SUBSEA UK NEWS THE MAGAZINE FROM SUBSEA UK WWW.SUBSEAUK.COM DECEMBER 2013
IN THIS ISSUE Subsea News and Events Worldwide In-depth: A Closer Look at Subsea Expo, Statoil and UniversalPegasus New Technology and Innovation Subsea UK Board Election Results
The UK is a global leader in subsea with 45% of the global market, valued at £8.9billion and set to grow to £11.1billion by 2016.
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FOREWORD
STRENGTH IN DEPTH The end of the year is a natural time for reflection; what we have done well, what we could improve and what we hope the next year will bring us. That is no different at Subsea UK. 2013 has been a highly successful 12 months, beginning with our most successful conference and exhibition to date, attended by 140 exhibitors and 4,000 delegates from across the globe. In June, we launched our training and skills initiative Subsea Target, which aims to help the industry recruit and develop the thousands of people it needs to maintain the sector’s world-leading edge. At the start of July, we unveiled the findings of our latest Business Activity Report which showed that the UK subsea industry was now worth £8.9 billion, dominating the worldwide stage with 45% of the £20 billion global market. The report, which surveyed 750 companies across the supply chain, also highlighted that 16,000 new jobs had been created in the sector since 2010 bringing the total number of jobs supported by the subsea industry to 66,000. So as we look ahead to 2014, what can we expect from an ever-changing industry and what are the challenges and opportunities our members might meet? Almost half of the respondents to our report stated that they anticipated growth in excess of 20% over the next three years with 28% predicting to grow by 10%20%. If these forecasts are achieved, it means that the sector could potentially grow to £11.1 billion by 2016. Furthermore, with the remaining oil & gas reserves in the UKCS now being dependent upon subsea technologies for extraction, our industry looks to maintain its healthy growth well into the new year. 2014 will also herald the re-launch of our flagship exhibition and conference. Renamed Subsea Expo to reflect the importance of the event within the industry, we hope you will join us once again at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre from 5-7th February. For now however, we close the year with the news that our membership figures now stand at their highest figure ever; 292 members across the entire supply chain now subscribe to Subsea UK, representing almost 40% of the whole industry. As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we will continue to take the message of a strong British subsea industry into the next decade and beyond.
Subsea UK Subsea UK News, produced by Subsea UK, reaches over 15,000 subsea-affiliated people each issue. Subsea UK is the champion for the UK subsea industry. We act for the entire supply chain bringing together operators, contractors, suppliers and people in the industry. With some 53,000 employees, worth almost £8.9 billion in services and products and with over 750 companies, the UK subsea industry sector leads the world in experience, innovation and technology. The UK will maintain a leading technological edge by sustaining and expanding this important business sector. Whether you are a company looking to join and reap the benefits or an individual looking to develop your career in the subsea industry, explore our website or contact us to find out how Subsea UK can help you, your business and your industry. Find out more at www.subseauk.com
New Members • Aquasign • Boskalis Offshore Subsea Services (Europe) B.V. • Bumi Armada Berhad • Caiman Software Development • C-Tecnics • HSO Enterprise Solutions • INTECSEA (UK) • JETECH • LB Bentley • Monaco Engineering Solutions • MTCS Ltd
To view the full Subsea UK members list, visit the Subsea UK Directory at www.subseauk.com
Forthcoming Events December 2013
Lunch and Learn Opportunities in Mexico Aberdeen December 2013
February 2014
Neil Gordon
March 2014
UKTI Energy Showcase Brazil 28 March 2014
April 2014
Subsea Expo - Aberdeen 5-7 February 2014
Subsea UK Golf Day (Spring) - Peterculter, Aberdeenshire 25 April 2014
March 2014
June 2014
Subsea UK Pavilion at Subsea Tie Back Forum - USA 4-6 March 2014
Chief Executive, Subsea UK
• NorSea Group (UK) • OSBIT Power • Rocol • Salunda • Siemens Subsea Aberdeen • SPEX Group • Subsea Innovation • TETRA Offshore Services - EOT Cutting Inc • Trouvay & Cauvin • Wilkie Offshore • Wittenstein Motion Control
Subsea Asia 2014 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 11-13 June 2014
These are some of Subsea UK’s events but please visit our website for full details of all forthcoming events www.subseauk.com
The Australasian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference 19-21 February, 2014
In the past few years it has broken records and become Australia’s largest oil and gas exhibition, with over 500 exhibitors from 20 countries. AOG 2014 will see the merging of the AOG Conference and the Subsea Australasia Conference providing speakers and delegates an enhanced experience. If you are a member of the Oil and Gas Industry in Australia, AOG truly is a ‘must attend’ exhibition and conference. For more information, please visit www.aogexpo.com.au
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‘Artic Temperature’ Test Facility Opens The National Hyperbaric Centre of Aberdeen has recently invested in an ‘Environmental Testing Facility’ (ETF) as it continues to develop its Testing Department. The new, large environmental test laboratory has been installed to simulate conditions down to -25°C for the testing of offshore equipment, and in particular, subsea oilfield apparatus.
Testing Manager, Mike McDonald, said:
can be stored on deck in such conditions and therefore needs to be capable of withstanding them, and then functioning. “Typical subsea temperatures in the Arctic are around -2°C with a mixture of freshwater and sea water, but surface wind-chill adds to the complication of deploying any equipment, so testing with a good safety margin is sound engineering,” said Mike
“ Verifying that critical oilfield equipment can withstand extreme temperatures and still function safely and efficiently is an increasing requirement of many of our clients. The NHC is responding and has decided to invest and expand its capabilities, with even NHC has started its first ‘chilly’ project with technicians more investments on the horizon.” wearing full winter gear Even though deep ocean temperatures do not reach the extreme cold that the new ETF can simulate, the equipment
whilst working in the ‘freezer’ – even in the height of summer.
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CSL Marks a Year of Company Growth One year ago, the subsea engineering and project management specialist announced that it was embarking on a programme of significant expansion and development. A lot’s happened since then; the appointment of a new Managing Director, a strategic acquisition, tactical appointment of senior managers, and the strengthening of the company’s core project management and engineering capability. Managing Director, Sean Girvan took the reins at the end of 2012 to design and deliver a growth strategy to support the changing demands of the market, beginning with CSL’s acquisition of Project Excellence LLP, a specialist project and risk management consultancy provider, which now trades as CSL Project Excellence. Sean explains the significance of the acquisition: “CSL had built up a strong reputation over the years through successful project delivery. However, this acquisition has empowered us to offer an exceptional level of project management and technical consultancy to our clients, and to holistically manage complete projects rather than a solitary package of engineering. We believe that this capability distinguishes us in the market.” Just a month later, CSL re-structured two components of its integrated service offering to ensure greater clarity within the market. Its Construction Services division became CSL Subsea Support Services and its recruitment service, Nexus Energy Recruitment became CSL Resource. Sean recalls:
“ After just a few months our decisions were vindicated by a series of contract awards.” It was this increase in activity that culminated in CSL announcing in October this year that plans were underway to grow its engineering team to provide the expertise and scope to support its projects. The company is now actively recruiting for 30 engineers across a range of disciplines with scope to increase that further to meet work demand. “We saw this as an important step for our overall growth programme. It means that we have the in-house capability, skills and expertise to respond to new challenges and opportunities,” said Sean.
year in a newly-created post of Head of Engineering. This was just one in a series of senior appointments this year; Stephen Rolfe joined as Projects Manager to take a lead role in the development of the CSL Subsea Projects division; and Roddy Brown took on the role of Business Development and Acquisition Manager to support the sustainable growth of the company. Sean summarised his first year in the Managing Director’s chair:
“ Over the last 12 months CSL has really evolved, realigned its services and bolstered its project management and engineering capability. The foundations are in place for the international growth we’re aiming for next year, with recruitment underway to support the efforts from our Stavanger and Dubai offices. We’re responding to a constantly changing market, which brings new challenges and opportunities for 2014; and we certainly have the strength, capability, and flexibility to succeed in the year ahead.”
Above: Sean Girvan, Managing Director, CSL Below: Two engineers with an engineering recruiter
To lead the engineering team, George Stalker joined CSL in September this
Subsea UK News | December 2013
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Ashtead Technology Increases NDT Capabilities Leading international equipment solutions specialist Ashtead Technology has strengthened its Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) capabilities with substantial investment in the latest technology and the appointment of a new NDT specialist. The company recently invested in the latest OmniScan® MX2 P2 ultrasonic flaw detection instruments from Olympus to offer its customers increased testing efficiencies and powerful common analysis software. The OmniScan units supplement Ashtead Technology’s range of NDT inspection equipment, available to rent for the inspection of platforms, vessels, subsea assets and pipelines. Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM), Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI), Flooded Member Detection (FMD), Thickness Measurement and Cathodic Protection (CP) equipment is available to rent for both topside and subsea (diver and ROV) applications. In addition to its equipment rental capabilities, Ashtead Technology has also invested in purpose-built calibration labs in its Aberdeen and Singapore locations, offering the latest instrumentation for the
calibration and verification of a wide range of sensors and NDT equipment in accordance with equipment manufactures procedures. To oversee all aspects of its NDT services, Ashtead Technology has appointed Neil Harrap as NDT Market Manager. He will be based in the company’s London office and will assist customers with technical support and training before and during the rental period. Mr Harrap is a highly experienced NDT specialist and spent more than 31 years working in aerospace engineering with the Royal Air Force and Ministry of Defence, and more recently as an advanced specialist for a major equipment vendor. Mr Harrap said: “Ashtead Technology is well known for its equipment rental capabilities, and I am delighted that my NDT knowledge will be put to good use here. The company aims to give its customers a full service offering in all of its capabilities, and I look forward to working with our technology to give customers a full understanding of our equipment.”
Chief Executive Allan Pirie said:
“ Neil is a welcome addition to our team with his unparalleled experience in the sector. Coupled with the investment in new technology, his appointment will allow us to implement our NDT strategy effectively, maintaining our reputation as a market leader in the sector.”
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Hugh Davies, Director of Client Solutions at OMS
OMS Continues its Expansion Plans and Hits Record Heights in 2013 Pipe measurement specialist Optical Metrology Services (OMS) has had an extremely successful year. Recently OMS has successfully completed 26 separate pipe measurement projects for customers in just three months, achieving record sales revenues in this period. In addition, OMS continues to expand in the UK and USA. Hugh Davies, Director of Client Solutions at OMS comments: “This last Quarter has seen OMS operating at record levels and there doesn’t seem to be any signs of it slowing down. We are busier than ever and are currently working on five pipe measurement projects around the world.”
“ Investing in people and equipment is also at an alltime high. We’ve recruited six new staff in the UK since the beginning of 2013 and two additional staff in our Houston office in the USA. In the UK, we will shortly be expanding our existing office and production space to cope with this growth.”
Headquartered in Bishop’s Stortford, OMS has grown company sales revenues by at least 100% per year since 2006 – with around 90% of annual turnover from overseas customers. OMS specialises in providing measurement services and precision measurement systems to the oil and gas industry worldwide. A key focus for the company is in the dimensional measurement of oil and gas pipes or other similar structures where dimensions are critical. In the last 12 months, OMS has successfully completed pipe measurement, fit-up or internal weld inspection surveys for a number of high profile customers and projects, including Subsea 7 (StatOil and Clare Ridge), Chevron (Gorgon), Saipem (Jack & St Malo; Casterone pipe laying vessel), Serimax (Chess; Shell Gannet), McDermott (Gorgon), Bredero Shaw (Wheatstone), Hyundai Heavy Industries (Barzan), Oceaneering (Llano) and Socotherm (West Boreas).
Davies continues:
“ In order for the UK economy to climb out of recession, UK businesses need to be extraordinarily good at growth. The ones who will make a difference are not those that grow at 5% per year, but those that grow at rates nearer 100% per year. OMS is a shining example of a successful, UKbased, high growth SME that is exporting its services to every corner of the globe. For these reasons, we are also attracting high calibre people to come and work with us, who are keen to learn and to be trained and to take on further responsibilities.”
Subsea UK News | December 2013
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Reef Subsea Restructures for Growth Reef Subsea has taken the step to restructure its business into two divisions - one being a new division focused on integrated subsea projects and the second a restructure of the Dredging & Excavation division.
In the restructure, Reef Subsea Power & Umbilical and Reef Subsea Norway has merged to form the new division, Reef Subsea Integrated Projects, which will offer subsea installation, inspection and protection services to clients in the oil & gas and offshore renewables markets. The new division will be headed by new Managing Director, Arne Bengt Riple, who will be based out of Bergen, Norway. Mr Riple has considerable experience in the oil & gas and international shipping industry, working for Ulstein, TTS Norlift, and latterly at Aker Solutions as Vice President Subsea Services and Operations. His appointment is an important step in the successful merger of the subsea projects
businesses and his experience in both engineering and subsea will prove critical in leading the growth of Reef Subsea Integrated Projects.
MD, Arne Bengt Riple
The strategic restructure will ensure Reef Subsea Integrated Projects remains focused on existing and future customer needs to become even more competitive within its core markets. The merger will also allow better flexibility when it comes to sharing the exceptional pool of in-house engineering talent. Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation (RSDE), which is part of Reef Subsea’s group of companies, has been restructured to manage two defined regions, Americas Asia Pacific (AMAP), and Europe Middle East Africa (EMEA), with a new Middle East office based in Abu Dhabi. The EMEA will include Aberdeen, Mandal in Norway, Abu Dhabi and Canada, whilst the AMAP region will include the Singapore, Mexico and Houston offices. AMAP will be headed by Regional Director, Jason Miller, based in Houston, with Christian Aas, Regional Director, based in Mandal, heading the EMEA division. The restructure of the RSDE division will allow the division to retain its strong brand name, and strengthen the services it offers its worldwide operations.
NorSea Group Expands Service Offer to Four Scottish Ports NorSea Group (UK), the newly established UK wing of Norway’s leading supplier of base services and integrated logistics systems to the oil and gas industry, is continuing its programme of expansion on this side of the North Sea by now offering services at four Scottish ports – Scrabster, Aberdeen, Peterhead and Montrose. The company, which opened an office in Aberdeen this year to coincide with the appointment of Kim Christensen as its first UK General Manager, will offer a range of base, logistics, maritime and project management services to support drilling, production and subsea operations in the oil and gas
industry as well as the renewables and decommissioning sectors. NorSea Group’s first area of activity was Scrabster where it signed an agreement with the Scrabster Harbour Trust, which will see it bring in new business and develop Scotland’s most northerly mainland port as a one-stop supply base servicing the oil and gas industry. The Scrabster base is now being developed along the same lines as NorSea Group’s nine Norwegian supply bases. The bases, which stretch the length of Norway’s coast, each host between 40 and 60 companies which provide the full range of services, from warehouse and storage facilities to engineering, construction, lifting equipment and inspections, mechanical workshops and machining to waste handling and storage. NorSea Group (UK)’s activity at Aberdeen, Peterhead and Montrose will focus on providing a project and logistics contract management service, coordinating with existing companies in each harbour or port to provide a single point of contact for clients looking for a range of logistics and base services.
Kim Christensen, UK General Manager, NorSea Group
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
Mr Christensen said his role is to lead the company’s future developments in Scotland: “A big part of my focus will be to continue to build on the existing Scrabster relationships and to move work forward there. Our goal is to establish a base which will particularly benefit offshore operators and developments in the northern North Sea and to the west and east of Shetland.
“ Alongside that, we have been identifying new opportunities in the UKCS, particularly from North-east Scotland right up to Orkney and Shetland. That has led to the services which we are providing at Aberdeen, Peterhead and Montrose and we anticipate that we will continue to establish a presence in additional strategic ports over the course of the next few years.”
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Aubin Launches Integrity Management Products Offshore chemical engineering specialist Aubin recently launched a suite of integrity management products aimed at the subsea market to provide solutions to urgent challenges facing operators of aging offshore infrastructure, as well as permanent fixes. The range of integrity products has been designed to work at temperatures up to 120°C with tailored specific gravity selection to suit breach location. The solutions are delivered with an engineering partner and can be applied to pipe wall thicknesses of 10 millimetres and less. Paddy Collins, CEO of Aubin, said: “Many of the assets in the North Sea were built to last 25 years and are still producing well beyond their original lifespans. This inevitably brings with it integrity issues. Our range of products can help as part of operators’ integrity management strategies by providing permanent solutions, as well as quick temporary fixes, if there is a leak in flexible (and rigid) pipework by creating a seal around or within a breach.
“ We anticipate a growing need for this product line as offshore assets continue to go beyond their natural planned lives. Our technology will provide a wide breadth of services to operators, as it can be quickly deployed or used as a preventative measure.” The products include AXI-Cast, a sealant which is utilised in subsea repairs, along with AXI-Lokk and AXI-Gard, which are used
DiveCert
for corrosion mitigation and plugging. Aubin is able to precondition pipelines to then utilise its gel solutions, saving additional time and cost to operators. Isolation plug AXI-Lokk uses Aubin’s patented L-Gel technology. It was used for the first time earlier this year to help resolve one operator’s major integrity issue in the leg of a North Sea platform, by creating an internal pipework sealant on an asset in record time, enabling repair intervention following a serious breach in integrity. Since then, Aubin has worked with another operator to seal a breach in the external sheath of a riser in West Africa in an operation using a diver to apply AXI-Cast. The new integrity technology joins Aubin’s existing roster of subsea capabilities. Using its expertise in buoyancy gel operations, the company is currently engineering a diver-or-ROV operated subsea lifting system called LiquBuoy, which can also be deployed topside from a vessel for diver operations and lifting large sections of infrastructure.
Paddy Collins, CEO of Aubin
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Bibby Subsea Announces Deepest WROV and OBSROV Dives to Date Bibby Subsea, Bibby Offshore Singapore and Bibby Remote Intervention have recently carried out two of their deepest dives within days of one another.
Chris Tierney, Project Director, SETS
Subsea Experts, SETS, Delivers a 160% Increase in Turnover and 18 New Jobs Aberdeen based subsea project management and engineering company, SETS, has announced a 160% increase in turnover in its third year trading. The company, which specialises in project management within the oil and gas and the renewables sectors, has grown rapidly from £1.5 million turnover in 2012 to £4 million in 2013, resulting in the creation of 18 new jobs and taking total employment numbers to over 40. As a result, and in-line with its growth strategy, SETS recently announced the opening of its second Aberdeen office, the first of its projected expansions. The strategically located city centre site on Rubislaw Terrace will allow the business to better service client requirements and offer them the opportunity to access in-house facilities. This new office will accommodate specialist project teams on a project basis. Chris Tierney, Project Director, said:
“ I am very proud of the team for achieving such a fantastic result and continuing to grow the business. We have a strong work ethic and these latest financial results are testament to our passion and drive for our clients. This will be the driving force behind achieving our 2014 target, with our Aberdeen expansion pivotal to the future growth. We continue to strive to be pioneers in our industry, and this is part of our plan to deliver our clients’ objectives in the most efficient way.” Following the developments and success to date, SETS has set a projected turnover of £5 million for the year ahead.
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
Bibby Offshore Singapore were requested to mobilise a system that was not only capable of reaching and working at a depth of -1,000mtrs safely but also combining a short mobilisation time and small footprint. The SAAB Seaeye Lynx1145 system was mobilised on the Jaya Valiant in Singapore and the vessel sailed north of Malaysia to an area of deep water where the system was lowered to a depth of -1,200mtrs. This was the deepest dive carried out by the Singapore team and proved the reliability of the BRIL owned system and its partners, the Bibby Singapore crew. Recently, Bibby’s SMD Quasar 14 commenced mobilisation on the Cal Dive DSV Mystic Viking in Port Arthur, Louisiana. Upon completion of a successful mobilisation, the vessel set sail for sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico where the Quasar 14 completed a successful test dive to 2,330m (7,642.4’ or 1 mile 788 yards), this was only the third dive the system has done since new and the deepest dive ever recorded by a Bibby ROV to date.
Bibby Offshore Adds Construction Support Vessel to its Fleet Bibby Offshore has signed a charter agreement for construction support vessel (CSV), the Olympic ARES. The agreement with Olympic Shipping will begin from 1st April 2014 for 150 days with the option of a 60 day extension. Andrew Duncan, business & commercial director of Bibby Offshore said: “Adding to our fleet increases our offering to the IRM and construction market, which is an important growth area for the business. We have recently secured a number of major contracts in these areas and the Olympic ARES will be used to execute large and complex projects in the UKCS, Denmark and elsewhere in the North Sea, whilst offering our clients greater choice and availability.
“ The Olympic ARES is a superior vessel with excellent specifications, including a 250 tonne heave compensated crane for subsea use and 1,300m2 of clear back deck space.” Two ROVs will be installed onboard the construction support vessel by Bibby Remote Intervention (BRIL). The two 150 horse-power deep water Quasar ROVs will be installed in the purpose built ROV hangers onboard Q4 this year and Bibby Offshore and Olympic will jointly market the vessel up until the charter agreement begins on 1 April.
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Shetland a Growing Hub for Offshore Support Services Steve Gibson, General Manager - Energy for GAC UK, explains how the boom in offshore activity is putting the Shetland Islands on the global energy map.
The Clair Ridge second stage development, the largest subsea project of its kind in the North Sea, is now underway west of Shetland and has brought in a reported ÂŁ4.5 billion investment that, along with other major projects in the area, is changing the face of the offshore sector in the Shetland Islands. The search for heavy oil recovery under 1,000 feet, offshore wind projects and the laying of subsea cables has also opened up a wealth of opportunity for the subsea and seismic sectors in the area. GAC has been operating in the Shetlands Islands as a shipping, logistics and marine services provider for more than 25 years, giving us a first hand view of the growing demand for offshore support services from Shetland. Geographically, the Shetlands is particularly well placed for servicing industry operators across the North Sea and Norwegian Sea, and the marked increase in demand for services throughout this year gives a firm indication that the Shetlands is further cementing its status as a strategic hub for the offshore energy sector. In the past year alone, GAC Shetland has witnessed a 100% increase in vessel calls to the islands, from seismic and heavy-lift vessels right through to tankers, covering the complete project lifecycle. There has been investment in gas recovery plants at Sullom Voe, which gives
the region a greater stake across the supply chain, and the season for seismic surveying trade has lasted much longer than usual. Importantly, all these developments off Shetland give confidence that further, longer-term growth is on the cards. What’s more, given that projects in the region are in different stages of the production lifecycle, they will also require significant investment and specialist services for the construction, maintenance and decommissioning of rigs over the next 40 years. For this reason, the Port Authority has been developing further deep-water berths and facilities across Shetland to support the continued growth in demand for shipping and support services. With the increasingly high day-rates for offshore vessels and the corresponding need for operators and suppliers to control costs across the supply chain, the benefits of the proximity of the Shetland Islands to offshore assets is significant. At GAC, in light of the recent boom in activity in the region, we are also investing heavily in our own offering, including relocating to larger quayside facilities at Greenhead Base in the Shetland Islands’ capital and main port of Lerwick, while also covering all ports across the islands. Despite some challenges, the Shetlands is certainly making its mark on the global energy map, and will, in time, become just as important to Steve Gibson, General Manager the North Sea energy sector as its - Energy for GAC UK more established neighbours on the mainland in the UK and Norway.
FEATURE ARTICLE
Europe’s Largest Annual Subsea Exhibition and Conference Aberdeen AECC | 05-07 February 2014 Since it was first held in 2004, our annual exhibition and conference has grown to become known as one of the leading events in the international subsea calendar. From an initial 40 exhibitors and 200 visitors, 2013 saw our biggest event to date, hosting 140 exhibitors and almost 4,000 delegates. To reflect its importance within the sector - and to coincide with Subsea UK’s 10th anniversary - the event, which is expected to attract up to 5,000 visitors and 170 exhibitors next year, has been rebranded as Subsea Expo.
As we move into the second decade of our operations, it was an ideal opportunity to review our format to ensure it remains topical, relevant and fresh. Above all else, it was incumbent upon us to ensure that the event continues to attract a high calibre of speakers and delegates from around the world. The event, which will once again be held at the Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre, also boasts a new format, running over two and a half days as opposed to two as in previous years. The opening session on Wednesday 5th February will play host to a number of leading figures sharing their views on the industry, its
2004
First Susbea Exhibition & Conference
66,000 People Employed in the Industry
future, and its challenges. Meanwhile a brand new technology showcase running through Wednesday afternoon and Thursday will provide a forum for companies to present on new technology and innovations particularly in the areas of subsea fields of the future, subsea integrity management, subsea processing, deepwater construction, and control systems. Subsea Expo will close with a morning session on Friday 7th February focused around our Subsea Target initiative which was launched earlier this year with the aim of addressing the skills gap in the sector. Through Subsea UK’s “Grow Your Own Talent” initiative, subsea businesses keen to bolster their recruitment capability can develop the toolkit necessary for building maintaining a strong workforce which will ensure our industry remains a world-leader.
£9bn
Industry worth in 2013
2014
Largest Subsea Exhibition to date
We
CELEBRATING
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Getting Into Subsea
YEARS
We know that new and emerging territories are an area of interest for our members and to that end we are looking to help companies exploit these markets.
“Getting into Subsea” draws together service-leavers, graduates, school children and anyone else with an interest in pursuing a career in this dynamic industry. A study last year of our own members indicated that there was a shortfall of 10,000 workers and Subsea Target looks to work with job seekers and employers to stem that gap. Through our recent partnership with the skills, training and standards organisation OPITO, Subsea Expo will see a half day Energise Your Future event. The initiative brings together companies within the industry to showcase the breadth of careers on offer and the various entry routes available. Aimed specifically at schoolchildren, the interactive activities enable pupils to relate what they are learning in school to the world of work. A talented and enthusiastic workforce remains one of our key assets and Energising Your Future gives pupils the chance to see the range of opportunities within the industry, thereby making a lasting impression on their future career choices and ensuring our industry remains buoyant into the decades ahead.
Through our continued partnership with UKTI, members will be able to hear the latest about global opportunities on Wednesday afternoon and undertake one-to-one appointments on Thursday 6th February. With visitors on inward missions from key markets such as Brazil, Australia and West Africa, those looking to expand their business horizons will be fully supported. Now worth almost £9 billion and employing around 60,000 people, the UK sector continues to lead the way around the world thanks to its experience, expertise, technology and skills. We will continue to develop the strong reputation we have established over the previous decade, and will set the agenda for the future direction of the industry.
look forward to welcoming you to Subsea Expo in February, 2014
5,000+
visitors expected at Subsea Expo
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The Underwater Centre Invests in New Barges to Meet Needs of Industry Fort William-based subsea training and trials facility, The Underwater Centre, has made a significant investment in two new barges to meet the demand for its commercial diving and ROV Pilot Technician training courses. The Centre took delivery of the two new vessels, the renamed Loch Sunart and Loch Scavaig, in October after purchasing them from Western Ferries (Clyde) Limited.
the needs and determine the level of training required. Industry is also contributing significant help in terms of the equipment required and the development of the syllabus.
One of the barges will be fitted out with two work-class ROVs (WROV) and supporting ROV launch and recovery systems (LARS) and used for work-class ROV training – providing realistic training for students to learn how to launch work-class ROVs from a vessel.
The other vessel will be used for the development of diver training and subsea technology trials.
The Centre is embarking on developing its ROV training next year to provide students with the opportunity to train with work-class ROV systems, given that the majority will go on to work with these when they enter industry. Students will benefit from having hands on experience with the three WROVs.
The investment in the new barges comes after the Centre has just announced an increase in the number of students through its doors, with even more projected by the end 2013. As General Manager Steve Ham explains, the Centre is aiming to up its capabilities to cope with the demand of the very buoyant energy sector and also develop its courses to meet the requirements of industry.
The Underwater Centre is working closely with industry to establish
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
“This is a great example of The Underwater Centre and the rest of industry working together to deliver a clear need in the market place,” Steve said.
“ We have put a considerable investment in these new barges because we realise the importance of giving our students the best, most up to date facilities which offer training in a contextual environment.” On a recent visit to the Centre, the Scottish Government’s Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism, Fergus Ewing, was able to see first-hand the work-class ROVs and two new barges. He said: “What struck me is The Underwater Centre’s engagement in working closely with industry to invest in making young people their business and allowing them the opportunity to fulfil their potential, with specifically designed training required to support the subsea industry.”
BUSINESS
EOT Cutting Tools Mobilising for North Sea Work EOT Cutting Tools, a TETRA Technologies company, is now mobilising equipment from facilities in Aberdeen and Lowestoft, UK, for work throughout the North Sea. Diamond wire cutting tools ranging from 152 – 1,524mm, specialised topside diamond wire cutting systems, and core drilling services up to 254mm in diameter are all available.
Diamond Wire Demo: Shown here in a demo, EOT Cutting Tools’ diamond wire cutting systems can work topside and subsea on all steel and concrete structures. Diamond Wire Close Up: Utilising specially made diamond embedded cutting wire, EOT can perform a broad range of topside and subsea cutting.
With these tools, EOT offers North Sea operators an experienced team and state-ofthe-art equipment for IRM and decommissioning work, including planning and engineering, as well as topside and subsea cutting, facility removals, well sectioning, drilling and pinning.
EOT’s diamond wire cutting system is recommended for cutting steel and concrete structures, both topside and subsea. Subsea operations are remotely controlled topside and monitored via a saw-mounted camera. When needed, subsea saws can also be adapted for use with a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). EOT’s dual-drill and mag-drill systems are recommended for boring or drilling of all tubulars and plate steel, including multiple strings of grouted casing. Like diamond wire, these systems can be used topside or subsea. Subsea operations are remotely controlled from the surface and monitored via a drill-mounted camera. EOT specialises in cold cutting services, with more than 15,000 successful cuts completed.
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BUSINESS
Major Milestone in the Greater Area Stella Development Achieved Costain Upstream’s project management and development engineering specialist EPC Offshore (EPC) has successfully marked a major milestone in Ithaca Energy’s Greater Area Stella development with the load out of the subsea structures completed on time and within budget. The Stella drill centre manifolds, riser base structures and export pipeline tie in structures have all been built at Isleburn’s facilities in Ross Shire, Scotland. The sail-away marked the end of 12 months of intensive onshore fabrication activity. The structures are a key part of delivery and installation of the subsea infrastructure for Stella, with the overall subsea works being worth over £200millon (GBP) including the Technip UK Limited EPIC contract. EPC is managing the structures fabrication workscope as part of Ithaca’s integrated project team. The largest structure built as part of the contract, the main drill centre manifold, weighs in at over 300 metric tonnes. Keith Wallace, head of the new Costain Upstream division said: “We are delighted to have been working with Ithaca from very early on in this project. Our approach of package managing the structures has allowed Ithaca to free issue the equipment to the subsea installation contractor whilst maintaining close control over the engineering, build quality and delivery schedule of these production critical components.
“ The successful load out of these structures represents a very visible milestone in the Stella timeline and we are pleased to have managed this element of the field development on time, within budget and to the client’s satisfaction.” The Greater Area Stella fields lie in the prolific Central Graben area of the UK North Sea. The production hub that is being constructed will have the capability to develop the Stella, Harrier and Hurricane fields with subsea wells tied back to the “FPF-1” floating production facility. Mike Travis, Ithaca’s Greater Stella Area Asset Manager said:
“ Stella is a very significant project for Ithaca. Together EPC and Isleburn have done an outstanding job in delivering the subsea structures on time and within budget against a very tight schedule and to the highest quality. I would like to thank everyone involved for their work on the project so far.”
left to right, Keith Wallace MD Costain Upstream, Peter Kirkbride MD EPC Offshore and the Stella Main Drill Centre manifold in the background.
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
BUSINESS
Ocean Installer Builds Further Track Record in the UK Ocean Installer recently completed an umbilical installation project for Talisman Sinopec Energy UK. The successful project adds to the company’s growing track record and further strengthens its position in Aberdeen. The scope of work for the Arkwright project was to install a new 11.5km umbilical between the Arbroath platform and the Arkwright subsea manifold. This included pre-lay engineering, route verification, and umbilical installation. Engineering and project
management took place at Ocean Installer’s Aberdeen office and the LCSV Normand Mermaid was utilised for the offshore campaign. The job was successfully completed on schedule and both Ocean Installer and Talisman Sinopec Energy UK were satisfied with the execution of the project. The Arkwright field is a subsea development produced via two production wells that tie into the Arkwright subsea manifold. The manifold is located approximately 10.5 km south east of the Arbroath production platform in Block 22/17 of the UK sector of the North Sea. The Arbroath platform is at a water depth of 92.7 m (304 ft) and is located approximately 210 km east of Aberdeen.
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FEATURE ARTICLE
UniversalPegasus International Secures Significant Deepwater Contract from ENI Alongside Workforce Expansion 2013 has proven to be a successful year for UniversalPegasus International (UPI, also known as Pegasus International UK Ltd). Having enjoyed nearly 100% growth since the start of the year thanks to a number of high profile contracts, the project management, engineering and asset integrity firm is now looking at consolidating this growth in the following months. Gavin Stevenson, Managing Director at UniversalPegasus International in Aberdeen said: “Our long-term focus is centred on growth in key discipline areas including; asset integrity, subsea engineering, project management support, installation engineering and process/flow assurance.
“ We are now dealing with many ageing assets in the UKCS and our expertise in brownfield engineering puts UPI in a strong position to address the demand to support and maintain this infrastructure.” UPI, employing 1,500 people across the world, will also look at continued growth in the provision of installation engineering and project management support to DSV and installation contractors as well as smaller independent operators, utilising the company’s 50 year engineering heritage.
Growth of almost
100% in 2013
Meanwhile, capitalising on the growing international subsea market, particularly in India and East Africa, is another key focus for the business. “The majority of North Sea developments are an order of magnitude smaller in comparison to the international projects we are
supporting and it is vital for us to turn our attention further afield,” said Mr Stevenson. “We have recently signed a number of long-term international frame agreements to provide services including deepwater concept and FEED support globally with new clients and we will look to develop this moving forward.” One of this year’s key contracts sees UPI partnering with Italian oil & gas operator ENI on a deepwater gas development project. With the subsea sector increasingly moving into deepwater territories, this business area is seen as critical to UPI’s longer term growth as well as being a primary area for investment both in expertise and local partnerships. The scale of the deepwater projects awarded are not only larger than a typical North Sea development but given they are high profile, it is anticipated that a high calibre of engineering personnel will be attracted to both the company and to Aberdeen. Such long term global projects coupled with a healthy stream of existing work means that the Aberdeen division of UPI has the opportunity to continue its expansion. Moreover, the contract wins once again demonstrate that the region has the knowledge, expertise and capability to deliver projects on a truly global scale. With expansion and new business comes the need for continued investment in people and this is an area that UPI was quick to address. “In order to meet demand, we have hired 20 additional engineers across a range of disciplines through a strategic recruitment drive,” says Mr Stevenson.
FEATURE ARTICLE
“ We appointed a dedicated recruitment resource alongside external agencies and allocated a significant amount of senior management’s time to supporting our effort. Above all else, we had to ‘sell’ the company and our vision to ensure that we attracted the very best people for the job.”
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engineers hired across a range of disciplines to meet demand
However, UPI encountered similar staffing issues that many in the sector have experienced due to the on-going skills shortage. “Deepwater development expertise was particularly hard to find and in these instances we utilise our sister company’s expertise in Houston to support these projects,” says Mr Stevenson. “The Aberdeen market seems to be very focused on brownfield support and this could be a concern for supporting future deepwater projects. For Aberdeen to maintain and grow our global subsea market share we must embrace the challenge of the deepwater developments.”
Gavin Stevenson, Managing Director at UniversalPegasus International in Aberdeen
> ASSET INTEGRITY > SUBSEA ENGINEERING & DESIGN > PROCESS & FLOW ASSURANCE > INSTALLATION ENGINEERING > PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
growingUPstream UniversalPegasus International (UPI) is an independent engineering consultancy servicing the upstream oil and gas industry.
With a growing international portfolio and a proven track record in deepwater developments we believe the key to our success is based on our knowledge, expertise and capability to deliver large scale global projects. With 1,500 people we offer our clients a unique world-class operation delivering complex engineering and design solutions.
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BUSINESS
Hallin SOV Windermere Mobilised for Malaysian Floating Production System Hallin Marine has announced that its Windermere subsea operations vessel and two deepwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) are on duty in the Gumusut-Kakap deep water oil and gas field off Sabah, Malaysia.
“ This contract was won on the basis of our ability to deliver a complete support-service package backed by our experience in deep water operations,” comments Hallin’s Director, Service Delivery, Phil Chamberlain. “Our role has been to provide ROV survey services and support for the installation of offshore pipelines, risers and facilities over a six month period scheduled to complete in October. We performed pre-installation underwater surveys utilising two work class ROV systems before tie-ins to the floating production system.” The Gumusut-Kakap field is located 120 kilometres offshore at depths of up to 1,200 metres. With estimated recoverable reserves of between 300 and 500 million BOE, it is of significant importance to the Malaysian energy industry. Hallin’s SOV Windermere is equipped for inspection, repair and maintenance as well as remotely operated vehicle support. The 80 x 20 metre vessel is capable of accommodating 120 personnel and incorporates a helicopter landing deck; a 50 tonne SWL knuckleboom subsea crane, active heave compensated (40 tonne SWL); a 15-man saturation diving system with a throughmoonpool three-man diving bell.
Subsea UK News | December 2013
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BUSINESS
Ceona Amazon Keel-laying Celebrated at CRIST S.A. The keel-laying ceremony for Ceona’s multi-function rigid and flexible pipelay and construction vessel, the Ceona Amazon, has taken place at Polish yard CRIST S.A. In August, representatives from Ceona, CRIST S.A. and shipbuilders Lloyd Werft gathered at the yard in Gdynia to mark the milestone, which was reached on schedule. Silver coins were presented to commemorate the occasion, and tradition was observed with several of the coins being laid under the keel block to bring luck to the ship. Hull fabrication will take place at the yard before the Ceona Amazon is sailed to Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven for outfitting. When completed, the vessel will be 199.4m long and 32.2m wide, drawing 8.0m with a gross tonnage of 33,000te. The pipelay system, built by Huisman, will feature an inclinable lay spread with a top tension of 570te and a rigid firing line system. With capacity to carry 9,000 tonnes of pipe, the Ceona Amazon will be equipped to lay rigid and flexible pipelines and umbilicals, and to install subsea structures using one or both of its 400te subsea cranes, also built by Huisman. It will execute complex logistical projects in remote and harsh environments.
Stuart Cameron, Ceona’s chief operating officer, who was at the ceremony, comments:
“ This is a major achievement for Ceona: a milestone in the construction of our first owned, new-build vessel and in the history of our company. With the keel block of our flagship vessel laid, and work progressing on another high-capacity pipelay vessel, the Polar Onyx, Ceona is strengthening its position in the SURF market.” The Ceona Amazon will be delivered to Ceona in October 2014 and ready for service in January 2015.
Main image: Artist’s impression of vessel
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
BUSINESS
New Projects Lead to Subsea Innovation Securing Turnover of £10m for 2013 Subsea Innovation, one of the world’s leading subsea equipment suppliers, has announced it has secured a number of new contracts that will see it reach its 2013 turnover target of £10m. The Darlington based company has secured a number of lucrative projects in the oil & gas sector that have contributed to its growing figures. Subsea Innovation, which has racked up over 25 years’ experience in the offshore industry under its former name, Tekmar Subsea Ltd, currently employs 44 people at its Darlington headquarters and manufacturing facility, this announcement follows on from the company achieving a turnover of £7.4m in 2012. Much of the success can be attributed to a significant increase in orders of its Launch & Recovery Systems (LARS). These systems are used in the deployment of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) into subsea environments all over the world. Recent orders have seen the LARS being used in locations including Australia, Brazil, China and Norway.
During 2013 Subsea Innovation will complete manufacture of over 20 LARS, which more than doubles its best previous year and will take the company past a total of 100 fabricated systems. To accompany the LARS, Subsea Innovation has also designed and manufactured numerous Tether Management Systems (TMS). The TMS is deployed together with the ROV and provides power, hydraulics and communications with the vessel enabling the ROV to operate in the water at distances up to 1,000m from the TMS and water depths of 3,000m. Following the sale of its Offshore Wind division in 2011 the company rebranded and changed its name to Subsea Innovation, emphasising its dedication to Innovation in the Offshore Oil & Gas Sector.
Subsea UK News | December 2013
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FEATURE ARTICLE
Statoil Technology Invest Eyes UK SME Prospects For more than 20 years, international energy company Statoil has been seeking out SMEs with innovative technology solutions and investing in them to facilitate and accelerate growth through a combination of funding, technical expertise and testing in the field. Recognising the need to support SMEs, particularly during the first critical years before their technologies have achieved commercial success, it formed Statoil Technology Invest (STI) in 1990 to provide expert technical and financial guidance as well as project based or venture capital funding. STI is staffed by Statoil employees with experience of venture capital, M&A and developing oilfield technology companies and draws upon the company’s significant technical resources as required. With half of Statoil’s oil and gas production derived from its 500 subsea wells, STI is actively looking to engage with subsea companies that can offer competitive advantage through technical innovation. “Statoil is the world’s largest operator of wells at depths in excess of 100 metres and in the years ahead we will take subsea longer, deeper and colder to accelerate and increase production,” explains Richard Erskine, managing director of STI. “As we move towards the goal of the subsea factory model we are looking for technologies that give you the same flexibility which can be achieved with surface facilities. Autonomous ROVs, long distance power delivery, communications and real time data transmission, and solutions to operating in extreme temperatures are examples.” STI invests in companies with varying levels of maturity through three distinct programmes. The LOOP
programme provides project funding and access to technical expertise and pilots without taking ownership, while the SEED funding and venture capital routes both involve STI paying for an ownership stake in a company. There are currently 14 active LOOP investments and 20 equity investments within the STI portfolio. “We take a pragmatic approach when assessing potential investments. We ask ourselves, ‘does the technology have the potential to save money or increase recovery and could we use it’. If these criteria are met then we will start assessing the maturity of the technology and the business to see where we can add value and accelerate the technology development.
“ Our proposition is particularly attractive to SMEs for a number of reasons. We are founderfriendly investors and bring not only cash to the equation but a combination of financial and technological knowledge alongside the ability to test in the field on our own assets,” said Erskine. “Some great ideas remain just that because there is a lack of understanding of their commercial potential. We help
entrepreneurs to understand industry needs and to pilot the technology. However, we don’t expect to have exclusive access to successful products, only to be the first to deploy them.” This assertion is borne out by the fact that almost all the businesses in which STI has invested have contracts with Statoil. The scale of investment STI makes depends upon the merit of the opportunity but an initial commitment of up to £2 million is not unusual, ranging up to £5 million. Likewise, investment terms can range from three to four years for a company on the cusp of achieving its first commercial sales to 10 years plus for young companies with significant R&D requirements. Erskine is keen to point out that STI is not capital-constrained, with available funds outweighing investment opportunities at present, and is prepared to take a long view on investments. Nine exits have so far been successfully completed. Erskine said: “Once a portfolio company has fully developed its core technology and become a profitable vendor to industry, we focus on ensuring the long term viability of the company via the exit process. During an exit, STI focuses on maximising profitability for the owners and ensuring a commitment to further develop and market the portfolio company’s technology.”
FEATURE ARTICLE The majority of STI’s investments to date have been in Norwegian businesses but the STI team aims to increase its engagement with businesses in the UK, USA and Canada. Recent UK investments are London-based Silixa Ltd, which develops distributed acoustic and temperature sensors, and Lux Assure Ltd of Edinburgh, which specialises in technologies for monitoring difficult-todetect chemicals used by the oil industry.
“ Aberdeen, Houston and Calgary are all oil and gas locations with clusters of entrepreneurs and strong traditions of startups. The UK scores high on the entrepreneurial index. With our growing presence in Aberdeen we anticipate doing more business out of our offices there,” said Erskine. In terms of identifying investment opportunities, STI actively seeks out opportunities and welcomes approaches from people with ideas. It runs annual technology and venture showcase events but also intends to develop a series of themed workshops to engage with SMEs on technology gaps.
“We watch the SME sector closely and sometimes approach companies that we see as prospects. Other times we will be approached through the website or a member of the team will be contacted directly. There is no single typical pathway that brings us together with an entrepreneur or business,” said Erskine. The role that technology will play in improving the efficiency of recovery in the decades ahead is aptly demonstrated by Statoil’s UKCS experience, according to Erskine. “What was impossible three decades ago is now a reality. The Mariner development will utilise the latest available technology and will build on the competence and experience already gained during the development of the Grane field in Norway and Peregrino in Brazil. It will also enable Statoil to leverage its competence and experience on other heavy oil developments such as the nearby Mariner East and Bressay fields and also on a wider global scale. “Subsea factories, 600 kilometre stepouts at depths of 4,000 metres with high power requirements are the end goal but this will be met in incremental steps, and that’s what we aim to achieve through advances in technology facilitated by STI,” said Erskine.
Richard Erskine Richard Erskine leads Statoil Technology Invest (STI), which is Statoil’s corporate venture arm. Prior to that, Richard has had operational and commercial management positions in oil and gas with Phillips Petroleum, Hydro, and AGR. He holds degrees in chemical and petroleum engineering and an MBA.
For more information on Statoil Technology Invest visit the innovate.statoil.com website.
“ Statoil is the world’s largest operator of wells at depths in excess of 100 metres and in the years ahead we will take subsea longer, deeper and colder to accelerate and increase production.”
BUSINESS
Agito Technical Dynamics Launches Subsea Electrical Library Agito Technical Dynamics, a leader in providing modelling and simulation of complex dynamic systems in the UK, Norway, Brazil and Houston, has introduced the Subsea Electrical Library (SEL) to SimulationX. The SEL is a specially designed library for modelling electrical systems in subsea environments. As power and signals in these applications are transmitted within one system, models built with the SEL can be used in both signal and power analysis. Computer assisted simulations and analysis provides simple and inexpensive information on a system’s capacity and robustness. This gives both economical and safety benefits in lieu of the building and testing of hardware. With the addition of the SEL, SimulationX is unique in that Electrical, Hydraulic, Chemical Distribution and Multi-body System can be modeled in the user environment.
Drawing showing areas where Agito can carry out dynamic analysis.
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
Historically, numerical modelling and simulation of complex dynamic systems was reserved for a small group of highly specialised engineers. With the advent of state-of-the-art software programs these tasks are much easier. By using simulation software, one can test a system virtually before putting it into real life test and production. Various alternative solutions can be tested and the results will form the basis for choosing the components and dimensions to be used. SimulationX is the trend setter in physical system simulation. It is also the first universal tool with subsea specific libraries.
BUSINESS
PDL Expand into North America Subsea UK member company, PDL Solutions (Europe) Limited, have established a presence in Houston to provide advanced engineering design and analysis support to the US-based engineering teams of their European oil & gas clients. PDL chief executive officer, Paul Charlton, explains: “Over the years, we have established an excellent working relationship with our oil & gas clients based in the North East of England, Aberdeen and Norway, and we have developed a robust and proven way of supporting those clients on a predominantly remote basis from our offices in Hexham. We are now being asked by a number of our international clients to provide the same level of high value support to their USbased engineering teams, which we’re delighted to do, but we feel we need to deliver the support to the US locations on a local in-country level; hence, we’ve established PDL Solutions (North America) LLC.” PDL Solutions (North America) LLC is wholly owned by the European business. It is led by Rob Campbell who has been promoted to Vice President North America and it is based in the heart of the so-called “energy corridor” in Houston. Rob will report to the European managing director, Michael Williams. PDL, in consultation with their European clients, have developed a simple but effective delivery model for the Houston office, as Paul explains: “For the first 12-18 months, we will second some of our existing engineers from Hexham into the Houston office. This will ensure that we deliver the same level of service to our US-based clients that we deliver to our European clients and that we have a consistent and robust approach to governance and the like. It also enables us to offer fantastic personal and professional development opportunities to all of our Hexhambased engineers.” Rob Campbell (left) and Michael Williams
The intention is to ultimately grow the US operation, over the course of the next three years, to a level where it will employ and sustain around 10 full time engineers.
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PEOPLE Peter O’Sullivan Appointed as New CEO of Penspen Group
SECC Appoints Dr Paul Armitage as MD
The Penspen Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter O’Sullivan as Group CEO.
Dr Paul Armitage has been appointed as the new managing director of UKbased subsea connector company SECC Oil & Gas.
Peter is a seasoned business leader with a strong track record in the oil and gas industry. He joins Penspen after seven years as Chief Operating Officer at Caithness Petroleum where he was responsible for the development of its exploration and production assets in the UK, Morocco and the USA. “I am thrilled to be a part of the Penspen team,” said Peter. “With nearly 60 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, Penspen is well recognised for its technical leadership and engineering expertise.”
Dr Armitage has a PhD in petroleum engineering and has held senior commercial and engineering roles in the oilfield chemistry and speciality chemical industries. He is the former managing director of OMG Borchers in Germany which develops market-leading technologies for the coatings and composites market. He says his focus will be to capitalise on SECC’s intellectual property, and develop SECC’s range of emergency breakaway connectors as enabling technologies for the well-intervention and other oil and gas markets.
Hydratight Strengthens APAC Team with New Commercial Leader in Australia and New Zealand Doug Sangster has joined Hydratight in Perth as the company’s new Commercial Leader for Australia and New Zealand. Doug now assumes direct responsibility for the region and will work closely with APAC lead Dean Jenkins and the APAC team. Doug will continue to build on the existing regional base that showcases Hydratight’s expertise and service ability not only in the region, but across the globe. With over 25 years in the oil and gas industry, Doug has worked in the UK, eastern Canada, Asia Pacific and Australia. His expertise lies in managing services applicable to the construction and maintenance of process plants, including bolting, machining and flange management.
Forum Energy Technologies Announces Two Senior Appointments Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. is pleased to announce that William (Bill) Boyle has been appointed Senior Vice President – Subsea Technologies. In this role, he will be responsible for Forum’s global subsea business which includes the widest range of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in the industry, as well as other products and services critical to the subsea sector. Bill will be based in Houston, TX. Cris Gaut, Forum’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Bill brings over twenty years of international experience in the subsea industry to Forum. His leadership skills and depth of experience are exactly what we need to make Subsea Technologies the preferred partner for our customers in the growing and increasingly complex subsea industry.”
Bill Boyle
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Forum also announced that Bryan Suprenant has recently been appointed Vice President – Well Intervention. In this role, Bryan is responsible for overseeing Forum’s interest in Global Tubing, a leading manufacturer of coiled tubing strings, as well as developing Forum’s other businesses in the well intervention sector. Bryan is based in Houston, TX.
Subsea UK News | December 2013
Nicky Etherson Joins Bibby Offshore as New Commercial Director Nicky Etherson joins Bibby Offshore as Commercial Director to help facilitate the company’s growth plans. Nicky joins the business with almost 20 years’ experience in the oil and gas industry, having previously held the position of Head of Contracts for Total E&P UK Limited. During her time with Total, Nicky was responsible for a team of 15, covering a range of services including; drilling, well control, subsea support, logistics and topside operations. She also organised, managed and controlled the contracts function that involved monitoring relevant markets and contractor performance. Fraser Moonie, Chief Operating Officer in the East region, commented on Nicky’s appointment: “The company is expanding at such a significant rate that we need talented, positive and motivated people to help manage this, and take us even further. Nicky’s wealth of experience and her impressive knowledge of the industry made her the ideal candidate for the role.”
PEOPLE CSL Sets Up New Engineering Team
Hydrasun Target Accelerated Growth with New Business Development Appointments
Subsea engineering and project management specialist CSL is continuing its drive towards overall company growth and development by appointing George Stalker to the newly-created post of Head of Engineering.
Hydrasun has made two new Senior Business Development appointments as it positions itself for further strategic development and growth in international markets.
George, who has more than 25 years’ experience in offshore oil and gas construction, the majority of which is in senior engineering roles and project management, will be responsible for expanding CSL’s current in-house capabilities and creating an initial team of upwards of 20 people to support current requirements.
Mr McIntyre has over 20 years’ experience working in oil and gas, both in the UK and overseas markets. In his new role, Mr McIntyre will be responsible for the development of the company’s key customers within the Subsea Equipment market.
Stephen McIntyre joins Hydrasun as Business Development Manager for Global Key Accounts and Derek Murray joins as International Sales Manager. Both positions are based in the company’s Aberdeen headquarters, and both will support products and services within existing and new markets.
Stephen McIntyre and Derek Murray
Mr Murray joins Hydrasun from Scottish Enterprise, where he provided strategic growth support to a portfolio of 20 oil and gas companies. He will be responsible for managing the international business development team, with a focus on implementation and execution of the company’s sales management processes and plans across key international regions.
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TECHNOLOGY
Scientific Breakthrough Set to Save Millions for Subsea Operators with Insulation Resistance Problems
Neil Douglas, Managing Director, Viper Susbea
Low Insulation Resistance (IR) in subsea umbilicals, cables, and connectors can be an expensive problem for Operators. An innovative new technology is now available from Viper Subsea that will save the industry and Operators millions of dollars by extending the life of failing electrical distribution systems. Subsea distribution systems, comprising subsea umbilicals, distribution units and electrical/hydraulic flying leads are used to transport utilities such as electrical power, communication signals and hydraulic supplies from a surface facility to the subsea production equipment. The most common failure of the umbilicals and electrical flying leads is a result of water ingress into the electrical insulation, which manifests itself as a low insulation resistance problem. Eventually, sufficient water penetrates through the insulation to cause an electrical short-circuit, resulting in the shutdown of the subsea control system and consequently the loss of production.
distribution. The unit is fully compatible with both separate power and communications networks and systems where communications are superimposed on power. The technology is suitable for use on both ageing and new systems, and installation requires no subsea intervention.
V-LIFE, from Viper Subsea, is capable of improving and rejuvenating the insulation resistance from the topside. A scientific breakthrough utilising a combination of electro-kinetic and electrochemical processes results in a form of passivation which reverses the effects of water penetration into the insulation. The result is a rapid increase in the insulation resistance of electrical distribution components, adding many years of additional life expectancy to the failing equipment.
The V-LIFE unit automatically logs various system electrical parameters and diagnostic data. As part of a comprehensive service package, Viper Subsea periodically analyses the retrieved data, and based on the results applies configuration updates to the installed unit, thus ensuring the most effective improvement in the insulation resistance.
V-LIFE is designed for use on the majority of subsea production control systems, meaning those that utilise ungrounded power
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Subsea UK News | December 2013
There are a number of North Sea Operators currently utilising V-LIFE technology; to extend the field life of subsea equipment, to negate the need for installing new umbilicals, or to increase the technical margins in order to improve the operability of the production control system. The latest installation saw an increase in insulation resistance, rising from 150 kilohm to more than 30 megaohm, in a period of just 30 days. V-LIFE is a breakthrough technology in the efforts to overcome the consequences of long term immersion of electrical equipment in the subsea environment and further demonstrates Viper Subsea’s long standing ability to provide unique asset integrity management services to the subsea industry.
TECHNOLOGY Tritech’s Gemini NBI Image of the excavation showing the clear visibility of the cable being trenched.
Tritech Launches High Performance Cable Tracking Sonar: Gemini NBI Tritech’s latest product in the Gemini Multibeam range, the Gemini Narrow Beam Imager (NBI), has been proven to provide invaluable data when working in extremely limited visibility conditions. The Gemini (NBI) provides operators with real-time high-speed acoustic images from a narrow vertical beam covering a 130° swath. Operating at 620kHz the NBI provides imagery at a 10mm range resolution and with a 0.5° horizontal angular resolution delivers sharp sonar imagery. A field-proven technology, the Gemini NBI was successfully used by Reef Subsea to monitor the trenched installation of 6-inch and 2-inch cables, while using controlled flow excavation techniques. The seabed conditions around the site varied considerably however even where there was high turbidity Reef was able to clearly monitor the cables using the Gemini NBI. With the increasing level of cables being laid in shallow water, where turbidity can be at its worst,
the Gemini NBI has proven to be highly effective at visualising targets that are typically hidden from view to conventional multibeam sonars.
Robbie Fraser, from Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation, comments:
“ We have been actively looking for the latest high performance sonar to help us track cables and found the Gemini NBI more than capable. Using the Gemini NBI we were able to safely monitor the excavation process and offer our client the assurance required that we were meeting the stated trenching depth. This latest generation multibeam from Tritech has all the traits of Tritech products, proving it to be robust and capable of providing crisp imagery in a very harsh environment allowing my team to view the operation in the murky, dense waters without any downtime.”
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TECHNOLOGY
Gorgon Trees shipment - Aberdeen
GE Oil & Gas Completes Assembly of Subsea Trees for Gorgon Project GE Oil & Gas recently announced it has completed the assembly of the final group of subsea production trees for the Chevron-operated Gorgon Project, one of the world’s largest natural gas projects located off the coast of Western Australia. Subsea trees are a key component of a subsea gathering system, consisting of various assemblies of valves, spools and fittings, used to monitor and control the flow of production wells. They also manage the fluids and gas that are injected into subsea wells. At twice the capacity of those previously manufactured by GE, the 20 subsea trees are the first 7-inch, full bore trees that GE Oil & Gas has ever produced. The trees were specifically designed to manage production from the high rate gas field in the Gorgon development. The trees were designed, assembled and prepared for shipment in Aberdeen and Montrose in Scotland. The controls modules incorporated within the tree were designed, manufactured and
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assembled in Nailsea in the UK, while GE’s operation in Norway provided the connection systems. The final shipment of trees has now begun its journey to Western Australia and upon arrival, it will be transported to GE’s Jandakot services and training facility in Perth for pre-installation testing, before being deployed in the Greater Gorgon fields, where it will operate at depths of up to 1,350 metres (4,429 feet). The Gorgon Project involves the development of the Greater Gorgon Area gas fields, including the Gorgon and Jansz-Io fields, located between 130 and 220 kilometres off the northwest coast of Western Australia. The Gorgon Project also is the largest single resource project in Australia’s history.
Subsea UK News | December 2013
GE’s subsea trees supply contract is part of a series of agreements with Chevron, valued at a combined $1.7 billion, to deliver subsea production equipment and advanced turbomachinery as well as long-term services to support the Gorgon Project. GE Oil & Gas’ Subsea Systems business has reliably served the offshore market for more than 50 years and is at the forefront of global subsea field development, with advanced system integration capabilities and more than 7,000 systems installed worldwide.
TECHNOLOGY
Continuum Blue Launches New Cable and Umbilical Pre-production Diagnostic Software, CableBlue Continuum Blue is putting its years of analysis knowledge into CableBlue: simulation software designed specifically for the subsea cable and umbilical industry, to help predict cable performance prior to production. Whether a manufacturer wants to assess their cable for mechanical, electrical, corrosive characteristics or even new material options, CableBlue can help. Global demand for fuel and other forms of energy has gone up significantly in recent years, improving the subsea cable and umbilical manufacturing industry. With this significant growth of the subsea cable manufacturing industry in the past few years, there has been some noteworthy technological growth as well; in order to gain higher efficiencies, large scale offshore wind farms and tidal energy systems are now moving to extremely harsh environments to cater for this demand. This requires the subsea cables to be designed to withstand higher dynamic loads, while maintaining or extending the life of the cable and ensuring that more cost effective solutions are found. This is forcing subsea power cable manufacturers to test and assess their designs before full production. With the high cost of physically making samples and testing various subsea power cable designs, it is extremely difficult for cable manufacturers to develop new technologies and custom engineered subsea cable systems for these extreme environments.
drag-drop features with in-built cable cross-sections and material properties along with the capability of providing solutions for stress/strain, thermal, current rating, fatigue, capacity curves (allowable bend and tension vs. pressure) and corrosion analysis. It can also provide solutions for both 2D as well as 3D cross-sectional analysis. In addition, it gives the users the ability to implement custombuilt components into the database.
Continuum Blue will proudly be releasing CableBlue at Subsea Expo (Aberdeen, UK) in February next year.
With the help of CableBlue, Continuum Blue has reduced the analysis time from 120 man-hours to roughly 50 man-hours. This reduces cost, time and more importantly wastage for the subsea cable manufacturers.
Continuum Blue provides a solution for this problem with CableBlue. Although there are technologies currently available in the market which provide solutions to cable manufacturers, they only provide highly specific solutions. Currently, for a subsea cable with four layers of armour cables, few hydraulic hoses, power cores and fibre optics, it takes roughly 120 man-hours to do a complete dynamic analysis using the technologies available in the market. Most of the time is spent on setting up the cable model for analysis. CableBlue has simple
Subsea UK News | December 2013
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TECHNOLOGY
UK Company Looks Towards a New Standard of Safety in the Subsea Industry Allspeeds Ltd, designers and manufacturers of the Webtool™ range of products, have nominated the Webtool™ HP690 intensifier panel for the Subsea UK Innovation for Safety Award. Safety concerns were being expressed from those working offshore in deep water with regards to the use of high pressure hydraulics and traditional ROV hydraulic intensifier panels. Allspeeds identified that the main safety issue was that standard pressure intensifiers contain a check valve. This check valve requires a deliberate reversal of pressure in order to relieve the high pressure circuit after the intensifier has completed its task. Failure to reverse this pressure manually or in the event of an HPU or ROV breakdown causing the inability to reverse the pressure, will result in a high pressure circuit at approximately 700Bar (10,000psi) this will remain energised whilst the ROV resurfaces.
Having taken major steps in design and innovation to manufacture an intensifier panel that addresses the main safety issues, Allspeeds designed HP690 which safeguards the user with automatic protection from the possibility of locked in high pressure hydraulic fluid. There is no longer any need for the user to manually reverse the pressure to make the hydraulic system safe, this will happen automatically. In addition to this, the input pressure will be automatically compensated for depth via the ROV’s own HPU, so as the ROV surfaces, the high pressure side of the circuit also compensates. These features also allow any pressure build up due to temperature variation to be vented back to the ROV’s pressure tank. As a final safeguard the panel was designed with a cross-drilled manifold style body, this means there are less hydraulic fittings (and potential leak paths). Safety screens have also been included on the pressure intensifier ports to prevent contamination seizing the intensifier. This makes the unit more reliable and the solid manifold design protects the components from accidental damage. Allspeeds did not set out to make a similar product following industry standards; the intention was to differentiate from competitors by offering a product with significant safety benefits. The HP690 is designed and manufactured to be a better, more reliable and safer product motivated by worrying industry concerns.
Keith Elliot, Engineering Director at Allspeeds Ltd stated:
“ Allspeeds set about designing their own Webtool™ version of an ROV hydraulic intensifier panel, with the intention of making it safer and more reliable than the existing products in the market place. Our challenge was to come up with an intensifier panel that did not allow high pressure fluid to be locked in, regardless of oversight or ROV failure.”
Outstanding Applications Reliable imaging and ancillary equipment. We understand your underwater needs. #whatsyouruse Gemini NBI sonar image of a cable being trenched > Image courtesy of Reef Subsea Dredging & Excavation
#dredging #excavation Visit: www.tritech.co.uk to discover more.
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Subsea UK Board 2013-15 Revealing the results of the Subsea UK Board elections, held November 2013, Subsea UK is pleased to announce the following appointments:
Frank Bee
Peter Blake
Brian K Green
Head of Subsea projects and Operations, Shell UK
Subsea Systems Manager, Chevron Energy Technology Company
Managing Director, Severn Subsea Technologies Ltd
Frank is a professional engineer with 33 years’ experience in Oil and Gas gained with BP, Enterprise Oil and Shell. He has been in his current position for the last six years and has prior experience in project, operation, maintenance and engineering management within the operator environment.
Peter is currently the Subsea Systems Manager for the Chevron Energy Technology Company located in Chevron’s new Aberdeen Technology Unit. In this role he has responsibilities for teams based in Aberdeen, Houston and Perth supporting the growth of subsea production across the company.
Following his graduation from Aberdeen University as a scientist, Brian Green has 36 years’ experience in the offshore industry. He has been a Director and General Manager of various innovative businesses since 1990, and is currently the Managing Director at Severn Subsea Technology. Brian is a keen supporter of industry bodies such as the Society for Underwater Technology and has played a key role in various Subsea UK initiatives; he has been co-opted onto the Board for the last two years. He is currently acting as the Board Member for the South West.
PEOPLE
Geoff Lyons
John Mair
Ian Mitchell
Director, BPP-TECH
Global Technology Director, Subsea 7
Subsea Advisor & Performance Manager, BP
Geoff is a co-founder of BPP-TECH. As a Chartered Engineer. he is a Fellow of The Institution of Mechanical Engineers, and also of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects.
John has 34 years in the Subsea sector. He studied Mechanical Engineering at Robert Gordon’s Institute in Aberdeen. He started his career at Subsea Offshore in 1979 specialising in Remote Technology.
He has been active in the offshore sector since 1979, previously working with Brown & Root, and as a senior lecturer at University College London until 2002.
Prior to joining Subsea 7, he held the position of Global Engineering Director for Subsea Offshore in 1994 and after the merger with Acergy in 2010 John became the Global Technology Director of Subsea 7.
Ian has worked in the subsea industry for over 30 years. In the early stages of his career he worked for Shell, KD Marine, Global Diving, Underwater Inspection Services and Seaway Diving. He spent four years at Oceaneering International as Subsea Project Engineer and worked in North Sea, Norway, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Geoff is very familiar with the professional and training needs of the Subsea industry as an ex-academic and currently as BPP-TECH director with executive responsibility for training and development.
John is a Fellow and Chartered Engineer with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Board Member and Chairman of Industry steering Group with National Subsea Research Institute (NSRI).
Ian joined BP in 1985, and is currently the Subsea Performance Manager within the Aberdeen-based Subsea Team, responsible for subsea cost and planning systems, and also acts as a BP Technical Advisor on Subsea Operations.
John was awarded the Contribution to Industry Award at Subsea 2007.
Tim Sheehan
David Sheret
Martin Myhill Sisley
Commercial Director, Ashtead Technology
Subsea Business Manager, Bibby Offshore Limited
Managing Director, Ocean Installer
Tim qualified as a Mechanical Engineer in 1980 from Coventry Technical College having served a Technical apprenticeship in the Automotive Industry. With more than 30 years of experience in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry, Tim has during his career held a variety of roles specialising in Subsea engineering and construction, including Vice President Commercial for Technip in Houston and Managing Director of Bibby Offshore in the UK. Notably in recent years, he was both the MD of subsea contracting major Acergy UK and Group CEO at Rotech.
David has worked as a business development, marketing and PR professional for over 20 years, working with Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce and Bibby Offshore for the past 10 years.
Martin has experience in operations, marketing, commercial and business development, with at least five years’ service for a number of companies, including Oceaneering, Halliburton Subsea, Subsea7 and Saipem, Martin joined Ocean installer in May 2012 as its first UK employee, now with a staff of over 70.
Tim joined Ashtead Technology from Reef Subsea, where he was EVP Commercial, following the acquisition of Rotech Subsea in late 2011.
Currently he heads up the operational business development and communications function for Bibby Offshore. He holds a BA (Hons) in Law and Management from RGU and is currently studying an MBA in Business Administration at the same university.
Subsea UK News | December 2013
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