Вы находитесь на странице: 1из 40

October 2010 Volume 11, Number 5 www.oilgas.

net
Publication Mail Agreement No.: 40039458

Thanks for subscribing to Oil & Gas Network | Renew / Subscribe www.oilgas.net
Advancing Reservoir Performance

How to get the most from 250 C


°
SAGD wells without breaking a sweat.
The world’s first ultra-temperature electrical submersible pumping (ESP) systems in steam assisted
gravity drainage (SAGD) wells are now at work in the Canadian oil sands. Baker Hughes Centrilift™
XP ESP production systems can operate at fluid temperatures up to 250°C (482°F). No other ESP
system can give you this kind of reliable, high-temperature performance.
©2010 Baker Hughes Incorporated. All Rights Reserved. 30181

To learn more about how we can help you get the most out of your SAGD wells, contact your
Baker Hughes representative or visit us online. We’ll show you how to beat the heat, without
breaking a sweat.

www.bakerhughes.com/canada
NEW!
GF320
CONTENTS

October 2010 Volume 11, Number 5

Publication Mail Agreement No.:


40039458
5 The Nature of the News
7 Changing of the Guard at PSAC
Publisher
John Robertsen
9 Athabasca River Discussion Sought by Province

Editorial Associates 9 Petroleum Services Industry Supports Canadian Students


David Coll 10 Sanjel Makes Canadian History
Seema D Dhawan
Joni Evans 10 T.D. Williamson, Inc. Unveils New 48-inch Gas Magnetic Flux
Elizabeth Hak Leakage Inspection Tool
Joe Perraton
12 Spartan’s 35th Employee Retries after 35 Years
Design & Layout
15 Calgary Economic Development Releases Headquarters Report
millstonecommunications.ca
amanda@oilgas.net 16 Energy & the Environment – There is NO CHEAP ENERGY or
Advertising Sales
OIL– All Energy has Consequences, so Let’s Act Accordingly!

Infrared Camera
Tanis Kydd 16 Mpact™ Drilling Motors Available with Advanced Stator Elastomer
780.910.4793 for Increased Performance and Reliability
tanis@oilgas.net
18 PCS-Canada White Paper

for gas leak detection


John Robertsen 20 Driver Safety Begins and Ends with the Driver
403.503.0460
jrr@oilgas.net
21 ALPC

Oil & Gas Network


22 Enventure Announces First 8 x 9-5/8 in. MonoSET™ OHC System
Installation and electrical inspections
Suite 300, 840 6th Ave SW 22 Get to the Core of Vendor Management Problems with Better
Calgary AB T2P 3E5 Requirements Applications:
Phone: 403 503 0460
23 Functional Safety Solutions Features:
Subscriptions and Address Changes 24 Unconventional Gas - Remarkable Growth in a Quarter • Onboard MPEG4 digital recording
www.oilgas.net/subscriptions.htm Century! • Multipurpose VOC Emission detection
or email subscriptions@oilgas.net
24 Stratos and Zedi Deploy World’s First BGAN –Based SCADA
and Radiometric inspections
Return Undeliverable Canadian
Network Oil refineries • Inspect furnaces and boilers through
Addressed to:
flames up to 1500oC
Oil & Gas Network Mail 25 Alberta Bases Businesses Seek to Maximize Safety and
2 - 1450 28th Street, N.E. Environmental Prosperity Through Innovative New Fracing • Real-time visualization of even very
Calgary, AB T2A 7W6 Technology small gas leaks thanks to the Excellent
High Sensitivity Mode (<25mK)
26 Powerblanket Introduces Heated Pipe Wraps
Oil & Gas Network is published six • Digital Camera, Laser Pointer
times a year. Reproduction in 27 Baker Hughes Installs World’s First Ultra-Temperature SAGD
whole or in part of any material in
Natural gas • Embedded GPS Data helps to
this publication without the express 28 - 38 Oilsands Trade Show Technology Overview identify the precise locations of
written permission of the publisher
noncompliance
is prohibited. • High Performance LCD & Tiltable
The publisher of Oil & Gas Network high resolution viewfinder delivers
is not responsible for errors or bright and vivid image in poor
emissions printed, and retains the
Power generation
lighting environment or
right to edit all copy. under sunlight
Opinions expressed in the editorial
content of Oil & Gas Network do not
necessarily reflect the views of the
publisher or Oil & Gas Network.

Printed in Canada by
Petrochemical &
Calgary Colorpress chemical industries

1-800-613-0507 x24 / x25 or email IRCanada@flir.com


for more info www.flirthermography.ca

FREE INFRARED WEBINARS!


Cover photograph courtesy of Kudu Industries Visit flir.ca for the full schedule of FREE online seminars.

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 3


Tubular Services Inc.
OUR EDGE is Innovation

* Connection Make & Break


* Rotate, Reciprocate
* Fill and Circulate
* Rigs in quickly, like making up
a drill collar connection
* Easy to understand and operate
* Reduces manpower and equipment
requirements
* Improves rig floor safety
* Compact and lightweight tools for
easy handling
* Multiple casing diameters with
one base tool
* Quick change die structure
* No hydraulic connections means
no fluid leaks

* Works in API
Connections “as-is”
* Casing and Tubing
Connections
* Increases connection
torque capacity
* Increases connection
compressive capacity

* Smoothes connection
transition for tool running
and packers
* Reduces the risk of connection
washout
* Installs on location, in a storage People, Product, Service
yard, or in the pipe mill
We specialize in top drive casing running:
• Available for use on all top drive rigs
• Get casing to TD more reliably
• Reduce unexpected costs
• Improve rig floor safety
CRTi available for 4.5” through to 18.63” casing
* Solid Centralization
Engineered products to enhance casing
* One piece construction running and cementing.
* Smooth profile
* Reduce torque
and drag Please contact us for any of these products at:
* Helical or Straight rib 4648 Eleniak Road NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2S1
* Can be Custom T 780.490.5185 F 780.437.2187
designed to suit 24 Hour Call Line: 1.866.8 VOLANT
your needs
volantproducts.ca
COLL’S CORNER

The Nature of the News


9/11, the oilsands and the forgotten art
of fact-checking

A
nother mid-week evening wastes away in the 500-channel universe . . . it’s the first full
week of September, the rains of summer continue into the Calgary fall, and there’s noth-
ing on the tube. It’s the worst of times – waiting for NHL (Olli Jokinen promises a good
season!) and NFL to fill the void, the great Spanish World Cup victory and summer holidays
now a faded memory.
Alas, as I surf the remote, there is a saving grace. It’s a series of shows looking back on the 9th
anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. I quickly get caught up in this – as
I do every year with the late November JFK assassination specials. I’m reminded that I’d forgot-
ten a lot of 9/11 details – like the collapse of the third building, WTC 7. I can’t even remember
being aware of that at the time.
Looking at the aftermath of that tragic event nine years later, I am surprised at how many
unanswered questions remain and far less certain that the official story we’ve been spoonfed
by the authorities and the mainstream media from day-one is what really happened that day. Of
course, we’ll never know what really led to these fateful events, nor will we ever know many
of the significant details of how it all unfolded.
All of this intellectual stimulation and conspiracy mongering got me thinking about the
nature of the news we digest on a daily basis here in Alberta. Some of the reporting has become
so one-sided or shrill that, at the end of the day, you don’t really know what or whom to believe.
It’s gotten to the point where, to make a point, you need a radical point of view. Facts are lost
on the cutting room floor in favor of the righteously indignant soundbyte.
It’s not as ominous as the aftermath of 9/11, but the best parallel of incomplete, dubious
reporting I can think – that leaves one with more questions than answers – is the continued
airtime given to even ‘fringe’ critics of the oilsands industry.
Take the folks at Forest Ethics for example (please take the folks at Forest Ethics).They wrote
letters to Fortune 500 companies urging them to boycott the oilsands. They then announced
that Gap, Timberland, Walgreen’s and Levi-Strauss had all agreed to the boycott and garnered
headlines all across North America.That turned out not to be the case but the damage was done
– more negativity, more lingering questions about the importation of Canadian oil into the U.S.
When the real story emerged, most of the media had moved on and the spotty follow-up
was relegated to lesser pages. You would think Forest Ethics’ reputation might be irreparably
harmed as a legitimate media source but you can bet they’ll be back in the headlines just as
soon as they choose to again stir the pot.Yet if this were a corporation or a politician or other
public figure, their credibility would be severely compromised if not destroyed.
The folks at Forest Ethics clearly have an axe to grind – that’s how they make their living
– and yet their statements are allowed to stand with little debate. And it’s ironic that when Pre-
mier Ed Stelmach writes a letter to the Washington Post it is rejected as a paid ad, but you can
bet a group like Greenpeace is given a free ride because they provide what readers are looking
for – a little provocation, a call to action. Sells papers and that sells ads.
One group that monitors the media calls this phenomenon “equal time for nutjobs” – mean-
ing almost any group or individual, regardless of their qualifications, can make an outrageous
statement and wind up on the front page.
One example is Neve Campbell, narrator of an anti-oilsands film that was, unfortunately,
funded by Alberta taxpayers. She had a lot of credibility in a certain scene in the film Wild
Things, if you know what I mean, but what authority does she have to speak about the science
of the oilsands?
Where the oilsands are concerned, I submit that we are seeing “unequal time for nutjobs” –
they are dominating the airwaves and that has less to do with the industry not standing up for
itself and more to do with the media looking for the “sexy” quick-read that will generate “buzz”
in web and print.
What ever happened to balance, credibility and fact-checking in the media? Are we truly pro-
gressing in the digital age or is everything being ridiculously dumbed down? And what really
happened on that day nine years ago in New York City?

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 5


Through thick
and thin, heavy
oil’s economic
challenges don’t
have to be a
sticking point.
Dense, viscous and asphaltic, heavy oil demands a
high degree of expertise to economically develop
and produce. Around the world, the experts from
Halliburton have been providing proven “one-stop”
heavy oil solutions, along with unequalled customer
commitment, for over 50 years.
What’s your heavy oil challenge? For solutions,
contact heavyoilcanada@halliburton.com.

Solving challenges. TM
HALLIBURTON

© 2010 Halliburton. All rights reserved.


Changing of the
Guard at PSAC
A fter almost 30 years at the helm of
the Petroleum Services Association
of Canada (PSAC), President Roger
Soucy is stepping down November 1, 2010.
Assuming the role of President is Mark
Salkeld, formerly of Nabors Drilling Interna-
tional. But it’s not just the PSAC leadership that’s
changing – the entire oil and gas services industry
has been changing too.
According to Mr. Soucy:“One of the largest changes has been the shift of a sector consisting
almost exclusively of small entrepreneurs with only a handful of larger companies, to one that
has several dozen larger public and private companies, while retaining a cadre of smaller enter-
prises.This change has lead to a much better-financed group that is more able to deal with the
cyclicality of the industry.”
Mr. Salkeld is well familiar with this type of corporate transformation in the services sector.
He has 27 years of experience with a single employer that, through mergers and acquisitions,
transformed itself three times – from Beta to Bonus to Nabors – in that period.
Another significant change Mr. Soucy notes is the Canadian services sector’s move into the
international market. He says: “Increased financial and management capacity has allowed a
large number of companies to move beyond Canada. Some of this has been driven by domestic
downturns in activity levels, but a significant influence has been the need of companies, par-
ticularly the larger ones, to seek additional markets in order to grow their companies, recogniz-
ing that competition will eventually limit market share domestically.”
Again, Mr. Salkeld’s experience reflects this. After beginning his career in Alberta and BC, he
followed the growth pattern of his evolving company, taking on progressively senior roles in
Western Australia and Queensland, two Australian states with burgeoning oil and gas industries.
Nabors, which currently operates in Canada, the US and in 30 other countries worldwide, is
certainly not alone. Many of PSAC’s member companies, such as Trican Well Service, CalFrac
Well Services and Stream-Flo Industries and MasterFlo Valve, have successfully expanded their
Canadian operations in locations around the globe.
Geographical expansion has been accompanied by service, product and market diversifi-
cation in the sector over the past 30 years. Mr. Soucy comments: “Companies have seen the
challenges of a limited suite of services. This has caused many to expand their offerings in an
attempt to moderate their exposure to commodity cyclicality.”
One of the key areas of service sector expansion is oil sands and heavy oil. Mr. Soucy contin-
ues:“Companies have ramped up their management, technical and human resource capabilities
to access both the construction and maintenance involved in these massive projects.”
Of course another product and service evolution has been in technologies such as coil
tubing, particularly for natural gas from coal activity. This has been Mr. Salkeld’s focus for the
past year in Australia, when he was responsible for launching Nabors’ coil tubing operations
in Brisbane.
Mr. Soucy can’t say enough about the service sector’s technological contributions to the
industry: “There is no way the size of the industry would be what it is in Canada today if
we were still drilling and completing wells the way we were 30 years ago. There has been a
consistent drive to reduce costs, while continuing to develop a mature basin economically.
The service sector has responded to this challenge in spades. New technology is unlocking
considerable geological opportunities, both in areas that had been previously passed over as
uneconomic or in older fields whose prime had passed.”
Mr. Salkeld, having worked directly in the sector for the past three decades, agrees. He has
witnessed vast technological change over his career and fully expects the service sector’s
attention to innovation to continue unabated.
Perhaps the most fundamental change in the service sector over the past 30 years has been
the shift in emphasis from machinery to people. More than ever, companies are recognizing
their greatest value is in their people – in the skills, knowledge and teamwork capacity they
bring to the job every day. Expectations are high for everyone – those working downtown
and those in the field. Today, workers whose office is a truck must be proficient with the most
advanced computerized systems; follow ever more stringent safety and environmental pro-
cesses and regulations; be able to complete complex math and science calculations; and use
constantly evolving communications tools.
Without question, in today’s oilpatch, learning is an ongoing requirement. Mr. Salkeld knows
that all too well. He recently completed his MBA while working full-time, recognizing that a
combination of operational and management expertise opens big doors in today’s service
sector.
What words describe today’s Canadian oil and gas service sector? Financial strength. Busi-
ness acumen. Worldwide expansion. Market penetration. Technological innovation. Technical
skill. Teamwork. Management capacity. No question, we’ve come a long way in three decades,
and Roger Soucy has been there to see it all.
As he passes the presidential torch to Mark Salkeld, Mr. Soucy says: “It’s been a great ride.
I am privileged to have had the opportunity to contribute to this amazing industry for the past
30 years.”

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 7


Athabasca River Discussion Sought Petroleum Services Industry
Supports Canadian Students
by Province
T he Alberta government is hoping to compare notes
face-to-face with authors of a report that says the oil-
sands are polluting the Athabasca River. Released by
David Schindler, professor of Biological Sciences at the Uni-
McEachern says there have been times when govern-
ment monitoring has shown certain contaminants to be
above guidelines, although they have not seen guidelines
exceeded for mercury. “They occur usually during storms
T hrough Scholarships and Grants Ten students and 10 schools
are each being awarded $1,000 for a combined total of
$20,000 in scholarships and grants by the Petroleum Ser-
vices Association of Canada (PSAC). PSAC is pleased that these
annual awards will enable student recipients to pursue their edu-
versity of Alberta, the report claims that the river is more or times of high sediment loads,” he says of times when cational goals and help small schools in western Canadian commu-
contaminated than the government has admitted. accumulations may be higher. nities enhance their learning programs.
Premier Ed Stelmach responded during a press confer- Higher levels of contaminants can be naturally occur- The scholarships and grants are being awarded through the PSAC
ence held in Edmonton Sept. 2, saying that the government ring, says McEachern, since the Athabasca River and some Education Fund, which, since established in 2001, has invested over
will compare the data and make the comparisons public. of its tributaries run through oilsands deposits. In some $140,000 in the futures of Canadian students. Students pursuing a
“If it means we have to do something more, we will,” Stel- areas, bitumen can easily be seen along riverbanks. “The certificate, diploma or degree at an accredited post-secondary insti-
mach says. reality is we already have lots of data out there that indi- tution are eligible to apply for the scholarships. Proposals for grant
Preston McEachern, head of Science, Research and Inno- cates that the majority of the loading of this system is natu- funding are submitted by schools aiming to enhance their learning
vation for Alberta Environment, is hopeful Schindler will rally occurring.” opportunities in math, sciences or the trades.
agree to sit down with him and his colleagues to go over Alberta Environment’s monitoring of waters near oil- “By offering financial support through the PSAC Education Fund,
the data. “We are hoping a meeting will happen soon,” sands sites is now in the midst of a three-year cycle of the petroleum services industry can help develop and support
McEachern says. continuous monitoring.“We have an extensive monitoring future leaders in a tangible way, not only for our industry, but for
Schindler’s report was created after two years of study program in the oilsands. We have continuous monitoring all of Canada,” says Roger Soucy, PSAC’s President. “PSAC and our
along with Erin Kelly, with the results published in the Pro- that started a year-and-half ago,” says McEachern. “It’s an member companies are committed to encourage learning and help
ceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Journal. It exceedingly intense program of all major tributaries and build the future workforce.”
states that 13 elements classified as priority pollutants by six sites in the Athabasca River.” Enabling students to take advantage of existing opportunities
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Water Special sponge-like samplers are set out in the Athabasca and helping schools to create new ones is the central aim of the
Act are present in the Athabasca River. River in cages, where they absorb compounds. They are PSAC Education Fund. The Fund helps ensure that the upcoming
According to the study, mercury, thallium and other pol- pulled out the river after one month and contaminants in generation will have the knowledge and tools to thrive, and is just
lutants accumulated in higher concentrations in snow- them are then measured in the lab. one example of how the petroleum services industry supports the
packs and waterways near and downstream from oilsands Alberta Environment is planning to publish the data it Canadian communities in which it works.
development than in more remote areas. It also says that has gathered. “We are writing up the first couple of pages Scholarship recipients are determined through a random draw
Canada’s or Alberta’s guidelines for the protection of on a contaminant load study in the Athabasca Delta,” he process while grant recipients are selected by a committee accord-
aquatic life were exceeded for cadium, copper, lead, mer- says.That study should be out to the public early next year. ing to a predetermined set of criteria.
cury, nickel, silver and zinc in melted snow or water col- Data will also be published on contaminant loads and loca- More information can be found on www.psac.ca/community
starting in January.
lected near or downstream of development. tions of seepages in the Athabasca River.

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 9


Sanjel Makes Canadian History T.D. Williamson, Inc. Unveils New 48-inch
By: Seema Dhawan
Gas Magnetic Flux Leakage Inspection Tool

S anjel Corporation
(Sanjel) completed
the largest single-
location fracturing proj-
T .D. Williamson, Inc has announced the successful development of a new 48-inch
Gas Magnetic Flux Leakage (GMFL) inspection tool, recently engineered at the
TDW facility in Salt Lake City.
The new tool, which has already had a field run on a 48-inch natural gas transmission
line in Canada, reveals the sheer versatility of the services that TDW offers to its pipeline
ect in Canadian history customers. TDW can provide cleaning pigs and inline inspection (ILI) services using its
in the Horn River Basin 48-inch Kaliper®360 tool for identifying physical anomalies and geometry in a pipeline
in Northeastern British and using its 48-inch GMFL tool for identifying corrosion features and pipe wall loss.
Columbia, almost four TDW can also offer hot tapping and plugging services to assist with the repair of identi-
times larger than the fied anomalies.
previous record.
The operation ran GMFL Tool: consistent velocities offer more accurate inspection
uninterrupted for over The new tool enhances TDW’s ability to offer a full range of inspection services to
100 days, enduring harsh its clients.“This is a first,” said David Soanes, Account Manager for TDW in southwestern
weather including -40°C Ontario. “Never before have we been able to offer 48-inch high pressure, natural gas
temperatures, blizzards transmission inline inspection. We are delighted by our ability to offer our clients a range
and white-out condi- of services catered specifically to their pipelines. Likewise, our clients are pleased to be
tions. able to have all of their needs handled by one supplier,” he added.
The multi service project successfully com- Sanjel is also the first company to launch a TDW’s Gas MFL (GMFL) tool is uniquely designed to fill a niche in the ILI market. Gas
pleted an average of two and a half fracturing low emission product in its cementing line in pipeline MFL tools do not enjoy the advantages that liquid product MFL tools do. In a
treatments daily in its three month duration. Western Canada. liquid line, the product (for instance, crude oil) provides lubrication, reducing friction
“It was a 24 hour project that had concur- Depressed commodity prices have made it between the inspection tool and pipe wall. This makes it possible to maintain a steady
rent operations at all times,” says Shane Hooker, difficult for our customer to successfully com- speed as the MFL tool traverses the pipe. In a gas environment, however, opposite condi-
VP of Engineering and Operations at Sanjel. plete their projects with economics in mind, tions predominate: without the lubrication, friction rises, causing the magnetic inspec-
This people and equipment intensive project says Hooker. tion tool to “stick” to the pipe wall. In addition, it is difficult to maintain a steady tool
ran for 24 hours a day and required very high Sanjel aims to reduce cost and deliver effi- speed because variations in gas pressure cause the tool to stall and surge as it moves
within the line.
completion services, uncommon in today’s ciency while remaining environmentally
industry trends. These fracturings came ahead responsible.
of schedule and exceeded performance expec- Technologies such as Sanjel’s ShockFrac
tations. tool used in completion process significantly
Supporting activities were required for reduces the amount of nitrogen used in shal-
coiled tubing, preparing wells for fracturing low gas and cold bed methane completions.
treatments and cleaning them before and after Hybrid ShockFrac tools allows unconventional
treatments. and shallow gas completions to be performed
Although ground travel would have been in series and without treatment delays. This
the norm, Sanjel used helicopters to suffice the technology utilizes a high pressure shock wave
intensity of the project. in order to initiate a fracture thus reducing the
Hooker says this allowed employees from need for volume of product.
different districts of Canada to go to and off “When we become more efficient, we can
duty on time. reduce our cost for service,” says Hooker, in ref-
When you have concurrent operations with erence to the Horn River project.
critical path items and high risk activities, com- He says the fit for purpose fracturing crew
munication is paramount, he added. with equipment that’s specifically designed
To manage a project of this magnitude Sanjel for services increases the scope of completion
implemented an active hazard identification happening quickly.
program. Delivery of fluid, delivery of proppent to
Employees participated in project orienta- the pumping and successful completion of the
tion as well as daily safety meetings. The pro- coiled tubing operations are some areas where
gram mandate also required that employees efficiency was increased. The TDW high resolution GMFL tool addresses these impediments with three strate-
submit a hazard identification form when on Sanjel offers leading edge equipment and gies. First, each magnetizer “floats” individually so that magnetic forces are consistent
shift to avoid complacency. services for these mega projects, he says. whether in a thick or thin wall, or a tight bend. By reducing tool drag, floating magnetiz-
“The two most important things at Sanjel are “We didn’t focus on any one thing in the ers enable more consistent velocities. Second, the traditional MFL tool has coarse steel
performing our work safely and performing our project but had more of a global approach to brushes that magnetize the pipe wall (so that sensors can read magnetic loss levels).
work perfectly and in that order,” says Hooker. improvement,” he adds. These are replaced in a GMFL tool with smooth, flat wear skid plates that glide more eas-
“Sanjel and our customer have set the bar for Sanjel has also committed to fracturing ily. Finally, the tool’s design allows for as much as 25% bore reduction and is constructed
performance on what we’re calling for mega capacity in excess of 245,000 HHP to support of lighter weight materials, making the TDW GMFL tool approximately half the weight of
project,” he added. its unprecedented project in large, multi-stage other 48-inch tools. All this means that the GMFL tool offers a greater ability to negoti-
Sanjel is locally owned and engineers a lot horizontal well completions. ate breadth reductions which, along with reduced tool drag, allows for more consistent
of its equipment in Canada making it stand Sanjel’s tag line “New energy” is the momen- velocities and, therefore, more accurate inspection.
out and have an advantage in Western Canada, tum that is behind it right now and has led to An additional feature of TDW’s ILI services is the ability to remove foreign liquid from
Hooker says. This also enables Sanjel to react the completion of the project in the fashion a gas pipeline. Over time, liquid (for instance, glycol) is sometimes introduced into the
quickly to concerns and provide best solutions. that we did, says Hooker. line and is not adequately removed. This then collects in pools of liquid at low levels.
“We can build and deliver a specialty piece “Anytime a group of individuals accomplish These pools reduce the throughput of the line to below its optimum capacity, rather like
or solution in a matter of days, something this great there is a sense of pride in a blockage in the drain of a sink. TDW’s Pigging Products Division (PPD) has addressed
We have the facility and technical experts to that,” he adds. this problem by providing custom engineered cleaning pigs with special urethane cups
do that here,” he adds. Building on this energy and the success and and discs designed to “shoot out” liquid settled in the pipe.
Sanjel plans to build fit for purpose equip- challenges it faces, Sanjel’s employees’ sense
Busy times ahead for TDW’s new GMFL tool
ment in the future with the highest level of competitiveness to try and do better.
The 48-inch GMFL tool is the largest ever developed by TDW; previously, the maximum
safety. “At Sanjel we have a can do attitude,” says
size offered was 42 inches. “The interest already shown in this tool indicates that there
Hooker credits Sanjel’s employee’s dedica- Hooker.
was a significant gap in the ILI market that we have been able to fill,” said Soanes. “We are
tion and enthusiasm as well as Sanjel’s strong “We find ways to get things done safely and
certain that there are busy times ahead for our new 48-inch GMFL tool,” he added.
industry collaboration for the success. perfectly” he adds.
www.tdwilliamson.com

10 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


Spartan’s 35th
Employee
Retries
after 35 Years
By: Seema Dhawan

R ick Anderson celebrates 35 years at Spartan


Controls (Spartan) this year and retires.Ander-
son remained a full time director on Spartan’s
board until September and part time as needed for
the balance of the year.
Born and raised in Sarnia, the middle of Canada’s
chemical industry, Anderson says it was natural for
him to get involved.
He didn’t work in Sarnia for long though, as he
travelled out West for a business trip and fell in love
with the local scene. Infatuated, his wife and he
moved to Calgary in the summer of 1973.
“I just flooded the market out there without a
resume,” he says. He was soon working with Stea-
rns Rogers in Calgary, where he first became a
customer of Spartan.
He was planning on starting his own business
when he received a job offer from Spartan.Then president, Nipper Guest, told
Anderson that joining Spartan would be like running his own business, without the headaches
and risks, so Anderson accepted. meet your business objectives but it’s also
He joined the inside sales department and as a result of his success quickly moved to outside important to make sure your employees and custom-
sales. ers are happy along the way, he says.
“They were the class,” says Anderson, while referring to Spartan industry standing at the time. It is important to create a fun place to work for your
“We are still a very entrepreneurial company that participates in profit sharing and wide- employees and provide executive leadership in community involvement.
spread employee ownership,” says Anderson. “Leadership is providing some guidelines and targets, and then stepping out of the way and
Being able to “walk the talk” is what distinguishes Spartan from its competition, says Anderson. trusting those people to meet those targets and goals,” says Anderson.
In 1988, Anderson was awarded the Fisher Sales North American achievement award after It is important to trust your employees to deliver, he says. Mistakes are opportunities for
winning nine out of ten major automation pursuits. improvement and a chance to mentor.
“It was just a banner year with lots of activity and we had some great technology,” he says. “There’s always been a family aspect to running the business,” says Anderson.
Anderson was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors in 1998 and became VP A lot of money is spent training employees and Spartan has been able to survive many down-
Business Development. turns with minimal impact.
“It was pretty exciting to be part of the senior management team at Spartan and help create “The last thing we think about in a downturn is layoff, and the first thing we think of is how
the company to grow to approximately 575 people,” says Anderson. to keep our people busy,” he says.
He also helped expand Spartan’s automation projects into Alberta and Saskatchewan. Anderson, who is known for building strong relationships, says he has always tried to build
“During that time we had several accusations,” he says. long lasting relationships with customers and maintain a professional sales image.
His focus for the last decade has been to pursue major large projects and “take the business “I’m not like a pressure sales guy, I try to build friendship with customers to form long lasting
off the streets,” as early as possible, he explains. business relationships,” he says.
While talking about his management style he says it’s important to grow the business and Over the years he has experienced that building integrity and trust leads to good, long term
relationships.
“It’s about integrity, trust and being predictable,” he adds.
Anderson plans to return to the water when he retires, but to
British Columbia, instead of the Great Lakes he grew up by.
“You can take the boy out of the water but you can’t take water
out of the boy,” he laughs.
He is also looking forward to spending more time with his
grandchildren.
“It’s an exciting time for me because you know they’re becom-
ing real people,” he says.
He also plans to travel, play a lot of golf and get involved in the
local art business.
Anderson’s advice to newcomers in the field is to look into
instrumentation as viable career option. He says it is a very demand-
ing area of the industry which is interesting and challenging.
He also says he found a career in sales to be very rewarding and
satisfying but,“Sales is not something you go to school for.”
“Looking back over my career I have no regrets,” says Anderson.
He believes Spartan continues to be at the top of their game and
owes his success to being able to sell for a top notch company.
“I feel really good that they will continue at a very high level of
performance,” he says.
“I wish them all luck in the future,” he adds.

12 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


If you know what you’re doing – you only need one

industry-leading
customer service

easy & efficient


migration of existing data

helping clients
increase productivity

Having everything you need in one software solution saves


your company time and money. It’s also easy to use with our
Windows-based platform.

Thousands of landmen, engineers & geologists use geoSCOUT™ oil and gas
mapping and analysis software every day, to make more efficient, informed decisions.
Give us an hour for a demo – we know you’ll see the value. Call 403.262.1992
Email info@geoscout.com | Online www.geoscout.com Another
powerful suite
of tools from
Calgary Economic Development Releases Headquarters Report
‘Home Base’ report reinforces Calgary’s growing position as a head office centre

C
algary Economic Development (CED) will Focus on developing a highly skilled workforce Calgary Economic Development’s mandate to lead, facilitate
release a new report; Home Base: what drives 1. Promote Calgary’s quality of life and support growth of cul- and advance economic development efforts would not be pos-
head office locations and Calgary’s place as a tural assets sible without this kind of research. It will be used to promote
global business hub. This report has been prepared in 2. Continue investment in air, road and public transit infra- investment, assess key markets, give insight to policy recommen-
order to better understand the importance of this sec- structure dations, and shape the efforts of CED in many sectors.
tor of the economy and the impact head offices have on 3. Build from the strengths in energy to diversify our economy The report will be available online at www.calgaryeconom-
Calgary’s community. 4. Maintain a competitive tax and regulatory environment  icdevelopment.com
“Corporate headquarters located in Calgary play a 5. Strike a focus group of local executives to further under-
B:7.25”
vital role in our economy and reinforce the need to con- stand the community impacts of head office relocation
T:7”
tinue fostering a business environment that will both and M&A
attract head offices from other jurisdictions, as well as S:6.5”

enable the creation of local innovative companies that


can compete on a global level,” said Bruce Graham,
President & CEO, Calgary Economic Development.
Over the past several years, Calgary has emerged as a
leading head office centre and Canada’s most concen-
trated headquarters location. Among Canada’s six most
populated Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs), Calgary
ranks first in head office concentration and employ-
ment. At the end of 2009, there were 114 head offices
in Calgary, up from only 78 in 2000, which represents a
growth rate of 46.2 per cent over the past 10 years.This

PROBLEM
increase means that Calgary is now home to approxi-
mately one in seven of Canada’s major corporate head-
quarters and as such is Western Canada’s head office
capital.

SOLVED
“Imperial Oil’s move to Calgary in 2005 allowed us
to strengthen our focus on the major opportunities for
the company, and help meet Canada’s growing energy
needs,” said Tim Hearn, past Chairman, President & CEO
of Imperial Oil.
“In addition, looking at where the company and our
industry might be 20, 30 and even 50 years into the
future, it became clear that Imperial Oil would be best
served by having its head office closer to its major oper-
ations in the west. Long-term energy outlooks show
that Canada – and western Canada in particular – will
play an increasingly important role in helping to meet
the world’s growing energy needs, so we needed to be

S:8.5”
in Calgary,” added Hearn.
Home Base examines the following questions:
• Why head offices locate where they do;
• What the trends are in head office location and
growth;
• How Calgary meets the needs of head offices;
• Calgary’s current status as a location of choice for
head offices;
• The economic benefits of head office activity; and
finally,
• What policies need to be in place to ensure this
business segment continues to thrive.
“Canadian Pacific moved its head office to Calgary
from Montreal because a large percentage of our com-
pany’s traffic was being generated in western Canada,”
said Rob Ritchie, past President of Canadian Pacific Rail- GMC.GM.CA
way. “The move also reflected and continues to reflect
BEST-IN-CLASS BEST-IN-CLASS BEST-IN-CLASS
Calgary’s economic strength and increasing importance
as a transportation and logistics hub.”
PAYLOAD HORSEPOWER & TORQUE TOWING
CAPACITY (6,635 lb.)†* (397 hp) • (765 lb.-ft.)1* CAPACITY (21,700 lb.)2*
As evidenced in this report, the critical mass of head
offices in Calgary is key to the city’s continued eco-
nomic success. But despite Calgary’s current status as THE NEXT GENERATION 2011 SIERRA HD
western Canada’s head office capital, there are still chal- THE ONLY HEAVY-DUTY THAT OUTPERFORMS FORD AND DODGE.
lenges that must be overcome and these are addressed *Based on ¾ and 1 ton pickup trucks and latest published information available at time of production for comparably equipped 2011MY Ford F-Series 250/350 and 2010MY Dodge Ram 2500/3500. Excludes other GM models. †2011 Sierra 2500HD/3500HD
in the report’s recommendations, which include:   DRW Regular/Crew Cab. Up to 3,009kg (6,635lbs) for 3500HD when properly equipped. Maximum payload capacity includes weight of driver, passengers, optional equipment and cargo. 1. 2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD with available Duramax 6.6L V8
Turbo Diesel engine and Allison 6-speed transmission. 2. 2011 Sierra 2500HD/3500HD DRW (excludes 2WD Regular cab) with 6.6L Diesel engine and fifth-wheel trailer hitch. Up to 9,842 kgs (21,700lbs) for 3500HD when properly equipped. Maximum trailer
weight rating calculated assuming a base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver. Weight of other optional equipment, passengers, and cargo will reduce maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. ©2010 General Motors.
 

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 15


Energy & the Environment – There is Mpact Drilling ™

NO CHEAP ENERGY or OIL– All Energy has Motors Available with


Consequences, so Let’s Act Accordingly! Advanced Stator
Paul Ziff , CEO Elastomer for
Increased Performance
F or many decades, energy, a key factor in economic
growth & wellbeing, has been viewed as cheap and
bountiful. In reality, it is neither. Periodically, the true
strategic significance of oil is realized (WW2 by Churchill;
Energy Information Administration, today about 2/3 of
every barrel of crude oil US consumers use is imported.
And even when domestic US energy is available (e.g. off
the coasts, or natural gas in Alaska), often it is undevel-
oped.
and Reliability
M
Kuwait & Iraqi wars; today by Russia as a producer; and
by China as one of the largest consumers). Energy con- What’s ignored is the true cost of energy – the cost pact™ Downhole Motors offers high performance drilling
sumption varies by level of industrialization, and climate. of air pollution to health and work productivity, in the motors with an advanced stator elastomer material desig-
By any measure, North American energy use is hugely medium term, and climate change in the long term (per- nated Mpact 114 that delivers increased performance, con-
wasteful. Due to population, the US energy demand far haps). Another aspect, less clear but no less important, is sistent reliability and extended service life.
outweighs Canada (about 9:1). the cost of Defense and strategic wars between nations Extensive laboratory testing using a dynamometer, along with
Why do I say no ‘cheap oil’, when oil today costs less (Kuwait, Iraq), and domestic unrest to control oil wealth field performance testing in an extensive range of drilling conditions
than bottled water? Because of ‘externalities’ – a fancy (Nigeria). have verified that the advanced Mpact 114 elastomeric stator can
economics word for costs not ‘measured’ in the price set Once self-sufficient, the US has become a huge importer effectively handle greater differential pressure than standard NBR
by the marketplace. This includes healthimperiling emis- of oil, which deteriorates its balance of payments, and and HNBR elastomers.The Mpact 114 elastomeric drilling motor sta-
sions (smog) which drive up the cost of tor outperforms NBR and HNBR elastomers, developing 62% more
health care and reduce labor productivity, horsepower with an extended life expectancy of over four times
potential environmental disasters, and the NBR and HNBR elastomers.
cost of geo-political wars. Mpact Downhole Motors offer an extensive line of proprietary,
No type of energy is ‘cheap’: coal-fired field-proven drilling motor designs for maximum performance in
power creates huge emissions; ‘cheap’ even the most difficult drilling applications. With strict quality stan-
power from nuclear ignores the huge cap- dards and premium materials of construction that ensure reliability,
ital cost, and the yet unknown cost of dis- Mpact drilling motors provide cost-effective service and long life.
posing spent fuel; and renewables (wind, Mpact technical associates have extensive experience with a variety
solar), while green, are not cheap (hence of drilling scenarios to assist you in selecting the proper drilling
the ‘need’ for government subsidization). motor for any application.
The control of oil resources has shifted Mpact™ Downhole Motors has over two decades of experience
progressively since the 1973 OPEC Oil in the design and manufacture of premium quality drilling motors.
Crisis.Today the powerful IOC’s (Indepen- Mpact Downhole Motors focuses exclusively on the development,
dent Oil Companies, such as ExxonMobil, manufacture, distribution and rental of field proven, proprietary
Shell, BP, etc.) only have direct access to Mpact™ drilling motors. Mpact Downhole Motors is a leading inde-
a mere 7% of world reserves (less than pendent downhole motor supplier to the domestic U.S. directional,
the Russian companies). The lion’s share horizontal, and vertical drilling markets, servicing customers through
of reserves are owned/controlled by two regional service centers and ten sales offices. Mpact Downhole
National Oil Companies (NOCs), either Motors is headquartered in Conroe,Texas.
100% state controlled (e.g. in the Middle East, Asia, and increases the hazard of oil imports, whether environmen-
Venezuela), or partially private, such as the giant oil firms tal or political, especially the political risk from ‘petro-
in China, Russia (some), and Brazil. Despite this huge dictators’. If you agree that energy is not ‘cheap’, espe-
change in the world order of energy, US energy policy cially gasoline/oil on a life-cycle basis, then what can we
(usually not articulated) has by default, been premised do? Greenpeace, and the Green Party in Europe, advocate
on ‘cheap energy’, with the lowest gasoline prices of any radical solutions. However, the power of the individual
OECD country, SUV’s and Hummers, and poor mass tran- is great. One long term advocate for individual action is
sit in many cities (such as Los Angeles). Like any cheap Dr. David Suzuki, an eminent Canadian born/US trained
consumable, low prices breed increased use. biologist [visit his website: www.davidsuzuki.org]. Ziff
The US’s appetite for oil is so large and voracious, that Energy is undertaking a number of its own initiatives to
no amount of drilling will satisfy it. According to the U.S. reduce the firm’s energy consumption.
What we can hope for is a combination
of (1) individual actions to reduce our own
consumption (for the good of the earth, vs.
rationing by price), and (2) more informed
government policy on Energy and the Envi-
ronment. Recently in the US, for example,
there has been a noticeable shift in housing
preferences by some individuals towards
smaller homes, in part to reduce their car-
bon footprint. Russia and China clearly
have national energy policies, which guide
many governmental and corporate actions.
Particularly in North America, Energy and
Environment are seen as polar opposites.
By contrast, Europe has a more integrated
approach to energy and environment. The
earliest advocates in Canada were the
‘first nations’, or indigenous groups, for
whom the earth and its components have
a spiritual and holistic being. Maybe they
are more right than they have been given
credit for?

16 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


††

Best-In-Class
Best-In-Class 2 24,400 lbs. towing † with
Advanced
Advanced Trailer S
Trailler Sway Control. Standard.††

THE NEW LB
7,070
lbs. payload
800 FT

SUPER of torque
24,400 †
DUTY 400 horsepower ‡ lbs. towing

Standard Gas or available Diesel engine. Vehicle may be shown with optional equipment. †Best in class towing up to 24,400 lbs. on F-450 when properly equipped with 5th wheel/goose neck. Class is Full-size Pickups over 8500 lbs. GVWR vs. 2010 competitive models. †† Standard on Single Rear Wheel models only. Remember that even advanced
technology cannot overcome the laws of physics. It’s always possible to lose control of a vehicle due to inappropriate driver input for the conditions. ◊Maximum payload of 7,070 lbs. (3,207 kg) on F-350 DRW Regular Cab 4x2 when properly equipped. Class is Full-size Pickups over 8500 lbs. GVWR vs. 2010 competitive models. ‡Max horsepower &
torque based on Super Duty Diesel engine.
PCS-Canada White Paper:
Multi-Stage Plunger Lift an Economical Alternative to Pumping Units

P
lunger lift is recognized as one of the simplest, most effective and most economical produce 3 e3m3/day of gas and 6 m3/day of oil. After one month, production leveled out and
artificial lift systems for wells that primarily produce natural gas. Plunger lift is ideal for remained at 3.5 e3m3/day of gas and 2 m3/day of oil.
wells in which natural depletion has fallen below critical flow rate, or for wells with
high accumulations of solids such as sand, salt, coal fines, paraffin and scale. Well A Statistics
Because it is easy to install and low cost, plunger lift is a popular method of deliquification
for wells with high gas and low liquids. But what about particularly deep wells or wells with Gas Production Oil Production
low gas and high liquids (low GLR), such as gassy oil wells? Typically, a pump jack or soaping
(e3m3/day) (m3/day)
would be used in these situations. However, another alternative exists that is more economical
and has produced impressive results.
In low GLR wells, or wells that are seeing only marginal results from a conventional plunger
lift system, a multi-stage tool can be used to increase production. A multi-stage tool is utilized Before Stage Tool 0.5 2
to create multiple plunger lift systems in one well. The tool allows the liquid load to be lifted
in stages. As such, it allows the well to utilize its own energy to efficiently remove even large
accumulations of liquids or heavy liquids. After Stage Tool 3.5 2

How a multi-stage tool increases plunger lift effectiveness


The multi-stage tool is placed by wireline roughly 40-70% of the way down
the tubing above a plunger lift system installation, typically comprised of a
bottom home bumper spring and a plunger above it. Then a second plunger Well B
is set on top of the tool. In Well B, the initial production issues were similar. Additionally, the well was producing sig-
The system is operated like a conventional plunger lift system. During the nificant frac sand and wax.The bumper spring was set at approximately 2,480 mKB.The start-
first sales cycle, the lower plunger carries fluids up the tubing and delivers ing tubing pressure was 200 psi, and the casing pressure was 1,000 psi. Because of the amount
them to the tool.They flow through the tool and are held above it by gas flow. of fluid, wax and sand the well was producing, the plunger would not cycle consistently, and
Upon shut-in, the ball check in the tool engages, retaining the fluids until the the well was shut-in the majority of the time. Pump jack installation and chemical injections
upper plunger falls from the surface, settles through the liquids and lands at were being explored as potential methods to stabilize and maximize production.
the tool. Simultaneously, the lower plunger falls back to the bottom. Instead, a multi-stage tool was installed. The tool was placed at approximately 1,550 mKB,
During the next sales cycle, the upper plunger delivers its fluids to the sur- with a solid flow-thru (by-pass) plunger below it and a solid ring sand plunger above it. By this
face, while the lower plunger delivers more fluids to the tool. Both plungers time, the well’s tubing pressure had increased to 250 psi, and the casing pressure to 1,200 psi.
work in tandem in subsequent cycles. In this way, the multi-stage tool acts like During the first few cycles, the sand production was challenging. As the casing pressure came
an intermediary standing valve. This process lifts smaller and more frequent down, the well produced more and more sand, causing the bottom plunger to stop cycling and
liquid loads in stages, allowing the well to more efficiently utilize its own the top plunger to wax off.
energy to remove liquids and increase productivity. After simply pulling the tool by wireline and cleaning the tubing, the sand production
decreased. The plungers were able to cycle regularly, keeping the tubing clean and prohibit-
Multi-stage plunger lift: an easy and economical alternative to pump jacks ing wax build-up.The initial production was extremely high for a typical plunger lift system at
The ‘nodding donkeys’ visible at many well sites demonstrate the popularity of pump jacks 2 e3m3/day and 6 m3/day of oil. The well’s production then slowed to its current rate of 1.2
as an artificial lift method. Pump jacks (also known as sucker rod pumps, beam pumping units, e3m3/day and 1.4 m3/day.
et al.) are typically powered by fossil fuels or an electric motor. They require a large up-front
investment in equipment and installation, and maintenance costs can be high.
Well B Statistics
Typically, a multi-stage lift system costs about one-tenth that of a pump jack.There is no large,
expensive equipment required to operate a plunger lift system. Unlike a pump jack, it requires
no power or fuel source; it’s an entirely mechanical system that utilizes the well’s own energy Tubing Casing Gas Oil
to operate. Overall, a multi-stage plunger lift system is much less expensive to install, operate Pressure Pressure Production Production
and maintain over the life of a well. (psi) (psi) (e3m3/ (m3/day)
day)
Two former pump jack candidates now successful plunger lift wells
Multi-stage plunger lift is being used successfully in wells in the DJ Basin and central Alberta,
as well as other regions of North America. Here are two examples of wells that went from being Before Stage Tool 250 1200 0 0
pump jack candidates to multi-stage plunger lift success stories.

Well A After Stage Tool 800 1450 1.2 1.4


Well A was frequently loading up and no longer able to lift fluids on its own. Initially, a
plunger lift system was installed, with the bottom hole bumper spring set at 2,490 mKB. The
plunger cycled, but because of the large amount of liquid, long shut-in times were required. By
the time the plunger was able to run, the tubing pressure was >800 psi, which knocked down A multi-stage plunger lift system is a reliable form of artificial lift that can produce signifi-
the separator. When it would cycle, the well was able to produce roughly 0.5 e3m3/day of gas cant production increases, while also being easy to operate and much less expensive to install
and 2 m3/day. A pump jack installation was considered, but the cost was prohibitive given the and maintain than a pump jack and other common artificial lift methods. With recent design
marginal production. enhancements and proven successes, the multi-stage plunger lift system is providing producers
The multi-stage tool was installed at a cost of approximately $4,000, including the existing a cost-effective and easy-to-implement alternative to maximize production in marginal wells
equipment, the tool and a second plunger.The tool was set at 1,485 mKB, with a dual-pad flow- and wells with low GLR.
thru (by-pass) plunger below it and a padded plunger above it. The tubing pressure was 1,460 Plunger lift isn’t expected to be successful in wells with a 1:1 gas to fluid ratio. However, with
psi, and the casing pressure was 1,510 psi. the addition of a multi-stage tool, plunger lift is being used in wells with these characteristics
After a couple cycles, the pressures lowered to where the separator was able to function and to produce significant production increases.
constant production was achieved. The cycle times were fine tuned, and the well was able to For information, call our Calgary office at 403-477-5515 or visit www.pcslift.com.

18 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


The best of both worlds.
Introducing new low-power valves from ASCO. Our solenoid valves are now available with
the world-beating reliability you expect, but at the lowest power rating ever—only 0.55 watt!
You can install more devices on a process plant bus network or use them in remote locations
with solar/battery sources. And unlike integrated valves, you can choose from a wide range of
easily available models, with larger orifices to handle higher flows without clogging. Many
ASCO low-power solenoid valves come with the ASCO Today same-day shipping program for the
fastest delivery on the planet.

519-758-2700 www.ascovalve.ca e-mail: ascomail@asco.ca


Driver Safety Begins and Ends with the Driver
By Todd W. Follmer, CEO of inthinc technology solutions, Inc.

L
egislation is passed, laws are made, and rules are put safety rules and regulations to is drivers can forget what they have learned and eventually
into place. Why? When it comes down to it, policies and raise the bar. . slip back into old habits.
regulations are put into place to maintain order and to With an increased focus on Real-time alerts given to drivers warning
keep people safe. tracking and measuring results them the instant they commit unsafe or
Speed limits are a prime example of this sentiment. Speed in order to confirm compliance, dangerous maneuvers such as mak-
limits generally reflect the maximum reasonable and safe many companies are turning to ing an aggressive turn, speeding
speed for normal conditions.They provide order and establish technology, including GPS and excessively or not buckling a
safe operating parameters. So what happens when drivers dis- vehicle telematics to keep track seatbelt serve to instantly improve
regard things like speed limits or engage in other dangerous of what driving characteristics driver behaviour at the moment of an
behaviour behind the wheel such as aggressive driving? To be can be monitored and measured. infraction and over the long-term.
blunt, bad things! For instance, if management can Driver mentoring can work to lower
According to the International Association of Oil & Gas know a vehicle’s location, it can operating costs-per-mile, improve produc-
producers (OGP), deaths attributed to land transport are his- help the driver map out the best tivity, reduce fuel consumption, and lower
torically one of the largest single causes of fatalities. Oil and routes and serve to help if there maintenance costs. These are important objec-
Gas companies are some of the most safety-conscious orga- is an emergency. tives to any organization, but a fortunate conse-
nizations in the world, but driving safety continues to be a All the technology and safety equipment on a vehicle can quence is that they can all be a by-product of a
perennial concern. reduce the impact of an accident, but what can we do to pre- focus on driver safety.
The impact of a crash involving a company vehicle goes vent the accident from ever happening in the first place? To be effective, driver mentoring should enable real-time
beyond life and limb. With any crash, the costs that follow reporting to management as well. This can happen via phone
cause pain to individuals and companies as well. The Driver Holds the Key to Safety call, text or email.
The direct costs include those associated with property A new approach to driver safety is emerging in the industry
damage and injuries, insurance premiums, litigation and set- that focuses not on the mechanics of the vehicle, but rather on Instances of excessive speeding are significantly reduced
tlements, worker’s compensation, lost time and productivity, the driver and his or her behaviour.After all, the driver is single when three elements are met:
administrations and lost revenues. Beyond the direct costs fol- greatest variable in the safe operation of the vehicle. • Real-time alerts sound in the vehicle following speed-
low the indirect costs, which sometimes can be more damag- This new approach is called “driver mentoring.” Its impact ing or other unsafe action
ing than simply dollar amounts. For instance, employee morale on safety can be dramatic. Driver mentoring works by provid- • Drivers are given a grace period to cancel report notifi-
can plummet and negative publicity and the subsequent dam- ing an array of in-cab, real-time alerts that instantly combat cations by correcting behaviour
age to the brand can hobble future ventures. On the extreme unsafe actions including seatbelt violations, aggressive driving • Reports are made available to driver and management
end, new governmental restrictions and legislation could be and speeding. to create accountability
enacted, which can hinder a company for years following a This can have more far-reaching benefits than simple tra-
driving incident. ditional fleet tracking, which is often followed by additional This approach has been shown to have dramatic results.
So, what can be done? The natural reaction has typically training. Driver training courses for drivers who have been It transforms “B-level” drivers into “A-level” drivers overnight
been to improve the safety of the vehicle, and engineers “red-flagged” aim to boost competency in city and highway and brings down accident rates to unprecedented low levels.
have done wonders by improving the steering and braking driving, and when the oilfield comes into the picture, addi- Focus on driver safety, not simply tracking, has been shown
systems, adding airbags and seatbelts and a number of other tional mountain and driving skills are pushed as well. But to reduce accident rates to a miniscule 0.22 per million miles
innovations.The government also imposes transportation poli- relying on training following a crash or other infraction isn’t driven.*
cies and laws, and companies impose even stricter corporate enough.Additional training is inherently good, but the problem A comprehensive system that combines immediate feed-
back to drivers with instant communication to fleet manag-
ers on items such as location, trends, compliance infractions
and efficiency measures has been proven to quickly deliver
unprecedented safety, accountability and ROI for users.
Oil and gas fleets have seen such improvements as*:
• 73% increase in seatbelt usage
• 86% reduction in speeding violations
• 89% reduction in aggressive driving behaviors
• 80% improvement in crash rates
• 23% lower fuel consumption
Fleets that focus on driver mentoring accomplish more
than just bolstering the bottom line by improving efficiency,
safeguarding property and cutting fuel costs. They also help
give their workers a better chance of making it home safely to
their families, which is more important than any bottom line.
* Data based on feedback from organizations using inthinc™
driver mentoring solutions. 
Todd W. Follmer is CEO of inthinc™Technology Solutions,
Inc. (Salt Lake City, UT). inthinc Technology Solutions is a
telematics company that has focused on innovative ideas
and engineering expertise that lead the way in making
safe-driving and fleet management technologies more
beneficial and more accessible. Through sophisticated hard-
ware, software, and industry insight, inthinc helps compa-
nies achieve significant savings through mentoring drivers
to make fleet operations safer and far less costly. For more
information, visit www.inthinc.com.

20 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


T he Alberta Ladies Petroleum Classic (ALPC) Committee has once again
been able to provide a great day of fun, laughter and golfing for over 160
ladies working in Alberta’s oil and gas industry.  The 7th annual golf tour-
nament was held on Friday, Sept. 10th at the Coloniale Golf Club in Beaumont,
Alberta. 
Although the morning started out overcast and raining, early afternoon
brought the sun and lots of time for socializing with new friends and associates
as well as reuniting with contacts made in previous years.
The ALPC Committee had a vision to bring women working in the oil and gas
industry together with a networking opportunity for participants represented
from all areas including production, (including heavy oil), engineering, drilling, service and supply segments.  While at the
same time allowing industry related vendors and suppliers to sponsor the tournament and have an opportunity to get their
companies introduced to the ladies during the tournament.
The last six years have been a great success with total proceeds over $70,000.00 donated to local Alberta women’s
shelters with this year’s proceeds also going to charity.
For more information the ALPC website can be found at www.impactgraphics.ab.ca/alpc

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 21


Enventure Announces First
8 x 9-5/8 in. MonoSET™ OHC Get to the Core of Vendor
System Installation Management Problems with
Single-Diameter System Demonstrates Advancement
Better Requirements
By J. LeRoy Ward, PMP, PgMP
in Expandable Technology

E nventure Global Technology, the pioneer in solid expandable technology, today


announced the first successful commercial installation of its 8 x 9-5/8 in. MonoSET™
Openhole Clad (OHC) System. The system was installed for Petroleum Development
Oman (PDO) in a deviated well located in the Fahud Field to stabilize a shale section.
A mong the organizations struggling with outsourced projects that have gone bad,
or that have failed completely, the most often cited reason is vendor management
issues, as if the vendor is always the one to blame and the buyer is completely
blameless. Rarely is this the case. Upon closer inspection, and in 9 out of 10 instances,
the root cause of these often unspecified vendor management problems leading a
“This marks a significant milestone for expandable technology,” said Kevin Waddell, vice
project astray or into failure can be traced to poorly defined requirements. While clear
president of technology and marketing for Enventure. “The MonoSET OHC system is a game-
requirements are at the foundation of any project, they are even more critical for out-
changing technology for operators facing challenging wellbores because it provides features
sourced ones where the “rule of law,” in the form of a contractual relationship, governs
and capabilities that were not previously available,” he explained.
the nature of the relationship between buyer and seller.
Enventure’s MonoSET OHC system expands proprietary solid steel tubulars using a shoeless
tool design for a solution that is hydro-mechanically expanded. It isolates a trouble formation The results of a new survey conducted by ESI International show that the top risks
in the well without anchoring back into existing casing and provides an 8-1/2 inch (215.9 of concern to organizations when outsourcing also can be traced essentially to poor
mm) pass through below 9-5/8 inch (244.5 mm) casing with lengths from a single joint to over requirements management.
1,000 ft.
“Most important, field testing the MonoSET OHC system’s reliability has proven repeatable Approaching Requirements
and consistent, and this first commercial application is a testament to that pattern,” Waddell In its simplest form, the way to attain better project requirements is to start by think-
said. ing about four things:
PDO planned-in Enventure’s MonoSET OHC system to address a challenge common to drill- • What do you need to buy? -- The project deliverable
ing through carbonate formations — trouble zones in the formation that threaten production. • When do you need it? -- The schedule for delivery
To mitigate these threats, an operator needs to isolate targeted sections of a wellbore and use
• How will you pay for it? – Timing to withhold payment along the project lifecycle
heavier drilling muds to proceed, resulting in a more complex well environment.
to mitigate risk
• How do you know you ultimately got what you wanted? – Process for quality
review, inspection and acceptance

The best start to improving your requirements is to begin with the right team. Utiliz-
ing an integrated project team (IPT) model is a proven way to ensure greater efficien-
cies in project delivery, and in turn, better results in project and program management.
Of the three major roles of an IPT—the contract officer/subcontract buyer role, the
business analysis function and the project manager—it is the project manager’s job to
ensure the four requirements questions are addressed in a clear, concise way.

Greater Diligence Required


In addition to forming the basis for success throughout the project life cycle, require-
ments also need to be gathered diligently and expressed clearly so that an appropriate
contract type can be selected, and that vendors will actually submit a bid when the RFP
is released. For example, if the requirements are “murky” and a firm fixed price con-
tract is to be awarded, expect that the vendors, if they bid at all, will cover their risk by
increasing their price of delivery.
Yet, the ESI survey on outsourcing shows that organizations are not as diligent about
requirements as they need to be. Only 26 percent say they always clearly define require-
“It’s a significant ments.That means three-quarters of organizations come up short when managing a key
milestone in advanc-
driver of project success. Is it any wonder that most contract files are stuffed full of
ing single-diameter
“change orders”?
well design,” said Mark
Van de Velden, senior Additionally, as business analysts carry out the process for writing requirements, from
well engineer for PDO. gathering and defining requirements to writing a first draft and conducting the stake-
“And this first-time- holder review through to the final draft, they tend to go about the process the same way
right solution provides every time, thereby creating the opportunity to repeat faulty requirements gathering
us with more options methods. Let’s steer clear of the “blame the vendor” mentality and get to the heart of
to address the chal- the problem: poor requirements means higher costs, greater dissatisfaction and delays.
lenges we face drilling So, rather than say we have a “vendor management” problem, let’s just own up to the
deeper targets.” fact that we have a “requirements gathering and writing” problem. That’s a problem that
Greg Noel, Enven- can be solved fairly easily.
ture commercialization
manager reiterated that A recent ESI International survey shows that out of the top 5 risks that concern
this was Enventure’s organizations when outsourcing projects, 4 are requirements-related at their core.
goal. “Operators are • Diminished product or service quality (70% of organizations)
facing greater challenges when drilling new targets. This system will be especially relevant in
• Vendor delays (63%)
offshore environments because it provides a solution across only the trouble formation and
• Clearly defined contract scope (61%)
does not require setting back into the previous casing string. Accomplishing this without com-
promising inside diameter defines it as a real step-change.” • Poor vendor management (50%)
Enventure’s MonoSET OHC in the Fahud Field stabilized a hole section, enabling more effi-
cient drilling in the lower section of the well. The system’s successful application provided Source: Risky Business: Organizational Effectiveness at Managing Risk of Out-
information that can be applied to help facilitate additional deployments in future wells. sourced Projects, ESI International, 2010.
www.EnventureGT.com. For more information, visit www.esi-intl.com.

22 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


Functional Safety Solutions
A SCO solenoid pilot valves are an integral part of the final control element for any safety instrumented system (SIS) or critical application.
ASCO offers 3 solenoid pilot valve solutions that are widely used in the process control industry; individual 3-way pilot valves, manual
reset valves, and redundant pilot valve systems. Each of these solutions are proven in use as a pilot valve in critical applications and in
safety instrumented systems. Certified pilot valves per IEC 61508 Parts 1 and 2 are rated SIL 3 capable for domestic and international markets
(ATEX). ASCO understands the need to keep your process running, but also understands that the process must shut down when commanded.

3-Way Pilot Valves


ASCO 3-way solenoids, 8314, 8316, and 8320
are the most widely used solenoid pilot valves
in the world. For your spring return actuator
applications, these valves are proven in use and
have undergone 3rd party evaluation by Exida
per IEC 61508 Parts 1 & 2. All 3 series are certi-
fied SIL 3 capable.
Individual pilot valves are most commonly
used in 1-out-of-1 voting architectures but can
be easily piped into a 2-out-of-2 configuration.
ASCO pilot valves are used as the primary
device for process valve actuation as well as
the shutdown valve when used with digital
valve controllers for on-off and control valve
applications.
SIL 3 Certified

Manual Reset & Redundant Coil Pilot Valves


ASCO Manual Reset Pilot Valves are a process industry
standard. For harsh plant environments where reliability is
a must,ASCO has the products to keep your process going.
Lever operated manual reset valves are designed with cor-
rosion resistant materials and industrial strength compo-
nents. When you need to manually engage the final con-
trol element of your process system, ASCO has the proven
solutions for your applications. Redundant coil pilot valves
are also available for your high availability applications.

Redundant Control Pilot Valve Systems


The ASCO RCS is a redundant pilot valve Gas shut-off valves used
system that acts as a single 3-way valve.The in burner applications for
added features of this system above an indi- process heaters are critical to the
vidual valve include the ability to perform refining process.This is one of the more
automatic online testing of the redundant common examples of the need for
solenoid valves, automatic partial stroke functional safety. In order for the
testing of the process valve, and online refining process to run without disrup-
maintenance capabilities. This product is tion, the valve cannot trip spuriously,
built for high reliability applications and and must shut down when commanded
functional safety. The redundant solenoids in order to avert an unsafe
can operate in 1-out-of-1 Hot Standby mode condition.
or 2-out-of-2 Diagnostic mode. Both modes
of operation are certified per IEC 61508
Parts 1 and 2 and are SIL 3 capable. To
design an RCS product, please visit www.
ascovalve.com/RCSConfigurator for the
RCS online configurator. To learn more about ASCO Functional Safety Products
SIL 3 Certified, ATEX Approved or obtain a free copy of the brochure, please send your
request to ascomail@asco.ca

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 23


Stratos and Zedi Deploy World’s First BGAN –
Unconventional Based SCADA Network
Gas - Remark- Network provides major oilfield-services firm with high-performance
able Growth in a connectivity worldwide

Quarter Century! S tratos Global, a leading global provider of advanced


mobile and fixed-site remote communications solutions,
today announced it has joined forces with its new Chan-
nel Partner Zedi Inc. to deploy the world’s first large-scale
By using Zedi Access, the customer is able to make better-
informed decisions and effectively manage more wells. Zedi
professionals are seamlessly integrated with Stratos Customer
Support for all network management.
W.P. (Bill) Gwozd, P.Eng., Vice President, Gas Services SCADA network based on Inmarsat’s BGAN mobile broad- This BGAN SCADA network relies on Stratos Dashboard
band satellite service. to enable optimal network productivity and affordability by

F
rom humble beginnings, to half of North American Stratos and Zedi recently began deployment of an IP-based providing real-time traffic reports, cost control and online
gas supply, Unconventional Gas is here to stay.When SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) network provisioning for new terminals. Stratos Dashboard is the
Ziff Energy started in the early 1980’s, we recall for a major oilfield-services company. The total network will foundation of The Stratos Advantage portfolio of value-added
enable several hundred remote unmanned sites to be moni- services.
hearing the fi rst whispers of something new referred to
tored and controlled from the customer’s global operations “This groundbreaking global deployment is the result of
as gas from coal seams, later CBM (Coal Bed Methane).
center. Those sites currently utilize technologies such as a strategic partnership between Stratos, Zedi, Addvalue and
This was the start of Unconventional Gas development, electrical submersible pumps, as well as downhole pressure the end-user that included nearly two years of rigorous test-
spurred initially by several ‘gas incentive’ provisions in and temperature gauges in the production of oil and gas. The ing,” said Stratos President and CEO Jim Parm. “Before this
the 1980 U.S. Crude Oil Windfall Profit Tax Act.Today this deployment will be expanded to include progressive cav- deployment, BGAN-based SCADA networks of this scale did
‘1st generation’ type of Unconventional gas has grown to ity pumps and other upstream facilities. This network will not exist. This high-profile network firmly establishes Stratos
7% of North America gas supply, a signifi cant accomplish- replace the end-user’s older-generation Inmarsat GAN mobile as the leading provider of BGAN SCADA services.”
ment. New and unusual twists are the ‘CBM to LNG’ proj- packet data service. Parm added, “Stratos has a long history of successfully
ects in eastern Australia (Santos; ConocoPhillips; Petronas; BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) uses highly deploying mobile satellite services (MSS) and microwave
BG; Shell & others are vying). portable, lightweight terminals to provide simultaneous, solutions to the worldwide energy industry. Our Houston-
By the time the 10th anniversary of Ziff Energy came high-speed IP data (up to 492 kbps) and voice connectivity based Broadband Services Group and global MSS delivery
anywhere in the world. BGAN is ideally suited to enable com- teams have managed critical systems for many of the world’s
round in the early ‘90’s, the 2nd generation of Unconven-
munications in areas where terrestrial or cellular networks leading oilfield-service companies. Our new BGAN SCADA
tional Gas, ‘Tight Gas’ started, and has had a more stellar
are damaged, congested, or non-existent. service extends and reinforces our commitment to offer
rise to 30% of North America’s gas supply. Now, as we get This customer network uses Addvalue’s SABRE Ranger, a innovative SCADA solutions to support the upstream oil &
ready to celebrate our 30th year of practise in over three ruggedized compact BGAN terminal that was developed by gas, utility, mining, water-management and tower-monitoring
dozen countries, we are observing a remarkable new Addvalue in partnership with Stratos and the end customer. markets.”
growth spurt by Shale Gas, the 3rd generation of Uncon- The Ranger is specifically designed for permanent fixed-site Zedi President and CEO Matthew Heffernan said, “The
ventional Gas. Shale Gas, liberated by the twin technolo- deployment and 24x7 network connectivity in the harsh integration of our field-proven Zedi Access platform into this
gies of intense ‘fraccing’ (fracturing) and horizontal drill- environments associated with remote SCADA deployments. custom BGAN solution ensures this prestigious end-user will
ing, already provides 17% of North America gas supply, The terminal delivers high-speed IP data (up to 492 kbps) benefit from high-performance SCADA connectivity in the
and is poised to triple by the end of this decade! The chart and voice connectivity anywhere in the world. Stratos is the most remote areas and harshest weather conditions. We look
below illustrates the importance of the unconventional exclusive Inmarsat Distribution Partner for the SABRE Ranger. forward to working closely with Stratos to deliver this pio-
Addvalue Technologies Ltd. (www.addvaluetech.com) is a neering service to many of the world’s other premier oilfield-
gas supply today, while providing some insight as to the
leading designer and global supplier of BGAN terminals. services companies.”
growth of Shale Gas supply by 2020.
For this customer deployment, Zedi connects BGAN ter-
Ziff Energy’s Gas Consulting Group has studied and minals to the Zedi Intelligent Network to achieve a SCADA About BGAN SCADA from Stratos
reported on the economics and growth of Unconven- solution. The highly reliable and accurate data is then deliv- The BGAN SCADA service supports applications for
tional Gas in North American basins for several decades. It ered to the desktop through Zedi Access, a secure web portal. data collection and monitoring of remote assets – includ-
will be interesting to see how the knowledge transfer that ing utility substations and oil
established strong growth rates for the 3 types of Uncon- or gas pipelines. Stratos is the
ventional Gas in North America will assist countries like exclusive Inmarsat Distribu-
Poland, China, and elsewhere during the next few years. tion Partner for the Addvalue
Although coal and shale beds are pervasive, other issues SABRE Ranger ruggedized
such as organic content, thermal history, infrastructure, BGAN terminal, purpose built
closeness to urban centers, and political will be impor- for SCADA applications. The
BGAN SCADA service uses the
tant in the commerciality and pace of development. From
reliable Inmarsat I4 satellites
our experience, we would expect strong growth rates for
operating in the L-band fre-
Unconventional Gas production in countries seeking best quency, which are proven to
operating practises and leader performance metrics. This withstand rain fade and other
will be very rewarding, especially for those pioneers that environmental factors. 
start from humble beginnings. A BGAN-based SCADA net-
work also may serve as the
perfect complement to DataSat
II from Stratos, the Company’s
Ku-band, VSAT-based SCADA
service. The BGAN SCADA ser-
vice can serve as a network-
independent backup solution
to DataSat II, ensuring seamless
connectivity in case of extreme
weather. More than 10,000
Stratos VSAT-based SCADA ter-
minals have been deployed for
a wide range of markets across
the United States.

24 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


Alberta Bases Businesses Seek to Maximize Safety
and Environmental Prosperity Through Innovative
New Fracing Technology
G rowing concerns regarding
the safety and environmen-
tal hazards on fracing sites
was essentially what led family run,
Canadian company Environmen-
No power,
tal Refueling Systems Inc. (ERS) to
no plug
...no problem!
develop a much needed solution.
There have been several incidents
recorded in the United States where
the combination of the setting, heat Do you have a challenging application
and pressure involved in refueling that requires a remote power source?
the massive pumper trucks caused
fuel spills or in some cases caused Wainbee has the solution!
entire fracing operations to burn For example, by integrating a combination of a
wind and/or solar power source, which in turn
to the ground, destroying valuable
can provide the necessary energy to remotely
equipment and endangering many operate a hydraulic power unit, Wainbee can
lives. Over the past year ERS, along- provide a unique solution to your challenging
side Calfrac and with the support of application.
Nexen, have developed and imple-
mented a solution to this problem
based on their foundational consid-
eration for safety and the environ-
ment. danger zone), low-pressure fuel delivery lines, remotely monitored
The “Frac Shack” is the new innovative unit which replaces the pumper saddle tanks and dry break fittings on hoses for clean
current process of refueling the trucks on fracing sites. By using changes.The unit has been uniquely and meticulously designed to
this modular frac fuel delivery system the routine becomes much be clean and safe in every way, ensuring the health of employees
more automatic and monitored and as a result, making it cleaner and the environment surrounding the fracing site.
and less prone to accident. ERS, a born and raised Canadian company, has continued to
Fracing operations traditionally consisted of rows of high horse grow ever since its establishment in 2005, founding itself on
Showcased at the
power pumper trucks parked within feet of each other, requiring environmental consciousness and a mission to safely provide for GLOBAL
frequent refueling; a task that was carried out manually until the its customers. These specialists in refueling focus their attention PETROLEUM
introduction of the Frac Shack. This process would have men car- mainly in the remote areas of Canada. Therefore, ERS, Calfrac and SHOW 2010
rying highly pressurized delivery lines o trucks running hot on Nexen first took the progressive new solution to fracing hazards Calgary, Alberta
the site making the risk of personal injury, loss of equipment and to the secluded Horn River Basin where it has successfully proven
environmental damage much higher than necessary. itself.There has been much hard work, time and resources put into
ERS’s Frac Shack provides a leading-edge alternative to this pro- making the Frac Shack a success, but it is just another example of
cess, significantly reducing its risk. It’s features include the ability Canadian companies taking an initiative to proactively ensure the
to fuel up to ten pumper trucks at one time (taking men out of a safest and most responsible environment possible.
1 - 8 8 8 - WA I N B E E
w w w. w a i n b e e . c o m
Edmonton • Calgary • Prince George • Saskatoon • Winnipeg
and 8 other coast-to-coast locations

CONTAMINATION
CONTROL
for
OUTSIDE
TANKS

· Desiccant-filled carbon steel breathers


· Designed for Canadian climate extremes
· Protect against moisture ingression
· Handle higher flow rates than
disposables

1.888.924.6533
w w w. f i l t r a m a x . c o m

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 25


Powerblanket Introduces Heated Pipe Wraps
To Provide Freeze Protection and Rapid Thawing

F
eaturing patented GreenHeat Technology and able to fit nearly any size pipe, Power- can be used to heat pipes, manifolds, pumps, hoses and other temperature-sensitive equipment.
blanket’s new Pipe Wraps provide an environmentally friendly heating solution for Powerblanket’s innovative “all-in-one” product design substantially reduces installation time,
freeze protection and rapid thawing of pipelines in oilfields, water treatment plants, eliminates the need for multiple product procurement, and significantly reduces labor costs.
paper mills, mining operations and other industrial applications. These lightweight wraps The end result is an efficient, cost-effective heating solution with unlimited possibilities. Install-
ing Pipe Wraps on long sections of pipe will maintain flowability and maximize production
even in harsh winter conditions.
The new Pipe Wraps can be provided in sizes ranging from 2.5 centimeters to 2 meters
(1 to 78 inches) in diameter to accommodate a variety of pipe sizes. The wraps are equipped
with adjustable straps that ensure a secure fit to maximize heating performance. Powerblanket

Heavy Oil wraps feature GreenHeat Technology, a revolutionary heat spreading system that uses aero-
space heating designs to deliver a highly efficient and uniform distribution of heat while only
consuming low levels of energy.
Powerblanket Pipe Wraps consist of heat trace, heat-spreading carbon fiber material, an insu-
lation barrier and an outer vinyl shell — all in one package — allowing for fast and simple

Integrated Solutions to Maintain


installation. By contrast, traditional heating processes involve labor-intensive installation of
similar separately procured components, configurations that force heat into long sections of
tents, or glycol — each of which are time-consuming, expensive and have potentially destruc-
Caprock Integrity tive environmental impacts.
Certified to all applicable UL and CSA safety standards, Powerblanket Pipe Wraps are pow-
ered by regular 120V electricity and are safe to use on metal or plastic pipes and hoses. The
*Mark of Schlumberger. Measurable Impact is a mark of Schlumberger. © 2010 Schlumberger. 10-HO-0030

wraps are also UV stabilized and are wind and water resistant, allowing flow within piping to
continue even in temperatures as low as -50 degrees Celsius (-58 degrees Fahrenheit).

In thermal processes, a full understanding of the long-term effects of


high temperatures and injection pressures on your reservoir can prevent
catastrophic breaches in reservoir and caprock integrity.

Our experts deliver fast, accurate prediction of the dynamic behavior of


heavy oil reservoirs by acquiring and interpreting a wide range of data
from well logs, well tests, core, surface and seismic data. We combine
these rock properties with a unique coupling of VISAGE* reservoir geo-
mechanics modeling software and ECLIPSE* Thermal reservoir simulation
software to provide confident production decisions for long-term
optimal recovery.

For details on caprock integrity please call (403) 509 4000.

www.slb.com/caprockintegrity

Global Expertise | Innovative Technology | Measurable Impact

26 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


Baker Hughes Installs World’s
First Ultra-Temperature SAGD
P roduction Systems Electrical submersible pumping (ESP) systems designed to operate
up to 250°C maximize production from SAGD wells. Baker Hughes (NYSE: BHI) has
installed the world’s first ultra-temperature electrical submersible pumping (ESP) sys-
tems in steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) wells in the Canadian oil sands.
Nine Centrilift XP ESP production systems <http://www.bakerhughes.com/products-and-
services/completions-and-productions/artificial-lift/esp>, which can operate at fluid tempera-
tures up to 250°C (482°F), have been installed since April 15, 2010.
Calgary-based Cenovus Energy, currently field testing the system at its Christina Lake,Alberta,
thermal project, is among the first to deploy the new technology. We expect the more robust
system to increase run life and minimize operational expenditures, says Jason Abbate, a pro-
duction engineer with Cenovus. Because the ESP system is operated at higher temperatures
than conventional systems, we can also expect higher oil production rates. SAGD production
specialists expect an increase in production with a larger steam chamber and less viscous oil
at higher steaming temperatures.
The ultra-temperature ESP system design is the result of several years of intensive research
and development in specialized testing facilities at Baker Hughes ESP product center in Cla-
remore, Oklahoma, USA. The one-of-a-kind testing facilities allow Baker Hughes research and
development engineers not only to design and test ESP equipment at temperatures up to
300°C (572°F), but also to simulate the horizontal orientation and temperature cycling char-
acteristics of SAGD wells. The tests conducted in the dedicated high-temperature test loop
ensure that the highest levels of reliability are designed into the ultra-temperature ESPsystems.
Baker Hughes instituted stringent manufacturing, factory acceptance testing, assembly and
field service processes to ensure maximum reliability for these harsh applications. The SAGD
ultra-temperature systems also have dedicated application engineering and technical support
teams for this emerging market.
Baker Hughes invested in the industry’s only testing facilities capable of simulating these <http://www.bakerhughes.com/regions/canada>.We anticipate this new robust system design
intense temperatures because we are committed to expanding the technology boundaries for will make a significant difference in infrastructure costs for SAGD wells that require these high
SAGD production systems, says Mike Davis, president of Baker Hughes operations in Canada temperatures.

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 27


Oilsands Trade Show Technology Overview

Scott Builders Operates Six Full Service Offices Demanding Jobs


Demand Powerful
F ounded in 1971, Scott Builders Inc. is an Alberta-based
Design Build, Project Management and Construction
Management firm that is 100% employee owned.  The
Senior Management Group is actively involved in all aspects
of a project from preliminary design and pre-construction
services through to construction tendering, construction and
final turn-over. We have a strong reputation for developing
successful partnering relationships with the client, the design Protection Meet the
of the business and along with our committed staff provides
a diverse and talented resource of construction professionals
team, approval authorities and the construction trades.
Besides the over fifteen (15) area projects plus several field New PowerFlex®
80-813 glove!
that ensure the needs of our clients are met or exceeded. house facilities completed (or underway) by our r firm (see
Scott Builders operates six full service offices in Calgary, list of relevant projects) we also do a variety of industrial and
Red Deer, and Edmonton as well as in Owen Sound, Milton and commercial project.  Examples are the $13M 350,000 sq. ft.

W
Barrie, Ontario.  All three Alberta offices are of similar size and RONA Distribution Centre in Calgary and the $25M 235,000 hat could be more demanding than working in
combined with our new Ontario offices produces an annual sq. ft. Collicutt Energy Services Complex in Red Deer.  In 2010 the Oil Sands of Canada? Those are the condi-
volume of $150M.  We currently have 100 full time permanent construction dollars, the Collicutt facility would be a $50M tions under which the new PowerFlex® 80-813
staff plus another 50 hourly carpenters and labourers.  project.  We are also completing a major $13M addition for was developed and tested. The PowerFlex® 80-813 is the
Scott Builder specializes in commercial, industrial and insti- Finning’s subsidiary OEM in Edmonton this fall. first glove ever to provide flame resistance and a high level
tutional projects with over 75% of all our work done under In addition to the OEM project, our Edmonton office of cut protection on one glove. But that’s not all. Power-
a Project Management or Construction Management contract recently completed TransAmerica Developers worth $12M, Flex® 80-813 glove also satisfies key performance needs such
format.  Scott assumes total design and construction responsi- MDI Mancal in Fort Mc Murray worth $8M, and RONA Grande as comfort, dexterity and grip. Specifically, the PowerFlex®
bility on many of our projects. Praire worth $5M.  In addition we are also close to breaking 80-813 glove delivers:
Scott Builders is one of Alberta’s largest and most success- ground on the new $20M Energy Centre Arena for the City of • Flame Resistance EN 407 level
ful Construction Management and Design Build firms and has Cold Lake.  Calgary based projects currently underway include 4 (highest available) and CGSB
undertaken work across Canada for a number of repeat and the City of Brooks arena project ($18M), the twin rink addi- 155.20-2000
corporate clients.  Our people are experienced in all facets tion to the Spray Lakes arena in Cochrane ($12M) and new • High Level Cut Protection EN 388
headquarters for the Giusti Group cut protection level 5,ANSI cut
in the Shephard Industrial Park level 4
($18M) • Arc Flash NFPA 70E – Hazard
At Scott Builders we pride our- Category 1
selves on our long-term and repeat • Superior Grip A special, soft,
clients for whom we have managed pliable coating to ensure a
multiple construction projects in sound grip in all conditions
various locations valued well over • Comfort So comfortable
$10M.  Amongst these we count:  workers will wear it all day
Revy Home and Garden, RONA long, increasing worker com-
Home Centres,Trican Well Services, pliance and reducing chance of
Hostess Frit-O-Lay, Ronmor Devel- injury
opments, County of Lacombe, • Dexterity Flexible comfortable fit
Town of Cochrane, Calgary Peter- provides the ability to manipulate
bilt, Collictut Energy Services and small wires and parts
many more.

28 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


What Many People Don’t The Wood Buffalo Environmental
Know About SAIT Association

M T
he Wood Buffalo Environmental
ost people in Alberta recognize SAIT Polytechnic as a leading provider of graduates,
Association (WBEA) has been mon-
particularly in the areas of trades and technology. SAIT graduates are working in every
itoring and reporting air quality in
sector across Alberta including manufacturing, energy, construction, and management.
the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
But there’s more… since 1997.  An independent, community-
based, not-for-profit organization, WBEA
We are a leading provider of workforce development solutions to energy sector organi-
measures air quality and air quality related
zations worldwide.
environmental impacts. WBEA is a multi-
Every year, SAIT works with hundreds of organizations worldwide to provide their employ-
ees with top quality, competency-based training. SAIT partners with large multinational organi- stakeholder organization with 23 mem-
zations on workforce nationalization programs to train locals in operations and maintenance. bers of diverse background, interest, and
SAIT also provides a wide variety of training – from technical training such as Fieldbus, Non- expertise.
Destructive Testing (NDT) and Welding to helping organizations build their businesses by pro- Through an extensive network of air
viding Applied Management training. monitoring stations located at strategic
SAIT’s international workforce nationalization programs are built on successful operations points within this 70,000 km2 air shed,
and maintenance training that has been used as an industry standard in Alberta for more than accurate measurements of ambient air
20 years. Recently upgraded curriculum for Gas Process Operations and Production Field are made, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 
Operations has been moved to an online format and combined with progression training and WBEA scientists employ a suite of instru-
competency management services. ments to detect and quantify sulphur diox-
SAIT also recently underwent a rigorous process to become one of a few certified train- ide, total reduced sulphur/hydrogen sul-
ing providers worldwide in Fieldbus Technology for its FOUNDATIONTM Fieldbus Certified phide, total hydrocarbon, ozone, oxides of
Professional Program. SAIT training curriculum, the Fieldbus Training Centre lab space and the nitrogen (nitric oxide and nitrogen diox- An Air Monitoring Station Operated by the
qualifications of SAIT’s Fieldbus instructors were evaluated. ide), ammonia, carbon monoxide, particu- Wood Buffalo Environmental Association
For the past several months, SAIT Polytechnic has been working with subject matter experts, late matter, VOC’s, metals and PAH’s.
educators and stakeholders and other industry professionals to develop an Advanced Line The air quality data collected during WBEA monitoring operations is openly shared with
Locator training program.This program, targeted at more than 10,000 line locators across Can- stakeholders and the public. WBEA data contributes to the calculation of the Alberta Air Qual-
ada working with a complex underground infrastructure, is intended to provide extensive and ity Index and is reported hourly on our website. Our data are also sent to the Clean Air Strate-
comprehensive training using the latest technologies.
gic Alliance (CASA) Data Warehouse, an online database for all of Alberta’s air monitoring data.
WBEA has recently commissioned studies of air quality in the communities of Janvier and
SAIT has the only nationally accredited two-year Welding Engineering Technology Conklin as well as a 10-year trending report on the state of and trends in air quality in the
program in Canada. Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo from 1998- 2007.  The results of these studies may be
As energy and welding industries are continuously evolving with advancements in weld-
found at www.wbea.org
ing technology and changes in technical standards, the need for trained welding specialists is
WBEA scientists and staff presented fifteen scientific papers at the Air and Waste Manage-
increasing. Graduates from SAIT’s Welding Engineering Technology program meet this grow-
ment Conference held in Calgary in June 2010. The comprehensive scientific approach the
ing demand. As a specialist on the engineering team, the technologist not only understands
organization has adopted was evident.  Papers were presented on many diverse aspects of
the welding processes used in metal fabrication, but is also trained in quality control, welding
metallurgy, codes, fabrication techniques, inspection, drafting, weld design, management and WBEA’s work including the air quality monitoring network, air quality data management and
supervision, and computer skills. reporting, quantifying heavy-duty diesel emissions, and soil and lichen analysis. Please refer to
Over the past year, while working with industry connections, SAIT has again responded the WBEA website to read these papers.
to an industry demand for additional welding certifications by creating our newest offering, As well as air quality monitoring, WBEA contributes to the understanding of regional air
Advanced B Pressure Welding. This three-week program teaches journeyman welders how to quality effects through two additional programs. Terrestrial Environmental Effects Monitoring
use their welding skills more effectively, read radiography film for repairs, set up a rotator pipe (TEEM) provides early indication of change and long-term measurement of effects on vegetation
and various other topics. and soils in the boreal forest.  The Human Exposure Monitoring Program (HEMP) measures air
pollutants that cause odours and delivers air quality data for use by health professionals. 
SAIT’s Non-Destructive Testing Centre of Excellence has modern and well-equipped labs. Visit the WBEA website at www.wbea.org for more information on our current regional
SAIT Polytechnic is also proud to work with industry to provide top quality Non-Destructive air quality, the organization and its programs.
Testing courses. Our NDT Centre of Excellence offers training in several NDT Testing methods:
Liquid Penetrant, Magnetic Particle, Radiography and Ultrasonics. Courses have been designed
to instil the basic knowledge and skills of each method through comprehensive theory and lab
practice in the Centre’s modernized classroom and lab facilities.
Visit sait.ca or call 403.284.8641. For Corporate Training opportunities visit sait-training.
APEGGA Celebrates its 90th Anniversary

W
com or call 403.210.5757. ith more than 58,000 Members, The Association of Professional Engineers, Geolo-
gists and Geophysicists of Alberta (APEGGA) is the largest association of self-reg-
ulated professions in Western Canada. For nine decades, APEGGA has worked on
behalf of its Members to establish the practice standards and develop the codes of ethics that
help to keep Alberta safe and strong.
As APEGGA celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2010, it continues to be a vibrant and progres-
sive self-governing association fulfilling its mandate given to it by The Engineering, Geological
and Geophysical Professions (EGGP) Act. APEGGA Members serve society by making public
safety and well-being their paramount concern.
It is vital that professionals attain and maintain the highest level of efficiency, productivity
and ethical conduct possible. Now, more than ever, professionals need to do what they can
to stay competitive. For engineers, geologists and geophysicists this includes being licensed
with APEGGA.
The designations P.Eng., P.Geol., P.Geoph. and Professional Licensee., or a Permit to Practice
in the case of a company, assure that legal, academic and experience requirements to practice
have been met. They also signify adherence to the high standards and ethics of the profes-
sions. Only those individuals licensed with APEGGA can practice or use titles relating to these
three professions in Alberta.
For more information, please visit www.apegga.org.

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 29


Aggreko Delivers Power
A ggreko has been delivering power generation, heating, cool-
ing and oil-free compressed air solutions to the oil and gas
market for more than 20 years. With 24/7 service, our team
of skilled technicians is available around the clock to keep projects
running in any situation. As a leading provider of customized utility
solutions, we offer products and services to advance onshore and
offshore operations in even the most challenging circumstances.
Whether you need a reliable backup power source for emergen-
cies or hope to increase worker productivity through workplace cli-
mate control, Aggreko can get the job done. In addition, Aggreko employs a team of process
engineers to help with turnaround planning and processes.
From the oil sands of Fort McMurray to the rigs of southern Alberta, Aggreko understands
the climate and location challenges that the Canadian winter brings. Our fume and flame-free
electric heaters provide safe and reliable heat, from 15 kW to 225 kW to ensure maximum pro-
ductivity like speeding drying time for coating or keeping crews and equipment warm in harsh
conditions. Advantages to our electric heaters include no fuel requirement, reducing operating
costs and eliminating fuel spills and emissions.
Aggreko also offers power resources ranging from 15 kW to multi megawatt systems, all
adhering to the most up-to-date emission standards. Our sound attenuated units and spill-
containment solutions are designed to further lessen environmental impact. All equipment
receives comprehensive maintenance and field services to ensure equipment is always reliable,
even in extreme-temperature environments.
Whether you need services for turnarounds, shutdowns, general maintenance, or onshore/
offshore emergency backup support, Aggreko is here to deliver effective, immediate solutions
to help keep your projects on track. With our network of service centers,Aggreko provides the
expertise and services you need – anytime, anywhere throughout Canada.

Cantega Technologies Inc.


C ustomers demand reliable power. Cantega Technologies manufactures Greenjacket®,
a line of custom-designed dielectric covers that prevents high-voltage power disrup-
tions from bird and animal contact. Improve reliability while protecting critical equip-
ment, by preventing outages with Greenjacket®, a custom power system protection solution.
Birds cause about half of the outages on overhead power distribution lines. In fact, accord-
ing to Cooper Power, animals are the third leading known cause of power outages, and may
account for most of the unknown causes of outages.
EPRI estimates the distribution of direct-con-
tact outages as follows:
Distribution Overhead 73%
Distribution Underground 11%
Substations 11%
Transmission 5%
Cantega’s Greenjacket® covers are designed to
prevent direct animal contact. Because the range
of utility design and apparatus configurations is
endless, Cantega’s technical staff work with Util-
ity personnel to conduct a Site Assessment that
will identify all significant risk points and risk
modes. The Utility is encouraged to contribute information about outage histories and the
presence of different animal species. LiveMeasure, Cantega’s patent pending data collection
method, is used for safe and accurate remote measurement of energized equipment.
The collected data is then used to develop a customized Site Protection Plan.The Site Protec-
tion Plan is a detailed document that makes recommendations for protecting the installation.
Each Site Protection Plan is developed in accordance with the Utility’s specific design and
operating standards.
The proposed solution is typically a combination of stock items and custom-designed Green-
jacket® covers. Cantega’s unique manufacturing technology allows the precise, rapid fabrica-
tion of custom-designed covers at prices and turnaround times that are attractive to customers.
The result is close-fitting, cost-effective protection against animal-caused faults and outages.
The USDOE estimates that although today’s electricity system is 99.97 percent reliable, it still
allows for power outages and interruptions that cost Americans at least $150 billion each year.
Some industry-specific estimates of the average cost for a one-hour power interruption are as
follows:
Average Cost for 1 Hour of Power Interruption
Industry..............................................................................................Amount
Cellular communications....................................................................$41,000
Telephone ticket sales........................................................................$72,000
Airline reservation system..................................................................$90,000
Semiconductor manufacturer........................................................$2,000,000
Credit card operation....................................................................$2,580,000
Brokerage operation......................................................................$6,480,000
Source: US Department of Energy
www.cantega.com

30 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


Canada Pump and Power Peri Up Rosett
Committed to Client Satisfaction Scaffolding solution for all projects
PERI UP Rosett is a modular scaffold system which can be used as shoring, stair tower,
access scaffold or working platform.The main feature of PERI UP is the very rigid connection

C anada Pump and Power Corporation was founded in 2010 in Alberta. Our personnel
have decades of experience in the Marine Industry. We provide fluid pumping and
marine industrial services to customers in the Oil Sands, Mining, and Power Genera-
tion industries in Canada.  Our team of professionals includes engineers, tradesmen, supervi-
sors, operators, and a certified safety officer.
between the rosett and the ledgers.
The rosetts are welded on the standards at every 0.50 m. The rosett design allows ledger
and brace connection in all directions. By inserting the wedge head at the end of the ledger
into the rosett, the wedge drops under its own weight into the rosett hole and automatically
locks in place.
Our Operations Group provides services to a select group of clients.We are committed Advantages of the Rosett nodes
to client satisfaction and continuous growth, focusing on these three areas: Pumping, Barg- • Meets National Building Code of Canada -2005 edition’s seismic load requirements.
ing and Dredging. • Easy erection and dismantling due to low component weights and self securing
Our Production Group manufactures pumping systems, dredging equipment, and por- • “gravity lock” ledger connection.
table barge units with the support of core suppliers including Caterpillar and the Cornell • Safety: due to gravity lock on ledgers and integrated lock mechanism of steel planks.
Pump Company in ALBERTA! We intend to supply the systems and system components to • Superior load-bearing capacity due to high node rigidity.
clients around the world and across all business sectors that utilize large portable pumps.  • Dimensional flexibility due to the metric grid
In addition to the sectors already being serviced, this includes the entire mining industry,
all levels of government, the pulp and paper industry, and the contractors that provide ser- Albian Sands, Fort McMurray, Alberta
vices to all levels of infrastructure repair, maintenance, and development. We also continue
PERI UP for shoring high loads
research and development of new technology for marine industrial applications.
For the construction of an oil sands processing plant, massive foundations and rectangular
We take great care with the safety of our employees and our environment. CPP follows
columns along with enormous reinforced concrete beams with heights of 4 m were required.
a Total Quality Approach. This means that we have a written procedure of checks and bal- The use of self-compacting concrete resulted in high concrete pressures.
ances to ensure that:We say what we are going to do, we do what we said we would do and The VARIO GT 24 and TRIO wall formwork systems, in particular PERI UP Rosett and MUL-
we check to ensure that we did it. TIFLEX for the beams, proved their versatility in this project.
What makes our equipment so special? Our Jet Prime Industrial Strength Pumps suck in Through the planning and supply of formwork and scaffolding from one source, the MUL-
air and liquid at the same time so they do not freeze or spit.They are in quiet containers to TIFLEX slab formwork and PERI UP shoring could be perfectly matched. Both systems com-
protect the pump from the environment and the environment from the pump. They have plemented each other ideally so that also during the concreting of massive structural ele-
massive fuel tank skids and industrial grade off road trailers.You can see where the pump is ments at large heights, over 40 kN per leg could be safely transferred.
(GPS) and what it is doing (rpm, pressure, temperature, fuel) on the internet at all times. All The birdcage scaffold with a basic grid of 1.50 m x 1.50 m could be reduced to 75 cm
pumps have a 5 year, 5000 hour warranty. widths in areas of high loads. Below the working platforms without concrete loads, the
We manufacture Modular Barges that are special because they connect like building PERI UP grid dimension could be doubled to 3.00 m The modular structure and metric grid
blocks and each 14’ x 12’ barge weighs only 3,800 lbs but will support 15,600 lbs. resulted in optimal adjustment to the load sizes as well as complex building geometry – with
Our LWT Pit Hog Remote Dredge can be completely controlled in all dimensions right system components, without any time-consuming coupling of scaffold tubes. Furthermore,
from the shore. Our Skyline Excavator can dig out ponds up to 1200 feet across without this also allowed three sets of staircase access to be integrated into the scaffold construction.
requiring any manned entry into or over the pond. Our Hydraulic Tiller Dredge digs with Contractor
a CAT LT13B Tiller specially modified to dig and pump solids underwater. Our Automatic Ledcor Industries, Fort McMurray
Dredge is programmed to complete a specific profile and carry out its mission unattended. Field Service
(This unit is at the prototype stage with production expected in 2012.) We also have a lot PERI Calgary, Canada and
of experience with conventional floating cutter head dredges and excavator equipment in PERI Weissenhorn, Germany
mining, waterway maintenance and cleaning operations. Denis Dubeau, Project Superintendent:
“There are many shoring systems and also a lot of working scaffold on the market. But PERI
UP is the only system which equally satisfies both aspects. In particular, the high load bearing

Suncero Energy is a Solar Hot capacity impressed me.”

Water Systems Provider With PERI UP Rosett and MULTIFLEX,


the high loads from the massive

O ur Solar Hot Water Systems use high-tech evacuated tube solar collectors from structural elements at heights
Sunda Solar Technology to provide for hot water requirements. Sunda evacuated of between 10 m and 12 m
solar tubes utilize solar heat transfer technology designed by Germany’s Daimler- were reliably transferred
Benz Aerospace Group. They are highly efficient and are reliable for commercial and indus- into the ground.
trial applications. Sunda evacuated tube solar collectors are SRCC certified and are on the list
of Natural Resources Canada’s ecoRetrofit program. Sunda Solar Hot Water Systems are used
at the Vancouver International Airport and the 2010 Olympic Village.
More information about our products can be found on our website: www.suncero.com.

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 31


Get Every Advantage with Norseman Structures has a Strong
Commitment to a Quality Products
United Rentals
F or the past seven years, the United Rent-
als branch in Fort McMurray has been
a familiar presence on oil sands sites –
W ith 90 years of experience, Norseman Inc. has been helping to improve the operat-
ing productivity of job sites, equipment and people. As the leader in cold weather
product performance and with a strong focus on innovation, durability and value,
Norseman has been able to provide protection solutions fabricated with industrial fabric and
foam in the most challenging conditions. With the acquisition of the assets of Cover-All Build-
yet even their most longstanding customers ing Systems in June 2010, Norseman has combined the acquired knowledge and manufactur-
may not realize just how large the company ing capabilities of Cover-All with the extensive experience, superior quality design standards
is. More than 550 United Rentals branches and excellent safety record of Norseman to create a new division - Norseman Structures.
operate across North America, covering every From project concept to completion, Norseman Structures has a strong commitment to
Canadian province and 48 U.S. states. It is the a quality product, excellent value, and superior service in the design, fabrication, and instal-
world’s largest customer service network for lation of steel-framed, fabric structures. Norseman Structures offers a broad product line, an
equipment rental, and the largest construc- extensive global distribution network, and the largest manufacturing capacity in the industry.
tion and industrial fleet in the industry. The The company continues to focus on safety and quality giving you confidence in the value,
importance of these resources plays out strength and durability of its products. With dealers around the world, Norseman provides
every day on the oil sands, home to the most professional, local service and support before, during, and after installation.
hard-driving jobsites in North America. From compact storage to larger scale projects, the Norseman Structures product line will
United Rentals in Fort McMurray is one of provide the right solution for all building needs. Norseman Structures non-engineered build-
the company’s largest branches, with an inven- ings are a clear-span design and have the strongest framework in the industry. High quality
tory of more than 1700 aerial lifts and general components are used in the manufacture of every structure giving you quick-to-install storage
construction machines. Under the leadership space that is built to last. Product designs include: Crescent Series, Guardian Series, Alpine
of manager Darcy Vendel, 50 employees serve Series, Chinook Arch Series, and the Landmark Series. Product designs include the Crescent,
oil sands customers that include site con- Guardian, Alpine, Chinook Arch and Landmark series buildings.
tractors, subcontractors and industrial main-
tenance teams, as well as National Accounts
such as the oil companies themselves. The take those relationships for granted. Our larg-
common thread, says Vendel, is productivity est customers have National Account arrange-
– “and that means we make sure we hit the ments structured to fit their business models,
mark at every step of the rental process: on- which makes it very efficient for them – but
time delivery, equipment availability, mainte- a small subcontractor also gets our full atten-
nance and parts, on-site repair and emergency tion. If you do business with us, you’re going
response.” to get 100 percent of our effort.”
United Rentals continues to invest in grow- The employees at United Rentals also
ing the Fort McMurray facility, adding exper- believe in helping their communities, a com-
tise and equipment based on customer needs. mitment that is encouraged by the company.
Eleven sales people currently service the oil The Fort McMurray branch’s support of
sands, backed by eight full-time drivers and youth sports teams and other causes echoes
24 service technicians. If necessary, Vendel’s United Rentals’ national philosophy of cor-
team has the ability to tap into the resources porate citizenship. In the U.S., this includes
of other company branches in Western Can- four years of partnership with the television
ada, coordinating equipment availability for program “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,”
even the most large-scale projects. which relies on United Rentals equipment Norseman Structures engineered building designs provide natural light and an open and
United Rentals’ approach to doing business and volunteerism to build homes for deserv- airy environment and utilize a high-strength steel framework to support the heavy duty outer
“is all about relationship-building and earning ing families. fabric cover. Engineered for permanent use, they can also be moved and reassembled to where
loyalty,” says Vendell, who cites his company’s In addition to providing quality equipment they are needed most. Designed for quick setup, buildings can typically be installed in signifi-
commitment to customer service as “more rental services, the experts at United Rentals cantly less time than other types of structures and the modular design allows you to extend
than a slogan. We know our reputation in this in Fort McMurray are also available for site vis- the building at any time to meet your changing needs. All Norseman Structures are designed
region depends on how well we perform on its, pre-planning, bid specifications and proj- to maximize the strength of every component. Product designs include: Husky Series, Viking
the oil sands. It’s no accident that we’ve kept ect advice. Series, and the Tundra Series. Product designs include the Husky, Viking and Tundra series
the same customers for many years – we never www.unitedrentals.com buildings.

CGIS Represent “Best in Class” Valve Manufacturers


C G Industrial Specialties Ltd. (CGIS) is the global supplier of high performance valves
and controls to the mining and mineral processing industry. CGIS represent “best in
class” valve manufacturers ensuring reduced maintenance, the lowest cost of owner-
ship and highest reliability. With business environments continuing to feel the pressure to
do more with less, valve experts are a rare breed. As a result, the world’s leading EPCs and
uninterrupted operation, all of Delta’s high performance knife gate valves are designed to
survive in extreme abrasive, erosive and corrosive environments. Delta Industrial Valves, Inc.
is recognized worldwide as a leader in the design and manufacture of severe service knife
gate valves.
ValvTechnologies is world leader in the manufacture of Severe Service Isolation Valves.
largest valve end-users have turned to CGIS for their valve expertise and consulting ser-
From standard applications to the most sophisticated,ValvTechnologies is committed to pro-
vices. CGIS has over a quarter century of experience in the industry and offices located in
viding solutions for customers to manage their processes safely and efficiently. All of Valv-
Canada, Australia, Chile and Russia. Let CGIS improve your bottom line and ensure that you
have ZERO downtime. CGIS co-exhibited at the show with Delta Industrial Valves Inc. and Technologies’ valves are designed with customers’ requirements in mind and offer proven
Valvtechnologies Inc. reliability, superior engineered performance and unique safety features. Valvtechnologies Inc.
Delta Industrial Valves Inc. is a manufacturer of Zero Leakage Isolation knife gate valves. has extensive experience in enhanced oil recovery technologies like SAG-D and CSS, and
Delta has offered the industry many market firsts such as the first fully rated ASME 150 and heavy oil upgrading processes including H-Oil, LC Fining and Coker service.
300 class knife gate valves and the first integrated lockout device as standard product. Delta Visit CGIS at http://cgis.ca/
provides a wide range of valves in standard cast alloys such as Ni-Resist, Carbon and Stain- Visit Delta Industrial Valves at www.deltavalves.com
less Steel, Super austenitic, duplex, hastelloy, and Titanium, as well as bodies manufactured Visit Valvtechnologies Inc. at www.valv.com
from wrought plate or forgings. To meet our clients’ needs for dependability and maximum

32 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


The Science of Recreating Mountainview Systems Ltd.
a Fen Wetland
P rofessional results are realized when well trained people use high quality, reliable equip-
ment and technology.  MVS is an innovative, professional and knowledgeable solutions

T he northwest corner of Syncrude’s original east mine may look like dirt and sand with provider to the construction industry. We supply our customers with the right tools
wood strewn about. But it’s actually the first stages of reclamation. that enhance the accuracy, efficiency, connectivity and safety of the work they do.  Using GPS,
Take a walk through the 50-hectare Sandhill Fen Watershed project with Lynne Bar- robotic total stations, laser and weight measurement systems; construction and engineering
low and you soon learn a little about the science involved in creating a wetland. customers are able to increase productivity and profitability with MVS technology solutions.
“The purpose of this research project is to create an environment that will promote estab- MVS supports their customers with a suite of associated rental equipment including laser
lishment of a fen in Syncrude’s original east mine,” says Lynne who is the project leader. levels, test ball plugs, trench shield and shoring systems for trenching and steel road plating,
Fens are wetlands consisting of peat, sedges and grasses in which the water table fluctuates along with general construction and surveying equipment and supplies. 
within 20-centimetres of the surface. Fens are often referred to as muskeg in Canada’s Boreal Our engineered services group is dedicated to ensuring that your company fully realizes
region. the benefits and capabilities of your new equipment. We have manufacturer certified service
Although the water table is high, fens are not open water ponds. Once vegetation is estab- technicians with top of the line, well equipped service centers. Installations are performed by
lished, open water is rarely visible. our engineered services staff that are trained and certified by our manufacturing partners. MVS
When construction of the Sandhill Fen Watershed is complete in 2012, the 50-ha area will offers on-site, web based or classroom training. 
consist of hummocks, fens, a water storage pond and islands of peat and clay all sculpted MVS is committed to partnering with you and your staff to maximize the productivity of
atop a base of sand-capped soft tailings. Scientists will then begin a 10-year study as part of an your company through the use of your new equipment now and in the future.  
instrumented watershed and research pilot project. For more information check our website at www.mvs.ca
Because recreating a fen of this size and magnitude has never been attempted before, a
team of 15 or more researchers – both Syncrude and external scientists – came together to
brainstorm a conceptual design. Carla Wytrykush is a key member of this team. “Our goal
is to construct the initial conditions necessary to develop a self-sustaining fen wetland and
its watershed,” says the environmental scientist. “Hummock s are crucial in managing water
tables in reclaimed landforms.”

ALS Tribology
“The hummocks are designed to allow precipitation and snow melt to flow down into the
wetland area, creating ground water and provide some surface runoff into the fen,” says Lynne.
Part of the fen construction required transferring live peat vegetation from future mine sites
A LS Tribology, a division of ALS Group, is the premier provider of fluid analysis services
(lubricants, fuel, and coolants). With the largest global laboratory network in the indus-
try, ALS has an international customer base that includes construction, manufacturing,
mining, over-the-road transportation, lubricant suppliers, oil exploration corporations, and
many fortune 500 companies. Our dedication to the highest levels of customer service and
to the watershed. Studies were done on 20 test plots of varying depths of peat and water salin- excellence is unmatched in the industry.
ity. This helped determine the best time of the year to transplant the vegetation and identify ALS Group operates 122 laboratories in 41 countries and is the one of the largest indepen-
the need for non-saline groundwater to keep it flourishing. dent analytical groups in the world, providing fluid analysis, minerals, coal, environmental, and
Another purpose of this project is to develop operational methods to reclaim soft tailings nondestructive testing services globally.Through a firm commitment to quality, innovation, and
deposits. service excellence, ALS has grown from a single laboratory in Brisbane, Australia, employing
“The information we gain from this large-scale project will answer a variety of research 5 people in 1974, into the international organization today that employs more than 6,800 and
questions to guide our future wetland reclamation efforts,” says Carla. “We want to address has a reputation as the market leader in its business pursuits.ALS is part of the long-established
a variety of components of landform performance including hydrology, hydrogeology, salt, Australian public company, Campbell Brothers Limited, a publicly traded Australian corpora-
water and carbon balance, revegetation techniques and vegetation establishment. We also tion that was established in 1863.
want to better understand how to propagate and plant a variety of shrub species including Serving the Canadian market from laboratories located in Edmonton, Alberta, and Burling-
blueberry, bearberry and cranberry in the uplands.” ton, Ontario, ALS Tribology is committed to supporting its regional customer base through
And the woody debris that’s spread across the area contain the seeds that will help establish local laboratories while ensuring quality, consistency, and data access across the globe. ALS
these desired shrubs. Tribology has the testing solutions to assess the condition of equipment and lubricants. 
For more information, visit www.syncrude.com Performing routine fluid analysis provides valuable information about equipment that can-
not be obtained in other ways. Regular testing provides information essential to:

Alberta Energy Corridor, What •       Meeting specifications required by OEMs


•       Avoiding catastrophic failures

we Offer
•       Extending oil drain intervals
•       Decreasing maintenance time and costs

T
•       Scheduling maintenance more effectively
he Alberta Energy Corridor comprises multiple land options for commercial and indus- •       Increasing equipment resale value
trial applications – all of which feature the same access and logistical efficiencies of •       Providing backup for warranty claims
reaching customers and markets in northern Alberta. An extensive, third-party land •       Reducing equipment downtime
use study was conducted to identify the appropriate locations within the region for various •       Increase production
commercial and industrial operations, putting in place a strategic approach to future land use •       Maximizing equipment life
and economic growth. And we are implementing the necessary servicing, access and permit •       Reducing capital budgets
requirements for business to easily and economically locate within the Corridor. •       Increasing equipment reliability
Situated centrally between primary oilsands developments to the North and Northeast,
refinery and processing to the south and pipeline development within, Alberta Energy Cor- Systems with large intervals between oil changes are checked for fluid usability to determine
ridor is poised to deliver service to all key areas of the petroleum industry. Further to the oil if the fluid is contaminated or has lost its ability to perform at an acceptable level. The wear
and gas sector is forestry, with multiple processing companies operating within the corridor condition can also be assessed to provide maintenance personnel with information needed to
or within close proximity. maintain the availability of their equipment.
Continues on page 34

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 33


Purafil Provides Clean Air Solutions AMS Continues to Introduce and
Provide Bold New Solutions to
F or more than 40 years, Purafil has provided
clean air solutions to industrial facilities
worldwide. Purafil specializes in the design
and manufacture of corrosion control media and Prevent Slips & Falls
A
scrubbers to improve process reliability. Our scrub-
bers provide clean air to control rooms, motor con- MS has been introducing a very simple concept designed to tackle probably one of the
trol centers, rack rooms, and other areas housing most overlooked incidents in the workplace and in general day to day life. “We’ve rec-
electronics and electrical equipment. Purafil also ognized that the leading cause of all workplace accidents is slips & falls and have con-
manufactures scrubbers to protect electronic cabi- centrated our efforts on developing a modernized system that prevents, protects and provides
nets, DC monitors, and air compressors from dam- solutions for your most valuable asset – your personnel” says JP Hawkins, Managing Partner of
age caused by corrosive air. AMS Inc.
Purafil believes in the value of air quality assess- With one of the most
ment and continuous real-time monitoring, so complete and comprehen-
customers can verify the performance of their air sive traction mat systems
scrubbers and the level of corrosion in the protected space. available today we are able
Patented Monitoring Technology: For active, continuous reactivity monitoring in envi- to customize a package for
ronments where corrosive gases, such as hydrogen sulfide, are prevalent, Purafil’s OnGuard® each of our customer’s indi-
3000 (OG3) Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor can gauge the real-time effects of corrosion on vidual needs. For example,
electronics in refineries, control rooms, rack rooms or motor control centers. The OG3 can while working in conjunc-
also be used to monitor corrosion in Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) or control panels. tion with Custom Safety
The OG3 uses copper-and silver-plated quartz crystal microbalance sensors to measure Products Inc. we have taken
the mass accumulation of corrosive film on sensitive metals. The monitor also generates the original and most rec-
minute-by-minute corrosion level readings that: ognized traction mat in the
· Predict and prevent computer failure
drilling industry and given
· Increase the reliability of electronic instruments
it the ability to provide self-
· Identify air quality trends
regulated heat. The purpose
· Gauge temperature, relative humidity and differential room pressure
our Arctic Pads is simple – prevent ice and snow accumulation and eliminate a slip & fall risks.
· Project the environment’s ISA severity level
The OG3 can be operated independently as a data logger or can be wired directly into a The innovation hasn’t stopped there, we also recognized that the traction mats used through-
building information system. Operators can upload data to a personal computer for viewing out the drilling sector can be considered as overkill for the more general installations found
and graphing, and they can adjust readings to reflect typical corrosion levels in their indus- throughout refineries or facilities. This being said we also manufacture a selection of lighter
try or application. Additionally, the OnGuard OG3 allows operators to access historical data duty traction pads that utilize our unique blends of recycled rubber and polymers. Not only
by establishing and maintaining environmental classification databases; in turn, this informa- does this provide a more eco-friendly solution these versions are more economical for large
tion helps them to determine equipment reliability. scale installations.
Revolutionary Filtration Technology: Purafil’s latest product, the PuraGRID™ filter which Whatever the situation or application Advanced Mat Systems Inc. is raising the bar and lead-
houses the revolutionary GridBLOK™ technology, has set new standards for media delivery ing the charge to take on the most expensive cause of all workplace accidents & injuries. We
systems by increasing operational performance and energy savings while garnering recog- believe one slip or fall is preventable, someone just needed to take the next step and bring
nition for its innovation. awareness to this overlooked problem.
The GridBLOK consists of an extruded monolithic block containing a large number of
small, parallel cells or channels. Each GridBLOK is a self-supporting grid structure com-
posed of essentially 100% adsorbent materials, thereby allowing the entire composite struc- Continued from page 33
ture to serve as a gas filter to eliminate problematic odors and provide essential corrosion
Companies typically spend at least 10 percent of their revenues on maintenance and equip-
control. The GridBLOK maximizes gas-phase air filtration and performance, and thereby
ment repair. When adding the cost of equipment downtime, decreased productivity, and deval-
the PuraGRID filters may serve as an optimal alternative to packed-bed media systems.This
ued used machines, costs can quickly escalate to thousands of dollars per year. For just pen-
technology provides energy savings with a lower pressure drop than granular media, more
nies per operating hour, ALS Tribology testing and analysis provides the information needed
efficient gas removal with turbulent flow, and the full utilization of the media as it eliminates
to predict machine wear and allow you to schedule preventative maintenance—BEFORE that
bypass and the necessity for a final filter with its dust-free design.
equipment is compromised. Documents show that lubricant, fuel, and coolant costs are less
During its first year in production, the GridBLOK media technology received an honor-
than 0.1% of all maintenance operating costs.When you use ALS Tribology as your fluid analysis
able mention in the IAQ Category of the 2010 Air Conditioning Heating Refrigeration (AHR)
provider, you put money back into your bottom line.
Expo Innovation Awards Competition and the Gold Award in the IAQ category in the 2009
Visit us at www.alsglobal.com
Dealer Design Program.

Victaulic’s Large-diameter Piping Solutions


V ictaulic, a world’s leading manufacturer of mechanical pipe joining systems, exhibited
large-diameter piping solutions at the Oil Sands Trade Show in September, specifically
featuring the Style 207 coupling and patented Advanced Groove System (AGS) technol-
ogy. Victaulic’s large-diameter piping solutions deliver pressure ratings up to 650 psi, depend-
ing on the pipe size and wall thickness.
four bolts.The couplings are also available with silicone or nitrile gaskets for specialized services.
Advanced Groove System (AGS) couplings provide faster and easier installation of large-
diameter piping systems.The AGS line is unique because it is the only direct groove two-piece
coupling design for large-diameter piping.Victaulic offers rigid and flexible couplings with AGS
technology for pipe sizes up to 60 inches in diameter.
The Style 207 coupling is ideal for large-diameter piping systems for abrasive services such A typical large-diameter joint that requires several hours to weld can be installed easily in
as oilsands, slurries and tailings because it offers a cost-effective joining method that maxi- less than an hour using Victaulic AGS couplings.With a two-piece housing and a wedge-shaped
mizes a system’s life span. The coupling extends the life of piping systems by maintaining full groove, Victaulic AGS couplings offer exceptional assembly speed and reliability. Until now,
pipe-wall thickness and a smooth flow path. FlushSeal gaskets have a center lip that creates joining methods for larger size piping systems required multiple housings to achieve the same
a barrier between the pipe ends, ensuring a smooth flow path and allowing the couplings to results. Victaulic is the only manufacturer to offer a two-piece housing for couplings in this
be used on lined pipe. In addition, the couplings allow the pipe to be easily rotated, further size range.
extending the life of the system. To further simplify installation, AGS coupling housings feature lifting lugs for added conve-
The Style 207 coupling is a rigid coupling which maintains a movement-free joint. The cou- nience when lifting individual housings. AGS couplings also provide a union at every joint for
pling offers performance benefits that a typical welded joint cannot match. Style 207 features easy access to the piping system for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance and system ret-
a unique, patented wedge-shaped groove profile that helps align the coupling in the groove, rofits. In addition, the coupling also provides visual confirmation of proper assembly—assem-
resulting in easier initial assembly. Furthermore, the pipe can be lifted into place with the cou- bly is complete when housings are metal-to-metal and torque requirements have been met—
plings already assembled because the coupling is stronger than the pipe. an added benefit that helps to ensure proper assembly.
Style 207 couplings are comprised of two ductile iron housings, which are connected with For more information, visit www.victaulic.com.

34 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


Snap-on Industrial Launches Rental Olympus Introduces a Semi-
Program to Expand Reach of Exist- Automated Corrosion Mapping
ing Mobile Tool Crib Program Solution Utilizing the Hydroform
H ow do you expand on a product that exceeds customer expectations every time and
saves money to boot? Simple, just add a rental program and make it deliverable to
anywhere in the continental United States in two days. That’s the case with Snap-on
Phased Array Probe Immersion Box
O
Industrial’s new mobile tool crib rental program. lympus NDT is pleased to introduce the first semi-automated (semi-AUT) ultrasound
The company’s existing mobile tool crib product is built around a customized tool con- phased array solution developed for corrosion mapping applications. This portable
tainer that’s available in sizes from 20 ft. to 40 ft. The crib includes a selection of both Snap- inspection solution comprises several components including the OmniScan MX PA
on tools and products specified by the customer; standalone cribs can be linked together to flaw detector, OmniScan MXU software with corrosion mapping functionality, and the Hydro-
create an even larger tool selection at a remote site. Now this offering is available in a rental FORM Phased Array Probe Carrier with a Mini-Wheel encoder. The new HydroFORM solution
program boasting a container stocked with pre-selected Snap-on tools. improves inspection quality, operator safety, mechanical dependability, and productivity in the
“The mobile tool crib concept has been adopted by diverse industries as not only the solu- nondestructive testing (NDT) of metal plates, pipes, and welded components for detection of
tion to a problem, but as the template for asset management going forward,” said Dale Alberts, internal corrosion, mid-wall anomalies, and environmentally damaged mechanisms.
director, business development for Snap-on Industrial. “The rental program takes that idea one The HydroFORM is an innovative carrier for phased array (PA) probes that cover an area up
step further by making the tool crib available almost instantly for short- or long-term assign- to 60 mm wide (2.36 in.) at a speed up to 100 mm/s (3.93 in/s) with data increment size of 1
ment. We have outfitted the rental tool crib to meet the requirements of 90 percent of the mm x 1 mm (.039” x .039”) in the scan and index direction. The HydroFORM probe carrier
tool needs at an industrial, power, mining or construction site.” fits a broad range of curvatures and diameters without the need to use any wedges. It is water-
coupled to the inspection surface with a  special gasket  that minimizes water consumption
and provides excellent surface conformance for OD and ID applications. It can be outfitted
with magnetic or rubber wheels.
The HydroFORM can be used independently or in unison with the optional Olympus CHAIN
Scanner. Both portable solutions can be applied to pipe ODs from 100 mm (4 in.) and up, flat
surfaces, and complex geometries such as spherical or elliptical pressure vessel heads
The HydroFORM and OmniScan combination provides unparalleled corrosion detection and
characterization in a compact, light weight, battery operated package.This combination is also
“Rope Access” friendly for applications that require inspections on tall or large structures such
as storage tanks, wind mill towers, offshore platforms, and bridges. Alternatively, the Hydro-
FORM can also be used with the TomoScan FOCUS LT to provide phased array capabilities for
both the basic and advanced level inspector. The HydroFORM presents a cost-effective solu-
tion for customers that already own the OmniScan MX PA or any of the other components that
are part of the corrosion mapping solution.
The phased array technology brings the ability to detect and characterize various anomalies
using ultrasonic compression wave and angle beam inspection techniques.

A 40 ft. container can provide tool service for up 20 technicians or millwrights; the 22 ft.
trailer provides tools for eight to 10 workers. Rental units are shipped from centrally located
Conway,Ark., and can be delivered anywhere in the contiguous states within two days. Rental
terms extend from one week to a year; longer-term arrangements are available under a leasing
plan. Additionally, Snap-on Industrial offers turn-key service that can include everything from
delivery and set up to staffing. Cribs are available in sizes and configurations that can fit any
work-site footprint.
“The tool crib is an important component of any job site, but especially in large operations
or in remote locations,” said Alberts. “It needs to be well stocked and ready to go. But maybe
the crib only needs to be at a location for 30 days – it doesn’t make sense economically to
purchase an asset like that for short-term deployment. But rental makes a lot of sense.”
Mobile tool cribs from Snap-on Industrial can be purchased, rented or leased. Customers
also can have an existing tool crib retrofitted with the Level 5 Tool Control System, add the
Level 5 Asset Management Software to an existing tool crib or hire a Snap-on consultant to
organize an existing tool operation.
www.snapon.com/industrial

SMS Equipment has Created a Nationwide


Platform to Serve its Customers

S MS Equipment is a nationwide corporation


dedicated to continuously improving deliv-
ery of products and services to provide for
all our customers’ unique needs. SMS Equipment
supplies equipment, parts and service to the con-
About Olympus
Olympus is a world-leading manufacturer of innovative nondestructive testing instruments
struction, forestry and mining industries and util- that are used in industrial and research applications ranging from aerospace, power generation,
ity product users. SMS Equipment was created to petrochemical, civil infrastructure and automotive to consumer products. Leading edge test-
provide customers with integrated solutions and ing technologies include ultrasound, ultrasound phased array, eddy current, and eddy current
to expand our service capabilities as a nation- array. Its products include flaw detectors, thickness gages, in-line systems, automated systems,
wide organization.With a highly trained, safe and industrial scanners, pulser-receivers, probes, transducers, and various accessories. Olympus is
mobile workforce, SMS Equipment has created a also a distributor of remote visual inspection instruments and high speed video cameras in the
nationwide platform to serve its customers. Americas. Olympus is based in Waltham, Massachusetts, USA, and has sales and service centers
For more information, please visit www. in all principal industrial locations worldwide.
smsequip.com. www.olympus-ims.com

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 35


Barkman Concrete Ltd. Invest in Tomorrow, Practice
Safety Today!
A n alternative to direct burial, barkman trenching offers you a modular or one-piece con-
crete encasement that enables you to protect your cables or pipes from light pedestrian

E
traffic or heavy truck traffic. Its design allows for future expansion should you require it, ricson Manufacturing and Sumac Fabrication have teamed up in an effort to supply the
and the flexibility to create angled corners, tees and 90 degree corners if needed. If venting is construction industry with the electrical Plug & Play products needed to safely get the
a concern, we invite you to call us and ask us about the patent pending design United Wire has job done. 
come up with for the industry. Their unique solution allows cost effective concrete to be used Ericson brings many types of electrical wiring devices and cordsets as well as CSA approved
throughout the trench while still achieving maximum airflow where high temperatures within stringlights, BayLites™ and several styles of temporary power distribution units and carts to
the trench are an issue. By not resorting to expensive steel grated lids, you reduce drastically Sumac’s extensive electrical safety product offerings.
the amount of debris and moisture allowed into the trench system and reduce the possibility The construction industry is ranked the second most dangerous sector to work in Canada, 
of a future failure. accounting for 30 injuries out of 1000 employed workers In 2007 (HRSDClILO).  One of the
If you require any information that might help in planning your next project, please con- hazards on construction sites is associated with working with electricity.  While electricity is
tact us: phone: 1-800-342-2879 e-mail: info@barkmantrenching.com an essential component for the success of a construction project, it can put lives and your busi-
ness in danger.  Yet, electrical accidents can be prevented and lives can be saved.
That’s why you need Sumac & Ericson products featuring numerous, CSA & CUL Listed elec-
trical safety products to ensure the safety of your work force.
Sumac developed the “S.i.m.p.l.e.” Plug & Play System to help you minimize the risks and
losses associated with accidents on the job site so you can take control of your business and
implement projects within budget and minimize safety related incidents.
Accidents on the job site can happen at anytime, however, measures can be taken to mini-
mize risks. Figures for electrical related accidents each year are alarming, resulting in burns and
fatalities caused by electric shock, fires and explosions. The Impact on workers, their families
and employers can be drastic.
www.ericson.com
www.sumacfab.com

Hot New Technology Available Process Combustion System


to Pipe Welding Industry
P rocess Combustion Systems and Chentronics Corporation presents the SmartSpark Class
1, Div 2, Groups A, B,C and D. Operating Temperatures -40 C to +85C. This unit has a

H ot Coils offer stored energy of 4 Joules miminum with a spark rate of 15 Sparks per Second. These can
a new, safer, be use on many different applications, from boilers, fired heaters, reaction furnaces. Eliminate
more efficient pilots with the extra hardware and direct spark your burner. What fuels can be ignited?
and cost effective way This system will reliably ignite light oil (No. 2 oil, Diesel) and gas.
to pre-heat pipe prior For further applications or information contact roger@processcombustion.com
to welding.
The compact ceramic
heating coils may be
quickly installed at the
joint to be welded. Its
rapid heating element
can bring the pipe to a
uniform 550°F (286°C)
in minutes. The coils
adjustable thermostat
can accurately hold
whatever temperature
is set to within +/-
2.5°F helping you stay on specification every time.
Hot Coils can be plugged into any 110/120 volt, 15 amp. power outlet. Light weight and
easy to handle means there is no need to hire specialized and expensive set-up crews result-
ing in time and dollar savings. Designed to handle a wide variety of applications, Hot Coils are
available to fit standard 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 inch pipe.
Hot Coils manufactured by Baiekur Coils Ltd. were developed by industry professionals for
industry professionals. The Baiekur Hot Coils professionals have a  combined 85 plus years
of experience in metallurgy as well as construction and manufacturing experience in oil, gas
and pulp industries, water treatment, hydro electric and nuclear power plants.
bcuff@hotcoils.com

36 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


MARCH 15‐17, 2011
EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA
SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE

exhibit
WORLDHEAVYOILCONGRESS.COM

A Fast Locatable Building Alternative A GLOBAL FORUM FOR


BUSINESS LEADERSHIP
AND TECHNOLOGY

S prung Structures are the answer for companies looking for a fast relocatble building ADVANCEMENT.
alternative to take advantage of new emerging markets in the logistics industry. The comprehensive event
for heavy oil.
The Sprung Structure is a stressed membrane structure consisting of a series of alumi-
num arched ribs integrally connected by modular architectural membrane panels.
These structures can be erected on virtually any reasonably flat ground surface. Provided
appropriate soil conditions exist, foundations are not required for structures up to 130 feet in
width. By offering a range of features and accessories typical to conventional construction, BUILT TO ADDRESS THE HEAVY BURDEN OF DEVELOPING THE
Sprung provides an attractive, permanent look and feel to its structures while at the same time
disguising their relocatable nature. Sprung accessories include such items as glass doors, pro-
WORLD’S UNCONVENTIONAL RESOURCES, WORLD HEAVY
tective door hoods, large cargo doors, entrance vestibules, windows and insulation packages OIL CONGRESS LINKS SENIOR BUSINESS DIRECTORS AND
using fiberglass up to 8” thick. INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL EXPERTS FOR THREE ESSENTIAL
Conventional building solutions take too long to build, are cost prohibitive and do not pro-
vide the long term flexibility needed to take advantage of emerging markets. DAYS CONSISTING OF AN EXHIBITION, A BUSINESS &
The flexibility of the Sprung Structure is a key factor as it can be easily increased in size or TECHNICAL CONFERENCE, AND A SUITE OF PREMIUM‐LEVEL
be completely relocated to another site, all in a matter of days.
The main advantage for a logistics company utilizing this new technology is that it provides SOCIAL NETWORKING EVENTS.
an immediate low cost response to solving existing customers inventory problems and helps
logistics companies attract new business by offering a staffed on site solution for inventory
management.
Logistics companies and hundreds of other fast growing companies across the nation are Become an exhibitor and... THE CONFERENCE:
Global thought leadership
reaping the benefits of this new technology.
• One‐day business conference
www.sprung.com JOIN leading companies to showcase your • Two‐day technical conference
comprised of 120 presentations
technology and services to key decision makers. • Keynote luncheons
Hazloc Heaters Offer Safer CONNECT with clients and international
• Technical tours and workshops
• Representation from 30 countries

Heaters that Costs Less business leaders to collaborate on new projects. THE NETWORKING:

T
Connecting you with a community
he senior staff at Hazloc Heaters has, (accumulatively) over 35
• Opening Ceremonies
years of hazardous environment, oil and gas and heavy duty DISCOVER global business opportunities and • Congress Reception
industrial heating experience. generate valuable sales leads. • 2012 Launch Party
After we looked at all other heaters available we saw a number of
areas where we believed we could improve on and a number of areas that really needed to
be addressed. We implemented these changes in our heater designs which allow us to offer
a higher quality, more efficient, safer heater that costs less with consistently good deliveries.
Within our XEU1 electric explosion-proof heater we have implemented an additional 5
extremely important safety features, 4 performance enhancing features plus 6 features that
field personnel will appreciate.
As the industry leader in safe explosion-proof heaters, Hazloc Heaters is recommending our
Visit
24V built-in control circuit option as the default offering on our XEU1 heaters.This suggestion
does not, in any way effect the user, the price or the operation of the heater but is a far safer
worldheavyoilcongress.com
system. or contact us at
Our electric explosion-proof heaters are CCSAus  certified for:
• Class 1, Div 1& 2 Groups C & D worldheavyoilsales@dmgevents.com
• Class 2 Div 1 & 2 Groups F & G
• Temperature Code T3B or +1 (403) 209‐3555 for
• Class 1, Zones 1 & 2, Groups IIA & IIB,T3
With regards to the HHP1 and our HUH1 ‘Steam/Glycol” type unit heaters, there are fewer information & opportunities.
areas where improvements can be made, however we have implemented a couple of signifi-
cant changes that again will definitely benefit the end user; such as a 40% longer core life, a
50% longer warranty, a stronger cabinet, interchangeability with other manufacturers cores
and again added features that field personnel will appreciate. These heaters have Canadian/
Provincial CRN’s. Official Congress Stakeholders*:
We are dedicated to providing quality industrial heating products, technical expertise, and * As of August 31, 2010

outstanding service that include providing thermal analysis and building heat loss calculations.
So to summarize; we offer heaters that are ‘Safer’,‘Stronger Built’,‘More Efficient’, with Better
Warranties and all at a much Lower Purchase Price.  
We currently have in excess of 5,000 heaters is operation with ZERO defect returns.
We truly have Customers that come back…..Products that don’t.
We are an ISO 9001-2008 Certified company. Organized by:
We are also an ISNetworld registered vendor.
For specific details on all of our unit heaters and accessories, please visit our website at:
www.hazlocheaters.com

Oil & Gas Network, October 2010 37


Integrated Risk Management –
The Ability to Objectively
Measure Fatigue
T he hazards and business risks associated with worker fatigue are significant and have
been recently highlighted in both national & regional news stories.  Traditionally, fatigue
or alertness levels have not been easily measured or quantified.  This has created serious
hurdles for risk managers as administrative solutions have limitations.  In essence, it’s difficult
to manage what you cannot measure. 
Optalert’s technology presents employers, for the very first time, the ability to actively mea-
sure a driver/operator’s level of alertness continuously and objectively.  The ability to measure
and record an operator’s physiological state of alertness is unprecedented in managing work-
place fatigue.  It provides employers the understanding of an operator’s current risk profile
due to drowsiness, and more importantly, the ability to take suitable precautionary measures to
manage the risk level.  It facilitates proactive mitigation measures with visual & audible alerts at
the onset of drowsiness, and also provides crucial monitoring input used in both post-incident
root cause analysis and optimizing tailored corporate fatigue management policies.
info@integratesafety.com website http://www.integratesafety.com

Pre-Insulated Pipe Technology


from Shaw Pipe and Aspen
Aerogels Reduces Installation
Costs and Construction Schedules
S haw Pipe’s Insul-8® AG pre-insulated pipe
for above ground pipelines reduces project
costs, construction schedules for construc-
tion of in-situ oil sands production installations. 
Pre-insulating pipe prior to shipping to construc-
tion sites significantly reduces field labour and is
faster than insulating pipe in place at congested,
space-constrained construction sites.
Insul-8® AG delivers numerous project benefits
and opportunities for cost savings.
www.shawpipe.ca

38 Oil & Gas Network, October 2010


3M E-A-Rfit Validation System
™ ™

E-A-Rfit

Validation
System
© 2010, 3M. All Rights Reserved. 3M, E-A-R, E-A-Rfit and Leading The Advancement of Hearing Conservation are trademarks of 3M. Used under license in Canada. BA-10-15253 1009-03208 E

Fit Testing For Hearing Protectors


Test results in less than 10 seconds per ear, the 3M E-A-Rfit Validation
™ ™

System generates a Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) for each worker.


This simple, in-the-field test system can enhance your hearing
conservation program in a variety of ways:

· Assists selection of appropriate protectors for workers & environments


· Provides tool for training proper insertion techniques
· Helps identify workers receiving inadequate protection, leaving
them at risk for Standard Threshold Shifts (STS)
· Can document retraining of hearing protector fitting as required
for workers with STS

Now easier than ever with the NEW E-A-Rfit


User Support Website and FREE online training.


For more information and to see a video, visit www.E-A-Rfit.com

Leading the Advancement of Hearing Conservation ™

Вам также может понравиться