We are delighted to announce that we will be exhibiting at ONS 2024. Join us on the IK Group stand where we will be discussing our innovative range of intelligent pipeline technology.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with our team and explore how we can optimise your pipeline operations.
Date: August 26-29, 2024
Location: Stavanger, Norway
We look forward to seeing you there.
Click here to find out more about ONS 2024 and to register.
We are excited to announce the addition of Lee Galloway as our new Technical Sales Engineer. Lee brings over 30 years of experience in the pipeline and pigging industries, enhancing our technical expertise and pig tracking and pig signaller offerings.
With a strong pipeline systems and pigging technologies background, Lee is poised to drive our sales strategies forward and provide exceptional customer support.
Outside of work, Lee enjoys mountain biking, running and hiking.
Staying on schedule and within budget is crucial during pipeline pre-commissioning, as any delays can significantly increase the already high costs of vessel and equipment hire and personnel. Each stage of the pre-commissioning process must be executed efficiently. IK Trax’s cutting-edge data logging and testing equipment offers our customers assurance by recording and transmitting crucial data at every stage. This real-time monitoring allows support vessels to be utilised for other tasks, resulting in substantial cost savings.
Here are our four key strategies to ensure confidence throughout pipeline pre-commissioning.
Real-Time Pig Tracking
During the flooding and cleaning of a newly laid pipeline, it is vital that the chosen pig train can travel continuously through the pipeline and into the receiver. Pig Signallers placed at critical points and a suitable pig tracking and locating system ensure that you can quickly and confidently identify the pig’s location at each stage from launch to receipt or if the pig stalled in the pipeline.
Confirming a stationary pig’s location in the receiver is normally a routine operation but locating a pig stalled at an unknown location is more difficult and could have large cost implication. Therefore, an effective and advanced detection system, along with a clear strategy, is necessary to ensure speedy locating and recovery of the pig.
Gauge Plate Monitoring
A standard gauging pig will advise you of the presence of a pipeline intrusion. Often, this will need to be followed by a caliper pig run, an unscheduled and expensive operation, to determine the intrusion location. A more cost-effective solution is to run a gauging system with an electromagnetic transmitter. This system can monitor the condition of the gauge plate and transmit this information remotely. This data can be used to determine the approximate location of the defect without having to run a caliper.
Pressure and Temperature Monitoring
Subsea Data Loggers such as the 6001SD can monitor, display and record pressure and temperature data that can be viewed by an ROV or diver or communicated remotely. As the unit is continuously logging, the vessel or diver can use this time to perform other taks, providing more operational flexibility and resulting in work being completed on or ahead of schedule.
The unit can also examine the data received during a set period and display the time and date of the hydrotest pass. This information is readily available without needing to recover the unit, ensuring continuous monitoring efficiency.
Real-Time Dewatering Analysis
Verifying that a pipeline has been properly conditioned throughout its length can be time-consuming and costly since it is carried out so close to start-up. A system such as IK Trax’s MEG ARTS Analyser and Sampler measures the density of flowing MEG (or other chemicals) at the receipt end of the pipeline and displays and logs this data, providing a real-time account of the progress of the dewatering operation.
There may still be a requirement to provide samples for additional confirmation and/or to support the data obtained. Up to seven samples can be taken by ROV, and costs can be reduced further by taking automatic samples at pre-determined levels, eliminating the need for a vessel to transit to the receipt location.
In conclusion, effective pipeline pre-commissioning is essential to ensure the integrity and operation readiness of a new pipeline. By implementing these strategies, companies can achieve significant cost savings and operational efficiencies. These technologies not only enhance the accuracy and reliability of pre-commissioning activities but also enable better utilisation of resources, ultimately ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
When it comes to subsea operations, safety is paramount and monitoring voltage gradients is a necessity. Voltage gradients pose a serious potential threat to divers, making their detection and management a critical aspect of subsea work.
In this blog post, we will introduce the Voltage Gradient Probe (VGP) – a product designed to tackle this challenge and provide divers with the assurance required to carry out their operations safely. This is particularly important when working around subsea equipment connected to an electrical supply such as an impressed cathodic protection system. This tool also highlights our commitment to safety and working closely with clients on bespoke designs.
Understanding the Need
The VGP was designed with a leading subsea contractor to address the critical safety issue posed by voltage gradients in subsea operations. It is a robust tool that provides added diver safety and diving assurance in accordance with IMCA 45 standard D044, R015.
Enhanced Visibility
The VGP is a reliable indicator, alerting users to the presence and magnitude of AC voltage gradients through a series of six LEDs. These LEDs illuminate progressively at clearly defined trigger voltages, in an easy to interpret “traffic light” configuration.
Safety by Design
Safety is built into the VGP’s design. It arrives pre-fitted with an insulating cap, protecting against inadvertent contact with known or suspected “live” parts. Additionally, a dedicated Battery Status LED provides a clear indication of battery life and operational readiness ensuring you won’t be caught off guard by a depleted battery during critical operations.
Testing for Assurance
Prior to deployment, users can conduct a comprehensive functionality test using the VGP’s dedicated Testbox. This streamlined process ensures operational integrity and enhances user confidence before subsea deployment.
Safety Elevated, Confidence Assured
In subsea operations, safety isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. The Voltage Gradient Probe offers robust solutions to mitigate risks associated with voltage gradients. From its intuitive LED display to its comprehensive pre-deployment checks, the VGP provides divers with confidence, ensuring safety remains at the forefront of every operation.
We are excited to announce that Michael Bruce has joined the IK Trax team as Materials Controller.
Michael has over 25 years of experience in Materials and Logistics and will be responsible for the receiving, picking and packing of all goods in and out of the company.
Outside work, Michael unwinds by playing golf and cheering on his daughter during her football matches.
As we mark International Women’s Day, our Vice President Charlotte Hope shares her journey as a female leader in the energy sector. From breaking gender norms to discussing our company’s initiatives supporting women, Charlotte explores the evolving roles of women in the industry and offers valuable advice to aspiring female professionals. Join us in acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of women in oil and gas this International Women’s Day.
The Enduring Wisdom: Women Who Shaped My Journey
I am fortunate that there are many remarkable women that have shaped the person I am today. One such figure is my grandmother—an epitome of resilience, courage, and kindness. My grandmother was the OG of putting on your big girl pants and getting the job done. At the tender of 14, she left home to gain work experience on a remote farm. This bold move, especially for someone of her generation, showcased her determination to carve her path. As a child, I watched in awe as she worked tirelessly, displaying a unique blend of grit and determination. Despite the challenges of farming, there was always a twinkle in her eye—a silent reminder to approach life with both seriousness and a sense of humour. When faced with a dilemma, I often ask myself, ‘What would GGW do?’ The answer is usually: take a breath, prioritise tasks, and never succumb to the notion that you aren’t good enough or capable. However, her influence goes beyond tackling challenges. She imparted invaluable lessons in treating people with kindness and respect. This principle has been particularly impactful in my professional life, especially when working internationally. Understanding each other’s perspectives may be challenging in an environment where diverse cultures converge, but her wisdom resonates—never let the differences deter you from being kind and respectful. Her teachings echo my daily life, reminding me that kindness transcends boundaries and respect is a universal language. As I navigate life, I carry with me the enduring lessons from a woman who faced adversity with grace and met challenges with unwavering strength.
Navigating Gender Norms in the Oil and Gas Industry
Growing up with a father immersed in the oil and gas industry, it felt almost natural for me to follow in his footsteps. Encouraged to break free from traditional roles, I kicked off my career in Accountancy—a field that has historically seen a more balanced gender presence. However, as my roles transitioned into more commercial and operational areas, especially while working in Africa, I faced my fair share of challenges. Despite holding senior positions, assumptions about my role persisted, highlighting the prevailing gender biases in the industry. During client meetings, people would often assume I was there as a note-taker. While strides have been made in breaking down predefined gender roles, cultural nuances and stereotypes still present hurdles. I reflect on my journey, acknowledging the progress made while recognising that gender biases continue to influence perceptions of leadership qualities.
Unique Perspectives and Challenges
As a female leader, I’ve learned to leverage my emotional intuition to understand and motivate my team. However, the road is not without its challenges—gender biases often cast leadership qualities in a different light depending on one’s gender. What may be viewed as strength and assertiveness in a male leader is often labelled as aggressiveness or coldness in a female counterpart. Despite these obstacles, my unique perspective as a woman has equipped me with an understanding of women’s diverse responsibilities outside the workplace, emphasising the significance of achieving a healthy work-life balance.
Company Initiatives for Inclusivity: Our Commitment
At IK Trax, fostering inclusivity is a top priority. Initiatives supporting women include phased returns and part-time positions for those returning after maternity leave, coupled with flexible working hours accommodating childcare responsibilities. When I initially entered the industry, we faced a significant challenge of retaining highly skilled women after their maternity leave. Many struggled to balance childcare responsibilities and their careers. As their children got older, re-entering the job market became increasingly challenging due to the gap in their CV caused by their time away from work. We are committed to dismantling barriers hindering women’s progress and actively addressing overlooked issues, such as the impact of menopause on the workplace. This issue has long been overlooked but is finally gaining the attention it deserves.
The Strategic Move: Women’s Impact in the Industry
Promoting women’s involvement in the energy sector is a strategic move beyond morality. The diverse skill sets and perspectives women bring contribute significantly to innovation, problem-solving, and creativity and enable us to better understand and meet the needs of a diverse client base. While progress is visible in the representation of women in senior positions, mandated reporting sheds light on the persistent issue of inequality. Nevertheless, it’s encouraging to note a positive shift in the makeup of management at IK Trax and the IK Group, with two of the current Group VPs being female. At IK Trax, we also have women in managerial and technical roles, including our Workshop Supervisor.
Navigating the Path Ahead: My Advice
To aspiring women embarking on a career in the oil and gas industry, my advice is simple: seize every opportunity, believe in yourself, and don’t settle. It’s easy to underestimate your capabilities but believe me, you have the potential to achieve great things. In a world where negotiation styles often differ between genders, be assertive about what you bring to the table. Aim high and never settle for less than you deserve. Speak up, and don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and ideas. If you see an opportunity for mentorship, latch onto it. Mentorship is akin to free career development, offering guidance and support as you navigate the complexities of your profession. I am a firm believer in getting the best out of everyone; let’s continue to support and uplift women, helping them fulfil their potential. In my journey, I’ve found that women sometimes downplay their achievements. You are not just lucky to be in your position; you earned it. Have confidence in your skills, and remember that you can always learn and grow, even if there are gaps in your expertise. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s champion each other and recognise the achievements of women in our industry.
We’re thrilled to announce that IK Trax has been featured in the February issue of the PPSA newsletter. Our article, titled “The Evolution of Pig Signallers in Pipeline Control” dives into the world of non-intrusive pig signallers and compares their technological advancements to traditional intrusive signallers.
We explore how non-intrusive pig signallers are revolutionising pipeline control with their advanced features and capabilities. From advanced remote communication options that enable real-time monitoring to the provision of detailed and accurate data, they are leading the way towards safer and more effective pipeline operations.
If you’re curious about the latest innovations in pipeline control technology, be sure to check out the article by clicking here
Explore non-intrusive pig signallers in our latest World Pipelines magazine feature, “Non-Intrusive Leading the Way.” This article outlines why non-intrusive methods surpass intrusive in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness and safety.
It also delves into the diverse technologies available and their unique features and practical applications, providing valuable insight into the impact of non-intrusive technologies on pipeline management.
We are delighted to end 2023 on a high note with the confirmation of an order for 78 x 4003 magnetic pig signallers. These signallers are being provided as part of our customer’s supply for various key offshore contracts in the Middle East.
This project win is particularly noteworthy as we were able to change the specified signalling method from intrusive to non-intrusive. Our MENA Regional Manager Kristina Oshin commented “For this project, the original specification was written around intrusive technology with the preferred signaller being very expensive and subject to a lengthy lead time. We were able to explain the benefits of adopting a non-intrusive approach to the end user including increased reliability and being a more economically sustainable product.”
As we wrap up the fourth quarter of the year, we celebrate a highly successful period for the company marked by an influx of high-value orders, positioning us well for a busy and promising start to 2024.
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