TPi July 2018

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The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

July 2018

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Editorial Office: Editor

Mr Rory McBride Email: rory@intras.co.uk Mr Christian Bradley Email: christian@intras.co.uk

Editorial Assistant

Design & Production

Mrs Lisa Wright Email: lisa@intras.co.uk

Publisher Founder

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Advertisement Material & Production: Ms Liz Hughes Email: liz@intras.co.uk Ms Andrea McIntosh Email: andrea@intras.co.uk

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Email: steve@intras.co.uk • Tel: +44 1926 834688 Verkauf & Marketing (Deutschland, Österreich, Schweiz) Email: germansales@intras.co.uk • Tel: +44 1926 834687 Ms Giuliana Benedetto – Vendite & Marketing (Italia) Email: giuliana@intras.co.uk • Tel: +44 1926 834686 Ms Linda Li – 中国大陆，台湾，香港以及远东地区销售代表 Email: linda@intras.co.uk • Tel: +44 1926 834685

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This publication and its full contents of layout, text, images, and graphics is copyright protected. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any other storage or retrieval system without the publisher’s written permission. The publisher, owners, agents, printers, editors and contributors cannot be held responsible for and hereby exclude all liability whatsoever for errors, omissions or the accuracy and claims printed or inferred in the editorial or advertisements published in this, previous or subsequent editions or for any damages, costs or losses caused thereby. Tube Products International reserves the right to edit, reword and subedit all editorial submissions in accordance with editorial policy. Tube Products International expressed graphically or by text is a registered name and style trademark of Intras Ltd, UK. All matters relating to this disclaimer are governed by the laws of England. US copies only: Tube Products INTERNATIONAL (ISSN 1755-7216, USPS No: 024-676) is published six times a year, January, March, May, July, September and November by Intras Ltd and distributed in the USA by UKP Worldwide, 3390 Rand Road, South Plainfield, NJ 07080. Periodicals postage paid at Rahway, NJ and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Tube Products INTERNATIONAL, Intras Ltd, C/O 3390 Rand Road, South Plainfield NJ 07080.

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Contents July 2018

6 Business & market news

24 Products & developments

The 8 th All China International Tube and Pipe Industry trade fair

40 Tube China 2018

42 Valves, fittings, flanges & connectors

52 Radiant heating and cooling system in new university complex to meet energy saving goals

55 Editorial index

56 Advertisers index

The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

Events calendar

July 2018

www.read-tpi.com

The trademagazine for tube and pipe products

The July issue

2018

6-8 June Guangzhou (Guangzhou, China) International exhibition www.julang.com.cn

Welcome to the latest Tube Products INTERNATIONAL magazine. In this issue we have a feature on valves, fittings, flanges & connectors as well as an article on the award-winning tube system being used in new radiant heating and cooling systems at a large university complex in the US (starting on page 52). Having only recently returned from another successful Tube Düsseldorf trade show I notice the dates for the next event have already been confirmed as 30 March to 3 April 2020. Get those dates in your diary. More than 71,500 trade visitors (compared to 69,500 in 2016) from 134 countries visited Düsseldorf in Germany over the five days to find out about industry innovations, and the feedback I received from many at the show was very positive. I could see with my own eyes that stands were extremely busy. This is backed up by the organisers who said a total of 2,683 companies from 67 countries presented their technology in 16 exhibition halls over more than 117,000m 2 – some 7,000m 2 of space more than at the previous event in 2016. The event is shared by the tube and wire industry and it would appear both are experiencing a strong resurgence. Pipe, tubes and accessories, raw materials and machines for producing, finishing and processing pipes were listed as the exhibits most of interest to visitors at Tube 2018. According to the stats gathered at the end of the show, more than 50 per cent of visitors came with concrete investment intentions, and 70 per cent of those visiting were executives with high decision- making authority, so the visitors are also high quality. In the forthcoming September issue we have features on mechanical tubing (automotive, aerospace, etc), welding technology, and show features on Tube China 2018 and EuroBLECH 2018. The editorial deadline for that issue is 2 July. The deadline for booking advertising in the issue is 16 July.

12-14 June FABTECH Canada (Toronto, Canada)

International exhibition www.fabtechcanada.com

26-29 September Tube China (Shanghai, China) International exhibition www.tubechina.net 17-19 October Indometal (Jakarta, Indonesia) International exhibition www.indometal.net 23-26 October EuroBLECH (Hanover, Germany) International exhibition www.euroblech.com

6-8 November FABTECH (Atlanta, USA)

International exhibition www.fabtechexpo.com

27-29 November Tube India (Mumbai, India) International exhibition www.tube-india.com

27-29 November Valveworld

If you would like to submit a story to be included please contact me at: rory@intras.co.uk

(Düsseldorf, Germany) International exhibition www.valveworldexpo.com

Enjoy the magazine.

Rory McBride Editor

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tubacex.com

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Business & market news

Expro boosts downhole camera capabilities International oilfield services company Expro has enhanced its cased hole services offering, signing a global agreement with downhole video and camera technology specialist Vision iO. with Vision iO will augment Expro’s existing offering with the Norway-based company’s suite of camera technologies, including its WellCAM ® visual logging platform. the wellbore’s condition. This allows informed decisions to be made on location, reducing downtime and cost, ensuring remediation solutions are delivered quickly and efficiently.”

Rolf G Skaar, CEO of Vision iO, added, “We have a long-standing relationship with Expro and were delighted to formalise this through a new partnership agreement. It allows us to combine our expertise across both companies to deliver solutions for our global customer base.” Expro – UK

Expro is a provider of downhole video technology to the oil and gas industry through its downhole video (DHV) range, which includes the ViewMax, high temperature and standard memory cameras. The company’s suite of camera technology is deployed in a wide range of operations, including casing and well integrity monitoring, downhole inspection, operational verification and production monitoring for both on- and offshore wells. The agreement

Vision iO’s fish-eye colour camera technology visually logs the whole well in one seamless, high resolution image, providing a 185/360° view of the entire wellbore. This is achieved without switching from front to lateral view, and is supported by a 128 GB internal storage capacity that allows 24 hours of continuous recording. Dave Bowman, vice president of well intervention at Expro, said, “Expro’s downhole video and camera services provide a clear understanding of

www.exprogroup.com Vision iO AS – Norway www.visionio.com

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Business & market news

ESAB completes acquisition of Sandvik welding business

for demanding environments, and has supplied welding consumables for more than80years. ESAB is anexpert inwelding filler metals, with a portfolio including stainless steel, nickel and high-alloy filler metals, strip cladding electrodes and fluxes sold under brands such as Shield- Bright, Core-Bright, Arcaloy, OK Autrod, OK Band and Stoody. ESAB Welding & Cutting Products – USA www.esab.com

customers with a broader and enhanced portfolio of stainless steel and nickel filler metals,” said Shyam Kambeyanda, president of ESAB. ESAB will be working over the next several months to integrate the Sandvik welding consumables business and operations to provide a smooth transition for customers worldwide. Sandvik is a developer and manufacturer of stainless steels and special alloys

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products has completed the acquisition of the Sandvik welding operations, including production units in Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA, and Sandviken, Sweden, the technical sales and product management organisation, and multi- year strategic collaboration on R&D for future product developments. “Adding the Sandvik welding operations and its associates provides ESAB the opportunity to better serve

Van Leeuwen acquires Ferrostaal Piping Supply

segments through means of acquisitions and autonomous growth. The acquisition represents an expansion of the company’s commercial network. Ferrostaal Piping Supply gives Van Leeuwen greater access to the German market, in particular the chemical and petrochemical segments. In addition, the acquisition provides an opportunity for further expanding the services provided to the machine- building segment. Peter Rietberg, chairman of the management board, commented, “Through the addition of Ferrostaal Piping Supply to our network, we are in a position to especially serve the German market even better. This expansion of our global network offers benefits to our national and international customers, as well as our suppliers. Especially our customers in the German market in the chemical and petrochemical segments can now make optimal use of our expertise and specialisms relating to stocks, procurement, distribution and project management.” Van Leeuwen Pipe and Tube Group BV – Netherlands

The activities of the Dutch branch of Ferrostaal Piping Supply will be carried out from existing Van Leeuwen companies. The Ferrostaal teams in Germany will operate as independent commercial teams, as part of Van Leeuwen’s network. The company will retain its own name, employees and customer base, but will benefit from Van Leeuwen’s broader offering of products and services. Van Leeuwen’s strategy is focused on further expanding and strengthening its market position in various industrial

The Van Leeuwen Pipe and Tube Group has acquired the business of Ferrostaal Piping Supply, a German-Dutch pipe and tube trading company. The acquisition took effect on 1 May. Ferrostaal Piping Supply, founded in 1953, specialises in the supply of pipes and piping materials, and operates in the chemical and petrochemical, equipment and machine-building, and trade segments. The company primarily focuses on markets in Germany and the Benelux countries. It also exports its products to various parts of the world.

vlptg@vanleeuwen.nl www.vanleeuwen.com

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Business & market news

EUPEC confirms successful turnaround and wins €5mn contract

process of the new EUPEC, notably during the negotiation of the job retention agreement, which enabled us to implement the necessary measures to revive the company. Together with our employees, we want to continue along this path by continuing to give priority to our customers’ expectations.” EUPEC supplies coatings for oil, gas and water pipelines for various on- and offshore applications. The company serves customers around the world from its head office in Gravelines, France. From 2009 to 2011, EUPEC supplied all concrete coating for the pipelines used in the Nordstream project. EUPEC – France www.eupec-pipecoatings.com

and pursue a labour innovation policy started in January 2017 by signing a job retention agreement in return for wage concessions, with the support and assistance of public authorities. “We are looking forward to work on this large-scale project,” said Mr Grimopont. “We have a unique industrial know-how in France that we want to preserve and develop. Our ambition is to keep up the pace of this progress to better meet the needs and requirements of our customers.” Mr Martin added, “EUPEC’s recovery and commercial revival plan received the support of our shareholder, Mutares, whose involvement was key in the transformation and re-definition

Pipe coater EUPEC has announced the signing of a €5mn contract, which the company says underlines the success of its new strategy. The newly awarded contract represents a key milestone for EUPEC’s develop- ment strategy that was initiated by its president, François Martin, and manag- ing director Damien Grimopont. With support from shareholder Mutares, EUPEC completely reviewed its strategy and business approach with regard to innovation, co-construction and partnership, based on five strategic axes: foster business opportunities; maintain relationships with existing customers; maintain the expertise of the company by keeping employees and jobs on its sites; invest in production tools;

Jobs boost as manufacturing plant opens Engineering firm FES, a supplier of fluid transfer systems to oil and gas clients around the world, has invested in a 25,000ft 2 manufacturing facility in Northumberland, UK, initially creating around 20 new jobs in the process. The plant will enable FES to bring several processes that were previously outsourced, such as fabrication and manufacturing, in-house. The expansive site will provide the firm with the additional height needed to develop new products for oil and gas fields in increasingly challenging environments. It will also serve as a base for apprenticeship schemes and other training programmes aimed at nurturing skills that are being lost to the sector as members of its ageing workforce retire. Although 90 per cent of FES’s business comes from clients outside the UK, the company’s entire supply chain is located within a 25-mile radius of its base in Ashington, Northumberland, and some processes will continue to be outsourced once the new facility is fully operational.

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to the North East [of England],” said managing director Rob Anderson. “There is the common assumption that manufacturing in Asia- Pacific is much cheaper than in the UK, but this overlooks the potentially expensive issues that come with quality and control problems. “We now have a manufacturing facility on our doorstep, making it much easier for us to ensure we continue delivering high quality products to the market. Despite the current climate, in which many businesses in our industry are closing or downsizing, we have taken the bold move to invest heavily in our long-term future.” FES International – UK fes@fesltd.co.uk www.fesinternational.com

FES technical director Ian Latimer (left) and managing director Rob Anderson

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Business & market news

TMK hosts US industry standardisation representatives

industry standards for most of its history. In 2007 TMK became the first Russian member of API to have voting rights. TMK also took part in the international trade exhibition Tube 2018 inDüsseldorf, Germany, in April. At its exhibition stand the company presented the full range of TMK pipe products for all industries, including TMK UP premium connections. TMK-ARTROM showcased samples from its range of industrial pipes, including seamless heat-treated pipes, cold formed pipes and pipes for the manufacture of hydraulic cylinders and auto components from its new Premium Industrial Pipes range. TMK – Russia

The US representatives expressed interest in more active collaboration with Russian technical committees (TCs), in particular with TC 357 ‘Steel and Cast Iron Pipes and Cylinders’. TCs work with the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology (Rosstandart). During the meeting, the experts were shown samples of TMK’s products, including seamless casing, drill and tubing pipes with TMK UP premium threaded connections, designed for hydrocarbon production and utilisation in wells built in complex geological conditions. TMK’s plants have been manufacturing tubular products to API standards for 25 years, and the company has actively worked with API on the development of

TMK, a producer of tubular products for the oil and gas industry, has held a working meeting with representatives from US industry standardisation organisations the American Petroleum Institute (API), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). The parties discussed the development potential of ASTM Compass, an online industry portal providing customised access to standards, engineering publications and online training. The participants also discussed the potential of connecting ASTM Compass with TMK’s own portal to provide the company with direct access to updates on changes in standards.

tmk@tmk-group.com www.tmk-group.com

Does carbon fibre pipe spell the end for large and environmentally unfriendly offshore vessels?

normally used in the industry. This significant saving in weight means both of the new flowlines can be deployed from the MPCV, a 4,800-ton vessel of which there are many around the world, as opposed to the 14,000-ton specialist lay ship that would normally be required. “Being able to use a small vessel has allowed us to effectively manage and reduce costs,” said a company spokesperson. “Reducing the operational costs through the adoption of proven new technologies is a great example of the impact we can have by selecting the right pipe and deployment system for developments.” The pipe’s light weight also means shipping costs are reduced and handling is easier. Being a carbon fibre composite, m-pipe is also strong and, most importantly, does not rust in seawater or corrode with exposure to H 2 S, CO 2 or some of the more

Magma Global set out with the aim to build a technologically advanced pipe for use in subsea oil and gas production. The rationale was based on the conviction that lightweight carbon fibre composite pipe could revolutionise subsea and deep-water oil and gas production by changing both its economics and environmental impact. Tullow Oil is an independent producer that views technology as a way of significantly reducing cost and risk. For its TEN project in Ghana, Tullow awarded Magma Global two 2.5km m-pipe flowlines. The 6" spoolable carbon composite m-pipe flowlines will be deployed from a 10m-diameter reel, with the total weight of pipe and deployment package being only 100 tons. This compares with over 500 tons for the equivalent steel flexible pipe product

aggressive chemicals involved in oil and gas production. Martin Jones, founder and CEO of Magma, commented, “Our goal is to replace metallic pipes for subsea oil and gas production in all applications, but we recognise it’s a long road in an industry which is naturally cautious with any new technologies responsible for transporting oil under water. “That said, a number of operators are recognising the benefits Magma’s approach and m-pipe technology can bring, not just in cost savings but in a more environmentally friendly approach that is intrinsically safer. As a result, we are seeing a significant acceleration in adoption by clients around the world in a wide range of subsea applications.”

Magma Global Ltd – UK sales@magmaglobal.com www.magmaglobal.com

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TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2018

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Our High Performance Powders, Master Alloys, Strip and Tube products are globally recognised for outstanding performance and added value in critical aerospace applications. We offer over 50 years of engineering expertise in developing high performance materials and supply an extensive range of high quality metal products for commercial and military aircraft as well as space programmes. • HigH PuRity PowdeRs and masteR alloys • HigH PRecision stRiP, foil and wiRe • HigH PeRfoRmance metal tubes

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Business & market news

Strengthening partnership for distribution in Southeast Asia

group’s Tecninox and Petrol Raccord production plants. By expanding its stock availability to include welded pipes from Butting, Raccortubi will be able to broaden its offer in the Southeast Asian market for the supply of complete packages of fittings, flanges and pipes, both in seamless and welded execution. Customers in the area will be able to obtain pipes produced and accepted in accordance with ASTM A928 class 1, with short delivery times, in line with the two companies’ common goal of improving efficiency in fulfilling short- term requirements for welded pipes in the region through a reinforced local presence. Luca Pentericci, president of Raccortubi, stated, “Our presence in various markets supported by our own internal production is further enhanced by this partnership in a challenging and demanding market such as Singapore and the other ASEAN countries.”

initially feature duplex pipes – 10S and 40S wall thickness, sizing from 219.1 to 508 – to be exclusively available to customers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It will also stock fittings (elbows, tees and reducers) in the same grades and dimensions, manufactured at the

Raccortubi has announced its partner- ship with Butting for the distribution of longitudinally welded Butting pipes in Southeast Asia. In particular, Raccortubi Singapore has been appointed as sole distributor of Butting pipes in the area.

Raccortubi stock in Singapore will

Raccortubi Group – Italy export@raccortubi.com www.raccortubi.com

Butting managing director Norbert Heinzle (left) and Luca Pentericci, president of Raccortubi

TechnipFMC and Magma Global in strategic collaboration for hybrid flexible pipe

adoption of carbon composites in full field developments, paving the way towards Magma’s long-term vision of an all-composite subsea infrastructure from the seabed to the surface. Ultimately we will deliver that by continuing to offer the unique benefits of Magma’s m-pipe to a wide range of industry players and applications.”

at TechnipFMC, stated, “I am pleased we have reached this agreement with Magma, which will further enhance TechnipFMC’s Subsea 2.0 product platform. The lighter, higher performance, and more cost-effective HFP solution will enable TechnipFMC to strengthen its leadership position in the flexible pipe business and address the new challenges of offshore deep-water fields.” Magma Global CEO Martin Jones said, “We are delighted to be working with TechnipFMC and believe that their vision for a hybrid flexible product provides a logical step for the increased

TechnipFMC has agreed the terms of a collaboration agreement with Magma Global Ltd to develop a new generation of hybrid flexible pipe (HFP) for use in offshore applications. HFP is expected to provide increased strength and fatigue performance, while also achieving weight and cost reductions, for subsea fluid transport applications. As part of the collaboration, TechnipFMC is purchasing a minority stake in Magma Global. Barry Glickman, president of engineer- ing, manufacturing and supply chain

TechnipFMC plc – UK www.technipfmc.com Magma Global Ltd – UK sales@magmaglobal.com www.magmaglobal.com

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Business & market news

White paper on protecting drinking water Failure to use inflow prevention can put the public at risk from contaminated drinking water. Val-Matic’s white paper Protecting Drinking Water Pipelines with Inflow Prevention explains this in more detail. selection affects energy consumption in pumping systems, the program takes specific application information entered by the user, and uses it to calculate headloss and 40-year energy costs for various valve types.

and downstream pipe reducers. The scope of the energy cost calculator also includes larger AWWA ball and eccentric plug valves up to 72" in size. Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corp – USA valves@valmatic.com www.valmatic.com

Smaller than line size valves can also be evaluated with consideration to the headloss from the upstream

With the heightened demand for security and safe drinking water, inflow prevention is important because air valves and reservoir vents are vulnerable to flood contamination as well as malicious tampering. The use of vent pipes can worsen the problem by allowing cold air to enter the valve and potentially make it inoperable due to freezing, and directly exposing the pipeline to the outside and malicious tampering. AWWA C514 inflow preventers can be applied to new or existing air valves and reservoir vents to mitigate these threats. Val-Matic has also introduced an energy cost calculator for valves. Since valve

Val-Matic’s energy cost calculator can provide a 40-year projection

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Business & market news

Valve World Americas named one of fastest-growing shows of 2017

Trade Show Executive magazine, which provides news, views and tools for trade show and event executives, has named Valve World Americas Expo & Conference one of its 50 fastest- growing shows of 2017. Valve World Americas Expo & Conference, organised by KCI World

held in June at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago, USA. The next Valve World Americas Expo & Conference will be held in June 2019, in Houston, Texas. Messe Düsseldorf North America – USA info@mdna.com www.valveworldexpoamericas.com

and Messe Düsseldorf North America, grew substantially in each of the three key areas of growth in net square feet of exhibit space, growth in number of exhibiting companies, and growth in attendance. The event was honoured for this accomplishment during an awards show

Southern HVAC expands with Fox Service Company acquisition

on every service. We see this new partnership as a great opportunity to expand the high-quality services that Fox Service Company customers have come to expect and enjoy by leveraging our shared resources, and offering even more efficient and affordable products and services.” Headquartered in Maitland, Florida, USA, Southern HVAC provides air conditioning repair, heating repair, HVAC system sales and installation, full plumbing and water heater services, electrical services, whole-home generators, pool heating, and general contracting for homes, apartment buildings and commercial buildings. Southern HVAC Corp – USA

and product lines, while enhancing the overall customer experience.” Since its inception in 2016, Southern HVAC Corp has enjoyed growth through both acquisitions and improved market share. The company currently services approximately 200,000 households annually – a figure that has more than doubled in size over the past two years. As a result, Southern HVAC now comprises eight brands and 13 service locations. According to Mike Stucky, CEO of Southern HVAC, “The employees of Fox Service Company fit well with the Southern HVAC culture and philosophy of creating customers for life with our guarantee of 100 per cent satisfaction

Southern HVAC Corp has announced the acquisition of Fox Service Company, a residential and commercial HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), plumbing and electric service provider in Austin, Texas, USA. “We’re excited to continue the popular home service programmes our customers have enjoyed over the years, yet the operation will eventually employ more automated and efficient business systems to better service our customers,” said James Bagby, general manager of Fox Service Company. “As far as our customers’ current service agreements and service appointments, they will simply continue. However, our new partnership with Southern HVAC will allow us to continue to expand and improve on all our home comfort services

info@southernhvac.net www.southernhvac.net

Titanium USA 2018 The Titanium USA 2018 conference will run from 7 to 10 October at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, USA.

materials; commercial aerospace; global industrial applications; manufacturing technology; medical technology; and powder/3D printing. International Titanium Association – USA www.titaniumusa.org

The gathering offers a full spectrum of information on the latest business, tech- nology and market trends and develop- ments in the global titanium industry. The event also provides a forum for expert discussions, continuing educa- tion, and networking opportunities for those attending. Panels will include raw

The event has been specially designed by the ITA to suit the needs of titanium industry professionals, suppliers, customers and stakeholders.

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Business & market news

Advanced engineering facility officially opened

to electric cars, and which is scheduled to be tested on board the International Space Station. The university’s vice-chancellor, Professor Debra Humphris, said, “The Advanced Engineering Building is opening in our 25 th year as a university. It is a great addition to our facilities and an inspiring environment for the next generation of engineering students and researchers. The University is extremely grateful to all of those bodies whose generous support has made all of this possible.” The building was opened by Benita Mehra, president of the Women’s Engineering Society, who also delivered a lecture, ‘Women in engineering from the early twentieth century until the present day’. University of Brighton – UK www.brighton.ac.uk

future-facing research into complex engine combustion processes and laser-based measurement techniques, fundamental modelling and computational simulation. More recently the centre has also focused on the development of a novel hybrid heat pipe system that could revolutionise the way that heat transfer is managed in everything from satellites

The University of Brighton, UK, officially opened a new £14mn engineering centre, at an event that celebrated the role of women in engineering. The Advanced Engineering Building supports both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and research, and houses the Advanced Engineering Centre, which has an international reputation for producing innovative,

Dedicated supplier of seamless steel tube and pipe!

Val-Matic employee receives certification

• EN 10294 • EN 10305 • EN 10216 • EN 10297 • EN 10210 • API 5L • ASTM A106 • ASTM A179 • EN 10305-1/-4 • EN 10216-1/-2/-3/-5 • E 25 L/L1/M • E 97 • EN 10210 • ASTM A106 • ASTM A179 • ASTM A213 • AST 268 • ASTM A312 • ASTM A789

Val-Matic has announced that Andrew Brudniak has passed the exam for

the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification offered from the Project Management Institute (PMI). This is considered to be the leading certification for project managers in the industry. Mr Brudniak has been with Val-Matic for four years, and was recently promoted to project manager, having recently held the position of sales engineer for the northeast territory. Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corp – USA valves@valmatic.com www.valmatic.com

Contact: Tel: +44 203 735 7247 Emails: info@qualitube.co.uk 3.08 Q West Great West Road

Brentford TW8 0GP

Member of the ITA

www.qualitube.co.uk

Andrew Brudniak

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Integration of VOSS companies Following the takeover of Larga in 2016, VOSS Fluid is integrating the long-established Italian company: VOSS Fluid Larga has been renamed VOSS Fluid Srl. The German manufacturer of tube fittings has also merged its Italian subsidiary with VOSS Fluid Srl at the Osnago site, and invested in additional capacities there. The result is that VOSS has production facilities for hose fittings and ready- to-install hydraulic lines that add to its portfolio. In addition, a common inventory control system has been introduced for the combined site. Voss is using these measures to increasingly standardise its manufacturing processes in Italy and to position itself more strongly as a comprehensive system provider. The merger has created VOSS Fluid’s largest foreign location, with 120 employees. VOSS Fluid Srl produces millions of hose fittings. In addition to the sale of the individual components, ready-to-install hydraulic lines are produced and offered. As well as modern tube connection technology, the company supplies all components for the hose connection of mobile and stationary machines and systems. As a result, users can reduce the number of suppliers and obtain uniform product quality, especially with a view towards leak-proofing and corrosion resistance. The range of hose fittings is suitable for hydraulic hoses with a nominal diameter of 5 to 51mm, and includes connection systems for all common hose types. Through VOSS Fluid Srl, the company is also strengthening its position in the Italian market, which is currently experiencing a boom in the mechanical engineering sector. In 2017, Italy’s manufacturers of machine tools, robots and automation systems recorded double-digit growth rates on average. This was the fourth consecutive year of growth for this specialised Italian industry. The complete VOSS product range covers pre-assembled tube geometries, prefabricated hose lines, tube and flange couplings, hose fittings, and accessories for stationary and mobile hydraulics. VOSS Fluid GmbH – Germany www.voss-fluid.de

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VOSS merged its Italian subsidiary with VOSS Fluid Srl and invested in additional capacities

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Business & market news

Norma Group to acquire water management company in India

Customers include export companies, water supply boards, gas distribution companies in India and abroad, micro- irrigation companies, and building and construction businesses. The company also distributes plastic pipes and imported fittings, as well as electro-fusion welding machines and tools. It markets its products mainly to customers in India. Norma Group has been expanding into the water management business since 2012 by making select acquisitions in Malaysia, Australia and the USA. The company started operations in India in 2008 with a plant in Pune, approximately 200 km south of Nashik. Norma Group SE – Germany www.normagroup.com

drippers, valves, filters and electro- fusion parts such as tapping tees and saddles for gas and water pipes. Bernd Kleinhens, chairman of the management board of Norma Group, commented, “We are expanding our expertise in water management solutions in the fast-growing Indian market by adding Kimplas’s leading products to our portfolio. “Kimplas’s expertise will help us to drive, for instance, the usage of efficient irrigation solutions in markets that are particularly threatened by water shortage.” Kimplas’s certified products ensure safe and leak-free supply of drinking water and gas to rural and urban households, and provide filtered water for micro-irrigation systems.

To expand its market position in the water management business, Norma Group has signed an agreement to acquire Kimplas Piping Systems Ltd, an Indian manufacturer of joining technology made of thermoplastic materials. The parties agreed on Norma Group purchasing 100 per cent of the shares in Kimplas, and that they would maintain confidentiality with respect to the other transaction details. The transaction is expected to close by mid-2018. Kimplas is headquartered in Nashik in the West Indian state of Maharashtra, and has been developing and manufacturing injection-moulded parts, among other products, since 1996. Its product portfolio includes compression fittings, sprinklers,

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Business & market news

AgileTek underlines strategic growth with key appointments

talented young engineers who have already made a big impact on the company and hit the ground running. We need talented and enthusiastic individuals to help us fulfil our ambitions, and these appointments provide us with an excellent platform for continued growth in 2018. “Manuel’s promotion is also well earned, and his experience and skillset will be invaluable in helping us to identify and further develop opportunities in Asia. We are confident that this new position will help us work towards fulfilling our growth plans, as well as building on our global presence.” Mr Kim previously worked at a computer aided engineering software provider, while Mr Olson recently graduated from Imperial College London with a degree in aerospace engineering. AgileTek operates in the offshore wind, offshore oil and gas and wave power sectors, conducting studies and analysis of flexible pipes, subsea power cables, umbilicals, marine hoses, cable protection systems and SURF ancillaries. AgileTek – UK www.agiletek.co.uk

contract in China. In recognition of the growing subsea market in Asia, further business development in this region will be led by Manuel Pimentel, who has been promoted from senior engineering analyst to regional development manager (Asia). AgileTek managing director Steve Rossiter said, “We are delighted to have welcomed Soo-hyeong and Andrew to the AgileTek team. They are hugely

Subsea engineering analysis consultancy AgileTek has underlined rapid growth in 2017 with two new appointments and a key promotion. Soo-hyeong Kim has joined the company as a graduate engineering analyst, alongside Andrew Olson, who has taken on the role of business development engineer. The company is also building on recent successes in the Asian market, after securing a major cable and umbilicals

Soo-hyeong Kim (left) and Andrew Olson

Plastic Pipes XIX – new developments previewed

the best, most efficient hydraulic performance for a given project is well known.” Milacron is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, and supplies systems that range from extruders to new and rebuilt extrusion barrels and screws, pipe heads, dies and downstream equipment. Plastic Pipes XIX is being organised by the Plastic Pipes Conference Association (PPCA). Plastic Pipes XIX Conference and Exhibition – USA www.ppxix.com

companies committed to the success of the PPXIX conference. “TRI Environmental is a provider of pipe testing and research services for non- pressure to pressure pipe applications. Their endorsement of our international event is highly significant for the plastic pipe industry. From testing in accordance with AASHTO, ASTM International and ISO test procedures, to evaluation of pipe gaskets and associated service life determinations, their contribution to plastic pipe technology is considerable. Their support for manufacturing, design and user communities in verifying

The organisers of the Plastic Pipes XIX Conference and Exhibition have announced that TRI Environmental will sponsor this year’s event at the Silver level and that Milacron is sponsoring one of the coffee breaks. The PPXIX conference will take place at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, USA, from 24 to 26 September. Sarah Patterson, chair of the PPXIX organising committee, commented, “The conference welcomes TRI Environmental and Milacron as PPXIX sponsors. Their addition further complements the list of recognised

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PPI expands geothermal industry support The Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc (PPI) has created a new group within its Building and Construction Division, named the Geothermal Steering Committee, that will focus specifically on the geothermal industry. (GEO) and was a first-time sponsor for the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA) Conference, which was held in March.

industry efforts to update geothermal standards and codes, such as ANSI/ CSA/IGSHPA C448, IAPMO’s UMC and USHGC, and ICC’s IMC and IRC; working closely with IGSHPA, GEO and other related organisations; publishing documents about the use of plastic piping systems for geothermal applications; and serving as a technical resource for geothermal system designers, with regards to plastic piping technologies. The PPI Building and Construction Division, which focuses on pressure piping systems used within buildings and on building premises, represents plastic pipe manufacturers that produce various types of piping systems used in outdoor heat exchangers, or ground loops, such as HDPE, PEX, PE-RT and PP piping systems. The association also joined the Geothermal Exchange Organization

When announcing that PPI had joined GEO as an allied organisation, GEO chief operating officer Ryan Dougherty said, “PPI has a clear commitment to the future of the GHP industry, through continued development of innovative piping solutions for ground source heat pump systems. It has already supported our work in Washington, DC, and I look forward to continuing the collaboration.” Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc – USA

PPI is a North American trade association that represents all segments of the plastic pipe industry. The recent action to form the Geothermal Steering Committee follows a decision by the PPI board of directors that geothermal ground source activities will be the focus of the Building and Construction Division (BCD). PPI director of engineering Lance MacNevin stated, “PPI and our members promote the adoption of geothermal technologies to help reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling buildings, saving owners money. Other benefits of ground source systems are better reliability and building resiliency, with no exposed outdoor components. Also, water-to-water heat pumps are a perfect match for hydronic heating and cooling distribution systems, which are comfortable and efficient technologies for use in residential and high- performance commercial construction.” Tony Radoszewski, CAE, president of PPI, commented, “Since PPI was founded more than 65 years ago, it has always strived to be on the cutting edge of research, engineering and technology. We are very pleased to provide the same impartial support for the types of piping and materials used in geothermal and working with the organisations that set standards for the manufacturing practices and installation methods of geothermal systems. I know our members are very enthusiastic about this latest initiative. “It is also important to note that the timing of this decision by our board was fortunate because the US Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 reinstated the tax credit for fuel cells, small wind, and geothermal heat pumps. Signed into law in February 2018, it provides a 30 per cent federal tax credit for geothermal, which, in some states, also qualifies for a state rebate.” The new Geothermal Steering Com- mittee’s activities include supporting

www.plasticpipe.org Images courtesy of IGSHPA

Examples of horizontal and vertical loop geothermal installations

A geothermal system being installed

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Business & market news

ABB delivers virtual flow meters powered by Arundo Analytics

For more than 50 years ABB has leveraged extensive physical modelling and simulation experience to deliver analytical insights into the offshore oil and gas industry, including modelling flows of individual phases of various intermingled fluids in a single stream. Such flows are typically measured with expensive multiphase flow meters (MPFMs), which can be a significant amount of a facility’s capital expense. The cloud-to-cloud solution will provide connectivity between ABB Ability™ and Arundo’s Composer and Fabric software. This virtual flow meter provides analytics as a service to help facilities gain real- time data to understand the constituent properties of any given stream of produced fluids.

Arundo Analytics, a software company that enables advanced analytics in heavy industry, and ABB, a global supplier of control and automation technologies, have collaborated to create the first cloud-based virtual multiphase flow meters for the offshore oil and gas industry. This solution will be part of the fully integrated ABB Ability™ portfolio. “Our customers are demanding lower purchase, installation and ongoing support costs in their operations,” said Espen Storkaas, ABB group vice president for offshore oil and gas digital. “Using the scalable Arundo software to combine physical models with the latest in data science and machine learning, we are able to bring a number of innovative, cloud-based data-driven applications to the oil and gas industry.”

ABB and Arundo Analytics have collaborated on virtual multiphase flow meters

taking desktop-based analytical models into live, online environments in just minutes,” said Mogens Mathiesen, co- founder and commercial lead at Arundo. “This collaboration will give the industry more transparency into their operations while also supporting with the need to find cost-efficient, reliable solutions.” ABB Ltd – Switzerland www.abb.com Arundo Analytics – Norway

info@arundo.com www.arundo.com

“Arundo’s software is purpose-built for

Addition expands team Tube bending and end forming technology specialist Addition Manufacturing Technologies has appointed a number of new sales and marketing employees. The company currently employs 250 associates globally and has recently hired additional resources to increase sales coverage and marketing support for its European market. Shaun Eaves has joined the Preston, UK, branch as sales engineer. He is a toolmaker with City and Guilds and EITB qualifications in mechanical engineering, and has 27 years of experience working in the tube industry. He previously worked for Addition’s heritage brand company, AddisonMckee, as regional sales manager, and was keen to re-join Addition after working at Tekbend as UK sales manager and at Industrial and Tractor as tube bending manager. Justine Rigal has joined the branch in Colomiers, France, as a marketing apprentice. She is working towards a bachelor degree in marketing and will assist with promoting the brand and its products in Europe. Ms Rigal comes to Addition with experience as a communication assistant in several areas including charity and hospitality. She is looking forward to gaining valuable knowledge in the manufacturing sector. Addition Manufacturing Technologies is a global manufacturing technologies company specialising in machines and tooling for tube bending, end forming, measuring and silencer making. Addition Manufacturing Technologies – USA www.additionmt.com

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