We’re excited to announce the launch of our new Technology Footprint page! This interactive map highlights where our technologies are making an impact across the globe.
Check back regularly for updates as we continue to expand and innovate worldwide!
Pig tracking and pig signallers have long been integral to pipeline operations, with each process relying on specialised equipment and methods. As technology has advanced, modern Apps have emerged that significantly enhance these tasks. By integrating the latest Apps into your pig tracking and signalling operations, you can streamline processes, improve data accuracy and achieve great operational flexibility.
Streamlined Operations with Real-Time Data
Modern Apps for both pig tracking and signalling offer real-time monitoring capabilities that simplify operations. Pig Tracking Receiver Apps provide a graphical representation of signals, helping to identify individual and multiple pigs with greater accuracy. Similarly, our latest Pig Signaller App allows you to view real-time pig passages directly on your phone or tablet via Bluetooth, eliminating the need to be situated in view of the signaller. The Apps also allow you to detect your pigs from the comfort of your vehicle which can be advantageous if working in a remote area whilst experiencing inclement weather.
Enhanced Flexibility and Convenience
Traditionally, changing settings on pig tracking equipment involved sending units back to the manufacturer, causing delays and additional costs. IK Trax’s EMTx Config App allows operators to adjust transmitter settings such as pulse length, frequency and power output directly on-site. This increased flexibility is mirrored in our receiver and pig signaller apps, which enables users to adjust settings in real time from their device, making the process more convenient and reducing the need for direct equipment handling.
Comprehensive Data Review and Analysis
Both pig tracking and pig signalling apps offer advanced data review features. Receiver apps let users pause, zoom and scroll through past tracking data, facilitating detailed analysis without the need for constant monitoring. Similarly, our pig signaller app provides a live graphical representation of gauss readings from the 4003 Pig Signaller and allows users to download up to 100 stored events. These features enable thorough review and analysis.
Exportable Records and Client Support
One significant advantage of these apps is the ability to generate detailed records of operations. Pig tracking apps enable users to mark areas of interest and create comprehensive logs of received signals, which can be exported for client reporting and supporting data. Our pig signaller apps also supports exporting records, providing clients with valuable data and ensuring a thorough documentation of pig passages.
Discover the Benefits
Explore how these advanced apps can transform your pig tracking and signalling processes. Our Apps are available to download from our website – for more information on integrating these technologies into your operations, contact us today.
We are thrilled to announce that IK Trax will be exhibiting at Oil And Gas Asia 2024.
Join us at the UK Pavilion, Stand No. 8, where we’ll be showcasing our cutting-edge pig detection technology and pipeline communication solutions.
📅 Date: September 25-27, 2024
📍 Location: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia
Don’t miss this chance to connect with our team and discover how our innovations can optimize your pipeline operations.
We’re pleased to announce that John Macinnes has joined us as our new Finance Manager!
With over 14 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry across multiple countries and continents, John brings a wealth of knowledge in International Finance and Project Management to IK Trax.
Outside of work, you’ll often find him at the gym, on the golf course, or trying his hand at training his puppy—though he admits the puppy training is still a work in progress!
This month, we caught up with Andrew Donnelly our Mechanical Engineer.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Andrew Donnelly, and I work as a mechanical design engineer at IK Trax. I earned my master’s in mechanical engineering at RGU. Throughout university, I had various work placements, and after graduation, I was lucky enough to be accepted as a graduate mechanical engineer at a start-up oil and gas company and that is where I learned my trade. I now have 6 years of experience in mechanical engineering.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, whether it’s dog walks on the weekends or dinner dates with my fiancé. I am getting married next April, so wedding planning is currently taking up a lot of our time.
Can you tell us about the mechanical capabilities we have at IK Trax and how they are integrated with our electronics engineering capabilities?
At IK Trax, our CAD software allows me to create 3D working assemblies of all our products and prototypes. We also use finite element analysis software and an in-house design calculation package to ensure our prototypes pass the necessary pressure tests before moving to production.
Our electronic engineers can create a 3D model of a PCB, which I can import into my CAD software. I then design an enclosure to house and secure the PCB and other internal components. These components are often subjected to harsh vibratory conditions, so we work together to create an optimal and mechanically robust PCB mounting method.
What projects have you been involved in at IK Trax, and what have been some key highlights and challenges?
I have been involved in various projects at IK Trax, including new prototype Electromagnetic transmitters, our new bespoke Pig Signallers, and BWGP and ROV cradles.
One of my favourite projects was the EMTx50, the largest EM transmitter we’ve ever designed. You can read about the design process in the EMTx50 case study.
The EMTx40 EM transmitter is a product I have worked on from conception. This was my first major project at IK TRAX, in which I was the lead mechanical design engineer. This was also my first project that involved designing enclosures for ATEX certification and while it was challenging learning all the requirements, our prototype type successfully passed all ATEX requirements and testing on our first attempt.
What do you find most rewarding about your role, particularly in the context of developing innovative products like we do at IK Trax?
For me, the most rewarding part of the job is talking to other engineers and seeing a concept design become a working production unit. At IK Trax, I can observe and participate in the production of units I’ve designed. It’s exciting to see something that started as a sketch in a notepad get packed into a crate for a job halfway across the world.
Finally, what are your career goals in the area of mechanical engineering?
My career goal is to apply for and achieve chartered engineer CEng status. This will be an important milestone in my engineering career.
This month, we caught up with Mike Halliday, our Operator and EPC Account Manager.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your role?
My name is Mike Halliday. I joined IK Trax in February this year as the Operational and EPC Account Manager. My focus is on identifying opportunities both in the UK and internationally, where our technologies can support and add value to our clients’ pipeline operations. I have worked for multiple years in the energy industry across many sectors dealing with EPC customers and operators, which has proved valuable in terms of my role here. In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, exercising, watching football, and spending time with my family.
IK Trax’s portfolio covers a wide range of intelligent products. In your view, how do you see our products addressing the current needs and challenges of our clients?
IK Trax has a strong R&D focus, and that for me is a big advantage when talking to customers because it isn’t always about off-the-shelf solutions. It’s about being able to meet the demands of our clients. We’re working in an energy industry where traditional projects and their requirements are very different from what they used to be.
With our strong R&D focus, we can offer a bespoke solution to our clients, working in conjunction with them not just in delivering the end result and equipment, but also at an earlier stage from a scope of work perspective. This allows us to find the most efficient solution for the challenges they face or the projects they’re about to deliver. Going forward, I think we’re well placed to meet the changing energy demands of our clients. We’re at an advantage when it comes to solutions for carbon capture and hydrogen projects, which is very much the way the industry is moving.
Can you discuss any technological advancements in our products that sets us apart from our competitors?
IK Trax has a great reputation for delivering innovative products. We’ve had a lot of success with our EM pig tracking solutions. It’s not just about offering a transmitter or receiver as a product; it’s about the packaged solution, backed by fantastic technology like our new EM Config and Receiver apps. These advancements have made a big difference, allowing clients to understand how the whole solution fits together and the advantages of working with us. A recent advancement in our Electromagnetic Transmitter range is the EMTx50, our most powerful transmitter yet, offering the signal strength and battery life needed to track pigs in larger diameter pipelines.
Can you tell us about any upcoming industry events we are attending? How important are these events for our company and what are our goals in participating in them?
At the end of August, we’ll be attending ONS in Stavanger, Norway, as part of the IK Group stand. IK Group and IK Trax are working together to address the challenges faced by our customers in the Norwegian sector and the North Sea. In late September, we’ll be represented at the GPA Midstream Conference in San Antonio, Texas. This event offers an amazing opportunity to engage with the largest midstream players in the US, a massive potential market for us. It will be a great chance to network and spread the word about IK Trax in the United States.
Following that, we will attend OGA in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, at the end of September. We will have a stand there, providing an opportunity to grow our market in Asia further. Lastly, we will have representation at ADIPEC at the start of November in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This will allow us to engage with both existing and new customers, showcasing our technology to a wider global market.
Further details of all the events can be found on our Events page.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your time at IK Trax so far or any further insights you would like to share with us?
IK Trax is committed to meeting the challenges and demands of its clients, continually improving its products and I believe there are long-standing customers who trust us and will continue to do so. We are well-positioned to meet the industry’s demands and tackle more complex projects in the future – projects will not be as traditional as they once were, especially in the oil and gas sector. New opportunities will arise from new challenges, and the industry will need to think differently, using existing technologies to address these challenges in the new energy world.
Introduction
The EMTx50 electromagnetic transmitter is a ground-breaking innovation that represents a significant leap forward in pig tracking technology. With unmatched power and a robust design, it is suitable for larger-diameter pipelines where signal strength and reliability are key to precise and quick detection.
This case study will explore the development of the EMTx50, showcasing the collaborative effort of the IK Trax design, production and sales teams and the innovative technology which made this standout product possible.
Background and Objectives
Developing electromagnetic transmitters for larger pipelines is not new to IK Trax – for years, we have led the market with our 3007 EM transmitter. However, digitalisation has led to demands for further flexibility and customisation and an enhanced user experience. To meet these demands, upgrades were required for the transmitter to be compatible with our EMTx Config Android and Windows Apps.
These Apps enable customers to modify transmitter parameters and gain insights into expected battery life, offering them customisation options and an improved user interface that they now expect. Thanks to the composite housing, this can be done in the field without removing the endcaps, removing that extra layer of complexity. Different endcap options are now available to achieve delayed switch-on, allowing the pigs to be loaded before launch without depleting the transmitter battery.
To address the challenges of extra-large diameter transport pipelines spanning long distances across countries and continents, the transmitter performance and power had to be enhanced while ensuring compliance with pressure and temperature requirements and remaining commercially viable.
Design Challenges and Solutions
Designing a housing for such a large EM transmitter presented mechanical challenges. It needed to withstand high operating pressures while adhering to size, cost and manufacturing constraints. Considering that this is the largest EM transmitter we have developed, the unit will experience the highest loads and forces during the operation that we have seen and would have to be designed accordingly. Size restrictions were also a critical consideration; a larger housing would limit the number of pigs that could house the transmitter, reducing its commercial potential. To address this, we conducted an in-depth investigation to determine the optimal size that would maximise marketability without compromising functionality.
To meet the demands of extra-large diameter transport pipelines, we significantly improved the transmitter’s power output, increasing from 1000mV in the 3007 model to 2300mV in the new EMTx50, and, ensuring reliable performance over long distances. Considering the extensive length of these pipelines, battery life was a major focus. The electronics were designed to be low-power, the coil was optimised for efficiency, and the battery pack was maximised for energy capacity. These improvements extended the operational life of the transmitter, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements.
Rigorous Testing and Validation
During the testing phase, we conducted comprehensive assessments to ensure the reliability and durability of the transmitter. We utilised Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and meticulous design calculations to ensure the enclosure could withstand external pressure tests. Once manufactured, the units underwent a successful 24-hour pressure test at 1.25 times the operating pressure. During this test, we closely monitored creep behaviour in the composite enclosure, which proved to be negligible. An internal pressure test also confirmed that the EM Transmitter had a 130 bar internal pressure rating. The EMTx50 was also subjected to comprehensive testing for high and low-temperature extremes, as well as shock and vibration testing. This ensured the transmitter could withstand the harsh conditions it would encounter in the field.
Extensive battery testing was performed at various power levels and pulse rates. This testing provided valuable data on battery performance and longevity, ensuring reliable operation over extended periods. We also conducted thorough yard testing using our test pipes, which have wall thicknesses over 35mm. This allowed us to determine the different detection envelopes achievable with the EMTx50 compared to our existing transmitters, confirming its superior performance.
Ensuring Performance: Collaborative Design and Efficient Manufacturing
We had to employ several strategies to ensure that the EMTx50 not only met but also exceeded the required specifications, and collaboration was key to achieving this.
Our design team worked closely with the IK Trax sales team, which was crucial in determining the optimal size of the EM transmitter. This ensured the transmitter could meet a wide range of job requirements and maximise its commercial potential. Maintaining strong relationships with various suppliers and machine shops allowed the engineers to optimise the design for both cost and manufacturability. These partnerships ensured that the components could be produced efficiently and economically.
For the mechanical build of the EMTx50, the design team collaborated with our technicians, who have years of experience building for the oil and gas industry. Their extensive expertise was invaluable towards developing detailed build instructions and the necessary assembly tooling. This significantly reduced build times, ensuring efficiency and precision in the assembly process.
Conclusion
The EMTx50 demonstrates that with greater size comes increased power. Through collaborative efforts, meticulous design and efficient manufacturing processes, we have achieved a product that meets the demands of modern pipeline tracking and sets new benchmarks for reliability, performance and user experience in the field.
The EMTx50 is suitable for larger-diameter pipelines where signal strength and reliability are key to precise and quick detection. This groundbreaking development represents a significant leap forward in pig tracking technology with unmatched signal strength and robust design.
The EMTx50 is compatible with the EMTx Config Android and Windows Apps. The Apps enable customers to modify transmitter parameters and gain insights into expected battery life, offering customisation options and an improved user interface. This can be done in the field without removing the endcaps, eliminating an extra layer of complexity.
“Bringing the EMTx50 to market was a true team effort,” said Gavin Duncan, R&D Manager at IK Trax. “By working closely with our colleagues in Production and Sales, we were able to create a product that not only meets the highest technical standards but is also practical to produce and aligned with our customers’ needs.”
Designed to meet the demands of modern pipeline monitoring, the EMTx50’s advanced features and robust design ensure it can handle even the most challenging tracking scenarios.
“With the EMTx50, we’ve set a new standard in efficiency and precision for pig tracking technology,” said Charlotte Hope, Vice President at IK Trax. “This transmitter is tailor-made for environments where real-time tracking is non-negotiable, providing our clients with the power and reliability they need.”
For further information or to schedule a demonstration, please get in touch with us at sales@iktrax.com
Sturt Leslie has recently joined IK Trax as our Global Head of Tendering.
With a decade of experience in proposals and tendering, Stuart brings invaluable expertise that enhances our commercial strategy.
Outside of work, Stuart enjoys family trips, spending time on the golf course and supporting his favourite football teams.
Meet Sergey, an integral part of the IK Trax team and the driving force behind the development of our newly released 4003 Pig Signaller App.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Sergey and I am an Android App Developer at IK Trax. I was born in Moldova and moved to Italy when I was 14. I came to the UK in 2014, firstly living in London and then moving to Aberdeen where I decided to study Software Development. I attended college for three years and I am now completing my Honours year at Robert Gordon University.
Outside of work, I have a passion for music – I attended music school and have participated in numerous theatre productions. I also enjoy martial arts and spending time with my wife and our three-year-old son.
Can you share your journey at IK Trax, from being a summer intern to your current position?
At University, we were encouraged to seek a summer placement to give us further hands-on experience and develop our professionalism. This is something that has helped me in my studies as well as the workplace. My primary task during my internship was modifying and improving the EMRx Receiver App. This was challenging, and I was pushed to conduct my own research utilising online sources and AI technologies to navigate the process.
I have found my colleagues to be very approachable and constructive during my time here. This has allowed me to grow both as a developer and a professional. At the end of my internship, I was lucky enough to be offered a part-time position which I am now balancing alongside the completion of my degree.
What are some of the key highlights and some of the biggest challenges you have faced during your time at IK Trax?
During my time at IK Trax, one of the key highlights (and challenges) has been developing the 4003 App. Prior to this, I was mainly tweaking and fixing applications which were already in existence. Starting a project from the ground up was a first for me and it allowed me to work on my weaknesses and grow professionally. Building the 4003 App was a significant achievement, and I found great enjoyment in the process.
Another key highlight was presenting the completed Apps to my colleagues, explaining updates made and demonstrating the functionality. I have always enjoyed public speaking and consider it one of my best skills. I would like more opportunities to do this in the future.
How do the Apps you have worked on and developed contribute to pig tracking and detection and what specific functionality do they offer?
All of our Apps allow the operator to input their required parameters directly into a phone or tablet. This is often a simpler and more user-friendly method compared to using the single push button on the receiver or signaller.
The EMRx App provides a visual display of the received electromagnetic or magnetic signal whilst the 4003 Pig Signaller App provides pig passage information in real-time to the device. Information can also be exported from the Apps for further review. This all provides the user with more flexibility and control during their operations.
Looking ahead, what are your career goals in the field of App Development?
I don’t want to limit myself to App development. As a software developer I believe I should be expanding my horizons and my goal is to learn about different technologies across various fields. I look forward to broadening my knowledge in all areas of software development.