The document summarizes perspectives from regional experts on developments in the natural gas industry across Europe, Russia, the Caspian region, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. In Europe, there is renewed investment in infrastructure to improve flexibility and reduce dependence on eastern energy sources. In Russia, new pipelines are being built to diversify export markets. The Middle East and Africa region is experiencing both challenges and opportunities for growth, while China and India have vast, complex pipeline networks and a need for improved integrity practices.
Oil Gas Mine Conference,
Niamey, NIGER
20 – 24 November 2013
Isabelle Ramdoo
Deputy Programme Manager
European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM)
Oil Gas Mine Conference,
Niamey, NIGER
20 – 24 November 2013
Isabelle Ramdoo
Deputy Programme Manager
European Centre for Development Policy Management (ECDPM)
IHS Report: Energy and the New Global Industrial Landscape: A Tectonic ShiftMarcellus Drilling News
The executive summary of a new IHS report on how shale gas and tight oil (i.e., unconventional energy) is changing the U.S. and the world. In 2012 alone, unconventionals created 1.7 million jobs and generated $62 billion in new federal and state revenue. The new study was released at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland in Jan. 2013.
Greetings,
Attached FYI ( NewBase Special 18 February 2016 ) , from Hawk Energy Services Dubai . Daily energy news covering the MENA area and related worldwide energy news. In todays’ issue you will find news about:-
• UAE Energy Minister tells CIS states to improve business climate to bring in investors
• GCC-CIS trade growing 20% a year
• UAE: Dolphin Energy Signs Contract with Abu Dhabi Ports
• Kazakhstan: Mega Kazakh oilfield to be back online this year
• US: 35% of drillers at high risk of bankruptcy: Report
• US: Diesel fuel retail price falls below $2.00 per gallon for first time since 2005
• US: Gasoline Trades as If U.S. Nearing Recession, Goldman Says
• US oil surges 8% after crude stocks fall, Brent crude 8.4%
• Goldman Says Producers Freezing Oil Output Won't Help Prices
• Over-supply, cheating and shale oil: the reasons Saudi Arabia-Russia oil deal won't work EU proposes new gas and LNG rules
we would appreciate your actions to send to all interested parties that you may wish. Also note that if you or your organization wish to include your own article or advert in our circulations, please send it to :-
khdmohd@hotmail.com or khdmohd@hawkenergy.net
Best Regards.
Khaled Al Awadi
Energy Consultant & NewBase Chairman - Senior Chief Editor
MS & BS Mechanical Engineering (HON), USA
Emarat member since 1990
ASME meme since 1995
Hawk Energy since 2010
Il WEC Inside è una pubblicazione bimestrale del World Energy Council (WEC) contenente interviste a rappresentanti del WEC e dei Comitati Nazionali, overview e aggiornamenti sulle attività recenti e future del WEC in tutto il mondo e, approfondimenti sulle ultime news in ambito energetico
Isabelle Ramdoo, ECDPM, International Conference on Mining for Sustainable Economic Development in the Great Lake Region, Bujumbura, Burundi, 22 – 23 November 2012
2019 Election| Global Trade and Protectionism| Canada| May 2019paul young cpa, cga
Canada depends on exports as such needs fair and equitable trad deals to expand business opportunities for Canadian Businesses
Canada is going to more regulations and higher taxes as compare to countries like the USA which are focusing on reducing both taxes and regulations
Canada is pushing clean technology at all costs through funding of clusters as well as other funding programs
Canada is pushing social issues on all trade deals. Countries are balking at social issues.
Canada is less competitive today than back in 2015. Trudeau has decided to hike taxes for small business, raise CPP rates and force carbon tax/price for carbon on all provinces. Trudeau is using the same model that drove out jobs in Ontario due hikes to hydro rates. - https://www.slideshare.net/paulyoungcga/business-competitivesness-canada-march-2019
Etude PwC sur le secteur des hydrocarbures en Afrique (2014)PwC France
http://bit.ly/AfricaOilandGas
Selon l’étude de PwC "Africa Oil & Gas review – On the brink of a boom", qui analyse les perspectives de développement du secteur pétrolier et gazier sur le continent à travers les avis de 55 acteurs du secteur (présents sur les segments de l’exploration et la production, la distribution, le raffinage et les services), l’industrie du pétrole et du gaz en Afrique va connaître une forte croissance, avec l’apparition de nouvelles régions productrices de gaz comme le Mozambique et la Tanzanie, et de pétrole notamment au Nigéria, en Angola, au Congo et en Côte d’Ivoire.
Selon les entreprises interrogées, si la croissance et l’investissement sont au rendez-vous, les enjeux réglementaires et en termes de fraude restent importants.
Il World Energy Focus, nuovo mensile online della WEC's community, una e-publication gratuita per essere sempre aggiornato sugli sviluppi del settore energetico. Il World Energy Focus contiene news, interviste esclusive e uno spazio dedicato agli eventi promossi dai singoli Comitati Nazionali.
Implications and applications of educational technologiesJason Zagami
Professional Learning Seminar conducted at Griffith University, Gold Coast 23 Feb 2010
Implications and applications of educational technologies
The challenge of staying on top of advances in technology is now fundamental to sustaining success in every field of human endeavour. For educators and educational administrators, it is specifically educational technologies that present unique challenges, opportunities and expectations. This seminar will highlight a range of emerging educational technologies being researched at Griffith University that forecast paradigm changes in educational practice. Within the TPACK (Technological, Pedagogical, Content Knowledge) framework of understanding the role of educational technologies in the teaching and learning process, the educational application of 1:1 computing, mobile devices, serious games, virtual worlds, and neural interfaces will be explored.
Dr Jason Zagami is a lecturer at the Gold Coast school of Education and Professional Studies in the Faculty of Education of Griffith University in Queensland, Australia where he conducts research in cognition, professional learning and expertise, and all aspects of educational technologies – with a current focus on 1:1 computing, mLearning, serious games, virtual environments and neural interfaces. Jason has 15 years experience in K-12 ICT education and been the recipient of the Queensland Computer Educator of the Year and Outstanding National Achievement by a Teacher awards. He is also an Apple Distinguished Educator, the Australian HP Innovations in Education Mentor, president of the Australian College of Educators (Gold Coast Region), president of the Queensland Society for Information Technology in Education and a member of the Australian Council for Computers in Education board.
IHS Report: Energy and the New Global Industrial Landscape: A Tectonic ShiftMarcellus Drilling News
The executive summary of a new IHS report on how shale gas and tight oil (i.e., unconventional energy) is changing the U.S. and the world. In 2012 alone, unconventionals created 1.7 million jobs and generated $62 billion in new federal and state revenue. The new study was released at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland in Jan. 2013.
Greetings,
Attached FYI ( NewBase Special 18 February 2016 ) , from Hawk Energy Services Dubai . Daily energy news covering the MENA area and related worldwide energy news. In todays’ issue you will find news about:-
• UAE Energy Minister tells CIS states to improve business climate to bring in investors
• GCC-CIS trade growing 20% a year
• UAE: Dolphin Energy Signs Contract with Abu Dhabi Ports
• Kazakhstan: Mega Kazakh oilfield to be back online this year
• US: 35% of drillers at high risk of bankruptcy: Report
• US: Diesel fuel retail price falls below $2.00 per gallon for first time since 2005
• US: Gasoline Trades as If U.S. Nearing Recession, Goldman Says
• US oil surges 8% after crude stocks fall, Brent crude 8.4%
• Goldman Says Producers Freezing Oil Output Won't Help Prices
• Over-supply, cheating and shale oil: the reasons Saudi Arabia-Russia oil deal won't work EU proposes new gas and LNG rules
we would appreciate your actions to send to all interested parties that you may wish. Also note that if you or your organization wish to include your own article or advert in our circulations, please send it to :-
khdmohd@hotmail.com or khdmohd@hawkenergy.net
Best Regards.
Khaled Al Awadi
Energy Consultant & NewBase Chairman - Senior Chief Editor
MS & BS Mechanical Engineering (HON), USA
Emarat member since 1990
ASME meme since 1995
Hawk Energy since 2010
Il WEC Inside è una pubblicazione bimestrale del World Energy Council (WEC) contenente interviste a rappresentanti del WEC e dei Comitati Nazionali, overview e aggiornamenti sulle attività recenti e future del WEC in tutto il mondo e, approfondimenti sulle ultime news in ambito energetico
Isabelle Ramdoo, ECDPM, International Conference on Mining for Sustainable Economic Development in the Great Lake Region, Bujumbura, Burundi, 22 – 23 November 2012
2019 Election| Global Trade and Protectionism| Canada| May 2019paul young cpa, cga
Canada depends on exports as such needs fair and equitable trad deals to expand business opportunities for Canadian Businesses
Canada is going to more regulations and higher taxes as compare to countries like the USA which are focusing on reducing both taxes and regulations
Canada is pushing clean technology at all costs through funding of clusters as well as other funding programs
Canada is pushing social issues on all trade deals. Countries are balking at social issues.
Canada is less competitive today than back in 2015. Trudeau has decided to hike taxes for small business, raise CPP rates and force carbon tax/price for carbon on all provinces. Trudeau is using the same model that drove out jobs in Ontario due hikes to hydro rates. - https://www.slideshare.net/paulyoungcga/business-competitivesness-canada-march-2019
Etude PwC sur le secteur des hydrocarbures en Afrique (2014)PwC France
http://bit.ly/AfricaOilandGas
Selon l’étude de PwC "Africa Oil & Gas review – On the brink of a boom", qui analyse les perspectives de développement du secteur pétrolier et gazier sur le continent à travers les avis de 55 acteurs du secteur (présents sur les segments de l’exploration et la production, la distribution, le raffinage et les services), l’industrie du pétrole et du gaz en Afrique va connaître une forte croissance, avec l’apparition de nouvelles régions productrices de gaz comme le Mozambique et la Tanzanie, et de pétrole notamment au Nigéria, en Angola, au Congo et en Côte d’Ivoire.
Selon les entreprises interrogées, si la croissance et l’investissement sont au rendez-vous, les enjeux réglementaires et en termes de fraude restent importants.
Il World Energy Focus, nuovo mensile online della WEC's community, una e-publication gratuita per essere sempre aggiornato sugli sviluppi del settore energetico. Il World Energy Focus contiene news, interviste esclusive e uno spazio dedicato agli eventi promossi dai singoli Comitati Nazionali.
Implications and applications of educational technologiesJason Zagami
Professional Learning Seminar conducted at Griffith University, Gold Coast 23 Feb 2010
Implications and applications of educational technologies
The challenge of staying on top of advances in technology is now fundamental to sustaining success in every field of human endeavour. For educators and educational administrators, it is specifically educational technologies that present unique challenges, opportunities and expectations. This seminar will highlight a range of emerging educational technologies being researched at Griffith University that forecast paradigm changes in educational practice. Within the TPACK (Technological, Pedagogical, Content Knowledge) framework of understanding the role of educational technologies in the teaching and learning process, the educational application of 1:1 computing, mobile devices, serious games, virtual worlds, and neural interfaces will be explored.
Dr Jason Zagami is a lecturer at the Gold Coast school of Education and Professional Studies in the Faculty of Education of Griffith University in Queensland, Australia where he conducts research in cognition, professional learning and expertise, and all aspects of educational technologies – with a current focus on 1:1 computing, mLearning, serious games, virtual environments and neural interfaces. Jason has 15 years experience in K-12 ICT education and been the recipient of the Queensland Computer Educator of the Year and Outstanding National Achievement by a Teacher awards. He is also an Apple Distinguished Educator, the Australian HP Innovations in Education Mentor, president of the Australian College of Educators (Gold Coast Region), president of the Queensland Society for Information Technology in Education and a member of the Australian Council for Computers in Education board.
Marketing your business doesn't have to be hard. Chances are you already have the tools you need for success. Discover how to amplify what you're already doing with these digital marketing tools.
Innovations™ Magazine VII NO.3 2015 - ChineseT.D. Williamson
Welcome to the summer issue of Innovations™ Magazine, where industry experts from across the globe explore many of the pressing challenges — and successes — of pressurized piping operators.
OVER STORY: The Pervasive Menace
Helping the public be – and feel – safe, the pipeline industry develops, employs, and shares best practice corrosion detection and control methods.
FUTURE THINKING: More Stringent Safety Regulations
Preparing for NTSB compliance, U.S. transmission operators proactively seek safe and cost-effective options.
FEATURE STORY: Containing Catastrophe
Mitigating offshore oil and gas pipeline incidents, from dropped objects to pipe laying, through advancements in non-intrusive isolation technologies.
HIGHLIGHTS
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS
Turning Impossible into Piggable
Changing how we think about the integrity of low flow, low pressure lines with new low drag inspection tools.
SAFETY MATTERS
It Can Happen Here
Learning to cultivate “safety imagination” and benefit from “chronic unease” with Dr. Jan Hayes.
MARKET REPORT
Local Sourcing in the Eagle Ford
Supporting shale play profitability in a low price environment through localized pipeline services model.
BY THE NUMBERS
Four Steps to Battling Pipeline Integrity Threats
Detecting, characterizing, reporting, and prioritizing/mitigating threats to pipeline integrity with multiple dataset (MDS) inspection platforms.
Read the newest edition of Innovations™ Magazine today!
Welcome to the summer issue of Innovations™ Magazine,
where industry experts from across the globe explore many of the pressing challenges — and successes — of pressurized piping operators.
Corrosion: The Pervasive Menace
Helping the public be – and feel – safe, the pipeline industry develops, employs, and shares best practice corrosion detection and control methods.
Turning Impossible into Piggable
Changing how we think about the integrity of low flow, low pressure lines with new low drag inspection tools.
More Stringent Safety Regulations
Preparing for NTSB compliance, U.S. transmission operators proactively seek safe and cost-effective options.
Local Sourcing in the Eagle Ford
Supporting shale play profitability in a low price environment through localized pipeline services model.
TDW Innovations™ Magazine July - September 2014
Cover Story: A Tale as Big as Texas
With increasing regulation, operators work to overcome the shared challenges of the Eagle Ford Shale play.
New Connections: Europe Reaches for Energy Security
To ensure against fluctuations in geopolitics, many European countries are driving toward more stable energy supplies and the infrastructure needed to support them.
Offshore wind industry is being used by a number of countries to harness the energy of strong, consistent winds that are found over the oceans. In the United States, abundant offshore wind resources have the potential to supply immense quantities of renewable energy to major U.S. coastal cities. The US has an attractive potential of ~10 GW by 2020, driven from sites in the Atlantic Ocean, and ~54 GW by 2030, at which time the Pacific Coast and the Great Lakes are expected to be developed.
At present, no new project is commissioned in the US and of the current ~6.9 GW in the US pipeline, only ~1.4 GW is expected to be commissioned by 2020 due to long consent periods and an undeveloped supply chain, indicating a gap of 8.6 GW to DoE ambition in 2020. Immature supply chain, approval delays and low cost competitiveness are key factors for slow development, however, expected return of PTC is an upside.
This report offers insights on US offshore wind industry analysing its current position, upfront challenges and future expectations. Considering the great potential, global contractors and financial investors are expected to enter the US offshore wind industry as they can utilize experiences gained in Europe. Incumbents as well as new entrants are developing projects in partnership with other members of the supply chain in order to gain experience and reduce risks. This report also presents a thorough evaluation of the key players in the industry and developments for wind energy project realisation in the US.
Enlightened businesses are seeking to future-proof themselves over the long term by aiming to decouple business growth from increasing environmental and social damage, eliminate negative impacts, or even generate restorative/net-positive impacts. Others are going even further, innovating entirely new resilient ways of working, and exploiting the opportunities in global trade around solutions that tackle pollution, congestion, resource scarcity and other international challenges.
This review follows on from 2012’s Green game-changers report, which looked at the adoption of innovative sustainable business models by large companies. The purpose of this report is to highlight green game-changing innovations that are flowing to and from Asia, to inspire and trigger action by firms in the west.
Global innovation flows with a particular focus on Asia – the land of opportunity and disruptive influence. We see the potential for western and Asian firms to learn from each other and collaborate around solutions that tackle various regional, national and international challenges.
Il WEC Inside è una pubblicazione bimestrale del World Energy Council (WEC) contenente interviste a rappresentanti del WEC e dei Comitati Nazionali, overview e aggiornamenti sulle attività recenti e future del WEC in tutto il mondo e, approfondimenti sulle ultime news in ambito energetico. La versione integrale del WEC Inside è disponibile nell'area Servizi Informativi, riservata ai soli Associati, sul sito del WEC Italia.
Il World Energy Focus, nuovo mensile online della WEC's community, una e-publication gratuita per essere sempre aggiornato sugli sviluppi del settore energetico. Il World Energy Focus contiene news, interviste esclusive e uno spazio dedicato agli eventi promossi dai singoli Comitati Nazionali.
GLOBE 2014 Preliminary Conference Program GLOBE Series
NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL BUSINESS SUMMIT
Over the past 24 years, the GLOBE Series has become the nexus for global networking and leadership on the business of the environment. In 2014, GLOBE will once again serve as the consummate place to transform environmental challenges into lucrative business opportunities.
Biennially, thousands of environmental business leaders, corporate environmental managers and sustainability practitioners come together in Vancouver, Canada to explore the mutually inclusive goals of corporate sustainability, business growth, energy and climate change solutions and urban development.
Meet senior business executives and government officials. Exchange ideas, build partnerships, and conduct business on a wide range of global environmental issues. Access some of the most progressive individuals and companies in the world. You cannot afford to miss this opportunity to find out how you and your organization can be best positioned over the coming decade to survive and thrive.
NEW THEMES. NEW CONTENT. NEW OPPORTUNITIES.
Introducing the GLOBE 2014 Conference Themes:
» The Changing Energy Landscape
» The Search for Clean and Abundant Water
» The Future of Global Food Security – NEW!
» Building Resilient Cities
» Responsible Resource Management – NEW!
» Clean Capitalism: Financing the Future
» Doing Business in the Green Economy – NEW!
» China – Our Shared Future – NEW!
» The Aboriginal Advantage – NEW!
Governments in recent years have been looking for ways to kick the coal habit and stimulate the economy. LNG can do both, but has it been over done?. With multiple LNG projects coming online at home simultaneously, are the economics still there?
Similar to Innovations™ Magazine October - December 2014 (20)
Nueve pasos para UN AISLAMIENTO DOBLE REFORZADO Y DESVÍOT.D. Williamson
EL TIEMPO DE INACTIVIDAD Y LAS OPORTUNIDADES PERDIDAS YA NO SON resultados inevitables del mantenimiento y reparación de tuberías. Presentamos nueve pasos para lograr mayor seguridad en el lugar de trabajo, flujo ininterrumpido y mayor éxito de cierre en la primera vez.
9 ЭТАПОВ ДВОЙНОЙ-ПЕРЕКРЫТИЯ ТРУБОПРОВОДА С ДВУХ СТОРОН С БАЙПАСОМT.D. Williamson
ПРОСТОЙ И УПУЩЕННАЯ ВЫГОДА БОЛЬШЕ НЕ ЯВЛЯЮТСЯ неизбежными результатами технического обслуживания и ремонта трубопроводов. Здесь представлены девять шагов для достижения большей безопасности на строительной площадке, непрерывного потока, повышения показателей успешной герметизации с первого раза.
4 étapes pour combattre les menaces qui pèsent sur l’intégrité des pipelinesT.D. Williamson
INTÉGRITÉ DES PIPELINES : UNE VISION GLOBALE
Les exploitants de pipelines font face au défi permanent de livrer de l’énergie partout dans le monde de la manière la plus sûre et la plus économique qui soit. Ils luttent contre les infrastructures vieillissantes, les conditions climatiques et
les contraintes économiques, ils s’adaptent à une réglementation toujours plus sévère et ils s’engagent avec les communautés pour acquérir une légitimité sociale. Heureusement, les avancées continues dans la détection des menaces sur les pipelines, comme les plates-formes à données multiples, sont là pour les
assister.
CAUDAL REDUCIDO Y
MAYOR COMPRESIÓN significa que los operadores de oleoductos están perdiendo ganancias y aumentando el riesgo operacional. Para mitigar estas pérdidas innecesarias y maximizar el rendimiento del oleoducto, la industria depende del sistema de limpieza progresivo.
Debido a la variedad de factores complejos exclusivos de cada oleoducto, puede ser un reto desarrollar e implementar un programa progresivo. Para ayudar a simplificar el proceso, el programa se puede dividir en cuatro fases básicas: Espuma, Química, de Uretano y Especial. La inclusión y ordenamiento de las fases y raspadores específicos variarán según las condiciones particulares de la línea.
Четыре Этана ПРОГРЕССИВНОГО МЕТОДА ВНУТРИТРУБНОЙ ОЧИСТКИT.D. Williamson
СНИЖЕНИЕ ПРОПУСКНОЙ
СПОСОБНОСТИ
И УВЕЛИЧЕНИЕ ДАВЛЕНИЯ означает, что теряется прибыль операторов трубопровода и повышается операцион-ный риск. Чтобы смягчить эти ненужные потери и максимально увеличить пропуск-ную способность трубопровода, промыш-ленность полагается на успешное внедре-ние прогрессивного метода внутритрубной диагностики и очистки.
В связи с разнообразием сложных факторов, уникальных для каждого трубопровода, процесс разработки и внедрения прогрессивной про-граммы может оказаться достаточно сложным. С целью упрощения такого процесса программа может быть разделена на четыре основных этапа: обработка пенополиуретановым скреб-ком, химическая обработка, обработка уретано-вым скребком и специальная обработка. Вклю-чение и порядок этапов, а также использование конкретных скребков должно варьироваться
в зависимости от конкретных условий в линии.
Les Quatre Phases D’UN PROCESof SUS DE RACL AGPROGRESSIVE PIGGINGE PROGRESSIFT.D. Williamson
UN FLUX REDUIT ET UNE AUGMENTATION EN COMPRESSION signifient que les opérateurs de pipeline courent des risques opérationnels et perdent des profits.
Afin d’atténuer ces pertes inutiles et de maximiser le débit du pipeline, l’industrie compte sur le raclage progressif.
En raison de la variété de facteurs complexes propres à chaque pipeline, le développement et la mise en œuvre d’un programme de raclage progressif sont un véritable défi. Pour simplifier le processus, le programme peut être divisé en quatre phases principales : mousse, produits chimiques, uréthane, et produits spécialisés. L’ordre des phases de raclage et le choix des outils de raclage mis en oeuvre dépendra des caractérisques de la conduite et de son état.
Welcome to the fall issue of Innovations™ Magazine, where industry experts from across the globe explore many of the pressing challenges — and successes — of pressurized piping operators.
Welcome to the fall issue of Innovations™ Magazine, where industry experts from across the globe explore many of the pressing challenges — and successes — of pressurized piping operators.
Welcome to the fall issue of Innovations™ Magazine, where industry experts from across the globe explore many of the pressing challenges — and successes — of pressurized piping operators.
LAS COSAS SE PUEDEN VOLVER CONFUSAS DEBAJO DE LA SUPERFICIE DEL OCÉANO, pero mantener las líneas limpias y seguras es una premisa clara. Los proveedores de servicios de ductos asisten a los operadores en el desarrollo y la ejecución de programas de limpieza optimizados tendientes a maximizar el rendimiento y aumentar la seguridad operativa. Si bien a primera vista pueden parecer abrumadores, estos complejos programas se pueden resumir en tan solo cuatro etapas.
ПОД ПОВЕРХНОСТЬЮ ВОДЫ ПРИВЫЧНЫЕ ВЕЩИ ТЕРЯЮТ ОЧЕРТАНИЯ, но поддержание чистоты и безопасности трубопровода — это абсолютно ясная задача. Организации по обслуживанию трубопроводов помогают операторам разрабатывать и реализовывать индивидуальные программы очистки, нацеленные на увеличение пропускной способности и эксплуатационной безопасности. Эти необъятные на первый взгляд, сложные программы можно разбить на четыре простых этапа.
3.0 Project 2_ Developing My Brand Identity Kit.pptxtanyjahb
A personal brand exploration presentation summarizes an individual's unique qualities and goals, covering strengths, values, passions, and target audience. It helps individuals understand what makes them stand out, their desired image, and how they aim to achieve it.
Improving profitability for small businessBen Wann
In this comprehensive presentation, we will explore strategies and practical tips for enhancing profitability in small businesses. Tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by small enterprises, this session covers various aspects that directly impact the bottom line. Attendees will learn how to optimize operational efficiency, manage expenses, and increase revenue through innovative marketing and customer engagement techniques.
What are the main advantages of using HR recruiter services.pdfHumanResourceDimensi1
HR recruiter services offer top talents to companies according to their specific needs. They handle all recruitment tasks from job posting to onboarding and help companies concentrate on their business growth. With their expertise and years of experience, they streamline the hiring process and save time and resources for the company.
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Enterprise Excellence is Inclusive Excellence.pdfKaiNexus
Enterprise excellence and inclusive excellence are closely linked, and real-world challenges have shown that both are essential to the success of any organization. To achieve enterprise excellence, organizations must focus on improving their operations and processes while creating an inclusive environment that engages everyone. In this interactive session, the facilitator will highlight commonly established business practices and how they limit our ability to engage everyone every day. More importantly, though, participants will likely gain increased awareness of what we can do differently to maximize enterprise excellence through deliberate inclusion.
What is Enterprise Excellence?
Enterprise Excellence is a holistic approach that's aimed at achieving world-class performance across all aspects of the organization.
What might I learn?
A way to engage all in creating Inclusive Excellence. Lessons from the US military and their parallels to the story of Harry Potter. How belt systems and CI teams can destroy inclusive practices. How leadership language invites people to the party. There are three things leaders can do to engage everyone every day: maximizing psychological safety to create environments where folks learn, contribute, and challenge the status quo.
Who might benefit? Anyone and everyone leading folks from the shop floor to top floor.
Dr. William Harvey is a seasoned Operations Leader with extensive experience in chemical processing, manufacturing, and operations management. At Michelman, he currently oversees multiple sites, leading teams in strategic planning and coaching/practicing continuous improvement. William is set to start his eighth year of teaching at the University of Cincinnati where he teaches marketing, finance, and management. William holds various certifications in change management, quality, leadership, operational excellence, team building, and DiSC, among others.
Taurus Zodiac Sign_ Personality Traits and Sign Dates.pptxmy Pandit
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Explore our most comprehensive guide on lookback analysis at SafePaaS, covering access governance and how it can transform modern ERP audits. Browse now!
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Accpac to QuickBooks Conversion Navigating the Transition with Online Account...PaulBryant58
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Business Valuation Principles for EntrepreneursBen Wann
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[Note: This is a partial preview. To download this presentation, visit:
https://www.oeconsulting.com.sg/training-presentations]
Sustainability has become an increasingly critical topic as the world recognizes the need to protect our planet and its resources for future generations. Sustainability means meeting our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It involves long-term planning and consideration of the consequences of our actions. The goal is to create strategies that ensure the long-term viability of People, Planet, and Profit.
Leading companies such as Nike, Toyota, and Siemens are prioritizing sustainable innovation in their business models, setting an example for others to follow. In this Sustainability training presentation, you will learn key concepts, principles, and practices of sustainability applicable across industries. This training aims to create awareness and educate employees, senior executives, consultants, and other key stakeholders, including investors, policymakers, and supply chain partners, on the importance and implementation of sustainability.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts that form the foundation of sustainability within corporate environments.
2. Explore the sustainability implementation model, focusing on effective measures and reporting strategies to track and communicate sustainability efforts.
3. Identify and define best practices and critical success factors essential for achieving sustainability goals within organizations.
CONTENTS
1. Introduction and Key Concepts of Sustainability
2. Principles and Practices of Sustainability
3. Measures and Reporting in Sustainability
4. Sustainability Implementation & Best Practices
To download the complete presentation, visit: https://www.oeconsulting.com.sg/training-presentations
India Orthopedic Devices Market: Unlocking Growth Secrets, Trends and Develop...Kumar Satyam
According to TechSci Research report, “India Orthopedic Devices Market -Industry Size, Share, Trends, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2030”, the India Orthopedic Devices Market stood at USD 1,280.54 Million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 7.84% in the forecast period, 2026-2030F. The India Orthopedic Devices Market is being driven by several factors. The most prominent ones include an increase in the elderly population, who are more prone to orthopedic conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis. Moreover, the rise in sports injuries and road accidents are also contributing to the demand for orthopedic devices. Advances in technology and the introduction of innovative implants and prosthetics have further propelled the market growth. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure and the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases have led to an upward trend in orthopedic surgeries, thereby fueling the market demand for these devices.
4. 2
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
If I had to choose only two words to describe today’s global
natural gas market, they would be “dynamic” and “sustainable.”
It’s no secret that natural gas production is growing at an
unprecedented pace in the United States due to the surge in supply
from unconventional sources, primarily shale. Even in the face of
lower American domestic prices, which bottomed out at $2.50 per
thousand cubic feet in 2012, the United States continued to add
volume, largely because of the gas produced in conjunction with
shale oil and the lucrative business of NGLs.
This isn’t just an American story, of course.
Demand for natural gas is increasing worldwide, particularly
demand for natural gas as a base fuel for power generation and home
heating. Natural gas currently accounts for 22 percent of the world’s
energy mix, and the slice of the pie is expected to grow to 25 percent
in less than two decades. By 2025, in fact, natural gas is expected to
overtake coal as the world’s second-largest energy source, behind oil.
Countries like China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico are building
and expanding their gas distribution infrastructure as they gasify
cities. In the United States and other developed nations, the focus
is on maintaining and upgrading already extensive gas distribution
networks. And because capital flows to where there’s opportunity,
investment in these economies’ infrastructure is building swiftly.
At T.D. Williamson, we believe that rising natural gas production
is here for the foreseeable future and that its benefits will continue
to energize the larger global economy, creating win-win scenarios
for many countries. Look at how increased natural gas is creating a
manufacturing renaissance in the United States, particularly around
energy-intensive manufacturing like steel. In the petrochemical
industry, we are seeing not only the reshoring of American
companies, but strong investment from beyond its borders.
In my 15 years with T.D. Williamson, I’ve never seen
infrastructure investment rise so rapidly as it has in recent years.
Our customers are moving quickly, investing boldly, and making
big decisions. They need partners that are just as dynamic and
committed as they are, partners who can help them sustain the flow
of natural gas.
BY BOB MCGREW
VICE PRESIDENT AND
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER,
T.D. WILLIAMSON
E X E C U T I V E O U T L O O K
Dynamic and Sustainable:
Natural Gas Today
6. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
4
EUROPE | CASPIAN | RUSSIA
GlobalPerspective
City of Moscow.
Though the pace of economic recovery has impacted oil and gas
infrastructure investments within the region, renewed investment
is being stimulated by the European market’s desire to reduce its
dependence upon eastern energy sources. This desire has driven a
surge in new infrastructure developments and rehabilitation projects
to improve the versatility and flexibility of European assets. Such
versatility can potentially stress assets, especially aged ones,
leading to a need for more frequent, comprehensive and accurate
integrity assessments, asset uprating, and risk mitigation measures.
Within Russia there is a requirement to ensure uninhibited supply routes into Europe, often circumnavigating potential
political instability via offshore routes. Additionally, Russian producers wish to diversify their customer-base in order to
reduce their reliance on European consumers. This is evident in the historic energy agreement recently signed between
Russia and China, and the corresponding plans for major new pipeline infrastructure in eastern Siberia.
Technology plays a key role in these developments. With traditional compressor-spreads redundant in many of today’s
major deep-water projects – such as South Stream – operators require novel and effective flood-prevention measures. This
need has led to surging demand for solutions like SMARTLAY™ technology.
For an operator in this region to be considered a global player, they must attain consistent standards of pipeline integrity
and asset performance. This is driving increased demand for advanced pipeline integrity and intervention practices that can
leverage a steady return on long-term capital investments.
From Portugal to Ukraine, Norway to Siberia, across new assets and old, the year ahead will be an exciting one filled with
strategic partnerships to meet this region’s increasingly complex pressurized piping needs.
Johan Desaegher
REGIONAL DIRECTOR, T.D. WILLIAMSON
7. 5
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
MIDDLE EAST | AFRICA
ASIA PACIFIC
Regional Commentary from the Industry's Foremost Experts
Geopolitical risk, social unrest, and pricing volatility are terms often associated with
the Middle East/Africa (MEA) region, but so is immense economic growth. Spreading from
the Maghreb and South Africa to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iraq, MEA is a region of complex
and interrelated cultures, race, politics, languages and religion. Although diverse, the
region shares many common themes. One such theme: countries with higher break-even
costs are struggling to re-invest in major projects and development (i.e., Algeria, Libya and
Bahrain), while those with lower break-even costs are experiencing growth, at least from a
cash flow perspective (i.e., Kuwait, Qatar, UAE and Saudi Arabia).
Despite the unique challenges of MEA — including governmental influence over policy,
surging populations, and a transition to private sector growth and stability — oil and gas investments in the cash-rich
countries continue to increase.
Due to the potential for such significant growth in energy infrastructure and transportation, MEA will remain attractive to
both foreign and domestic investors for many years to come.
Asia Pacific is a vast area area comprised of more than 40 countries, including India,
Australia, and China. Of these regions, China and India have the largest, most complicated
and fastest growing pipeline networks, each with more than 50,000 km (31,000 miles) of
transmission lines, several thousand kilometers of upstream gathering lines, and several
more thousand kilometers of distribution.
Although one of the most energy-hungry areas of the world, Asia Pacific (with the
exception of Australia) operates with less governmental focus on pipeline integrity and
regulation enforcement than most. Operators are often their own regulators, responsible
for developing and executing cleaning and inline inspection programs as they see fit.
However, even as government regulation is less in this region, operators across the globe share the economic pressure to avoid
shutdown. This being so, Asia Pacific operators must increasingly rely on hot tapping and isolation technologies, both on and
offshore, to maintain flow. Malaysia and Australia, in particular, depend on specialized remote controlled isolation technologies
for their unique offshore valve replacements. This growing need for pipeline expertise is driving operators to develop or adopt
best practices and to partner with pipeline service providers to meet the challenges of increasing energy demand.
Juan Chacin
REGIONAL DIRECTOR, T.D. WILLIAMSON
Danny Haykal
REGIONAL DIRECTOR, T.D. WILLIAMSON
• Saudi Arabia — Safania offshore field development,
Jizan refinery (under execution), Ras Tanura refinery
(under bidding), Midyan gas field (just awarded)
• Iraq — increasing production to more than 12 million
bpd over the next decade
• Libya — looking toward a licensing round for
international oil firms in the next few years
• Algeria — focusing on increased gas production to
supply gas-hungry Europe
• UAE — expanding gas production at the Shah and Bab
fields to cope with increasing industrial demand, and
looking to increase offshore oil production, such as at
the Umm Lulu field
8. Helping operators
gather more complete
information on the
effects of strain-
based events.
6
T E C H N O L O G Y F O C U S
Even in a world that prizes groundbreaking feats and values
groundbreaking thinking, ground instability is anything but a positive
event for pipeline operators. When ground instability taxes a pipeline
well beyond its typical working stress limits, any number of anomalies
can occur, including buckles, kinks, crack growth, and large, longitudinal
plastic deformation that might eventually lead to pipeline failure.
For onshore operators, the risk of pipeline strain is often associated
with earthquakes, landslides, or frost heave, although in the desert,
pipelines buried in hot, sandy soil have even been known to move
themselves. And offshore, seismic activity is often associated with
upheaval buckling.
Fortunately, ground movement-related pipeline incidents defined
by regulators as serious or significant are relatively rare – in Europe,
they amount to about seven percent of all incidents; in the United
States, that number is slightly lower, at five percent. But however low-
probability they may seem, pipeline incidents related to earth movement
aren’t cheap: according to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration (PHMSA), serious and significant ground movement
events in the United States during the last two decades have cost the oil
and gas industry nearly US$364 million.
Groundbreaking!
Technology provides better insight into
geotechnical hazards and effects.
GROUND MOVEMENT-RELATED PIPELINE
INCIDENTS IN THE UNITED STATES
COST TO THE OIL & GAS INDUSTRY
IN THE LAST TWO DECADES
5% $364MILLION
9. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
7
With a figure that steep, it’s easy to understand
why detecting, monitoring, and mitigating motion-
induced strain events have become an increasingly
high-profile, high-tech part of integrity management
— so much so, in fact, that two organizations have
recently sponsored Joint Industry Projects, or JIPs,
around the topic.
JIPs Encourage Detection And
Validation Of Strain-Based Events
A JIP is a way of creating knowledge in partnership,
looking for a solution to a specific problem that
requires fundamental or applied research. In the
United States, both the Virginia-based Pipeline
Research Council International (PRCI) and the
Center for Reliable Energy Systems (CRES), Dublin,
Ohio, have within the last few years organized JIPs to
help the pipeline industry understand how detecting
and validating the effects of ground movement strain
can aid in reaching pipeline integrity goals.
While a fair amount of PRCI’s work has
focused on strain-based
design for the construction
of new pipelines, the CRES
collaboration turned its
attention more to technology
deployment for assessing strain
events in existing pipelines.
CRES’ JIP group, which
included Kinder Morgan,
Spectra, T.D. Williamson, and
other operators, inspection
companies, and experts in
geotechnical science, materials,
welding, and mechanics, set about to identify:
� The chief geotechnical hazards causing
strain events.
� Inspection tools to detect related
pipeline damage.
� Material properties and flaw
characteristics that increase the likelihood
of damage from pipeline movement.
� Mitigation and monitoring activities.
CRES’ JIP findings were presented at the
Government/Industry Pipeline R&D Forum
sponsored by PHMSA in July 2012. The group
reported that even sophisticated strain capacity models
left something to be desired in terms of precision.
Among the group’s concerns, for example, was the
fact that the strain capacity tests were developed under
laboratory conditions. As such, the models measured
strain on straight, undamaged pipes, without taking
into account interacting defects, field bends, or load
differences that could occur on site.
The JIP suggested that to more accurately
determine the effects of ground movement events
on in-service pipelines, operators would need to fill
in missing data about material properties and flaw
characteristics; understand how longitudinal strains
interact with anomalies from corrosion or mechanical
damage; and employ better means of detecting and
monitoring flaws and fittings.
Moving Toward Better, More
Complete Information
Jed Ludlow, principal inline inspection (ILI) data
scientist for T.D. Williamson, applauds the JIP’s
work as part of the evolution helping to better
predict fitness-for-service in pipelines subjected to
ground movement. He also sees
advances in ILI technology as
further evidence of progress in
the right direction.
“For many years, in the
case of strain events, pipeline
operators had to rely on data
that was gathered from outside
the pipe, above ground, to
make integrity management
decisions,” Ludlow says. “That
meant there was no way to
really examine the entire length
or surface of the pipeline for anomalies. But
today, instead of relying on external data about
ground motion and wondering if the pipeline has
been affected, we can use sophisticated ILI to
examine every square inch of the pipeline, from
start to finish, using non-destructive evaluation
(NDE) techniques.
“For example, specific to strain events, by
running XYZ mapping tools and performing a
bending strain analysis, the operator now has a
complete picture of a pipe segment’s centerline
shape from end-to-end,” Ludlow explains.
And most operators will agree that this is
a groundbreaking step toward more complete
integrity management.
Although ground
movement causes less
than 10% of pipeline
incidents in the US
and Europe, the annual
associated costs figure
in the millions.
10. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
8
S A F E T Y M AT T E R S
Cost-Recovery Programs
Promote Pipeline Safety Projects
A cooperative
approach between
commissions, law
makers and operators
is driving pipeline
safety improvements.
With the popularity of natural gas surging around the globe,
more governments than ever are investing in pipeline safety. In Canada,
for example, the government is requiring more pipeline inspections.
And in England, a new regulatory model has been developed to reward
utilities for performance in several areas, including network safety.
In the United States, many of the safety projects taking place today
are being driven by state regulators and lawmakers who are embracing the
saying, “the carrot is better than the stick.”
In recent years, many local utility commissions in the United States
have worked with natural gas utilities on programs that enable operators
to recover the costs of accelerating replacement and modernization of
their infrastructure. As of mid-2014, the American Gas Association
(AGA) reported 38 states had some type of cost-recovery program in place,
and more are in the works.
“If you step back and look at the environment we’re in now, natural gas
is getting a lot of attention — and rightfully so,” says AGA Senior Vice
President and Chief Operating Officer Lori Traweek. “Many states are
looking for ways to expand natural gas infrastructure, and at the same time,
they want to make sure existing infrastructure is modernized and safe.”
Replaced With Confidence
One of the most important steps to pipeline safety is replacing
gas mains that may no longer be fit for service. Made of cast iron
or untreated steel, they can be susceptible to corrosion and leaks.
According to the United States Pipeline and Hazardous Materials
Safety Administration (PHMSA), there are more than 3.2 million
kilometers (2 million miles) of natural gas distribution mains and
service pipelines in place across the United States.
The good news, AGA says, is that during the last decade, natural
gas utilities have installed updated polyethylene lines at a rate of 48,000
kilometers (30,000 miles) per year, connecting new customers or
replacing older infrastructure. Today, only three percent of the entire
U.S. gas system utilizes cast iron mains.
By 2012, operators’ efforts to replace aging pipelines contributed
to nearly a 90 percent decrease in serious pipeline incidents within
the United States. AGA is confident that state efforts to accelerate
infrastructure replacement will play an important role in further
reducing that number.
11. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
9
A Call To Action: Growing Momentum
Much of the recent infrastructure modernization was inspired by a
call to action by former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood,
who in 2011 encouraged U.S. pipeline operators to identify pipeline
sections that needed to be repaired, rehabilitated or replaced. “We
have a responsibility to work together to prevent the loss of life and
environmental damage that can result from poor pipeline conditions,”
LaHood said at the time.
In 2013, the National Association of Regulatory Utility
Commissions (NARUC) passed a resolution calling for more
infrastructure replacement and cost-recovery programs at the state level.
“State commissions and inspectors are best suited to determine how best
to finance system improvements because each state is different and the
needs and financial circumstances of each utility are unique,” it posits.
While some states already had cost-recovery programs in place, a
variety of new programs have come online since then. In Michigan,
the Public Service Commission established a main-replacement
program rider in 2011, enabling a utility company to recover
incremental capital-related costs associated with pipeline replacement.
In April 2013, the commission approved a similar program for
Detroit, Michigan-based DTE Gas Co.
In May 2013, Indiana lawmakers passed legislation allowing
utilities to submit five-year infrastructure improvement plans to
state regulators for approval. If their plans are approved, utilities
can recover their investment through a tracker on customers’ billing
statements. In July 2014, the Massachusetts governor signed a bill
that creates a protocol for pipeline leaks and includes cost-recovery
programs for pipeline replacement. Lawmakers are also considering
a bill that would establish a revolving loan fund for pipeline repairs
and replacements.
Global Innovation For Safety
Safety-enhancement efforts are building momentum worldwide.
Canada’s Jobs, Growth and Long-Term Prosperity Act recently
provided CAD$15.1 million over two years to enable the National
Energy Board to double pipeline inspections and audits to identify
safety issues.
England’s new regulatory model RIIO — Revenue set to deliver
strong Incentives, Innovations and Outputs — rewards companies for
innovation. Its goals include safer infrastructure.
And, in the United States, Traweek is excited about the cooperative
approach to pipeline safety improvements she’s observing among
commissions, lawmakers and operators.
“No pun intended, but natural gas is hot," she says. "It drives
innovation from research organizations and from equipment and
service providers. That’s when we’re at our best … when there are
multiple stakeholders working together to innovate.”
2004-2014
2014
2013
2011
3.2 MILLION KM
of natural gas
distribution mains &
service pipelines in
place across the U.S.
PE lines in the U.S.
updated at a rate of
ONLY 3 PERCENT
of entire U.S. gas
system still utilizes
cast iron mains
Massachusetts governor signs bill
to increase leak detetcion and
pipeline replacement
NARUC calls for more
infrastructure replacement
and cost-recovery programs at
the state level
Former U.S. secretary call
to action to identify pipeline
needing replacement
in serious pipeline
incidents within the
U.S. by 2012
90%decrease
48,000km/yr
in the U.S. have a
cost-recovery program
in place as of mid-2014
50
38states
12. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
10
F U T U R E T H I N K I N G
Think about the last time you flew to one of your shale play
operations, processing plants or gas distribution centers. Did you stop
to consider the hundreds of thousands of moving and interconnected
parts that allow the engines to function, landing gear to extend, or
wings to flex without tearing off?
Unless you have a decent fear of flying, probably not. You simply
expected these things to function as they should — to take off, fly and
land without event. And that’s a practical expectation, as evidenced by
the extreme rarity of commercial flight malfunctions. From flying across
the Atlantic to placing a communications satellite in orbit, it’s clear
the aerospace industry has developed processes to almost completely
eliminate operational risk.
The ability to continuously deliver such unwavering reliability under
extreme circumstances is due in part to Highly Accelerated Life Testing
(HALT). By subjecting products to stresses far beyond the norm —
temperature cycling, voltage margining and vibration — HALT enables
manufacturers to identify product weaknesses and address them long
before those products are put to work in real-world settings.
“HALT” process identifies
product weaknesses before
they hit the market.
BY JEFF FOOTE
DIRECTOR OF PIPELINE
INTEGRITY TECHNOLOGY,
T.D. WILLIAMSON
Pushing Limits,
Celebrating Failures
13. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
11
Going To Extremes
HALT is not your typical test; it’s impossible to pass
or fail, says Brent Skoumal, a quality and reliability
test engineer with global pipeline solutions provider
T.D. Williamson (TDW). “This isn’t a simulation
test,” Skoumal says. “It’s a limit discovery test.”
The HALT process typically relies on a test
chamber that creates the extreme conditions
necessary to reveal product weaknesses.
The Qualmark Typhoon 5 chamber that
TDW utilizes, for example, includes a
vibration table capable of holding products
or components weighing up to 600 pounds.
The table can produce random vibration
from 10 hertz (Hz) to 5,000 Hz in six
degrees of freedom. Temperature ranges can
shift from 100C to -200C.
Before testing begins, a product or
component is checked for normal function
with no environmental stressors in place.
Then engineers introduce a stress factor in
small increments, checking the product after
each increase. For the Typhoon 5 chamber,
Qualmark recommends beginning with
increasingly cold temperatures, followed
by heat, vibrations, rapid thermal shifts,
and finally, rapid thermal shifts with
simultaneous vibration increases.
The testing continues until the product
fails. “Then you’ve found an operating limit or destruct
limit,” Skoumal says. From there, engineers determine
the cause of the failure, evaluate the need for changes,
and if needed, repeat testing until they’re confident
they’ve achieved maximum robustness.
Celebrating Failures
HALT is not a new process. The testing method
was developed by engineer Gregg Hobbs in the late
1980s to help engineers improve product quality.
In recent years HALT has experienced an uptick
in usage in the oil and gas industry, says Neill
Doertenbach, senior applications engineer with
Colorado-based Qualmark Corp. Qualmark, one of
the pioneers in developing HALT, is a test-chamber
manufacturer that provides HALT training and
project management.
“In oil and gas you have a high cost of failure and
high risk associated with that failure,” Doertenbach says.
Those factors certainly played a role in the
decision to bring HALT to TDW’s Global Pipeline
Integrity Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Paul McKee, quality and compliance manager
at TDW, states that as more HALT testing gets
underway, it will help companies save money by
avoiding costly failures in the field. “We want
to celebrate failures in a lab because we found
something that’s not going to occur in a customer
environment,” McKee says.
Until recently, the company’s product testing
was conducted in controlled environments where
the goal was product success. The decision to add
HALT testing is an investment in client satisfaction,
says McKee. “It’s about trying to create a more
reliable, more robust solution for pipeline operators.”
TDW recently launched HALT testing on new
circuit boards that will be used to acquire and store
pipeline data. “We also plan on establishing baseline
CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
“This isn’t a simulation test,” Skoumal
says. “It’s a limit discovery test.”
VIBRATIONS [10 Hz – 5,000 Hz]
HEAT
[100C]
COLD
[-200C]
14. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
1212
M A R K E T R E P O R T
Until recently, many distribution operators took
a “compliance” approach to pipeline safety. In other words, they
performed the required duties necessary to comply with regulations,
which didn’t include integrity management.
The result? Serious problems were often overlooked until it was
too late. In 2005, the American Gas Foundation published a study
revealing that there were 1,579 incidents on U.S. gas distribution
lines from 1990-2002, with 601 of them involving a fatality or an
injury requiring hospitalization1
.
Because integrity management regulations created by the Pipeline
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) are
credited with helping to reduce incidents in the transmission market,
the U.S. Congress mandated that PHMSA create a set of minimum
standards for gas distribution lines modeled on Integrity Management
Plan (IMP) regulations for transmission pipelines. Today, any
distribution system put into place after August 2, 2001, must have an
implemented Distribution Integrity Management Plan (DIMP).
“[DIMP] has changed the mindset of the industry regarding
risks,” states Darin Burk, Chairman of the National Association of
Pipeline Safety Representatives (NAPSR). “Since implementation,
I’ve seen clean up of records, enhanced data collection, and
identification of training needs, among other things.”
The new DIMP rule is especially changing the way the
distribution industry gathers and uses data from their systems in
order to assess threats to pipeline integrity. This data serves as the
cornerstone for their integrity management plans.
Creating a Plan for Finding
and Managing Risks
Distribution systems can be small and simple, or large and complex —
just like the towns and cities in which they operate. Thus, PHMSA’s
goal was to come up with a set of actions that could be adopted by
distribution operators of all sizes. Operators take these action steps
and create their own written plan. In simple terms, DIMP is a set of
procedures outlining a plan to find risks, assess and manage them.
Changing the way
distribution operators
gather and use data to
assess pipeline integrity.
The DIMP Standards:
An Industrywide Effort To Fill Data Gaps
15. An operator’s DIMP must include
the following action steps, plus plans for
evaluation, monitoring and record-keeping2
:
Obtain knowledge of system infrastructure.
Operators should know the date that
a system was placed in service, its
approximate location, the people responsible
for maintaining it, and any current or
previous issues.
Identify threats. Operators must find
any potential issues along their pipeline.
Common threats to a distribution pipeline
system are corrosion, natural forces,
excavation damage, other outside force
damage, equipment failure, incorrect
operations, and any other concerns that
could compromise pipeline integrity.
Evaluate and prioritize risk. Inspections
and assessments can show thousands of
potential threats in a system. The operator
must be able to evaluate these risks and
consider the likelihood of a dangerous
incident.
Identify and implement measures to
mitigate risks. For each risk, the operator
must ensure that an action is being taken to
protect against incidence. This action might
be general monitoring for low-priority risks,
replacing steel pipes with polyethylene, or
repairing a section of pipeline.
To create their written plans, operators go through
extensive reviews of all construction, operation and
maintenance records. “This exercise allows operators
to identify the gaps in their system knowledge,”
says Burk. “For example, many operators know
the materials within their systems but have no data
identifying the specific locations of the various
materials. To effectively assess the existing and
potential threats to the system, knowing the
exact — or at least general — location of at-risk
materials provides for a more focused approach to
risk mitigation.”
All About The Data
As operators explore their records and start creating
DIMPs, they often realize that they need to enhance
their data collection methods. According to Burk,
one example is that many operators discover they
have insufficient data detailing leak causality. The
records reveal that many field personnel have unclear
reporting instructions, and therefore the various
causes can’t be easily determined.
“High-quality data is key to an effective risk
assessment,” states Philippe Simon, Director of
Market Development — Distribution for T.D.
Williamson. “Operators need data on potential
threats before they even create their plans because
they’ll need to assemble and evaluate that data to
outline their next steps.”
Obtaining quality data is easier for some
distribution operators than for others. Smaller gas
operators often don’t have the resources to manage a
13
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
1
http://primis.phmsa.dot.gov/dimp/docs/History_of_DIMP_06152011.pdf
2
For more information, see the PHMSA publication, “Guidance on Carrying Out Requirements in the Gas Distribution
Integrity Management Rule, Pipeline Safety: Integrity Management Program for Gas Distribution Pipelines.”
DATA MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT
LEARN
FAILURE
FREQUENCY
EVALUATE
PRIORITIZE
INTEGRITY
ASSESSMENT
INSPECT,
MONITOR
TEST
MITIGATION,
INTERVENTION
REPAIR
IDENTIFY
THREATS
ANALYZE
SYSTEM
» CORROSION
» NATURAL FORCES
» OUTSIDE FORCE
» EXCAVATION
» EQUIPMENT FAILURE
» INCORRECT OPERATIONS
» DATE PLACED IN SERVICE
» LOCATION
» MAINTENANCE TEAM
» KNOWN ISSUES
17. The setting: The House of Commons, United
Kingdom. The year, 2006. The testimony given
by Mr. Ian Davidson MP, member of the Public
Accounts Select Committee in the British House
of Commons, representing the Committee of
Public Accounts; and Mr. David Gray, of the
Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM).
This was question 105 of 139.
For over an hour, OFGEM explained to
the committee the difficulties faced by U.K.
regulators, utility companies, and the issues with
aging pipelines. The Committee was unmoved.
COVERSTORY
15
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
Mr. Ian Davidson MP: “Let me be clear. If the [natural gas distribution]
companies find themselves in a position where the number of health and
safety breaches is increasing, a plausible defense for them is to say that they
cannot afford to do it because you are squeezing them too tightly.”
Mr. David Gray: “Yes, they might say that.”
Public Accounts Committee: “You are supposed to be looking after the interests
of consumers … I would have thought that physical safety must be a predominant
consideration … According to this, [ductile iron pipe] fails unpredictably. How
much of it is down there and do you have to dig it all up again?”
Ian Davidson MP, member of the Public
Accounts Select Committee in the British
House of Commons.
Working together for a sustainable future
• Doing More with Less
• A Revolutionary Regulatory Model
• Inspiring Results
• National Grid: A Case Study
• Justifying RIIO Readiness
• A Bright(er) Future
18. “The best thing is for us to get that data to you,”
stated the OFGEM representative. He would need
to come up with the answer.
At a time when 39 percent of the U.K. gas
network was considered at-risk, and the last known
statistic for leaks was 23,000 per year, it seemed
OFGEM had a lot of answers to come up with.
For the past two decades, concerns have been
mounting on both sides of the Atlantic regarding
aging infrastructure under some of the world’s
most populated areas. Recently, in New York’s East
Harlem neighborhood, an explosion destroyed a
five-story building and killed eight people. The
cause? A pipeline that was more than 127 years
old. In Lanarkshire, Scotland, just a few days before
the Christmas holiday in 1999, a family of four
died when their house exploded. Investigations
determined that the cause of the explosion was
natural gas leaking through fractured pipes.
Pipelines worldwide are leaking, cracking, and
creating the potential for catastrophic accidents.
Natural gas customers are clamoring: Why are
those old iron pipes still down there?
DOING MORE WITH LESS
The task of replacing outdated gas pipelines
typically falls on Gas Distribution Network
(GDN) operators. Historically, however, in a tightly
regulated, price-control model, it has not been easy
for GDN operators to come up with the funds to
replace pipelines.
GDNs are tasked with an astounding array
of responsibilities: They must be stewards of
the environment; they must meet shareholder
demands and customer service expectations. They
are held responsible for the safety and integrity of
their systems, and they are expected to respond to
emergencies, market gas, invest in infrastructure,
and head up innovative projects to maintain and
enlarge the grid.
What’s more, GDNs are expected to pay for
much-needed upgrades and maintenance work that
will prevent future disasters and loss of life. But
recovering the cost of those upgrades is complicated.
Fortunately, regulatory bodies and GDNs
around the world are working together to face this
situation head on.
In a June 2014 interview with the United
States National Association of Regulatory Utility
Commissioners (NARUC), Communications
Director Robert Thormeyer expressed optimism
about the industry’s response and actions following
the East Harlem explosion.
“Never say, ‘It will never happen again,’ but
we are becoming more prepared and can reduce
high-profile incidents like the one in New York,” he
said. “I think everyone is aware that it takes federal
government, state government, utilities and the
public to do this. The awareness is there, the states
are working on it.”
Thormeyer is right. The states are working on
it. As of July 2014, 38 U.S. states have adopted
accelerated rate recovery mechanisms that allow
GDNs to apply for special approval to raise
prices to recover pipeline replacement costs.
Another development in the United States is the
Distribution Integrity Management Program
(DIMP), a state-federal partnership that requires
GDNs to formally prioritize pipeline replacement
projects, ensuring that the oldest and/or most
damaged pipelines are replaced first.
A REVOLUTIONARY REGULATORY MODEL:
RIIO A WINNING FORMULA IN THE U.K.
While America is working on its own unique
solutions, U.K.’s OFGEM has been far from idle.
In fact, the organization has recently implemented
a completely unprecedented regulatory model
called RIIO.
RIIO formulates utility revenue with a simple
calculation: Revenue = Incentives + Innovation +
Outputs.
In most other countries, the onus typically
falls on GDNs to proactively secure funding for
the research, technology, or manpower required to
safely and cost effectively replace their networks.
RIIO, on the other hand, requires operators
to include plans for, and anticipated results of,
their technological and methodological advances
when getting their business models approved. The
regulation has tied revenue and innovation together
in a way that’s hard to ignore.
When asked if it would be an option not to
innovate under RIIO, a spokesperson for National
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
16
19. Grid explained, “It’s absolutely crucial that we
display our work on innovation to OFGEM. While
it may be an option to do very little, it wouldn’t
make sense for us in terms of financial revenue, if
we didn’t pursue a positive innovation strategy.”
The National Grid spokesperson went on to add
that the company has taken the call to innovate
very seriously; they innovate because they believe
it’s in the best interest of all parties involved, and
most importantly in the interest of the customer.
Outside of RIIO funding, National Grid spends
between US$3.9 million and US$6.6 million per
year for internal research and development.
INSPIRING RESULTS
Lisa O’Brien, OFGEM senior communications
manager, sees RIIO as being a new best practices
model. “We are already starting to see elements
being adopted across Europe,” she says. “There are a
lot of people looking at how we’re regulating.”
And with good reason: After privatization in
the 1990s, research in GDN innovations in the
U.K. started declining. With utilities under tight
price controls, there was less funding for large-scale
industry-changing projects. The first attempt to
address this lack of funding was the Innovation
Funding Incentive for Sustainable Development
(IFI), RIIO’s direct predecessor.
According to National Grid Project Manager
for Innovation and Gas Distribution Network
Strategy Darren White, IFI was essential to the
continued development of GDN research. “IFI
provided dedicated funding for some innovation
projects that may not have flown,” he said.
“Because of the risk appetite within gas distribution
networks, these projects may not have been funded
by businesses alone.”
RIIO takes the work IFI started a step further:
RIIO requires results and intellectual property
rights from projects funded by the program to be
shared with other local distribution companies. A
portal at smarternetworks.org was launched where
utilities are required to post updates on all projects
funded by the initiative. It’s a dynamic place, with
more than 100 projects and flurries of updates from
truly motivated utilities.
The system has already had a huge impact
on the dynamics of the industry. Take, for
example, the RIIO-funded project on Investment
Prioritization in Distribution Systems. This project
recommends transferrable approaches between
the strategies used for U.K. water industry main
replacement and strategies for replacing natural gas
distribution pipelines.
Just a decade ago, such a project might have
been too big, too expensive, and too cumbersome.
Today, the project puts together collaborators in
otherwise competing networks: Wales West
Utilities, Northern Gas Networks, Scotia Gas
Networks, and National Grid.
Local distribution companies are inspired.
National Grid, for example, is working on a pilot
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
17
COVERSTORY
SeriousPipeline
IncidentsbyCause 22.8% Other Causes
21% Excavation
Damage
22.8% Other Outside
Force Damage
10.2% Material, Welding
Equipment Failure
5.4% Natural Force Damage
22.8% Incorrect Operation
4.2% Corrosion
Source: PHMSA Flagged Incidents File, August 4, 2014.
20. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
to reward and recognize great ideas. “Engineers are
so enthusiastic that it doesn’t take much to prime
it,” said National Grid’s chief operating officer John
Pettigrew in a recent interview with Utility Week.
NATIONAL GRID: A CASE STUDY
Utilities such as National Grid are embracing their
pivotal role with purpose. National Grid is one of
the largest investor-owned utilities in the world. It
connects 15 to 16 million people each day with
energy and has operations in the U.K. and the
United States. In 2012, National Grid collaborated
on 17 joint GDN projects. Between 2008 and
2012, National Grid commissioned 83 innovation
projects; approximately 40 percent secured funding
with collaborative partners.
A few examples include:
Condition Based Management System
National Grid plans to invest approximately
US$942,000 to build an advanced Condition
Based Risk Management (CBRM) system. The
CBRM allows the future Health Index and
Probability of failure to be simulated and
assessed, allowing investment decisions to
be prioritized.
PE Asset Life Research
This US$3.4 million project funded jointly by
National Grid Gas and Scotia Gas Networks will
collect a variety of data related to U.K.’s network
of older polyethylene (PE) gas pipes, which were
constructed of a less-durable formula than
modern PE pipes. To measure the performance
of the oldest of these first-generation pipelines,
National Grid and Scotia Gas Networks will launch
a series of extensive tests to gather data about
the pipelines’ performance, current condition, and
expected remaining life span.
Guided Wave Non-Destructive Testing
Inspection of Mains Pipelines
New guided wave technology for use in
difficult-to-inspect pipelines is being tested by
three collaborating companies: National Grid,
Northern Gas Networks, and T.D. Williamson.
The technology uses bursts of ultrasound which
are fired into the pipe wall material. The wave
returns information about corrosion, cracks, and
pipe-wall thickness. If successful, the new device
will enable previously uninspected pipelines to
be efficiently inspected and more objectively
classified for risk.
JUSTIFYING RIIO READINESS
In order to qualify for funding under RIIO,
creators of new innovations must take additional
steps to prove their technologies align with a
set of core stakeholder benefits. For example,
consider POLYSTOPP® technology. POLYSTOPP
technology is a flow stopping method used within
PE piping. The technique gives operators an
alternative to squeezing the pipe when they wish to
stop the flow of gas.
Under IFI funding, National Grid tested
POLYSTOPP technologies on smaller lines
and concluded that, “National Grid can
approve flow stopping operational products
for larger diameter pipelines.” To ensure the
technology’s eligibility under RIIO, the creators
of POLYSTOPP at T.D. Williamson, a global
pipeline solutions company, have aligned their
technology with stakeholder benefits.
T.D. Williamson’s
POLYSTOPP®
flow-stopping
technology.
21. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014COVERSTORY
19
A BRIGHT(ER) FUTURE
Operators on both sides of the ocean are coming
up with innovative ways to ensure the safety and
integrity of gas pipelines. Solutions like DIMP
and RIIO are helping operators make significant
progress toward updating and replacing aging,
corroded pipes.
The industry is already leaps and bounds
beyond where it was just a decade ago. In one
example given by Tom King, Executive Director
of US National Grid, by following their DIMP
program in Rhode Island, they’ve reduced per-mile
leak repairs more than 40 percent.
The U.K. has experienced similar success: From
1990 to 2002, an average of four iron-mains-related
incidents occurred per year; by 2012, that number
dropped nearly in half, to just 2.2 per year.
As Senior Vice President and Chief Operating
Officer of the American Gas Association, Lori
Traweek, puts it, utility companies have committed
to improving infrastructure.
“There is a growing effort to accelerate
replacement of pipelines no longer fit for service,”
she said. “We have a tremendous opportunity
to utilize a resource that is abundant, and that
offers environmental benefits. As long as networks
and regulators keep working together, putting
stakeholders at the forefront, the future of gas
distribution networks looks very bright indeed.”
The operation to isolate a section of pipe can be performed in less than one hour
after electrofusion of the fitting. The temporary bypass between the two temporary
universal valves allows gas to continue to flow during the operation.
Only the gas in the isolated section is lost. In addition, smaller excavation
sizes and less waste materials are sent to the landfill.
POLYSTOPP®
technology protects pipe from stress-induced damages.
Less damage means preserving the long-term integrity of the pipe.
Because the POLYSTOPP®
plug is rigid, the technology minimizes or eliminates
potentially dangerous leaks during the plugging process.
AligningTechnologywithStakeholderBenefits
DELIVER QUALITY SERVICE TO ALL
IMPROVE CUSTOMER AND
STAKEHOLDER SATISFACTION
TRANSITION TO LOW CARBON ECONOMY
AND MINIMIZE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
SAFEGUARD FUTURE GENERATIONS
ROBUST ASSET CONDITION AND
NETWORK OPTIMIZATION
BE RELIABLE
EFFICIENT AND SAFE WORK DELIVERY
AND REMOVAL OF RISK
KEEP PEOPLE SAFE
22. 20
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
TDW Events, Papers Conferences
TouchPoints
Bakken Oil Product
and Service Show
8-9 OCTOBER | Williston, ND | USA
Pipeline Week
28-30 OCTOBER | Houston, TX | USA
Deepwater Operations
4-6 NOVEMBER | Galveston, TX | USA
International Pipeline Conference Exposition
30 SEPTEMBER – 2 OCTOBER | Calgary, AB |Canada
ADIPEC: Abu Dhabi International
Petroleum Exhibition Conference
November 10-13, 2014
Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC)
welcomes all oil and gas professionals from around the world.The event now
ranks amongst the top 3 oil and gas events globally and is unquestionably the
leading exhibition and conference for oil and gas professionals in the Middle
East,Africa and Asian sub-continent. Growth and success go hand in hand with
longevity and this year’s event takes place between November 10-13, 2014,
marking 30 years of service to the oil and gas industry across the world.
Hall 4, Stand 4410 T.D. Williamson #ADIPEC
23. 21
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
TDW experts deliver — providing technical presentations and
hands-on demonstrations throughout the world. To learn more:
tdwontour@tdwilliamson.com.
OCTOBER 2014
SEPT 30 - OCT 2
International Pipeline
Conference Exposition
Calgary, AB, Canada
8-9 Bakken Oil Product and Service Show
Williston, ND, USA
14-16 Offshore Technology Days
Bergen, Norway
18-21 APIA Annual Convention Exhibition
Melbourne, VIC, Australia
28-30 Pipeline Week
Houston,TX, USA
4-6 Deepwater Operations
Galveston,TX, USA
10-13 ADIPEC
Abu Dhabi, UAE
19-20 Tank Storage Germany
Hamburg, Germany
2-5 POLLUTEC
Lyon, France
NOVEMBER 2014
IndicatesTDW will present
a white paper at this event
ADIPEC
10-13 NOVEMBER | Abu Dhabi | UAE
APIA Annual Convention Exhibition
18-21 OCTOBER | Melbourne, VIC | Australia
Offshore Technology Days
14-16 OCTOBER | Bergen | Norway
Tank Storage Germany
19-20 NOVEMBER | Hamburg | Germany
POLLUTEC
2-5 DECEMBER | Lyon | France
DECEMBER 2014
24. 22
ELIMINAEXPECTING Ø LEAKS, Ø MI
T• Doubling
Isolation Safety
• Seven Seals Set In
Less Than 30 Minutes
• What Do The
Numbers Say?
• Getting Uncertainty
Down To Zero
hink about creating a temporary isolation to repair or
rehabilitate a gas distribution pipeline, one that you want to keep
operating while you complete the work. What happens if you can’t get a
good seal the first time to completely stop natural gas from leaking? At the
very least, you’ll waste product, time, money and other limited resources.
In addition, as Frank Dum points out, you’re operating in a vapor-
rich environment, which means risk is elevated. And because gas
distribution pipelines are located in or near population zones, safety must
be guaranteed.
An expert on hot tapping and isolation solutions based in the United
States, Dum is dedicated to making pipeline isolations both safer and
more cost-effective. He’ll be among the first to tell you that accidents
during pipeline isolations are rare. But that doesn’t mean there should be
any room for error.
25. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014FEATURESTORY
23
ATE RISKISTAKES, 100% OF THE TIME.
Doubling Isolation Safety
Ever since the introduction of double block and
bleed isolation with STOPPLE® Train technology,
natural gas distribution owners and operators
around the world have been achieving safer
isolations more quickly.
Traditional double block and bleed isolation
uses two plugging heads and therefore requires
two fittings and hot taps. But the patented
STOPPLE Train system, developed by global
pipeline service provider T.D. Williamson
(TDW), cuts the number of hot taps and fittings
in half. With the STOPPLE Train system, two
connected plugging heads that move together are
inserted through just one single entrance into the
pipeline. A bleed port is then positioned between
the two plugging heads, creating a zone of zero
energy. Any product that escapes beyond the first
head will be bled out of the line before it can
reach the second one. By preventing gas seepage,
this approach allows operators to provide a safer
environment for personnel working downstream
of the isolation.
Although various double block and bleed
isolation methodologies have been adopted
throughout the industry — for use on Canadian
high pressure transmission lines and required
in most refineries in the United States — there
26. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
24
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
30
NUMBEROFSEALS
TIME TO SET SEALS (in minutes)
0
was still a performance metric not being met: a
leak-proof seal. While the success of any isolation
job hinges on getting the plugging heads to seal
completely, creating an acceptable, leak-proof seal
on the first attempt was never assured.
But Dum says the STOPPLE Train system
has greatly increased the likelihood of getting
a good seal the first time. That means it is safer
to use. And because it requires 50 percent fewer
pipeline penetrations, there are fewer welds and
less equipment on the line.
Beyond those benefits, the first-time success
of STOPPLE Train technology means the entire
plugging process can go faster, too.
Seven Seals Set In
Less Than 30 Minutes
When you operate the pipeline that delivers 75
percent of the natural gas to the residents and
businesses of a bustling city hub like Nashville,
Tennessee, keeping energy flowing isn’t only a
priority — it’s non-negotiable. Even during major
maintenance, a bleed down isn’t an option.
But what happens when the time comes to
replace the 50-year-old manifold on your gas main?
How can you replace it without interrupting service?
That was the challenge one of Nashville’s
largest gas operators faced in 2011. And as if that
task wasn’t daunting enough, the operator had to
contend with seven separate lines running through
the manifold — lines that varied from 8 inches to
20 inches in diameter. To confound matters even
further, no one on staff knew exactly where the
manifold was located, just how big it was, or how
much equipment would be needed to excavate,
isolate, remove and replace it.
One thing was certain, though. The operator
would have to hot tap and plug all seven lines
and create a temporary bypass before removal of
the manifold could begin. Because the lines were
riddled with anomalies including corrosion, pitting
and ovality — all issues that could make getting a
good plugging seal difficult — estimating how long
the hot tapping and plugging process would take
was equal parts past experience and guesswork. As a
result, the operator gave itself a generous timetable,
allowing as much as two weeks to complete the
entire job.
By using STOPPLE Train technology, however,
the operator moved rapidly, safely, and effectively
through the hot tapping and plugging process. In
fact, all seven plugging heads were set in about 30
minutes. And less than 30 minutes
later, the bleed valves were opened
and the operator verified that a 100
percent seal had been achieved.
In other words, it took less than
an hour to set all seven STOPPLE
Train systems, with 100 percent
workable seals the very first time.
Given the common pipe
anomalies the operator was aware
of, Dum isn’t surprised that there
was extra time allotted for hot
tapping and plugging. He’s also not
surprised that the STOPPLE Train
system exceeded all expectations.
“The operator thought they
would have a very hard time getting a good seal,”
Dum says. “They thought they’d have to change the
sealing elements, go back in and try to get a better
seal, repeating the process over and over. It would
have been a guessing game as to which ones were
leaking, but this was eliminated with STOPPLE
Train technology.”
What Do The Numbers Say?
Completing an isolation project safely, successfully
and faster isn’t just good business — there is also
a financial upside when hot tapping and plugging
27. times are reduced.
Helping operators understand just how much
they can save by getting a good seal the first time is
where Veronyca Kwan comes in.
As a senior business market analyst for TDW,
Kwan’s focus is on the economics and value side of
the hot tapping and plugging process. As such, she’s
concerned with quantifying — from a “hard dollar”
standpoint — just how important it is for natural
gas asset owners and operators to get a good seal with
zero leakage the first time, every time. She’s even
developed a calculator to do the math.
According to Kwan, the calculator helps owners
and operators decide whether it’s more economical
to shut down a pipeline for repair or other activity;
use a standard isolation; or use STOPPLE Train
technology.
By assessing data that includes pipeline condition,
length, diameter, other operating parameters and
variables, and even environmental considerations,
the calculator can produce real-time results tailor-
made to various operating conditions.
With STOPPLE Train technology providing
such high first-time success rates, the operator keeps
product flowing and eliminates wasted labor and
other costs. In most cases, the savings generated by
using the system far outweigh its initial cost, Kwan
says.
For the Nashville project, the operator
had 100-ton cranes, bulldozers, other ancillary
equipment, and a 40- to 50-person crew on standby
on site, ready to begin work once the isolations
were completed. At a price tag of US$50,000 to
US$100,000 per day, delays caused by less than
perfect plugging seals could add up to tremendous
dollars spent on idle people and equipment.
Kwan refers to the calculator as “engineering-
oriented,” saying it produces a corresponding
spreadsheet that outlines supporting tasks.
“We’re trying to identify net savings of time,
money, labor, equipment, tariffs and more,” Kwan
says. “In this way, the calculator provides value to
owners and operators.”
Getting Uncertainty Down To Zero
If every gas distribution pipeline were brand new,
operators wouldn’t have to give a second thought
to the age-related problems that cause first time
plugging difficulties, such as corrosion and pitting.
But in the real world, gas distribution pipelines
have some age on them. Much of Europe’s gas
distribution network dates from the 1960s and
1970s; in Denmark, Ireland and Spain, the pipelines
are younger, but they’ve still been in place since the
mid-1980s. In the United States, 44 percent of the
gas distribution pipelines were installed during the
1970s or earlier.
Even in new pipelines — and there are plenty
of those being built around the world — different
pressures and other operating scenarios can affect the
first-time plugging success rate.
Although pipeline age didn’t prevent the
STOPPLE Train technology from achieving a
100 percent first time success rate in Nashville,
companies such as TDW are testing ways to further
overcome issues like operating pressures and defects
that can affect the first-time success rate of plugging
seals on pipe of any age. INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014FEATURESTORY
25
IDLE WORKERS
IDLE EQUIPMENT
(40-50 PERSON CREW)
(100-TON CRANE, BULLDOZERS
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT)
The Financial Impact Of Delays Created By Imperfect Plugging
$50,000-
$100,000
USD PER DAY
28. Receive future issues of Innovations™
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Changing Directions
ISSUE NO. 1 PG 13
Repurposed Pipelines
Meet Growing Energy Demands
The oil and gas industry’s approach to
change has often been compared to the
formation of fossil fuels themselves: slow,
steady, and done under pressure.
But these days, energy companies are
stepping up the pace. For one thing,
they’re being forced to respond to altered
market conditions arising from new shale
and tar sands activity. Take for example
the production growth in the Marcellus
Shale, which covers…
Working in Isolation
ISSUE NO. 2 PG 12
How Isolations Can Help Solve
Pipeline Challenges – From Valve
Repair To Extending Reservoir Life
The Malampaya Shallow Water Platform in
the Philippines provides 40 percent of the
gas to Luzon, one of the most populated
islands in the world. So shutting it down
for any length of time could result in gas
shortages and serious damage to Luzon’s
economy.
But that’s exactly the proposition that Shell
Philippines Exploration and Production
(SPEX) was faced with in 2010…
Up-and-Coming
ISSUE NO. 3 PG 12
What Australia Can Learn from
Shale Successes and Failures in
Other Nations
In 2011, larger oil and gas companies like
ExxonMobil, Marathon Oil, Talisman Energy,
and Chevron started pouring into Poland.
The United States Energy Information
Administration (EIA) had just estimated
the country’s potential shale reserves at
5.3tn cubic meters — the largest in Europe.
The Baltic Basin, a giant shale gas play
stretching from northern Poland up to
Lithuania, seemed to be poised…
Shareholder return, increasing regulation, a more involved public, and the ever-present need for risk reduction
and mitigation. Simply put, managing pipelines and processing plants is an often overwhelming challenge.
Innovations™
magazine, however, makes it slightly more manageable.
From industry innovation, to market trending and analysis, the editorial staff at Innovations magazine is
committed to delivering engaging content with valuable commentary from the pressurized piping industry's
most respected experts. We encourage you to join the dialogue today.
29. 27
INNOVATIONS•OCTOBER-DECEMBER2014
program in-house. Larger gas utility companies may
have a managed program, but are still looking for
new solutions and techniques to
make their DIMP more effective.
To help small distribution
operators with DIMP creation,
the American Public Gas
Association developed SHRIMP:
Simple, Handy, Risk-based
Integrity Management
Plan. SHRIMP is a software
application meant for gas
distribution utilities that lack
the in-house engineering
and management needed to
maintain a DIMP. The tool helps
operators make sense of their
data and create a written plan.
Although SHRIMP is
specific to small operators, both
large and small distribution
operators can learn from new
integrity management solutions and technology
from the transmission market, whose management
techniques can be easily transferred to distribution.
And since DIMP is now required, many companies
that offer evaluation and repair services for the
transmission market have expanded their expertise
into distribution. For example, service providers
like T.D. Williamson offer comprehensive inline
inspection tools and non-destructive evaluation
(NDE) technologies and services for use in both
the transmission and distribution markets. Inline
inspection tools can provide data related to internal
and external material loss in the pipes, changes
inside the pipe wall, pipeline expansion, and
other anomalies that can help predict leakage.
After gathering data on the
pipeline system, NDE is
used to verify its accuracy so
that operators can effectively
prioritize and mitigate risks.
Positive Changes
For The Distribution
Market
Burk, who was heavily
involved in DIMP
implementation efforts
at NAPSR, says that he’s
noticed that operators
are making constructive
changes in the ways in which
they approach risk. Plus, as
a result of the identification
of potential threats, the
distribution market as
a whole is working to reduce the number of
dangerous incidents. In the United States, Burk
says, “over the past four to five years, 32 states
have passed legislation that allows for accelerated
rate recovery of costs associated with replacement
of at-risk pipe. Operators may accelerate the
replacement based on the risk analysis. And as a
result of evaluating their data, operators are now
able to focus their resources to replacement of the
highest risk facilities.”
SHRIMP PROCESS
ENTER/CONFIRM SYSTEM INFO
SELECT SETTINGS
COMPLETE THREAT INTERVIEWS
VALIDATE RISK RANKINGS
SELECT ADDITIONAL ACTIONS
SELECT PERFORMANCE MEASURES
CREATE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
DOWNLOAD PLAN
The APGA tool helps operators make sense of
their data and create a written plan.
operating limits on all current and future inline
inspection tools,” Skoumal said.
Bypassing Disaster
HALT covers the full gamut of industries,
Doertenbach says. “We do aerospace and air traffic
control. HALT was mentioned on the floor of the
House during a discussion on missile defense systems.”
More recently, HALT helped a Qualmark
client in the oil and gas upstream sector learn
why an electrical component was malfunctioning
downhole. “Twice it failed downhole to the tune
of a whole lot of money,” Doertenbach states.
Within 20 hours of [HALT] testing, we had
forced the same failure. It gave them a chance to
do failure analysis.”
Essentially, Doertenbach says, HALT failures
like these really are successes.
“If you can screen out a failure mode, it’s
money in your hand.”
Pushing Limits
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
DIMP Standards
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
30. PhasesFourBY THE
NUMBERS
28
BY THE
NUMBERS
1
7
2
8
NineSteps to
Open bleed ports to achieve zero energy zone. By opening the bleed ports,
the operator achieves true Double Block and Bleed isolation, allowing for
excellent sealing and zero product leakage in the isolated area.
3
Illustration features STOPPLE®Train isolation
technology by T.D. Williamson.
Install SANDWICH®
Valve and threaded valves. These
valves sit atop the fittings to allow for insertion and removal
of equipment from the pipe without loss of product.
Weld fittings, tapping fittings, and threaded valve stems on
the line. These fittings are permanently affixed to the line to
allow mounting of tapping and plugging equipment.
Fully set upstream plugging head. Once set, the
upstream sealing element completely stops flow through
the isolated area, which is subsequently drained.
DOWNTIME AND LOST OPPORTUNITY
ARE NO LONGER the inevitable outcomes of
pipeline maintenance and repair. Here are nine steps
to achieve greater jobsite safety, uninterrupted flow,
and increased first-time sealing success.
Tap all fittings. Using
pilot drills and cutters, the
tapping blade penetrates
the pipe wall to allow a path
for equipment insertion.
31. of PROGRESSIVE PIGGING
29
DOUBLE ISOLATION BYPASS
DOUBLE-
6
4
9
5
Fully set downstream plugging head. By setting the second
sealing element, which is rated for the full pressure of the line,
the upstream head transitions to a neutral environment.
Partially set upstream nose wheel to bottom
of pipe. This partial setting of the plugging head
slows and diverts product flow into the bypass,
allowing the downstream plugging head to be set.
Complete pipeline maintenance. Requisite or preventive pipe maintenance is completed
and full operation resumes. With completion plugs and blind flanges set into the fittings,
the bypass is disassembled and all temporary equipment is removed.
Install bypass piping and allow flow through bypass.
Bypass piping allows the diversion of product around the
isolated section of pipe, enabling the operator to continue
producing product and associated revenue.