TPi January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

January 2013

MOVING THE STEEL TRADE. We transport goods by ship, rail, truck or air and monitor the full transport chain at every stage: we check the receipt of goods, trace the shipments, supervise the loading and unloading of goods, and we choose our freight carriers carefully.

Visit us at www.salzgitter-mannesmann-international.com for information.

121115_Tube_Products_Int_1_13.indd 1

15.11.2012 16:50:39

Greatness can only be achieved when even the smallest parts are reliable.

The interior of a production plant is equally as impressive as the exterior. Here you can see in detail what the art of engineering can truly create. The pipe coupling NORMACONNECT ® GRIP for example, has a short assembly time and low installation dimension and weight; the result of years of development work. Because we at NORMA ® know that the success of the entirety depends on the quality of our connections.

NORMA CONNECT ® GRIP Reliability, which combines:

NORMA Germany GmbH P.O. Box 11 49 · D-63461 Maintal Edisonstraße 4 · D-63477 Maintal Tel.: +49 (61 81) 4 03-0 Fax: +49 (61 81) 4 03-2 10

info@normagroup.com NORMA Group

www.normagroup.com

Editorial Office: Editor

Mr Rory McBride Email: rory@intras.co.uk

Editorial Assistant

Mr Christian Bradley Email: christian@intras.co.uk

Design & Production

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

Publisher

Ms Caroline Sullens

Founder

Mr John C Hogg

Advertisement Material & Production: Ms Liz Hughes

Email: liz@intras.co.uk Email: andrea@intras.co.uk

Ms Andrea McIntosh

International Advertising Sales: Ms Tracey Callaghan Email: tracey@intras.co.uk • Tel: +44 1926 834688 Ms Hendrike Morriss – Verkauf & Marketing (Deutschland, Osterreich, Schweiz) Email: hendrike@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 Ms Jeroo Norman – Indian Sales (English, Hindi & Gujarati speaking) Email: jeroo@intras.co.uk • Tel: 000 800 001 6652

Subscriptions: www.read-tpi-com Subscriptions Manager Ms Liz Hughes

Email: liz@intras.co.uk Tel: +44 1926 334137

Accounts Manager

Mr Richard Babbedge Email: richard.b@intras.co.uk

Tube Products INTERNATIONAL is published by Intras Ltd, UK

Europe: 46 Holly Walk, Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV32 4HY, UK

Tel: +44 1926 334137 Fax: +44 1926 314755 Email: tpi@intras.co.uk Website: www.intras.co.uk Intras USA Danbury Corporate Center 107 Mill Plain Road Danbury, CT 06811, USA Tel: +1 203 794 0444 Email: doug@intras.co.uk

USA:

US copies only: Tube Products International (ISSN No: 1755-7216, USPS No: 024-676) is published bi-monthly by Intras Ltd and distributed in the USA by SPP, 17B S Middlesex Ave, Monroe NJ 08831. Periodicals postage paid at New Brunswick, NJ. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Tube Products INTERNATIONAL, 17B S Middlesex Ave, Monroe, NJ 08831 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.

INTRAS INTRAS LIMITED

© 2013 Intras Ltd, UK ISSN 1755-7216

Tube Products INTERNATIONAL Magazine 46 Holly Walk, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4HY, UK Tel: +44 1926 334137 • Fax: +44 1926 314755 • Email: tpi@intras.co.uk

www.tubeproductsinternational.com

Contents January 2013

8 Business & Market News 30 Products & Developments 50 Indometal 2013 52 Boru 2013

20-23 February

54 Titanium Tubes 58 Copper Tubes 61 Grooved mechanical pipe joining: the groove explained by Andy Carter, product engineer at Victaulic 63 Editorial Index 64 Advertisers Index

28-30 March

Whenyouhave finishedwith thismagazineplease recycle it

The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

events calendar

www.read-tpi.com

January 2013

The trademagazine for tube and pipe products

The January issue

MOVINGTHE STEELTRADE. We transportgoodsby ship, rail, truckor air andmonitor the full transport chain at every stage:we check the receiptofgoods, trace the shipments, supervise the loading andunloadingofgoods, andwe chooseour freight carriers carefully. Visitus at www.salzgitter-mannesmann-international.com for information.

2013

15.11.2012 16:50:39

121115_Tube_Products_Int_1_13.indd 1

7-10 January Tube Arabia International Exhibition www.mdna.com 20-23 February Indometal (Indonesia) International Exhibition www.indometal.net 28-30 March Boru 2013 (Turkey) International Exhibition www.borufuari.com 3-5 April Made in Steel (Italy) International Exhibition www.madeinsteel.it

Welcome to the latest issue of Tube Products International. This issue we take a look at two shows in areas of the globe that have managed to thrive and prosper in recent years despite the gloom that other areas have suffered. Boru 2013, which is one of the most exciting up and coming shows and will be held in Istanbul in Turkey and Indometal 2013, which is set in the lovely city of Jakarta. This is a brand new show for tube companies that is looking to help explore this rapidly developing area of South East Asia that is home to one of the most rapidly growing economies in the world. Last month I attended my first Tube India in the incredibly vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Mumbai. The show was a brilliant success and the quality of the exhibitors, the stand construction and the overall organisation were outstanding. Having spoken to a number of people who have been going to the show since its inception, it is staggering how far the show has come from those, I am sure they would not mind me saying, fairly humble beginnings – and all in a very short period of time. I am convinced that with the growth of the Indian economy over the next few years it will eventually be one of the most popular shows. We also have features on copper tubes and titanium tubes and a fascinating article on grooved mechanical pipe joining. The editorial deadline for the next issue is 21

25-28 June Tube Russia International Exhibition www.metallurgy-tube-russia.com 25-26 June Valve World Expo Americas International Exhibition www.valveworldexpoamericas.com

1-3 October TuboTech (Brazil) International Exhibition www.tubotech.online.com 16-23 October ‘K’ Plastic 2013 (Germany) International Exhibition www.k.online.com

12-14 November Stainless Steel World Expo (Netherlands) International Exhibition www.stainless-steel-world.net

January, particularly if you are interested in large diameter pipe, construction tubes and plastics and composites.

18-21 November Fabtech (Chicago, USA) International Exhibition www.fabtechexpo.com 19-22 November TOLexpo (France) International Exhibition www.tolexpo.com

Rory McBride Editor

6

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

See us at Boru 2013 Show

Istanbul, Turkey 28 th - 30 th March 2013

The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

Tube Products International

@TPI_magazine

Pick up your free copy from our stand 10A115

www.read-tpi.com 46 Holly Walk, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4HY, UK

INTerNATIONAL SALeS: Tel: +44 (0)1926 334137 - tpi@intras.co.uk

news business & market

Members of the PVMf at Sheffield Forgemasters’ Brightside Lane site

Forgemasters hosts pressure vessel forum Sheffield Forgemasters has showcased its years of experience in the large, complex petrochemical market to members of a national manufacturing forum. to visit and tour Sheffield Forgemasters. The scale of the equipment and projects undertaken is impressive and certainly gave the members a more detailed insight into the world of large-scale castings and forgings.” years and now enhanced by significant technology advances. Our major USP is the time-served reliability of our products which gives clients the confidence to work with us through the provision of proven technical manufacture.”

The Pressure Vessel Manufacturers’ forum (PVMf) took a tour around the company’s Brightside Lane facilities on its third visit to South Yorkshire, UK. As well as a visit to the forge and foundry facilities at Forgemasters, members were given an insight into the AMEC Group Limited’s involvement with the UK nuclear industry by Paul Smith, pressure vessel technical lead at AMEC. Steve Newall, managing director of CPE Pressure Vessels Ltd, who was the PVMf chairman for the day, said, “This was a fantastic opportunity for the PVMf

Forgemasters recently won a significant order to supply highly specialised forged pressure vessel components to a large global chemicals manufacturer, based in the US. The contract, valued at more than $3mn, will mean Forgemasters will produce forged parts for large-scale pressure vessels, designed to operate under highly stressed conditions in the manufacture of polyethylene. Sheffield Forgemasters International Ltd – UK sales@sfel.com www.sheffieldforgemasters.com

The forum, which is facilitated by Lloyd’s Register EMEA, solely represents pressure vessel manufacturers in the UK, bringing like-minded manufacturers together with the common goal to support and help each other in relation to issues such as legislation and regulatory matters. Forum member and Sheffield Forgemasters sales manager David Bunney said, “Pressure vessels manufacture is something of which Forgemasters has a long history, with large-scale units produced for many

8

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

business & market news

Technip awarded substantial UK North Sea contract

including the Skandi Arctic and the Wellservicer.

Welcoming Mr Farrell, managing director Alan Robinson said his experience is an excellent fit with Arc Energy’s existing business, and being able to fill a key position locally is a bonus. Arc Energy Resources recently made a major investment in two new rotating head welding machines, costing £500,000. This has increased productivity and extended the size and scope of work the company can handle, which now includes complicated component geometries for full or partial cladding, and fabrication of a wide range of component sizes weighing up to 15 tonnes. The company’s in-house designed cladding workstations feature state- of-the-art control systems developed to suit its customers’ specialised engineering requirements, and can clad bores up to 4m in diameter and areas of restricted access within bores as small as 20mm diameter. Arc Energy also offers in-house test weld, heat treatment, PMI and NDT facilities. installation of the mooring system to the production platform, and design and installation of a five-slot mid water arch. Technip’s operating centre in Aberdeen will execute the contract, which is scheduled to be completed in the second half of 2013. Genesis, Technip’s consultancy subsea and offshore engineering company, will complete the detailed design, and flexible flowlines will be manufactured at Technip’s flexible pipe plant in Le Trait, France. The company’s Evanton spoolbase, near Inverness, Scotland, will fabricate the linepipe, and DUCO, the group’s umbilical manufacturer in Newcastle, England, will provide the umbilicals. Vessels from the Technip fleet will be used for the offshore campaign,

Arc Energy Resources, a supplier of weld overlay cladding and high quality fabrications, has expanded its client support team with the appointment of Mark Farrell as a project manager. Mr Farrell, who has a degree in mechanical engineering, brings ten years’ project management experience in the offshore oil and gas industry, having worked for a manufacturer of pipeline components for subsea installations, and dealt with many of the major oil companies. He commented that he is looking forward to working with the Arc Energy project team and, as he lives 30 minutes from Arc Energy’s Gloucestershire factory, is particularly pleased that his experience is now helping to support a local business. He added that he was impressed with the emphasis Arc Energy places on company and staff development to ensure that its highly specialised welding techniques meet the requirements demanded by clients who manufacture a wide range of specialist oilfield equipment. Technip has been awarded by Ithaca Energy (UK) Ltd an engineering, procurement, installation and construction (EPIC) subsea contract for the Greater Stella Area (GSA) development, located 280km east- southeast of Aberdeen, Scotland, at a water depth of approximately 90m. Ithaca Energy is developing the GSA, centred on the Stella and Harrier fields, as a stand-alone development utilising its own floating production vessel. The contract covers detailed design and pipelay of a 33km 10" oil export and 63km 10" gas export pipeline to the production platform, and various subsea works to the Stella main drill centre and North drill centre, including installation of manifolds, tee structures, flexible pipelay and spoolpiece components,

Bill Morrice, managing director of Technip in the UK, commented, “Ithaca Energy (UK) is a new client for Technip and we are delighted to have been awarded this significant contract to help them develop the GSA. The UK North Sea is still an exciting place to be, with opportunities in all areas including inspection, repair and maintenance (IRM) and West of Shetland markets. This particular award is evidence of the high level of activity around traditional developments and we look forward to supporting Ithaca Energy (UK) to bring the GSA hub onstream.”

Technip – France www.technip.com

New project manager for Arc Energy Resources

Industry certifications include ISO 9001:2008 quality management, ISO 3834-2 fusion welding of metallic materials, and the internationally renowned ASME U and R Stamps, as well as ISO 14001:2004 environment management, Investors in People and OHSAS 18001:2007 Health & Safety management system.

Arc Energy Resources – UK sales@arcenergy.co.uk www.arcenergy.co.uk

Mark Farrell

9

www.read-tpi.com

January 2013 Tube Products International

business & market news

Rapid pipeline installation by helicopter-deployment

its first installation by helicopter in the community of San Jose de Maipo in Chile, South America. In July 2012 TOHL completed the fastest known pipeline installation ever recorded. A 1km pipeline was installed via helicopter in only 9 minutes, over mountainous terrain. Through TOHL’s techniques, pipelines can be installed cheaper and faster, which is crucial for people in developing countries.

action can be viewed at: http://youtu. be/_vkmSIEaqiQ

TOHL has developed a new pipeline installation method that not only enables poor communities to cost-effectively have access to a continuous water supply, but also has significant disaster relief uses and industrial uses. TOHL is able to quickly install pipelines by un-spooling large rolls of coiled tubing from helicopters. The helicopters are able to reach remote locations in order to mobilise communities with a continuous supply of water. Other applications include mining, agriculture and other sectors. A video of TOHL’s first installation in

TOHL’s methodology was first conceived of in the wake of the Haiti earthquakes, when Georgia Tech student Apoorva Sinha envisioned a fluid transport system that would cost- effectively and efficiently deliver fluids to victims of the earthquakes in Haiti. Apoorva thought of using helicopter- deployed supply lines to get water and supplies to the people who needed it directly after the earthquake disaster in Haiti. This dream was realised after the TOHL team was able to complete

TOHL – USA info@thetohl.com www.thetohl.com

Pipe information resource Plastic pipe manufacturer JM Eagle has launched a new website, www. truthaboutpipes.com, dedicated to educating engineers and municipal decision makers. of marketing and waterworks sales. “Decision makers will be able to read unbiased articles, essays, reports, and studies about the advantages of plastic pipe.”

joint restraints (eg Eagle Loc C900), Ultra Blue PVCO, Eagle Corr PE, and Eagle Green PE. With 20 manufacturing plants throughout North America, JM Eagle manufactures a wide array of high- grade, high-performance polyvinyl chloride and high-density polyethylene pipe across a variety of industries and applications, including utility, solvent weld, electrical conduit, natural gas, irrigation, potable water and sewage.

The website offers a wide range of information and tools to help municipalities make informed decisions, including key subjects like the cost of corrosion, pipe material break rates, and a cost comparison calculator – PVC vs ductile iron.

The website features articles on topics important for infrastructure, such as longevity and durability of material, ease of installation, financial costs and environmental impact. will highlight the many benefits of plastic pipe versus alternative materials,” said Neal Gordon, JM Eagle vice president “www.truthaboutpipes.com

JM Eagle – USA www.jmeagle.com

The website also highlights new technologies in plastic pipe: internal

SSP appoints authorised distributor US manufacturer SSP has appointed Detroit Flex Defense as authorised distributor for its extensive range of instrumentation tube fittings valves, tubing, and tools. SSP’s high performance stainless steel products are available from stock at Detroit Flex Defense. Also available with prompt delivery are products made from speciality materials such as Alloy 400 and Alloy C-276 as well as special non- standard configurations.

term partners serving the market, and Detroit Flex Defense is an example of the excellence customers expect from SSP distributors. We’re glad to have them join the SSP family of premier distributors.” Sectors served include defence, automotive emission testing, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, and chemical and power generation.

SSP features a worldwide network of specialised process measurement and control distributors offering high level of service and expertise for mission-critical installations.

“SSP was impressed with Detroit Flex Defense’s knowledge, commitment, professionalism and reputation with customers,” commented Jeff King, CEO of SSP. “SSP has high standards for our distributors, who we treat as long-

SSP – USA contact.ssp@mysspusa.com www.mysspusa.com

The appointment represents SSP’s strong commitment to Michigan.

10

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

Revolutionary laser rotation technology results in highly accurate measurement of dimensions down to 1/10th second cycle. STEELMASTER SMR systems from ZUMBACH: The solution for all lines including high speed with 2- and 3-roll block technology, also for short product lengths. Revolutionary Rotational Measurement A nEw ERA in HOT And COLd STEEL MEASUREMEnT

Finally the trouble-free answer to the industry demands for rolled steel. As quality requirements become ever stricter and raw material prices continue to rise, reducing waste is increasingly the key factor for economic viability. STEELMASTER SMR measures a • complete profile within 1/10 second. The system, with up to 3 synchronous rotating measuring heads can acquire up to 6000 measurements/second due to our innovative laser rotational measurement technology. Unique, fully contact-free transmission • of both energy and signals by means of induction and encapsulated W-LAN grants virtually zero maintenance and wear-free operation.

ZUMBACH’s highly evolved software • guarantees: – Continuous error detection – Immediate readjustment in case of shape deviations and rolling errors – Minimal waste STEELMASTER SMR - Most probably the best measurement solution currently available on the market for hot and cold rolled steel.

STEELMASTER SMR

Direct link to: Brochure (0.6 MB)

Video

ZUMBACH Electronics sales@zumbach.ch I www.zumbach.com

SwiSS Prime meaSuring Since 1957

business & market news

Steel pipe and tube manufacturer receives ‘best in show’ award

outstanding B2B marketing campaigns. Winners were judged across 37 categories by a panel of some of the top corporate marketers in the industry. JMC Steel Group includes the operating divisions of Atlas Tube, Picoma, Energex Tube and Wheatland Tube. It is an independent manufacturer of steel hollow structural sections (HSS) and steel pipe, and a producer of electrical conduit and elbows, couplings and nipples.

Group corporate advertisement won the Bronze Award for Single Print Ad.

JMC Steel Group, an independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer, earned three 2012 BMA Chicago Tower Awards, including the Business Marketing Association’s (BMA) highest accolade, Best in Show, for the company’s corporate video. The awards were presented at the 2012 BMA Chicago Tower Awards Bash in September 2012, at Studio Paris in Chicago. JMC and its integrated marketing firm, MarketSense, were honoured in three categories. In addition to winning Best in Show, the corporate video won the Gold Award for Motion Graphics, and a JMC Steel

“We are very honoured to win Best in Show from the BMA,” said Jelani Rucker, director of marketing and business development at JMC Steel Group. “The JMC Steel Group corporate video is something we’re very proud of, and we think it speaks directly to who JMC is, where we come from and what our position is in the industry, as a leading pipe and tubing solutions manufacturer.”

JMC Steel Group – USA info@jmcsteelgroup.com www.jmcsteelgroup.com

The BMA Chicago Tower Awards is an annual competition that honours

Elbows on tight delivery schedule

Interservice Trading has received an order from a valued European client to supply eight 22" true Sch 40 90LR SS 347H elbows. The delivery time required was very tight and the contract was subject to accepting a penalty-clause. A complex technical specification and inspection played a critical role. Since Interservice is specialised in this type of requirement, the company was able to help, and concluded its part of the project on time, as required.

Interservice Trading BV – The Netherlands info@istbv.com www.istbv.com

Tube Hollows relocates headquarters Tube Hollows International has relocated its headquarters from Fryeburg, Maine, to a new, expanded and ultra-modern facility in Windham, Maine. According to the company’s general manager, David Morse, the move to Windham was an investment into Tube Hollows International’s continued and future success. providing our clients with the specialised attention and access to information they require,” said Mr Morse.

Working with all commercial and medical alloys, Tube Hollows International can provide tube conditioning, (improvement of surface finishes and wall thickness variations), deep hole drilling, trepanning, honing, grinding and turning. Medical, industrial, aerospace, oil and gas, nuclear and automotive industries have benefitted by the precise attention to detail supplied by the company.

Tube Hollows International supplies precision seamless tube hollows used for reduction, as well as for tubular devices and components, with many uses in surgical and implant applications. The concentricity with uniform wall thickness tolerances separates Tube Hollows International from its competitors. Various industries’ demands for near perfect diametric and wall thickness tolerances are routinely satisfied by Tube Hollows International’s proprietary, precision gun drilling process.

“The move has not only enabled us to obtain a new, larger facility with additions to our equipment capacities and capabilities, but it has enabled us to add and implement a customer account management team whose focus will be customer service and communications,

Tube Hollows International – USA

info@tubehollows.com www.tubehollows.com

12

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

business & market news

Securing pipeline integrity The pipeline construction industry continues to make advances. In some regions this is for energy security (oil and gas) and in others water security is the critical issue. Steel pipes are coated internally and externally for long-term performance.

in this area. In Egypt, Petrojet has reviewed the different field joint coating systems. Shawcor has developed a comprehensive new pipe coating system with a chemically modified, factory-applied main pipe coating with enhanced compatibility with a field joint coating system, and Berry Plastics has a new mobile coating technology. In the more complex offshore situation there are additional factors, and CRTS – an Aegion Company – has developed specialised technology. Fast set PU is an alternative for field joint coating and a material has been developed by Madison Chemical Industries of Canada. This year’s list of speakers at AMI’s Pipeline Coating 2013 conference will bring the latest research from all parts of the world. Applied Market Information Ltd – UK info@amiplastics.com www.amiconferences.com

Physical conditions can be equally demanding, for example in deep subsea pipelines, which operate at extreme temperatures under high pressures. Intecsea has innovative high temperature coatings for the subsea environment. Polyurethane is the main material used for insulation and Bayer Material Science has an enhanced polymer for this application. A study of mechanical fracture performance of coatings has been carried out by leading pipe coater Salzgitter Mannesmann Forschung of Germany. Looking at the big picture, Charter Coating Services (2000) has reviewed the factors to be considered in external coating selection, while Exova has developed new procedures for testing coating integrity. Coatings are used to protect pipe contents too, and it is vital that pipes carrying potable drinking water do not affect it. BS Coatings – Axson Group has studied this. Essar Steel in India has provided pipes for new water lines using food grade liquid epoxy internally on 80" and 92" diameter pipes with external three layer PE coatings. Hempel supplies coatings that can increase gas flow by 15 per cent. In the United Arab Emirates, Jotun is a provider of internal coating materials for friction reduction with sweet gas and protection with sour fields. Not all coating can be carried out in the factory, and field joint coating is an on-going subject of debate, with special equipment and materials development

Applied Market Information (AMI) is organising the 5 th international conference on Pipeline Coating, 18-20 February 2013, in Vienna, Austria, to facilitate discussions between global pipeline protection professionals. The market situation will be outlined by AMI consultant Noru Tsalic, and some of the concerns of oilfield operators will be addressed by Petrobras and the Indian Oil Corporation. There are increasing challenges in pipeline operating conditions and this is driving research on coatings. High sulphur inside or outside the pipe is a highly corrosive environment and there has been worldwide research into pipeline design and coatings to combat the effects. For example, Engineers India has looked at protective coatings for transporting high sulphur fuel oil, and there is a new fluorine-modified epoxy material from Shanghai Hilong Shine New Material Company specifically for corrosive sulphur conditions. Internal plastic coatings have been used to protect injection and production flow lines in the US oil industry by NOV Tuboscope. In Russia, SCR ‘Poisk’ has developed a new coating material that has been tested with a major energy operator.

Dedicated supplier of seamless steel tube and products! • Mechanical • Precision tubes • Hydraulic

• Machining • Boiler tubes • Line Pipe

Indowater 2013 Indonesia’s largest international water and wastewater trade show – Indowater 2013 – will be held from 3 to 5 July 2013 at Jakarta Convention Center, in conjunction with Indorenergy and Indowaste. The event takes place every year, alternately in Jakarta and Surabaya. The trade show is organised by PT Napindo Media Ashatama, in association with Merebo Messe Marketing in charge of the Europe, American & Australia Pavilion. The last Indowater Jakarta in 2011 attracted 336 exhibitors from 24 countries, and 7,200 trade visitors.

• Centrifugally cast pipes • Heat Exchangers tubes

Contact: Tel: (+44) 207 510 9451 / 53 Emails: info@qualitube.co.uk

Davenport House 16 Pepper Street

London E14 9RP

Merebo Messe Marketin g – Germany contact@merebo.com www.indowater.merebo.com

Member of the ITA

www.qualitube.co.uk

13

www.read-tpi.com

January 2013 Tube Products International

business & market news

New owner for Fine Tubes Fine Tubes Ltd has changed ownership in a deal that the company believes will bring opportunities to strengthen its position to pursue new horizons.

that can scale its production and grow alongside its customers.”

resources to our company that will be key to the next phase of our growth,” said Ronen Day, managing director. Fine Tubes is being acquired, along with its sister company in the USA, by The Watermill Group, a strategy-driven private investment firm. “Watermill was attracted to the unique and highly technical competencies at these companies,” saidStevenEKarol, founder and managing partner at The Watermill Group. “Our vision is to capitalise on the complementary strategic, technical and market strengths at each company to develop a thriving industry leader Norsok M-650 edition 4, IPP Scomark manufactures butt weld fittings in accordance with one of the oil and gas industries’ most demanding standards. The transition from edition 3 to edition 4 required more stringent manufacturing knowledge, procedures and practices. In gaining this accreditation IPP Scomark strengthens its position in the market place as a world class manufacturing facility.” Michael Hudson, group director of operations, commented, “IPP Scomark will now begin an aggressive

“2012 will see record revenues at Fine Tubes, which is a reflection of the strong global demand for our specialised products,” said Brian Mercer, sales and marketing director. “Our change in ownership takes us into a new and exciting chapter, with the opportunity to realise some of the increasingly global prospects for our products.”

Over the past five to ten years Fine Tubes has re-invented its business and is now a leader in high specification, engineered tubing for challenging applications in the aerospace, nuclear, medical and oil and gas industries. This has led to strong growth and has provided high quality engineering manufacturing jobs in Plymouth, UK. Fine Tubes currently employs around 380 people. “Our new owners bring

Fine Tubes Ltd – UK sales@fine-tubes.co.uk www.finetubes.com IPP Scomark gains Norsok M-650 edition 4

move to increase manufacturing capacity, to include larger seamless and welded butt weld fittings and forged flange components.” IPP Group is a stockholder and manufacturer of Duplex, Super Duplex, 6Mo and nickel alloys, supplying pipe, tube, flanges, BW fittings and forged fittings to the oil, gas, petrochemical, nuclear and shipbuilding industries. International Piping Products – UK sales@ippgrp.com www.ippgrp.com

IPP Group has announced that IPP Scomark has successfully achieved Norsok M-650 edition 4 accreditation. This maintains the IPP Scomark presence on the prestigious Statoil Approved Vendor List. The Norsok standards are developed by the Norwegian Petroleum Industry to ensure safety, and add value and cost effectiveness for the petroleum industry developments andoperations. From IPP Group head office Andy Rigby, group Norsok manager, commented, “By working in line with

Luvata breaks ground on coil-coating plant Luvata, a leader in metal solution manufacturing, heat transfer technology and engineering and design services, has broken ground on its latest facility – a coatings plant in Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico. The plant will offer two proven protective coatings for HVACR equipment: ElectroFin ® E-coat and Luvata Insitu ® . ElectroFin E-Coat provides corrosion protection coating for coastal environments. area is also home to Lennox International, Carrier de Mexico and Whirlpool. “Our new location in Ramos Arizpe complements its sister facilities in Monterrey and Juarez in meeting the growing needs of our customers in Mexico,” said Luvata CEO John Peter Leesi. “Our ability to provide a wide range of product solutions within the HVACR industry will help to maintain Luvata’s position as the supplier of choice for our customers.” loading docks and one ground level drive-in door that can accommodate a full-size tractor and trailer. The plant is expected to be operational in the second quarter of 2013 and Luvata estimates 45 employees will be needed to operate the plant at full capacity. Luvata Ramos joins Luvata’s two other full service coil-coating centres in Louisville, Kentucky and Jacksonville, Texas in offering the factory-applied corrosion solution ElectroFin E-coat, as well as the spray applied coil corrosion protection Insitu.

The new facility, located 40 miles from an existing Luvata facility in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, is the company’s fifteenth facility in North America. Conveniently located between Monterrey and Saltillo off the Monterrey bypass highway #40, this

Construction of the new multi-million dollar facility includes 50,000ft 2 of manufacturing space and 7,000ft 2 of office space. The building will have four

Luvata – USA www.luvata.com

14

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

Drain Center delivers by Chapter 8 BAM Construction has used Drain Center to provide its polyethylene (PE) pipes and fittings for the construction of the new M25 Extra Motorway Services. In order to secure the project, Drain Center in Windsor, UK, specially converted one of its delivery vehicles to meet the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Chapter 8 vehicle requirements. The new services in Cobham have been constructed between junctions 9 and 10 of the M25 on the site previously known as New Barn Farm. Located on one of the busiest sections of the motorway network, the services occupy a 63-mile stretch of road between other facilities. BAM Construction secured the contract with Extra Motorway Service Group to build the 4,306m 2 site, which includes a 75-bedroom hotel with environmental lake areas, as well as food and retail outlets. BAM chose Drain Center as a utilities supply partner to provide a complete solution including PE pipe, electrofusion fittings, mechanical couplings, flange adapters, ducting, ancillaries and equipment hire. Drain Center was appointed not just because of its specialist knowledge and product availability, but following a competitive tender process that included being able to provide Chapter 8 deliveries to help meet the logistical challenges of the project. Matt Lightbody, key account manager for utilities and civils at Drain Center, explained, “Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual issued by the DfT requires that on high speed roads, such as motorways, all vehicles stopping on the highway for purposes of works must be equipped with high visibility rear markings and flashing beacons. “This meant that all vehicles working on and delivering to the site of the new M25 services had to adhere to these regulations. Drain Center in Windsor won the contract because we were willing and able to convert a delivery vehicle to Chapter 8 requirements specifically for this project. “As well as delivering the PE pipes and fittings from a single source, we were also able to provide a fully automated T900 butt fusion machine and electrofusion equipment through our hire division MCA. This enabled BAM to save time by fusing the PE pipework quickly and efficiently on-site.” With over 80 branches across the UK, Drain Center branches offer a comprehensive choice of PE pipes and fittings for the transportation and distribution of gas, potable and non- potable water in the utilities and industrial markets. Its range features a selection of sizes and performance specification options combined with a wide range of fittings, offering a total solution to the utilities industry.

Drain Center – UK www.draincenter.co.uk

15

www.read-tpi.com

January 2013 Tube Products International

business & market news

Norma starts new assembly system in Gerbershausen Engineered joining technology

“The upgrade of our production facility in Gerbershausen highlights the growing demand for our innovativeweight andcost saving joining solutions,” commented Werner Deggim, CEO of Norma Group. “We register demand for our engineered technology from industries across the globe, which also secures the future of our production in Germany.” the Gerbershausen plant manager, added, “The major order combined with the new assembly system substantially strengthens our local business. We welcome this opportunity to create additional jobs in the region.” The Gerbershausen production facility was founded in 1992 and stretches over 23,700m 2 in total. Each day, about 150 employees at the facility manufacture approximately 1.5 million joining elements, which are shipped around the world and applied in the automotive industry, the aviation and shipbuilding sector, and in infrastructure projects. Norma Group manufactures a wide range of innovative engineered joining technology solutions in three product categories (clamp, connect and fluid), and offers around 35,000 products and solutions to approximately 10,000 customers in 90 countries. Klaus-Hartmut Scherf,

more lightweight passenger cars, avoid leakage and reduce CO 2 emissions. The assembly system, which will produce about 70,000 joining elements for exhaust pipes per week, was put into operation by Christine Lieberknecht, prime minister of the state of Thuringia, in September.

firm Norma Group has put a new assembly system into operation in its Gerbershausen, Germany, facility. The system manufactures joining elements for exhaust pipes for an internationally operating automotive group. The new ‘Euro Coupler’ joint caters to the needs of the automotive industry to build

(from right) Christine Lieberknecht, Klaus-Hartmut Scherf and Jens Wahl

Norma Group AG – Germany www.normagroup.com

Integrated solutions for offshore project Vallourec, a leader in premium tubular solutions, has announced the provision of seamless linepipe including coating and welding services for the Greater Stella Project in the North Sea. The 96km of coated linepipe is due to be delivered to Technip, who has been awarded the EPC contract, in the first quarter of 2013. and ‘waxing’ Vallourec will provide the pipes with a three-layer polypropylene (3LPP) coating. also been contracted to perform the welding works at Technip’s Spoolbase in Evanton, UK. The scope of work includes welding of 62.6km of 10" gas export lines and 33.5km of 10" oil export lines.

Dominique Richardot, managing director of Vallourec’s Pipe Project and SURF activities, said, “As our largest contract to date with Technip, this project represents the continuation and development of our successful business relationship. Our clients expect highly efficient, innovative and safe performances for complex applications and our answer to their requirements is the provision of integrated solutions – premium pipes with a meaningful comprehensive service package.”

Vallourec’s involvement in several parts of this North Sea project illustrates the group’s position as a partner of choice for offshore projects and its ability to provide clients with premium and secure solutions throughout the supply chain, as well as with the local services needed to ensure the successful development of complex projects.

The Greater Stella Area, which is operated by Ithaca Energy, is located in the central North Sea Block 30/06a, approximately 238km south east of Peterhead and 17km from the UK-Norway median line. Vallourec’s linepipe will be installed in a water depth of approximately 85m. The premium pipes will be used for oil and gas export lines. To protect them from corrosion

Vallourec – France contact@vallourec.fr www.vallourec.com

Vallourec subsidiary Serimax, an international welding company, has

16

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

business & market news

TMK supplies pipes for North Caspian deposit

the plant as a manufacturer of seamless steel line pipes and welded steel pipes for deep-sea pipelines. One of the main advantages that secured the contract for TMK was its ability to supply the whole range of welded and seamless pipes. “TMK supplying pipes for Lukoil’s large- scale offshore North Caspian project is yet another proof that our products meet the highest standards of quality, safety and environmental security set out for deep water pipelines,” said Alexander Shiryaev, TMK CEO. “Close collaboration with major international service companies further evidences worldwide recognition of our products and the company’s solid position on the global oil and gas market.”

Saipem SpA engaged TMK in July 2012 to supply 58,000 tonnes of longitudinal welded pipes with three- layer polyethylene external coating for construction of a deep-sea gas pipeline. The first consignment of the pipes (2,100 tonnes) was shipped in September 2012. Another shipment of 10,000+ was scheduled for shipping in October 2012. Over the 1.5-year contract period, TMK will supply more than 70,000 tonnes of pipes for the project. Ballast concrete external coating will be applied to the shipped pipes before they are welded into the pipeline. The pipes were shipped after qualification testing at VPP for compliance with standards higher than the DNV deep water piping class. Following the testing, the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping qualified

TMK, a global manufacturer and supplier of steel pipes for the oil and gas industry, has started shipments of pipes to be used in construction of deep water pipelines at the Filanovsky oil and gas condensate deposit in the North Caspian Sea under development by Lukoil. The tenders for the pipeline construction were won by the Malaysian Bumi Armada Berhard and Italian Saipem SpA, and in June 2012 Bumi Armada Caspian contracted TMK to supply line pipes for the project. In August 2012, TMK’s Volzhsky Pipe Plant (VPP) shipped the first consignment of seamless line pipes with three-layer polyethylene external coating. Overall, by April 2013, TMK is to supply over 12,000 tonnes of line pipes to Bumi Armada Caspian for the project.

TMK – Russia tmk@tmk-group.com www.tmk-group.com

World-leadingmanufacturers of gridded tubesand thyratrons.

Do you need a replacement tube for your pipewelder?

e2v has been manufacturing and supplying customers with reliable industrial tubes for over 50 years. We provide an exceptional level of customer service and support, and our tubes deliver outstanding performance and a long service life. Many of the gridded tubes that we

manufacture are also direct equivalents for other manufacturers’ tubes, or can be used to replace them with our guidance.

Contact us for a quote today e2v.com/gridded

17

www.read-tpi.com

January 2013 Tube Products International

business & market news

Bushwick Metals acquires Tarco Steel Bushwick Metals LLC has announced the acquisition of Tarco Steel, Inc and Metal Fab LLC, a steel service centre and fabrication shop located in Binghamton, New York. The companies will now be known as Tarco Steel, a Division of Bushwick Metals LLC. companies serve the Binghamton area and employ about 35 people. “Expanding into Central New York will accelerate Bushwick Metals’ growth in this region through increased service and more robust inventory levels,” said Stewart Lichtman,

combination will allow both Bushwick and Tarco to better service customers, and we look forward to a prosperous future together.” Bushwick Metals is a distributor of carbon steel, high- strength-low alloy steel, stainless steel and speciality products. The company is an affiliate of Marmon/ Keystone LLC of Butler, Pennsylvania, a distributor of steel and aluminium tubular products. Both companies are Marmon Distribution Services/Berkshire Hathaway companies and members of The Marmon Group, an international association of approximately 150 business units that operate independently within diverse business sectors. Bushwick Metals LLC – USA sales@bushwickmetals.com www.bushwickmetals.thomaswebs.net

The Tarco Steel service centre was founded in 1970 and serves the energy, manufacturing, steel fabrication, construction and maintenance industries in Central New York and Northeast Pennsylvania. Main product offerings include carbon and stainless steel, steel long products, sheet, plate and fabricated and straight rebar. Tarco Steel and Metal Fab also provide a wide variety of value added services for their customers, including cutting, machining and light fabrication. Their facility includes 1,200ft 2 of office space, two warehouse buildings with a total of 47,000ft 2 and five overhead cranes, and 50,000ft 2 of outdoor storage. The

Bushwick Metals commercial vice president. Mr Lichtman will oversee the Tarco Steel operation, while former owner Janet Beal will serve as the branch manager. “This acquisition also allows us to offer additional value added services and rebar fabrication to our customers in other geographic regions,” commented Mr Lichtman. Plans include installing additional processing equipment to increase Tarco Steel’s capacity and service its growing industrial base.

Tarco Steel, Inc – USA sales@tarcosteel.com www.tarcosteel.com

“I am excited to be joining the Bushwick Metals family,” said Ms Beal. “Our

Barrett Offshore Tubes provides a dedicated and focused service to the offshore market for oil, gas and renewable energy sources.

BARRETT Offshore

Operating from our Scunthorpe service centre, Barrett Offshore utilises our on-site laser tube profiling machines and also stores and distributes hot formed and seamless material nationwide.

Products & Services

- Stocked grades now include G13+N, G15+N and API X52 in addition to S355J2H to cater for the needs of offshore fabricators. - Tube laser cutting machines - State of the art plasma cutting machines coming soon

For more information visit us at www.barrettoffshore.com T: +44 (0)1274 654280 F: +44 (0)1724 842600 E: sales@barrettoffshore.com

18

Tube Products International January 2013

www.read-tpi.com

business & market news

OCTG distributor doubles revenue Cressman Tubular Products Corporation (CTPC) is celebrating a huge year. New director of international sales and trading Alex Merle is helping the established tubular distributor double revenue to $110mn for 2012. CTPC has also hired a new CFO, retained an established sales agent in the UK to expand international sales, re-launched its corporate website, and embraced social media and blogging. Pipe Group and Kelly Pipe, his focus is supplying Central and South America, Western and Eastern Europe, the CIS, Africa and the Middle East.

has held numerous CFO roles at a number of private and publicly held entities, including Pavestone Company, Brunswick Corporation, Newell Rubbermaid and Kohler Company. In addition to Mr Kelley, Rav Patel was retained to manage international sales from the UK. Mr Patel, a former sales manager at Kelly Pipe International Ltd, started his career in oilfield tubular supply in 2007, and since then has developed a wide network of customers and suppliers. Founded in 1978, CTPC is a stocking distributor of OCTG (tubing and casing) for the oil, gas, geothermal and water drilling industries. The company also supplies and distributes linepipe, drillpipe, sucker rods, valves and fittings.

In their first year together, Mr Merle and Mr Cressman are working to increase international sales and improve international sourcing. Mr Merle has also focused on the website and social media in order to better serve end- users, as he explained in his first blog post: “With a new website comes a new opportunity to join the global conversation. We are not professional writers, but we do enjoy blogging. Each week, you will be hearing from one of the senior staff. Our blog is for sharing industry news, education, insight and a look behind the scenes at CTPC.” With international sales up and running and a modernised web presence, Mr Cressman and Mr Merle felt it was time to expand the team. Kevin Kelley

After 30 years of steady growth, CTPC founder Art Cressman decided to expand internationally, selling directly to end-users outside the USA, and so hired international steel pipe trader Alex Merle. Originally from northeast London, Mr Merle has ten years’ experience as an international commodity trader. Entering the oilfield tubular supply business in 2002, he has many international customers, sources, partners and associates. Formerly a director of subsidiaries of both Petroleum

Cressman Tubular Products Corporation – USA info@cressmantubular.com www.cressmantubular.com

Stellar attains EIL

Zhejiang Stellar Pipe Industry Co Ltd, a sub-company of Stellar Tube & Pipe Group Co Ltd, has attained approval from Engineers India Limited (EIL). EIL, which works under the administrative control of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP & NG), Government of India, was set up in 1965 to provide engineering and related technical services for petroleum refineries and other industrial projects. Zhejiang Stellar Pipe Industry started the EIL enlistment application in October 2010, and received the certificate from EIL in July 2011. Stellar Tube & Pipe Group Co Ltd – China www.stellarpipe.com

19

www.read-tpi.com

January 2013 Tube Products International