and reminded himself that while focusing on what’s next is important, so is remembering where it all started.

Recently, Solomon visited a relative who moved into a memory care unit within an assisted living community. He found that the same conversations were repeated each day – as if it was the first time.

But he found that pictures helped connect the dots.

Solomon took this as a lesson worth learning from, especially when it comes to Vacuworx. As industry and technology have accelerated in growth over the past 25 years, it is easy to forget challenges and milestones along the way. But when you see photos from throughout the years, it all comes flooding back.

“It begins to make sense when pictures are shown and video is shared,” he said. “They really do help connect the dots. We’ve had long-haul customers who have been with us since the start.

That’s because once they use it, they can’t imagine doing another project without Vacuworx.”

Material handlers of all sizes come to Vacuworx for not only the safety aspects and labor-saving benefits but also to uncover advantages associated with a superior level of service and support.

“When we enter a new market, sometimes it’s hard for people to believe that our lifters are as safe and easy to use as we say they are.

“But we’re in our 25th year, and we welcome the opportunities to prove what we say is what we do,” Solomon said.

For more information visit www.vacuworx.com The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

33

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

The Port Kembla Pipeline in New South Wales.

How to prepare for pipeline hydrotesting works Pipe Tek Managing Director Myles Brannelly spoke with The Australian Pipeliner about hydrotesting and shared some tips for an efficient and effective process.

H

ydrostatic testing is one of the last steps completed before putting a new pipeline into service, but it is also one of the most important.

Under Australian regulations, a new pipeline can’t be commissioned without a hydrostatic test. Despite this, there can be misconception and confusion around the process.

NATA-accredited hydrotesting specialist Pipe Tek has tested and certified over 700 pipelines throughout the Australia Pacific region, with diameters varying from 1 inch to 70 inches and pressures up to 45,000 kPa.

Understanding the steps involved Hydrostatic testing is a specialist activity not usually completed by a pipeline contractor’s main workforce, according to Brannelly.

He said it is important to take extra care to make sure that all project stakeholders understand the steps involved in the process.

This includes making sure the team understands how to properly prepare the pipeline for hydrotesting.

34

To properly prepare: • Determine where the test medium will be sourced and how it will be transported to the fill point.

• Ensure non-destructive testing (NDT) of all welds have passed.

• On new constructions, ensure a gauge plate pig run has been successful.

• Ensure the pipeline has been pre-cleaned.

Once this is done, it is important to trust the specialist’s process.

“Hydrotesting isn’t just about filling the pipeline with water. It needs to be filled correctly using pigs to reduce the amount of residual air in the pipeline,” Brannelly said.

“Filling a pipeline from a water cart or standpipe results in air pockets throughout the pipeline, and if there are no high point vents, the pipeline won’t pressurise correctly.

“Too much residual air in the pipeline can result in the test failing or simulating a leak when there isn’t one.”

An experienced NATA- accredited hydrotest contractor will also understand, the importance of water stabilisation after filling the pipeline.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

Providing the required information to the hydrotest contractor To correctly quote and plan for hydrotesting works, the hydrotest contractor needs the following information at a minimum: • Pipe standard, type, grade, or class.

• Pipeline length and diameter.

• Any elevations in the pipeline.

• Maximum allowable operating pressure (MAOP).

The hydrotest contractor will also need information on the parties responsible for associated hydrotesting works, including precleaning, gauging, filling, dewatering, and drying the pipeline.

Some hydrotest contractors, like Pipe Tek, conduct these activities. In these cases, it’s important to let the hydrotest contractor know: • Where the water source is coming from.

• If the water requires treatment.

• Where the water is to be disposed.

• The product that is currently in the pipeline before hydrotesting works - if any.

“Once we have this information, we can estimate the time that it will take to test the

PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

This can lead to works not being completed correctly, putting further cost pressure on the project because a hydrotest specialist is required to fix the issues, as well as causing delays to the project.

“Every project is different, so it can be hard to determine how much to set aside for hydrotesting works,” Brannelly said.

“If you’re unsure about how much to budget, talk to a hydrotest specialist. We’re always happy to provide an estimate if we’ve got the information required to do so.”

Allowing for contingencies

Pipe Tek’s Myles Brannelly.

pipeline, the type of test required, how long we need to hold it at pressure for, how many temperature probes are required and where they should be located on the pipeline,” Brannelly said.

Allowing for contingencies in the event that a leak is found during the hydrotesting process, is an important step.

“We conducted hydrotesting for a jet fuel pipeline to Sydney airport from terminals at Botany Bay,” Brannelly said.

“For that project, tankers were on stand-by to be filled with jet fuel to supply Sydney airport if the hydrotest were to fail.”

Schedule adequate time Hydrotesting requires dealing with very high pressures, which means it’s important to manage the hazards and set up the appropriate safety or

exclusion zones.

During a hydrotest, it is normal practice to have no other works conducted onsite, particularly on or above the pipeline.

“All personnel not involved in the hydrotest remain outside of the secondary exclusion zone,” Brannelly said.

“So it is important to make sure there is enough time for the hydrotesting process to occur in isolation from other works.

“Any landowners, business owners or other contractors working in the vicinity of the pipeline or close to the exclusion zones should be notified and, ideally, reduced during the hydrotesting works.”

Asking for advice If operators are unsure about the information that is required to quote or plan hydrotesting and associated works, Pipe Tek can help.

Pipe Tek offers full-service pipeline integrity and maintenance turnkey solutions across NDT, pre-cleaning, gauging, filling, hydrostatic and pneumatic testing, dewatering, drying with either desiccant or refrigerant dryers, nitrogen purging, caliper pigging, and inline inspection (ILI) with dig ups and verification by phase array.

Keeping the lines of communication open One recommendation is keeping the communication lines open between the engineer and project manager.

“Project details can change over time, which we completely understand,” Brannelly said.

“But a change in scope that hasn’t been communicated can cause delays to the start of your hydrotest works.”

Brannelly said jobs are quoted and planned based on the information provided by the project engineers.

“But often, we arrive on site and the scope of work is different based on the needs of the project manager,” he said.

“We’re flexible - but it does waste time.”

Include hydrotesting in budgets Brannelly said most companies don’t allow enough funds in their budget for the hydrotesting process.

As it is often one of the last tasks completed in the pipeline construction process, funds can sometimes run low when it’s time for hydrostatic testing.

In these instances, contractors may try to complete some of the hydrotesting themselves.

Hydrotesting 175m of DN280 PE pipework in Flinders St near Southern Cross Station, Melbourne.

For more information visit www.pipetek.com.au The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION

Get to know induction bend manufacturer Inductabend One of Australia’s premier induction bend manufacturers, Inductabend, specialises in high integrity heat induction bending of pipe and other sections for gas pipelines, mining, and construction.

I

f it can’t be cold bent, it can be induction formed.

Founded in 1992 by Barry Crouch and Rob Stead, the business has been servicing the mining, oil and gas and building industries in Australia for over 30 years. Its founders both had extensive experience in manufacturing and engineering, with Crouch having previously worked as an engineer for the SEC and Stead owning and operating several manufacturing businesses. Their first experience working together was running Smithweld, a specialist cold rolling and bending company.

After a few years cold rolling, the opportunity to purchase an induction bending machine, originally brought into Australia to assist with the construction of coal fired power plants, presented itself and thus Inductabend was born.

As Managing Director, Crouch has been involved in the day-to-day operations of Inductabend from the beginning. He, and other long serving employees, including General Manager John Rea, have contributed to the wealth of experience and knowledge Inductabend has at its disposal to aid its customers in ensuring their bends are made to fit their purpose.

Presently, the business is entering a transitory phase with the directors committing to the longterm future of the business in Australia through

investing in, updating and upgrading its plant and equipment, and continued investment in research and development of new cutting-edge induction bending technologies.

New management is also being implemented with the introduction of Nathan and Jordan Crouch into the business. Both are experienced professionals with backgrounds in civil engineering (utilities water and gas), finance and accounting.

What is induction bending?

Induction bending is a hot bending process specifically designed to produce high quality pipe bends with mechanical properties equivalent to or exceeding those possessed by the mother pipe the bend it’s produced from.

Inductabend has continued to develop and improve its capabilities, product offerings and overall quality as the core value adding proposition for Australia’s industrial markets.

“We work with our customers to tailor bending geometries and mechanical characteristics to their needs,” Crouch said.

“In order to ensure consistent performance of our bends we employ a wide range of destructive and non-destructive testing methodsto create custom testing programs tailored to our client’s pipeline application and risk profile.”

Pipe diameters from DN25 to DN900 with wall thicknesses of up to 100mm can be bent to the purchaser's' exact desired angle and radius.

Inductabend has continued to develop and improve its capabilities, product offerings and overall quality.

Inductabend products Inductabend owns and operates three induction bending machines that cover a wide range of applications. Pipe diameters from DN25 to DN900 with wall thicknesses of up to 100mm can be bent to the purchasers exact desired angle and radius (generally 2.5D and up) with custom tangent lengths on each end of the bend.

Complex compound bends can also be produced, including S bends and even helical bends for specialist applications.

Induction bending is compatible with a wide range of materials including all carbon steels, alloy steels, high X grade steels, stainless steels and other exotic alloys.

Recently, Inductabend internally developed a new world-first method of bending that allows us to utilise induction bending for the forming of bends with radii from 14m and up, allowing for gradual consistent changes in direction to minimise wear on steel pipelines and deal with any difficult alignments all whilst maintaining their desired mechanical properties.

Additional services such as end preparations for welding, Victaulic grooving and coating are also available to customers when placing orders with Inductabend.

Inductabend also owns some cold field benders (up to DN1200 capacity) that are available for dry hire.

For more information visit www.inductabend.com

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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REHAB & REPAIR

A partnership built on trust, enhancing solutions for the Australian pipeline market Pro Pipe Services and T.D. Williamson’s partnership is based on trust. Most importantly, its success stems from their customers’ unwavering trust in them.

I

In the Australian market, there is a tremendous value in channel partnerships for Hot Tapping and Isolation Product and Services,” T.D. Williamson Director, Pipeline Integrity Operations Brent Solomon told The Australian Pipeliner.

A sentiment shared by Pro Pipe Services Director Joe Buttigieg.

“That gives customers confidence in the products and in the answers provided by both companies,” he said.

The collaboration brings together the field expertise and technical innovation of T.D. Williamson with Pro Pipe Services’ local bootson-the-ground experience.

“So, the synergies are obviously there between the two organisations,” Solomon said.

“We've got the customer relationships; we've got the knowledge of the product, in the Australian market Buttigieg said.

The ProStopp® DS tool.

L-R: Rolf Gunnar, Dean Muscat, Joe Buttigieg, Henry Solomon, Rami Naji, and Brent Solomon.

Providing safe and reliable hot tapping, line isolation, pipe cutting, and repair and maintenance services for the gas and pipeline industries throughout the Asia Pacific region, Pro Pipe Services has highly skilled technicians who offer smart solutions to pipeline concerns and deliver superior workmanship on all jobs.

Both companies allied their strength and showed off their combined efficiency at this year’s APGA Annual Convention and Exhibition in Perth, WA. T.D. Williamson displayed and showcased their MDS™ platform with SpirALL™ technology, an ILI tool that is uniquely designed to identify crack-like pipeline features and interacting threats by gathering multiple data sets in one run.

Solomon said T.D. Williamson's approach to the Australian pipeline integrity market will be a direct route to market he said.

“We're in the process of understanding where we can bring value to operators from a pipeline integrity standpoint.

Buttigieg couldn’t agree more, highlighting the vast interest the MDS™ Tool raised among the pipeline specialists and professionals.

“It has been a showstopper,” he said. "There obviously has been a lot of interest in the tool.”

“We have had a lot of people come up and ask questions about this type of technology and what benefits it brings to the Australian pipeline industry.”

Pro Pipe Services also put the spotlight on its isolation tools at this year’s event, with two different types of isolation tools on display.

Buttigieg said the first piece of equipment, the PolyStopp® Quick Connect, allows users to isolate a polyethylene pipe without squashing off and affecting the integrity of the pipe.

“Tapping and isolation means we can do it in a short trench in a safe way,” he said.

The second isolation tool is the ProStopp® DS tool.

“This gives us the capability to provide a double block isolation, opposed to a traditional single isolation,” Buttigieg said.

“The industry is going down that path looking for double block and bleed in the distribution sector. That's the perfect tool for that type of application.”

“We'll continue that relationship, and we'll continue to serve and understand how we can better serve the wider Australian market and provide value to the operators here,” Solomon said.

For more information visit www.propipeservices.com and www.tdwilliamson.com

38

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

Zinfra champions Australia’s transition to Renewable Energy Zinfra has a long track record of delivering natural gas and renewable gas projects across Australia, and has a progressive commitment to innovation and infrastructure excellence in the transition to renewable energy.

Successful projects include:

Malabar Biomethane Injection Project

Western Sydney Green Hydrogen Hub

Port Kembla Energy Terminal

Delivery of Australia’s first biomethane to gas network project - engaged for project management, engineering, procurement and construction.

Developed, built and currently operating Australia’s most comprehensive green hydrogen facility.

Construction of a 12km gas transmission pipeline (utilising hydrogen certified pipe) as part of Australia’s first LNG Import Terminal project.

Zinfra’s capability and experience in renewable gas projects includes:

• Detailed design, procurement, construction, commissioning and operations.

• Project management • Feasibility and FEED studies • Regulatory approvals

For more information please email gasprojects@zinfra.com.au Visit www.zinfra.com.au/gas/case-studies

REHAB & REPAIR

Growth on the horizon A number of completed landmark projects, greater market recognition, and a long-standing policy of localisation has strengthened STATS Group’s presence in Australia and the wider Asia Pacific hydrocarbon sector.

T

he pipeline technology specialist has broken new ground with the awards of inaugural projects by operators and is on a recruitment drive to consolidate existing markets while opening up new opportunities.

STATS Group’s (STATS) has a longestablished track record in delivering industry leading repair and maintenance solutions to energy operators along with main engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors globally, with proven dual sealing technology at the core of their product and service offering.

“This has been one of our busiest and most successful periods in terms of project activity and increased turnover in the Asia Pacific market,” STATS Group Regional Manager for Asia Pacific Gareth Campbell said.

“We have taken a long-term view and from our initial market entry in Australia we have continually invested in infrastructure and people, starting out by setting up a base in Perth and expanding east and northwards.

“This policy of having people and equipment on the ground - which is a template in all our international locations - allows us to respond quickly to client demand and it is paying off as the main Australian operators are now engaging on a regular basis.”

A new client recently commissioned STATS to deploy its patented BISEP® double block and bleed isolation technology to isolate the 20-inch Dampier to Bunbury Pipeline in Western

In Malaysia, STATS has a track record of successful project work dating back to 2011.

Australia and the company hopes this lays the foundation for winning similar workscopes.

Other BISEP projects in Western Australia included two workscopes, (double and quad 6-inch pipeline) and a quad 14-inch isolation on the Parmelia Gas Pipeline, while building on an existing frame agreement with Santos, a 12-inch hot tap service on the 42-inch Gladstone Transmission Pipeline was delivered in QLD. STATS is in the process of adding to its field crew to work across Australian projects and will

The Remote Tecno Plug, Malaysia.

40

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

also recruit a sales manager who will focus on supporting clients on the East Coast and in New Zealand.

In Malaysia, STATS has a track record of successful project work dating back to 2011 and earlier this year the company signed an exclusive supply arrangement for its products and services with Malaysia’s E&P O&M Services Sdn Bhd (EPOMS).

The strategic agreement covers STATS’ innovative range of pipeline hot tapping, plugging and inline isolation services, including the market leading BISEP and Remote Tecno Plug (RTP) system, and it strengthened an existing relationship with EPOMS which saw STATS complete a workscope in 2022 which included the isolation and reinstatement leaktesting of a 12” shutdown valve on the EPOMSoperated Larut A platform.

“Malaysia is a strategically important market for STATS and following the signing of a new partnership with EPOMS we have started training their personnel to support onsite workscopes in the local market and are supporting knowledge transfer of our product range,” Campbell said.

In another encouraging development, STATS has also just completed its first remote subsea isolation in Malaysia, providing a 38-inch RTP for a pipeline flange repair project which remained in the pipeline for 49 days.

REHAB & REPAIR

“In addition to the isolation workscope, STATS also supplied a 38-inch subsea #900 Flange Encapsulation Clamp as part of one of the many repair options following the isolation taking place,” Campbell said.

“Weighing over 20 tonnes, this is the largest subsea repair clamp we have manufactured and following completion of the project it will now be held in storage as an Emergency Pipeline Repair System option for the client.”

Outside its core Australian and Malaysian markets, STATS’ credentials extends to Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia and the decision to appoint Boyke Sembiring as East Asian Sales Manager, based in Jakarta, underlines the company’s determination to extend its presence in this market.

“We’ve just secured our first ever project in Indonesia and will deploy a 14-inch Remote Tecno Plug (RTP) on behalf of a leading international energy company, which we believe will be the first time a remote isolation technology has been used in Indonesia, so our decision to put personnel in place in Jakarta has been well founded,” Campbell said.

As global oil and gas operators look to support energy transition and net zero carbon emission targets, STATS is in a strong position to help clients repurpose existing assets and piping infrastructure for future use in hydrogen, carbon capture storage (CCS) and other decarbonisation projects.

Over the past two decades, STATS Group has played a central role in numerous pipeline interventions, repairs and maintenance projects, giving the company a deep knowledge base of the very infrastructure that, in the future, may be repurposed.

“Like all oil and gas producing regions, APAC’s operators and contractors are looking to the future and exploring ways to meaningfully support energy transition,” Campbell said.

“Our technology, and particularly our isolation tools, are ideally suited to projects which will look to repurpose older or redundant assets.

“We are alert to playing a positive role in hydrogen and CCS projects, and other innovative schemes which will emerge in the region in the not too distant future.”

SureTap being installed in Australia.

For more information visit www.statsgroup.com

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REHAB & REPAIR

A young gun in underground asset protection With a focus on innovation and safety, Abletech Underground has made an impact in the construction, civil and mining sectors.

L

ed by Director Geordie McGrath, Abletech Underground provides specialist industry solutions for utility protection and maintenance across the construction, mining, and civil industries.

But what is the point of differentiation for a company making an impact for its clients?

“For us, we strive to be a reliable supplier across all aspects of a project,” McGrath said.

“This means, we can confidently oversee work in the design phase, right through to construction and competition.

“A lot of the projects that we’re a part of are in the design phases, years before it gets released for construction.

“So going from design and work all the way through construction to final handover is pretty exciting.”

Based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland (QLD) and Chinchilla Western Downs, McGrath launched the company five years ago after being influenced by his father who began service locating 40 years ago.

Five years in and the company has hit

the ground running. It now operates a fleet of fully equipped vehicles with a highly skilled team of industry professionals servicing all areas of Australia.

“We noticed growth quickly,” McGrath said.

“We don’t aim to be the biggest, I want to ensure we are the best.”

“We initially bought a vacuum truck, and the business expanded from there.

“We now work alongside a vast array of sectors, suppling personalised services to each of our clients.”

Some of these include utility locating, Vac Trucks, CCTV pipe inspections and drain cleaning and maintenance, among other services.

This unmatched expertise was gained from the company’s work throughout a number of high challenging and large-scale projects.

“We really enjoy working on large scale projects where the team can make a positive impact on the works and project progression,” McGrath said.

“In the past five years, we have got to be a part of various projects from highway upgrades, large scale

Abletech operates a fleet of fully equipped vehicles with a highly skilled team of industry professionals.

pipelines, windfarms, drill support and developments all over Australia.

“We will mobilise wherever our clients need us.”

The company is also looking to challenge stigmas and change perceptions around safety, an utmost priority for Abletech.

McGrath said the company has a very Senior Operator Taylor Diessel.

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

REHAB & REPAIR

proactive and committed approach to safety.

“We’re certified in ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 and always ensure our employees are trained and competent in the use of all our equipment,” he said.

“There can be a stigma around the job we do, so our goal is to always put our best foot forward and provide our clients with exceptional management and delivery of projects.”

When it comes to future plans, McGrath hopes to continue making a positive impact across all Abletech’s clients projects.

“As it continues to grow, I enjoy what we do and I love being a part of infrastructure projects that shape our country,” McGrath said.

“I like the growth, the challenges and being able to provide opportunities for our staff.”

Within its five years of operation, the company has grown to a skilled team of 20+ employees, which continues to be an area for growth.

“I am really excited about the future of Abletech,” he said.

“I’m excited to see my staff continue to grow into diverse industry professionals.”

McGrath said a lot of the staff who have come to Abletech Underground started as labourers with no qualifications.

“They’ve put in a lot of effort, and we love putting the effort back into them and giving them opportunities for growth as well,” he said.

Along with its “young gun” mentality, Abletech Underground continues to strive for efficiency across all projects for its clients.

“We have a highly skilled team, state-of-theart equipment and the industry leadership,”

McGrath said.

“Along with our attention to detail, we believe this makes us a valuable partner for the industry.

“I’m excited to raise the bar and set a standard for the resources industry. I want to dedicate our time and resources into ensuring all jobs are done efficiently."

Abletech Underground Director Geordie McGrath.

For more information visit www.abletechunderground.com.au The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

43

REHAB & REPAIR

Filling in the gaps Horizontal directional drilling techniques have reduced the number of new cased pipeline crossings installed under roads. However, that does not eliminate the fact that hundreds of thousands of existing cased pipelines around the world still have less than satisfactory corrosion protection.

C

orroLogic® VpCI® Gel Filler equips pipeline owners and maintenance crews to launch a campaign for pipeline integrity management by protecting one cased pipeline crossing at a time.

Pipelines require constant maintenance to ensure their reliability and safety.

Vapor phase corrosion inhibiting gel CorroLogic VpCI Filler is a patented technology comprised of a two-part system: Liquid VpCI® concentrate and a powder gelling agent.

The liquid VpCI component (Part A) can be diluted to the right concentration onsite; the powder gelling agent (Part B) can be added just prior to application to increase viscosity and leave behind a soft gelled substance inside the casing.

This filler offers the dual advantage of discouraging the ingress of water and debris while inhibiting corrosion on metal surfaces that it directly touches.

It also releases corrosion inhibiting vapours that can migrate throughout void spaces and under dis-bonded coatings to form a molecular corrosion inhibiting layer on areas that would normally be unprotected by traditional coatings or wax fillers.

Getting started on cased pipeline integrity management Pipelines require constant maintenance to ensure their reliability and safety. Although corrosion inhibition in hard-to-reach cased

pipeline crossings is still challenging, CorroLogic VpCI Filler can improve the economy and effectiveness of the protection methods available.

For many pipeline companies, it simply makes sense to begin the methodical application

of CorroLogic VpCI Filler to promote cased pipeline integrity rather than wait for damage to occur.

These products are available through Savcor Products Australia in Australia and New Zealand.

For more information, call 1800 SAVCOR or visit www.savcorproducts.com.au

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Cortec VpCI Preservation Materials

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Corrosometer resistance probes

Loresco Coke Backfill

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APS Flange Insulation Kits

Dehn & Sohne IEC Certified Spark Gap Arresters

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44

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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T: 08 6240 3900 E: perth@savcor.com.au

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EMISSIONS REDUCTION

Driving decarbonisation efforts with pipeline simulation The Australian Pipeliner spoke with Atmos International Senior Simulation Consultant John Anderton about Atmos SIM and how it helps pipeline operators in their decarbonisation efforts.

J

ohn Anderton has spent over 25 years working with pipeline simulation in varying roles from project delivery to product management, including two years working for a major gas transportation company in Australia as a business analyst.

He specialises in offline and online simulation for the oil and gas industry and has worked with many major operators worldwide.

What is the state of Australia’s decarbonisation?

As one of the world’s largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporters, Australia has recently reevaluated its long-term strategy for gas production to place an emphasis on decarbonisation.1 Decarbonisation is high on world leaders’ agendas, with nations at the recent COP27 collectively agreeing to meet net zero emissions and the removal of carbon from the atmosphere.

Similarly, Australia’s ambition is to increase clean energy exports and support the energy transition.2 Once produced, hydrogen (H2) can either be burnt directly or mixed with oxygen to create fuel, with the only waste produced by hydrogen being water3.

Hydrogen will play a vital role in the energy transition through its versatility as an energy source for industry, transport, grid firming, chemicals, and metal production. As well, the

versatility of hydrogen’s different production methods makes it a desirable alternative way for producing energy.

Colour descriptions are used to distinguish between hydrogen’s different production methods, with brown hydrogen emitting the most greenhouse emissions and green hydrogen emitting the least (see Figure 1).

Australia recently invested two billion dollars in the scale up of large green hydrogen4 as part of its campaign to be a global hydrogen leader by 20302. The region is also investigating in carbon capture, use and storage (CCUS), to support its decarbonisation goals.

Is CO2 a viable option?

In Australia’s Future Gas Strategy consultation paper, which dictates objectives such as 43 per cent emissions reductions on 2005 levels by 2030, the Australian government presents carbon dioxide (CO2) as a viable alternative to fossil fuels in contexts like biogas for feedstock applications.

The region plans to introduce CO2 as part of their decarbonization efforts, but the document acknowledges that there will be three requirements to achieve net zero by 2050: • Carbon capture and storage (CCS).

• A reduction in leaks, venting, flaring and fuel gas use.

• Efficiency and demand management. 5 Pipelines will be vital in the transportation of

Figure 1: Different types of hydrogen and their production methods.

46

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

Atmos International Senior Simulation Consultant John Anderton.

hydrogen and carbon dioxide as Australia pursues its decarbonisation goals, but there are key factors to consider, which pipeline simulation software like Atmos SIM can help.

What key factors should be considered?

Introducing CO2 and H2 to existing gas pipeline infrastructure has its challenges. For example, many materials aren’t suited for CO2 service and H2 requires pipeline infrastructure with little to no defects.

Pipelines transporting hydrogen and hydrogen blends run the risk of hydrogen embrittlement damaging the microstructure of the pipes themselves and causing cracks that escalate into leaks, so work is currently underway to repurpose natural gas pipelines in advance of the hydrogen economy6.

Atmos SIM can be used offline to test operational strategies prior to implementation.

EMISSIONS REDUCTION

Using a model which includes details of pipe material such as elastic modulus (𝑌 ), density (𝜌) and thermal connectivity (𝜆),7 Atmos SIM can determine, for example, whether the maximum velocity has been reached (typically 5-12 m/s in natural gas pipelines) which is when carbon dioxide corrosion becomes untenable.8 Used online and connected to a SCADA system, Atmos SIM can generate these calculations based on current or future-planned operations providing a powerful decision support tool for the control room to ensure the pipeline is operated safely and efficiently.

What about safety?

The safety of personnel, the public and the environment should take priority with the introduction of fuels like CO2 and H2.

CO2 is one of the most damaging greenhouse gases and can be an asphyxiant in high concentrations, posing an increased risk to human life.

Similarly, hydrogen can indirectly cause emissions when it reacts with molecules in the atmosphere. Pipeline simulation software can ensure the pipeline operation remains within allowable limits.

Optimisation features available in Atmos SIM can ensure gas pipeline operators working with CO2 or H2 continue to work within their stringent maximum allowable operating pressure (MAOP) and lowest allowable operating pressure (LAOP) limits.

Simulation software can achieve this by making recommendations that reduce risk and secure safe operations, all while meeting customer demands.

Visual workflow of the process involved in the simulation software providing recommendations for an optimised pipeline operation plan.

Can you expand on leakage reduction?

Because CO2 in CCS is often handled as a supercritical phase fluid (sCO2) at high pressure, more gas would be released in the event of a leak, at a faster rate and a higher explosive decompression9.

Likewise, there are concerns that H2 can permeate metal and leak through the pipeline. H2 is flammable once released into the atmosphere too, its flame is almost invisible while still having a flammability that ranges between 4 per cent and 75 per cent10.

Quick and accurate leak detection is crucial for pipelines transporting CO2 or H2.

Paired with hardware instrumentation, Atmos SIM’s leak detection module can continuously calculate volume balance on a gas pipeline.

Atmos SIM also monitors the discrepancies between measured and calculated pressures and

flows. These discrepancies are processed by the sequential probability ratio test to generate reliable leak alarms to reduce leakage, venting and flaring.

How can operators drive decarbonsation with ATMOS SIM? For Australian gas pipeline companies to successfully deliver on the decarbonisation strategy set by the government, pipeline simulation will be a vital element in the rollout of carbon capture and storage, the push towards safety, efficiency, and leakage reduction.

References 1: www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/marketinsights/latest-news/lng/100323-australia-opensfuture-gas-strategy-consultation-as-it-balancesdecarbonization-goals 2: www.dcceew.gov.au/energy/hydrogen 3: www.atmosi.com/en/news-events/in-the-media/ global-hydrogen-review-preparing-for-alleventualities/ 4: https://arena.gov.au/renewable-energy/hydrogen/ 5: https://consult.industry.gov.au/future-gas-strategy 6: www.atmosi.com/en/news-events/in-the-media/ global-hydrogen-review-preparing-for-alleventualities/ 7: www.atmosi.com/en/resources/books/the-atmosbook-of-pipeline-simulation-chapter-one/ 8: https://www.atmosi.com/en/resources/books/theatmos-book-of-pipeline-simulation-chapter-five/ 9: www.atmosi.com/en/news-events/blogs/whypipeline-leak-detection-is-a-crucial-element-ofcarbon-capture-and-storage-ccs/ 10: www.atmosi.com/en/news-events/blogs/howmidstream-needs-to-prepare-for-the-hydrogeneconomy/

CO2 as a supercritical fluid.

For more information visit www.atmosi.com/en/solutions/simulation The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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EMISSIONS REDUCTION

Revolutionising methane management The natural gas industry has long been a critical player in Australia’s energy landscape, providing a reliable source of energy for countless households and industries. However, with the growing emphasis on sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the need for precise methane measurement and management has never been greater.

P

icarro’s Advanced Mobile Leak Detection (AMLD) technology, coupled with its innovative solution emissions360TM, is transforming the way the industry monitor and mitigate methane emissions and the importance of data-driven decision-making.

The challenge of methane emissions Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is a potent greenhouse gas with a significantly higher heat-trapping potential than carbon dioxide over a short time frame. Managing methane emissions is a critical aspect of reducing the environmental impact of the natural gas industry. Traditional approaches in Australia rely on regulations, emission factors and estimates, often leading to imprecise measurements and incomplete data being reported.

The power of data-driven decisions In the era of data-driven decision-making, it's crucial for gas operators to have access to comprehensive and accurate methane data. This data empowers them to make informed choices about emissions reduction strategies, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future. Picarro's AMLD technology plays a pivotal role in this process by enabling gas operators to measure everything in their natural gas network with unparalleled precision.

Say goodbye to estimations Gone are the days when gas operators had to rely on outdated regulations and rough estimates to assess methane leaks in their networks. Picarro's AMLD technology takes the guesswork out of the equation.

By collecting comprehensive methane data across the distribution system, AMLD provides a realtime, accurate snapshot of emissions. This means operators no longer have to make educated guesses.

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The e360 takes mobile surveying to the next level.

Introducing emissions360: The future of methane management Picarro's commitment to revolutionising methane management doesn't stop with AMLD. Its innovative solution, emissions360 or “e360”, is poised to reshape the industry. This cutting-edge methane management SaaS solution takes inspiration from Picarro’s Sean MacMullin's groundbreaking research on quantifying emissions from gas distribution systems, which earned the prestigious 2022 research and design award from One Future.

Actionable emissions inventories e360 takes mobile surveying to the next level by turning it into actionable emissions inventories. By combining the power of AMLD with survey frequency, it creates network-wide, measurementbased emissions inventories. These inventories categorise detections into bins and account for intermittent leaks, repair times, and uncertainties.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

The result is a final inventory with maximized certainty, far surpassing the accuracy of measuring single leak sources or relying on traditional estimation factors.

Supporting voluntary methane initiatives e360 is more than just a technology; it's a commitment to sustainability. It fully supports voluntary methane initiatives such as OGMP 2.0, Project Veritas, and One Future. By aligning with these global efforts, e360 helps organidations in Australia take meaningful steps towards reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and achieving netzero goals.

The super emitter program planner Within e360, Picarro introduces the Super Emitter Program Planner, a game-changing tool that allows gas operators to forecast the abatement of their emissions. This tool goes beyond simple

EMISSIONS REDUCTION

data collection; it enables gas utilities to simulate their operating systems, accurately predict their path to net-zero emissions, estimate the repairs needed, and calculate the total cost of methane abatement.

It's a tangible way for operators to plan and execute their emissions reduction strategies effectively.

Picarro's AMLD technology and e360 solution are at the forefront of the natural gas industry's efforts to combat methane emissions.

These innovations can empower Australian gas operators with the data they need to make informed, data-driven decisions, eliminating the need for outdated estimation methods.

As Picarro continues its journey toward a more sustainable future, these tools represent a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

With the company’s technology, it can measure, manage, and mitigate methane emissions like never before, paving the way in Australia for a greener, cleaner energy industry.

The Super Emitter Program Planner.

For more information visit www.picarro.com

INDUCTABEND Shaping Australia for over 30 years Process control

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Carbon steels, stainless steels, clad pipe and other exotic alloys

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Cold field bending machines also available for hire (up to DN1200)

Onsite induction bending (large diameter high volume projects)

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enquiries@inductabend.com.au +61 (0)3 9315 1244 inductabend.com 32 Frederick Rd Tottenham VIC 3012

PE PIPELINES

A system for complex maintenance When it comes to managing complex pipeline networks, Ritmo S.P.A provides a comprehensive solution known as "the Ritmo system".

H

igh-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, or other materials like polypropylene pipe and polyvinylidene fluoride, are used in many infrastructure projects, although their joining is entrusted to different welding techniques such as butt welding, electrofusion, socket fusion, or extrusion.

Different welding methods that share a common goal are a perfect union.

In the plastic welding process, the adherence to the parameters of the work cycle and the reliability of the welder are essential for success.

Among the manufacturers of plastic welding machines, is Italian company Ritmo S.P.A. Ritmo S.P.A. offers a range of welding machines and accessories.

The Ritmo system comprises a set of integrated and expandable welding machines and construction accessories that can seamlessly integrate into various workflows.

For instance, it includes specialised machines for fabricating components such as cutting pipes and constructing unique fittings, as well as welding sheets to create tanks or basins.

It provides a complete system for efficient work, accommodating diameters of up to 1600mm.

This establishes Ritmo as a point of contact within the supply chain for customers in the plastic industry, with a product distinguished by

Gas pipeline in Australia.

The Basic 315 Easy Life being installed at a Melbourne project.

high-quality, technological advancements and safety standards.

Innovation in plastics technology

The Remedy 500 in action in Europe.

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For a system to provide an advantage, it must be supported by continuous technological innovation, and in this regard, Ritmo pays great attention.

On construction sites, delivering value through a superior 'user experience' is crucial.

In addition to traditional manually controlled welding machines, Ritmo has developed machines with an automated cycle control.

This system, aptly named the 'Easy Life System', enables operators to work more comfortably by focusing their efforts solely on setup and process validation factors.

Computerised management aims to free the The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

operator from the welder, as the system guarantees pressure management from the moment the heating plate is removed until the end of the work cycle.

It offers an advantage by providing an additional resource on the construction site while automation handles the welding.

To ensure proper execution, reports are available, which can also include photographic documentation, geolocation, operator traceability, and pipe tracking, all accessible through a dedicated app.

This welding technology has gained traction over the years and market demands have driven the company to integrate it more extensively into larger diameters where the advantages of operator 'disengagement' are most evident.

PE PIPELINES

In good hands Australian construction sites demand high safety standards while also requiring highperformance welders. To meet these requirements, Ritmo has introduced the Remedy line.

These are self-contained welders equipped with an onboard generator and tracks for fast movement in all terrain conditions. Having all components onboard allows for time optimisation throughout the work cycle.

Even in cases where welding inside an excavation is necessary, this requirement is fulfilled by detaching the welder from the tracks and using specific extension cables.

However, the length varies depending on the welder model.

In terms of safety, the Remedy models have been designed with multiple precautions.

One aspect concerns the controls, which are always unique to prevent accidental contact with another console.

The levers used are protected by roll bars and equipped with a safety system that requires the operator to unlock them with both hands or

necessitates a "double movement" to activate them.

Another important aspect is the use of ‘blocking valves’ in the hydraulic system, which, in case of accidental cutting or tearing of a pipe, prevent dangerous pressure loss and the subsequent fall of tools like hydraulic clamps, thermoelements, or cutters.

Training onsite in Melbourne, Australia.

Close to you The Ritmo brand continues to be recognised by customers worldwide, for its strategic role as 'welding specialists.' This is also thanks to its extensive distribution network.

In Australia, the company’s presence spans all states with the aim of being even closer to construction sites.

At these certified partners, customers can find stocked materials, receive technical support, and even calibrate your equipment.

Undoubtedly, one of the most significant aspects the company offers is training, with the opportunity to attend demonstrations, receive technical advice, and participate in specific usage training.

For more information visit www.ritmo.it/en

Safer, more efficient material handling solutions.

Vacuworx Australia 22 Huntington Street, Clontarf, QLD 4019 Australia P: 0498 101 888 E: sales@vacuworx.com.au www.vacuworx.com

PE PIPELINES

The Tritan 560.

McElroy’s Tritan 560 heads to Australia Before 2023 ends, McElroy Manufacturing’s first completed Tritan™ 560 will be travelling around the globe, with the first five models scheduled to arrive in Australia.

F

irst introduced at INFUSION22, McElroy’s annual distributor conference, the Tritan 560 is the newest member of the McElroy lineup.

It combines features of three of McElroy’s most innovative machines: the rugged portability and technology of the TracStar® iSeries, pipe loading capabilities of the Talon™ 2000, and the ability to meet the pipe where it lays, found in the Acrobat™ QuikFit® carriages.

With a full 360-degree rotation and a boom that can raise, extend, and curl the carriage to approach and load pipe, the Tritan boosts jobsite efficiency and improves workplace safety by eliminating the need to top-load pipe into the fusion machine.

But what makes the Tritan different from McElroy’s other offerings?

The bottom-loading carriage is one of the biggest differences as it eliminates the need to lift pipe overhead and into the machine for standard fusions, making it ultimately safer.

With the Tritan, operators can load pipe quickly and safely in a variety of configurations. The Tritan’s boom arms can raise, extend, and curl the carriage over a range of motions.

The Tritan also offers a removable carriage that can operate in a 2+2 or 3+1 configuration, in both a top-loading or bottom-loading setup for maximum flexibility in the field.

In confined spaces or in-ditch applications, the carriage can be loaded directly onto the pipe from above, minimising the amount of excavation required under the pipe.

Using the DataLogger to wirelessly control the Tritan allows operators to carry out the fusion process from the safest possible position.

“Because the design of the Tritan allows so much freedom of movement, wireless controls were developed so the operator can move wherever is needed for the best visibility,” McElroy Product Innovation Manager Mike Pacheco said.

The Tritan 560 aids in pipe positioning, allowing for more flexibility and increased performance and productivity. With the same rugged, dual rubber tracks found on McElroy TracStar machines, the Tritan offers all-terrain mobility to easily travel across a variety of terrains and can be driven directly to and from the pipe itself.

By building off the legacy and design of multiple McElroy units, the Tritan minimises the amount of time spent between fusions while also letting the machine work in tight areas.

In addition to its other revolutionary functions and features, the Tritan includes a hydraulically powered generator to supply voltage to its heater.

Rather than energising and de-energising the heater to control its temperature, this new approach varies the motor’s speed to raise and lower voltage.

For operators and contractors, that means less fuel consumption and an overall reduction in engine noise.

By now, many operators are familiar with using the DataLogger 7 as a wireless control for the

TracStar iSeries. But the Tritan 560’s design takes that design a step further, with the DataLogger 7 poised to fully, and wirelessly operate the vehicle as its primary interface.

The Tritan’s controls work seamlessly through the DataLogger, including its basic function controls, the bottom-loading carriage, rotation, and boom.

The DataLogger is a staple of the fusion industry, allowing contractors and operators to capture, store, and share fusion data.

In the years since its release, the DataLogger has proven itself an invaluable tool for operators, managers, and inspectors thanks to its ability to document all aspects of the fusion process from start to finish, including metrics like GPS and operator info for each joint fused.

In addition, DataLogger integration allows users to take full advantage of McElroy’s Vault™, a powerful cloud-based tool to collect, store, analyse, and share joint reports and project information. Its easy-to-use interface also allows for the recording of each fusion’s GPS location, machine, and operator information, along with joint data.

“As contractors begin to receive and use their Tritan 560 machines, we’re excited to see how they apply the Tritan’s functionality to real-world applications,” McElroy President and CEO Chip McElroy said.

“The Tritan 560 builds off the success of our existing lineup, and we can’t wait to see this latest machine add to that legacy.”

For more information visit www.mcelroy.com/en/fusion/tritan

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The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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PE PIPELINES

The impact of plastic pipes PIPA Executive General Manager Cindy Bray spoke to The Australian Pipeliner about the importance of education around plastic pipes.

P

lastic pipes have transformed the way we live, delivering essential services and utilities to our homes and communities.

They also play vital roles in protecting the network of wires and cables that deliver internet services and are used in irrigation systems to grow food and protect our communities by carrying away sewerage, rainwater and stormwater.

The Plastic Pipes Industry Association of Australia (PIPA) is a peak industry body representing manufacturers and suppliers of plastic pipes and fittings, resin suppliers, fabricators, installers along with training and certifying bodies.

“The work the association undertakes aligns with our four key pillars – Advocate, Educate, Technical and Sustainability,” PIPA Executive General Manager Cindy Bray said.

“It’s important for the industry that we undertake activities in these key areas to help advance the use of plastic pipes and fittings as a smart, efficient, and sustainable solution.

“It’s especially important at a time when too often the perception of plastics is more negative than positive, despite the important role they play in our everyday lives.”

With the increased focus on reducing environmental footprint and transitioning from a lineal to a circular economy, plastic pipes have many advantages over alternative materials and are increasingly becoming the preferred material of choice to replace and upgrade pipes throughout the world.

One of the messages from PIPA’s awareness campaign – “That’s using plastic for good”.

Aligning with the key principles of a circular economy, plastic pipes are designed to minimise waste and pollution, to be kept in use for a long time and can be repaired and recycled.

“One of the important features of plastic pipes is their design life - they are intended and designed to last a very long time,” Bray said.

Bray said in typical environmental conditions, plastics materials are well known to last in excess of 100 years. However, plastic pipes remain functional without requiring excess maintenance or repair when used and installed correctly in normal operation over its design lifetime.

Plastic pipes that are buried infrastructure will likely never be dug up even at the end of their long service life.

“Instead, they will likely become a host for a new plastic pipe through trenchless installation, saving huge amounts of energy, resources, significantly reducing the impact to the environment.” Bray said.

Differentiating plastic pipe systems from other plastics

Plastic pipes are a smart, efficient and sustainable solution.

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One of the key focus areas for PIPA is to educate on the differences between plastic pipes and fittings to other plastics, like single use.

“Not all plastics are the same and too often plastics pipe systems are mistakenly put in the same category as single use plastics,” Bray said.

“As an industry that converts large volumes of virgin material into long-life products that play a critical role in our homes and communities, it's important that we educate on this across a wide range of audiences. As the fast majority are all installed underground – generally people don’t think about them.”

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

To help further educate on the positive use of plastics PIPA has recently launched a digital campaign - That’s using plastic for good.

It differentiates plastic pipes from single use plastic, highlighting the essential role they play.

It’s an awareness campaign, targeted to those outside of the industry – differentiating plastic pipes from single use plastic and highlighting the essential role they play in our everyday lives.

PIPA has also partnered up with Cool.org, a company that brings real-world learning into classrooms, and providing free lesson plans that are mapped to relevant year levels and the Australian curriculum. The lessons are centred around environmental, social, and economic sustainability topics.

The lessons developed are designed for Grade 5 to 6 students in the subject of design and technology – focusing on circularity and the good use of plastic. They cover topics such as how pipes are used in everyday lives, circular economy principals and how they apply to plastic pipes, design-thinking, suitability of pipe materials, recycling, and material efficiency.

Industry guidelines PIPA’s technical guidelines and notes provide further information for industry on relevant topics.

These are accessible on the PIPA website and are developed in collaboration with members, industry professionals and global counterparts.

An example is the recent revision of technical guideline POP003: Butt Fusion Jointing of PE Pipes and Fittings – Recommended Parameters and Practices, which focuses on the importance of correct welding and installation of PE pipes to

PE PIPELINES

ensure long service life critical for the pipeline infrastructure.

The first section of the document discusses the recommended parameters and jointing procedures as specified in ISO 21307 Plastic pipes and fittings – Butt Fusion Jointing Procedures for Polyethylene (PE) Pipes and Fittings Used in Construction of Gas and Water Distribution Systems.

This includes the consideration required for the materials and components used, fusion jointing procedure and equipment and the quality assessment of the completed joint.

The second section focuses on best practice for butt fusion jointing.

It provides guidance by identifying the key aspects that should be considered when butt fusing PE pipe and fittings including equipment, operator competence, quality assurance plan, transport, handling and storage, pre-welding inspection, prequalification and pilot welds, fusion parameters, site records, testing and other factors.

“In this new revision of POP003 not only are we providing end users recommended parameters and practices when it comes to butt welding, we have also provided some guidance for procurement and asset owners highlighting

the importance of the competency level of the welder for critical assets,” Bray said.

“It’s important for all welding supervisors and operators to be qualified and regularly recertified by a suitable registered training organisation.

This can be assisted by specifying minimum competency level requirements in quotes and tenders.”

The use of recycled materials in plastic pipes With the increased focus on recovering and recycling of materials PIPA has also published a discussion paper on the Use of Recycled Materials in Plastic Pipes.

The paper discusses key points emphasising on the sustainability advantages offered by plastic pipes due to their long service life, how plastic pipes are an engineered product and different from other plastic materials.

It educates on how plastic pipes support the circular economy, with exceptional service life and how most plastic pipes are still in their first life cycle. It also discusses the integrity of our plastic pipeline infrastructure and how its protected by Australian and International Standards, as they specify the properties plastic pipes must have to ensure long lasting durability.

Complementing the release of the discussion paper was Technical Guideline POP208 Specification and Testing Guidelines for recycled materials suitable for non-pressure plastic pipe applications. This guideline focuses on the material properties defining the specification and testing requirements for recycled postconsumer material.

“It’s critical for pipes manufactured with recycled content must conform to the relevant Australia Product Standards, just as pipes manufactured from virgin materials do,” Bray said.

“This is particularly important in infrastructure applications where reliable performance and long service life are primary considerations. Plastic pipes must be fit for purpose, regardless of their composition.”

There is already now capacity to increase the use of recycled material across a range of nonpressure pipe products when suitable waste stream volumes become available – the industry already has the solution.

“By using resources responsibly through better design, we’re working smarter,” Bray said.

“We’re committed and we’re working towards creating a healthier environment and sustainable future.”

For more information visit www.pipa.com.au

POP003: Butt Fusion Jointing of PE Pipes and Fittings – Recommended Parameters and Practices focuses on the importance of correct welding and installation of PE pipes to ensure long service life critical for the pipeline infrastructure.

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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APGA MEMBERSHIP

Australian Pipelines and Gas Association Membership CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR Maxibor Australia Moody Civil & Pipe Pty Ltd National Australian Pipelines Pipeline Plant Hire Pty Ltd HH Civil Pty Ltd P and G Welding Pty Ltd Pipecraft The Newham Group Steel Diamond Alltype Engineering Altrad Services Pty Ltd Global Engineering & Construction Pty Ltd Michels Corporation Mitchell Water Australia Pty Ltd Service Stream McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd MPC Kinetic Nacap Pty Ltd Quanta Services Australia Pty Ltd Spiecapag Australia Pty Ltd Enscope Pty Ltd CONSULTANT Energy Matrix Group Pty Ltd Jiva Consulting JLL Infrastructure Advisory Pty Ltd Plant & Platform Consultants Ltd Sustech Engineering Pty Ltd Veris Australasian Corrosion Consultants Pty Ltd DNV GL Australia Pty Limited EnergyQuest Pty Ltd Fortin Pipelines Future-Proof Solutions Land Access & Management Services Pty Ltd MVC Services Pty Ltd OC Project Services Pty Ltd Pipeline Engineering Consultants Powered Sage Consulting Solutions Pty Ltd Ted Metcalfe Independent Consultant Twycross and Partners Pty Ltd ACIL Allen Consulting CNC Project Management ENERGY DISTRIBUTOR ATCO Gas Australia Powerco Limited ENGINEERING/PROJECT MANAGER Atteris Pty Ltd Core Group Limited Lidiar Group Long Energy and Resources (Aust.) Pty Ltd

Tasmanian Gas Pipeline Pty Ltd Mobil New Zealand Oil Limited Mobil Oil Australia Pty Ltd

Pipeline Drillers Group SPIE Plexal A J Stack Solutions Pty Ltd AFS Projects Auscor Pty Ltd Bamser Holdings Pty Ltd Solarig Australia Pty Ltd Vaughan Civil Pty Ltd Fyfe GHD Pty Ltd GPA Engineering Pty Ltd Momentum Engineering Verbrec Ltd (ASX: VBC) Worley Services Pty Ltd GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS/ REGULATORS Department of Planning and Environment NSW Resources Safety and Health Queensland Department for Energy and Mining Energy Safe Victoria INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Pipeline Research Council International, Inc PIPELINE OWNER/OPERATOR Ampol Australia Petroleum Pty Ltd GB Energy Methanex NZ Ltd Qenos Pty Ltd Refining NZ Brookfield Infrastructure Group Esperance Pipeline Company PowerGas Limited WestSide Corporation AusNet Services Australian Energy Market Operator Arrow Energy Pty Ltd Beach Energy Limited First Gas Ltd Fortescue Future Industries Pty Ltd Origin Energy Limited Power and Water Corporation Santos South Australian Water Corporation Tas Gas Holdings Pty Ltd Vector Limited Viva Energy Australia Ltd Woodside Energy Ltd Esso Australia Pty Ltd QGC APA Group Australian Gas Infrastructure Group Epic Energy SA Pty Ltd Jemena SEA Gas

APGA New Membership Approvals CORPORATE MEMBERS

Engineering/Project Manager Vaughan Civil Pty Ltd - Francesca Beardsmore - CMBR Auscor Pty Ltd - Ryan Graham - CMBR

SERVICE PROVIDER Avmin Pty Ltd Bureau Veritas Asset Integrity and Reliability Services Pty Ltd Civil Geospatial Services Pty Ltd Corrosion Control Engineering (Holdings) Pty Limited DSQ Pty Ltd ERIAS Group Pty Ltd Lochard Energy (Iona Operations) Pty Ltd NDT Global Pty Ltd Pipe Tek Pty Ltd Pro Pipe Services Pty Ltd Scape Consulting Pty Ltd Viega Pty Ltd Atlas Copco Rental Oceania AXS Pty Ltd Brownline Australia Pty Ltd Deaton Enterprises Pty Ltd trading as CST Hire IntelliGas Peter Norman Personnel Pty Ltd Piping Specialty Supply Service Pty Ltd Prime Creative Media Project Communications Australia QIC Protective Coatings (Aust) Pty Ltd Red Rock Oilfield Services Rogers Energy Services T D Williamson Australia Pty Ltd Turbo Systems Australia Pty Ltd WRAP Resources Australia LandPartners Pty Ltd Mipela GeoSolutions Oceaneering Australia Pty Limited ORIX Commercial ROSEN Australia Pty Ltd TFG Group Pty Ltd Baker Hughes Brooks Hire Service Pty Ltd Downer EDI Engineering Power Pty Ltd ITI International Picarro, Inc Qube Energy Pty Ltd SRG Global STATS Group Vertech Group Pty Ltd Wasco Energy Group Zinfra SUPPLIER OF EQUIPMENT OR MATERIALS Aegis Pty Ltd Anode Engineering Pty Ltd

Supplier of Equipment or Materials Pacific Valve Tech & Engineering Pty Ltd - Anubhav Anand - CMBR Techrite Controls Pty Ltd - Anubhav Anand - CMB FPK (FERRET INDUSTRIES) - Greg Weir - CMBR Service Provider Vertech Group Pty Ltd - Craig Davies - CMP

Adviser/Consultant Fortin Pipelines - JP Fortin - CMBR

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Aquip Systems Denso (Australia) Pty Ltd Heath Pipeline Services Pty Ltd Inductabend Pty Ltd Jindal Saw Limited LFF Australia PAC Pipeline Supplies Australia PipeServ Scapeworks Australia Techrite Controls Pty Ltd TRACTO-TECHNIK Australia Pty Ltd Western Process Controls Anti Corrosion Technology Pty Ltd AtlasGas Pty Ltd Austrack Equipment Sales and Rentals Australian Pipeline Valve Bao Australia Pty Ltd Delnorth Pty Ltd Fast Fusion, LLC FPK (FERRET INDUSTRIES) iPipe Services McElroy Australia Pacific Valve Tech & Engineering Pty Ltd Pipeline Equipment Rentals Pipeline Machinery International LP PSAH Pty Ltd RazValve Pacific RTi Asia Pacific PTY LTD Savcor Products Australia Pty Ltd Shawcor Pty Ltd Tapex Industrial Tremco Pipeline Equipment Pty Ltd Universal Corrosion Coatings Pty Ltd Vacuworx Australia Vlentec Australia Pty Ltd EagleBurgmann Australasia Pty Ltd GF Piping Systems Laurini Officine Meccaniche Srl Ozzies, Inc. Richmond SICK Pty Ltd Vinidex Pty Ltd Worldwide Group CRC-Evans Pipeline International EDMI Pty Ltd Gasco Pty Ltd Herrenknecht AG Iplex Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd Lincoln Electric Company (Australia) Pty Ltd Man Industries India Ltd RDO Equipment Pty Ltd Welspun Corp Limited Australian Portable Camps Solar Turbines Australia Future Fuels CRC

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

APGA MEMBERSHIP

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

APA Group Australian Gas Infrastructure Group

• •

Epic Energy SA Pty Ltd Jemena

• •

SEA Gas Tasmanian Gas Pipeline Pty Ltd

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

• • • • •

Australian Portable Camps Esso Australia Pty Ltd McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd MPC Kinetic Nacap Pty Ltd

QGC Quanta Services Australia Pty Ltd Solar Turbines Australia Spiecapag Australia Pty Ltd Worley Services Pty Ltd

Honorary Life Members • • • • • •

• • • • • •

Ken Barker David Curry Keith Fitzgerald* D C Gore* Robert Gration Max Kimber

• • •

Andy Lukas Tony Marletta Mick McCormack Stuart McDonald Jim McDonald* Allan Newham

Stephen Ohl Mark Twycross Phil Venton *deceased

Individual Members • • • • • • • •

Dean Barker John Blain Bevan Boocock Grant Bowley Stephen Callaghan Ken Cameron Chris Carter Mark Cooper

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

John Millett Mick Murphy Trevor Nichols John Piper David Pollock Brett Reay Shaun Smith Ian Spence

• •

Jasper Tieland Andrew Wood

•

Chris Harvey Justine Hyams Jeff Jones Ashley Kellett Steven Liddell Cameron MacDiarmid James McMahon

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Geoff Harrison Chris Hewson Ian Israelsohn Linda Johnson Hugo Kuhn Trent Leach David Levy Stephen Livens Nicole Lowndes Paul May Donna McDowall John Messent Stephen Mudge Matthew O'Connell

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Wendy Oldham Brian O'Sullivan Neil Parry Tawake Rakai Ben Rees Darren Rogers Josh Row Craig Sheather James Smith Colin Symonds Soheil Taherian Warwick Tidswell Andrew Tsitas John Walsh

• • • • •

Sean Ward Louise Watson Rob Wheals Paul Williamson Michael Xanthopoulos

Geoff Cope John de Robillard Daniel De Vere Amy Farrugia Gretchen Gagel Chris Gatehouse Lynndon Harnell Mark Harris

• • • • • •

Edwin De Prinse Mark Dragar Yuyu Fang Daniel Faulkner Matt Felvus Sean Fleming Nick Flint Tom Forde Mark Fothergill Paul Frederick Tess Gardener Jarrod Gilby Calvin Gordon Peter Hanily

Employee Members • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Michelle Andersen Eric Bardy Geoff Barton Lauren Beynon Rick Boreham Andrew Bourke Liz Brierley Peter Bucki Francis Carroll Philip Colvin Vera Corso Anne-Maree Corson Craig de Laine

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

57

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

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

ROB WILTSHIRE – GENERAL MANAGER, CLIENT RELATIONS – GLOBAL ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION Rob Wiltshire has joined Global Engineering and Construction as General Manager – Client Relations, where he will focus on the forward company strategy, business development and work winning.

First entering the pipeline industry almost 20 years ago, Wiltshire has gained experience from working at companies such as AJ Lucas, MPK and

Spiecapag. He also spent a decade in directional drilling and CSG. Global Engineering and Construction is a leading provider of pipelines and facilities construction across the oil, gas, and energy sectors.

When asked about the new move, Wiltshire said it was an opportunity he couldn’t turn down.

“Global has been a tough competitor for many years, I always admired their resilience and ability to deliver in really challenging environments,” he said.

“After their recent restructure, when the opportunity came up to help them grow, I could not turn it down.”

BEN HAYES – ASIA PACIFIC AREA SALES MANAGER – HERRENKNECHT Ben Hayes has started a new role as Herrenknecht Area Sales Manager and Head of Sales for Asia Pacific.

The company is known for manufacturing large-diameter tunnel boring machines (TBMs), but also focuses on smaller-diameter trenchless installations with its pipejacking and horizontal directional drilling equipment (HDD).

Hayes, a degree qualified Civil Engineer

who first joined the sales team in Thailand 13 years ago, will manage the sales team for the Asia Pacific area, from India to New Zealand, for its Business Unit Utility Tunnelling.

“The product lines I will be responsible for are small diameter TBMs, microtunnelling equipment, HDD equipment, shaft sinking equipment and some specialised pipeline installation products known as Direct Pipe and E-Power Pipe, as well as supporting

all Herrenknecht group brands where I can,” Hayes said.

He said he’s looking forward to steering the longterm strategy.

“Identifying trends and opportunities for equipment we can already offer, or equipment we should be considering developing, will be a key part of my new role."

NIGEL DOBIER – GENERAL MANAGER SALES – VERMEER AUSTRALIA Vermeer Australia has welcomed Nigel Dobier as its new General Manager Sales.

Dobier’s new role as General Manager Sales at Vermeer Australia will see him oversee the entire sales team based along the eastern seaboard from Adelaide through to Townsville in and many places in between.

With a goal to work closely with his Sales Managers and the greater sales

team, he wants to ensure Vermeer’s customer base is getting the best of it as a company, the best equipment and support.

“It also entails bringing new Vermeer products to the Australian market and ensuring the entire Australian trenchless industry are aware of the latest and greatest equipment available to them to ensure uptime on site and more pipe is going in the ground per day,” Dobier said.

Having been with Vermeer Australia for 14 years, Dobier has worked in most parts of the business, primarily in Queensland and New South Wales.

“Be prepared to learn and never stop learning,” he said. “The technology advancement in this industry is extremely fast paced and you will never know everything there is to know."

If your company has recently employed a new person within your business you would like profiled in ‘People on the Move’, send details of the career news alongside a high-res photo to Editor Clemence Carayol at clemence.carayol@primecreative.com.au

58

The Australian Pipeliner | November 2023

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