TPi July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

July 2019

1800 tons / 750pcs

1200tons / 800pcs / 8”- 48”

Tel : +886-2-2595-4212 ext. 725 / Andrew Liu e-mail : imt@kaigo.com.tw

website

Co-organizer

tubacex.com

Your partner in stainless steel premium tubular solutions.

SHAPING OUR PRODUCTS TO DEFINE YOUR SOLUTIONS At TUBACEX we take an inside perspective to define tailor-made solutions of high technological value, offering the widest portfolio of seamless stainless steel tubular products and a full range of services including design, manufacture and after-sale operations. This is possible thanks to our knowledge of the market, product and technological processes, our commitment to R&D and our management model based on continuous improvement . Our fully-integrated manufacturing model offers total flexibility to cover the most demanding requirements of the industry, assuring optimum quality and product performance in the most challenging environments.

Tubacex group, sharing your challenge

One Group of leading companies:

Editorial Office: Editor in chief

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

Ms Caroline Sullens

Mr John C Hogg

Advertisement Material & Production: Ms Liz Hughes Email: liz@intras.co.uk Ms Rebecca Coleman

Email: rebecca@intras.co.uk

International Advertising Sales: Mr Steve Martin – Sales & marketing

Email: steve@intras.co.uk • Tel: +44 1926 834688 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

Subscriptions: www.read-tpi.com Accounts Manager Ms Karen Low and Subscriptions Tube Products INTERNATIONAL is published by Intras Ltd, UK Europe: 46 Holly Walk, Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV32 4HY, UK

Email: karen@intras.co.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:

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: T ube Products INTERNATIONAL (ISSN No: 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 Asendia USA, 701 Ashland Ave, Folcroft PA. Periodicals postage paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Tube Products INTERNATIONAL, 701 Ashland Ave, Folcroft PA 19032.

© 2019 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

The Professional Publishers Association Member

Whenyouhave finishedwith thismagazineplease recycle it

www.read-tpi.com

Contents July 2019

6 Business & market news 24 Products & developments 40 Tube handling & logistics 49 Using HinderRust to prevent rust in the Trans Adriatic

Pipeline project By Fluoramics, Inc – USA 51 Editorial index 52 Advertisers index

The trade magazine for tube and pipe products

Events calendar

July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

The trademagazine for tube and pipe products

The July issue

1800 tons /750pcs

2019

1200tons /800pcs /8”-48”

16-21 September EMO Hanover 2019 (Hanover, Germany) International exhibition www.emo-hannover.de

Welcome to the latest Tube Products INTERNATIONAL magazine. This issue we have a feature on tube handling & logistics (page 40) and an extended article looking at dealing with rust in the Trans Adriatic Pipeline project from the experts at Fluoramics, Inc (page 49). We also have all the latest developments in the industry, as always. I have just returned from the Made in Steel 2019 trade show in Milan, Italy, and as usual, it offered a detailed insight into the latest developments in the steel industry. The main theme was sustainability and innovation, and a number of the speakers offered some interesting observations and predictions. The president and CEO of Made in Steel, Emanuele Morandi, said: “Steel is the sustainable material par excellence, recyclable and reusable almost indefinitely. It can be further improved and innovated, and it can lead innovation. Steel can be one of the tools to combat ecological damage provided that entrepreneurs do not view the market as a battlefield, but work together and share experiences, to develop the steels of the future.” I thought this was a very optimistic message following years of less welcome criticism of the impact of many of the industries we work with as a magazine. So the next step is an increase in innovation – an area apparently neglected by steel compared to other industries. Only about 0.7 per cent of turnover is invested in innovation compared to – for example – around 9 per cent for electronics and 3.2 per cent for automotive. So there is room for growth. The aim, added Mr Morandi, was to better balance the delicate relationship between man and machines. He said: “With innovation, steel can reduce consumption, emissions and noise, and make use of different inputs. In a nutshell: sustainability.” Next up we have the important September issue. It will have features on OCTG, gas & pipeline products, and tube inspection & testing technology, and it will be distributed at three of the biggest trade shows of the year – FABTECH in Chicago, TUBOTECH in São Paulo, Brazil, and Tube Southeast Asia 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand.

18-20 September Tube Southeast Asia (Bangkok, Thailand) International exhibition www.tube-southeastasia.com 1-3 October Tubotech (São Paulo, Brazil) International exhibition www.tubotech-online.com

11-14 November FABTECH

(Chicago, Illinois, USA) International exhibition www.fabtechexpo.com

4-7 December Iran Wire (Tehran, Iran)

International exhibition www.iranwire-expo.com

2020

13-16 January Steelfab (Dubai, UAE)

International exhibition www.steelfabme.com

10-13 March METAV

(Düsseldorf, Germany) International exhibition www.metav.com 30 March – 3 April Tube Düsseldorf 2020 (Düsseldorf, Germany) International exhibition www.tube.de

If you would like to submit editorial for the September issue the dead- line date is 3 July. The advertising deadline is 10 July.

I hope you enjoy the magazine.

Rory McBride Editor in Chief

4

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

FABTECH 2019 CHICAGO NOV 11-14 REGISTER TODAY FABTECHEXPO.COM

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION TO TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS

#FABTECH19

Business & market news

Complete tube mills destined for steel producer in Europe

SSAB Europe, a steel producer of strip, plate and tube products, has entrusted Fives, a global engineering

group, with the design, production and supply of two complete OTO tube mill lines. Aiming to improve efficiency,

SSAB Europe has been investing to modernise the tube production lines at its Hämeenlinna facility in Finland, to widen its product range and increase premium tubular output. Fives will design, manufacture, supply and commission two complete OTO tube mill lines for welded tubes ranging from 16 to 130mm in diameter. The mill lines will be designed to process high- grade yield carbon steel to produce tubes with 8mm maximum thickness for automotive applications. The scope of supply includes fully automatic entry lines, forming and sizing section with quick change, tools and cut-off units. Fives’ proposal featured technical solutions and production flexibility to meet customised advanced technol- ogy equipment requirements, as well as tight scheduling. The OTO tube mill lines will be designed and preassem- bled at Fives’ plant in Boretto, Italy, and delivered to Hämeenlinna in 2019-2020. Fives is a long-term partner of SSAB, and was recently contracted to modernise the continuous annealing line in SSAB’s Borlänge plant in Sweden. Fives – France www.fivesgroup.com

OTO tube mill

6

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

Schmolz + Bickenbach opens new location in Buenos Aires

available to the Argentinian market. The group’s portfolio appeals primarily to companies from the automotive, plastic, food and beverage, and oil and gas industries. An experienced team has already started working at the new sales and services centre location in Buenos Aires. The centre has cutting machines for processing customer-specific orders, and an initial inventory of tool steel products. Schmolz + Bickenbach Group – Switzerland www.schmolz-bickenbach.com

The Schmolz + Bickenbach international sales and services network is expanding its presence in the South American market by opening a new site in Argentina. Based in Buenos Aires, Schmolz + Bickenbach Argentina will drive forward the sales of special long steel products in the country. By taking this strategic step, the group is expanding its sales network to a fourth country in South America, with offices, warehouses and services centres already established in Brazil, Chile and Colombia. The full range of tool steel, stainless steel and engineering steel long

The Schmolz + Bickenbach Group is now represented in Argentina with a diverse range of special long steel products

products from the Schmolz + Bickenbach Group mills Ascometal, Deutsche Edelstahlwerke, Finkl Steel, Swiss Steel, Steeltec and Ugitech is now

Norma drainage channel wins Red Dot Award for product design

With headquarters in Maintal, Germany, Norma operates a global network of 30 production facilities as well as numerous sales and distribution sites across Europe, the Americas and Asia-Pacific. Norma Group SE – Germany www.normagroup.com

“The jury tested each of the more than 5,500 products entered individu- ally and reached a joint decision on the products that were to receive a dis- tinction,” said Professor Dr Peter Zec, initiator and CEO of Red Dot. “The fact that Norma Group has won an award bears testimony to the good design quality of its product.” The Red Dot Award is one of the largest and most renowned design competitions in the world. It is awarded annually by the Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen in the categories of product design, communication design and design concept. Norma Group manufactures a wide range of connecting solutions and water management technology, offering more than 40,000 products to customers in over 100 countries. Its joining products can be found in vehicles and trains, ships and air- craft, buildings and water manage- ment, as well as in applications for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry.

Engineered joining technology company Norma Group has received the Red Dot Award for Product Design for a product from its water management portfolio. The Quik-Turn Radius Coupling was recognised for its good design quality and high innovation potential. “Water management is a key growth market for us as a market leader in joining and fluid handling technology,” said Bernd Kleinhens, CEO of Norma Group. “We offer irrigation solutions that contribute to the efficient use of water, a scarce resource. Another focus is on reliable drainage solutions for a wide range of applications in the commercial and private sectors.” The Quik-Turn Radius Coupling enables six degrees of movement per section. This makes it particularly suitable for drainage along curved paths, athletic tracks, private swimming pools and spa areas. The coupling offers an alternative to traditional polymer concrete troughs, because concrete products can crack or break.

Norma Group’s Quik-Turn Radius Coupling won the 2019 Red Dot Product Design award

7

www.read-tpi.com

July 2019 TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL

Business & market news

Design and selection of check solutions from Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corp

system design. With this knowledge, engineers can better select check valves and understand some of the pitfalls common to valve selection. Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corp – USA valves@valmatic.com www.valmatic.com

Engineering parameters associated with check valve selection, such as flow characteristics, are discussed, along with headloss, reliability and costs. The combined characteristics of the pumps, check valves, air valves, control valves and surge equipment should be considered for successful pumping

Val-Matic’s redesigned white paper ‘Design and Selection of Check Valves’ aims to show which check valve is the best option. The white paper helps users understand basic valve principles and the functions of various types of check valves used in pumping systems.

Advanced seamless tube plant ordered Jiangsu ChangBao Precision Steel Tube Co, Ltd, based in Jiangsu Province, China, has awarded SMS group a contract to supply a new PQF ® (premium quality finishing) seamless tube plant and related automation. are used in oil and gas production (OCTG tubes) and must satisfy very high quality and tolerance requirements in accordance with API standards.

efficiency and flexibility of the mill. The order also includes the full automation of the machinery and plant sections, as well as laser technology for measuring the wall thicknesses downstream of the PQF and the stretch reducing mill (SRM). The CaliView ® measuring system developed by SMS group allows for fast in-line calibration of all rolling mills, ensuring the alignment of the mill line over a period of time. A networked, CNC-based groove dressing machine (KR) for high- precision machining of the SRM stands will also be supplied. The use of Lasus ® technology means the otherwise commonly applied radioactive isotope measuring technique can be replaced by a safe laser technology, which is environmentally friendly to operate and ensures monitor control with the PQF-SecControl-Technology as well as front and tail end sharpening in real time with the FTS system. Yield losses are minimised using the latest modules in the Cartaneo technology system. The functions CEC (crop end control, for reducing thick ends), WTCA (wall thickness control, average), and WTCL (wall thickness control, local) have been improved by self-learning algorithms (artificial intelligence, or AI). The new seamless tube plant is scheduled to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2020. SMS group GmbH – Germany communications@sms-group.com www.sms-group.com

With the BCO-type PQF plant (bilateral change-over), the stands are changed at both sides of the mill. The compact, easily accessible construction enhances the user-friendliness of the plant. The drive is simpler in design and is easier to service. In addition, the hydraulic capsules (hydraulic adjustment) are positively connected to themill frame. This ensures that the rolling forces are distributed symmetrically over the mill, resulting in a further improvement in wall thickness variations. This increases both the

Highlights of the scope of supply include various performance modules and a KR I 35/45 CNC groove dressing machine. The highly automated plant will enable ChangBao to meet growing demand for precise, high-strength tubes in its local market. The PQF ordered will be used to produce tubes within a diameter range of up to 6 5 / 8 " and wall thicknesses of between 4 and 20mm. Its annual capacity is 300,000 tons of tubes. The products

The ChangBao and SMS group project teams during the contract-signing ceremony

8

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

TechnipFMC awarded contract for Neptune Energy Duva and Gjøa P1 projects

struck by the devastation, and I am very proud of the solidarity demonstrated by our colleagues.” TechnipFMC has been present in Mozambique since 2014, and is committed to the country’s long- term sustainable development. In February, TechnipFMC and ENHL (National Hydrocarbon Company – Mozambique’s National Oil Company Logistic subsidiary) inaugurated the opening of new offices in Mozambique, in the heart of the capital city, Maputo. The new headquarters was set up further to the creation of a joint-venture agreement between TechnipFMC and ENHL. The ENHL-TechnipFMC Mozambique Lda Company is aimed at building the first engineering company in the oil and gas industry.

the full scope through an integrated EPCI. We are currently executing the Fenja iEPCI TM project with Neptune Energy and are honoured that Neptune Energy continues embracing our innovative and comprehensive solutions.” TechnipFMC has also announced a donation of $100,000 to assist disaster relief and recovery efforts following Cyclone Idai, which made landfall in Mozambique in March. The funds will be contributed to the Red Cross for ongoing rescue efforts and for shelter and basic commodities for the victims. Doug Pferdehirt, CEO of TechnipFMC, stated, “We are deeply affected by the terrible events and our priority is to support those impacted in Mozambique, and to join efforts with local authorities. This donation to the Red Cross reinforces our commitment to the communities in which we live and work. Our teams are supporting those

TechnipFMC has been awarded an integrated engineering, procurement, construction and installation (iEPCI TM ) contract from Neptune Energy for the Duva and Gjøa P1 projects, located in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea at a water depth of 375m. The contract covers the delivery and installation of subsea equipment including umbilicals, rigid flowlines and subsea production system. Arnaud Piéton, president subsea at TechnipFMC, commented, “These new iEPCI TM awards by Neptune Energy are the first call offs from our recently signed Subsea Alliance Agreement, which is based on early engagement and more collaboration and transparency between operator and contractor. These awards confirm our leadership position in complete subsea developments, through early engagement with iFEED TM (integrated FEED) studies and realising

TechnipFMC plc – UK www.technipfmc.com

®

Since 1972

Greaseless and machined to achieve the best tolerance

The Best Return on Investment

End forming? Ask how UNIFLEX can help!

Several software and hydraulic systems to fit your needs. Crimp by diameter, by pressure, or other means! Contact your local UNIFLEX sales representative for details.

HMC 1-30

HM 325

HM 665

UNIFLEX Production Crimpers – Ideal for crimping insulators, cables, steel ropes and reinforcing steel elements.

(Cooper-) Cable Rebar fasteners Heater

Aircon hose

Special dies for forming tubes with uniquely shaped ends.

www.

UNIFLEX-Hydraulik GmbH Robert-Bosch-Strasse 50-52 61184 Karben / Germany

tel: + 49 60 399 171 0 fax: + 49 60 399 171 181 email: sales@uniflex.de

AZ-A5-HMC 1-30 hm 325 HM665-March Tube Russia.indd 1

06.02.19 12:05

9

www.read-tpi.com

July 2019 TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL

Business & market news

BE Group becomes SSAB Laser certified partner to help improve competitive edge

cut components since the network of partners is given thorough training in both the product and its applications,” said Jouni Rättyä, senior cross product manager at SSAB Europe. The SSAB Laser distribution network consists of 22 dedicated partners in 13 countries in Europe. BE Group joins this network in Finland and the Baltics. Lasse Levola, business area manager Finland and Baltics at BE Group, commented, “SSAB Laser meets the requirements of today’s laser cutting technology and ensures precision production in line with the machine parameters. I believe that as both a user and distributor of the product, we can improve our customers’ competitive edge.” SSAB has production facilities in Sweden, Finland and the USA, but tech support is available locally all around the world, and staff can visit customers at short notice to resolve urgent problems or to initiate more long-term partnership projects. SSAB AB – Sweden

SSAB Laser has been specially devel- oped for laser cutting and cold forming, aiming to improve general productivity, output and end-product quality. SSAB Laser also has guaranteed flatness, both before and after laser cutting. “A growing number of customers can benefit from fast, problem-free cutting with shorter production time, less need for rework and greater precision in the

SSAB has appointed BE Group, which serves customers in the engineering and construction sectors, as an SSAB Laser ® Certified Partner. BE Group is a long-standing partner of SSAB in trading hot-rolled plate, strip and tubular products. Its membership of the SSAB Laser product sales network means customers in Finland and the Baltics can be more certain of steel availability and fast deliveries.

info@ssab.com www.ssab.com

BE Group is a long-standing partner of SSAB

Naylor Plastics joins BPF Pipes Group Membership is continuing to climb at the BPF Pipes Group, with Naylor Plastics joining the plastic pipe manufacturers’ association.

technical expertise between member companies and to promote the importance of plastic as a pipework material, for the full spectrum of above- and below-ground, pressure and non- pressure applications. It also plays a key role in initiating and distributing research, and informing and influencing the standards bodies relating to plastic pipe systems. It works closely with the BPF and TEPPFA, the European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association.

delighted to be joining this influential group within the industry; it works hard to encourage best practice in all areas of pipework. As a company we are expanding in both volume and product range and are looking forward to enhancing our growth and participating in future product standards for the benefit of the industry.” Part of the British Plastics Federation, the BPF Pipes Group is a trade association representing manufacturers and material suppliers of plastic piping systems across the UK. Committed to sustainable construction, its aims are to provide a forum for the exchange of

BPF Pipes Group members account for a UK workforce of around 6,300 and a joint annual turnover of almost £9bn. Together they install around 288,000 km of pipes every year: 198,000 km above ground (for example for plumbing and underfloor heating) and 90,000 km below ground (for water, wastewater and gas pipes). Naylor Plastics managing director Richard Edwards commented, “We are

BPF Pipes Group – UK www.bpfpipesgroup.com

10

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

Axel Johnson expands fluid handling solutions offering in Norway

Innva is headquartered in Bærum, a suburb of Oslo, Norway, with Hawle being one of its most prominent suppliers. Since its foundation in October 2014, Innva has achieved double-digit growth, largely due to its service level and technical expertise. “Being a part of the AxFlow Group will bring us greater stability and strength as well as considerable opportunities for future growth,” said Hans

AxFlow, the fluid handling solutions business group of Axel Johnson International, has acquired Innva AS, a technical distributor of valves and piping solutions for the water and wastewater segment in Norway. “The acquisition of Innva is in line with the AxFlow Group’s strategy of expanding our offering in valves and related technical expertise,” said Ole Weiner, CEO of AxFlow Holding. “We see great opportunities to develop a larger joint offering in the Norwegian water and wastewater segment.” AxFlow AS has been selling complete pump stations, instrumentation and valves for water and wastewater treatment in Norway for decades. The addition of Innva’s product assortment in valves and piping solutions will enable a stronger combined offering.

in five business groups: fluid handling solutions, industrial solutions, lifting solutions, power transmission solutions and transport solutions. Axel Johnson International – Sweden axinter@axinter.com www.axinter.com

Erik Maastad, CEO of Innva. “Adding AxFlow’s service capacity and strong position in the market will further strengthen our customer offering.” Axel Johnson International, a Swedish industrial group of more than 110 companies in 27 countries, is organised

T2 Alloys acquires rights for Tungum tube In February 2018, T2 Alloys Ltd acquired the rights to sell and distribute Tungum tube to the global market. In additional to Tungum tube, T2 Alloys currently offers services such as pressure testing, pigging, borescope inspection and other value-added services. T2 Alloys has secured the supply of Tungum tube for the global market while managing to decrease costs, resulting in lower prices to customers. The company also obtained ISO 9001:2015 certification in July 2018, and has maintained approvals from ASME, NORSOK, ABS, US Coast Guard, FPAL, BAM and IMCA for the Tungum tube product. Distributors around the world have increased in number and T2 Alloys now offers distribution of Tungum in the UK, USA, Singapore, Dubai, South Korea, Spain, Rotterdam, Russia, Sweden and Norway. The official list of distributors and supporting contact information is available on the company’s website. In the future, T2 Alloys will also offer other seamless tube alloys for the oil and gas, dive, defence, transportation, medical and nuclear industries.

T2 Alloys Ltd – UK sales@t2alloys.com www.t2alloys.com

11

www.read-tpi.com

July 2019 TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL

Business & market news

Ground-breaking ceremony marks start of £20mn investment in high-tech factory

Work has started on a new £20mn high-tech factory for Aflex Hose in Huddersfield, UK, with an official turf- cutting ceremony that took place in March. Once operational, the factory will help to boost the company’s production capacity by 70 per cent. Aflex Hose, which is part of the Wat- son-Marlow Fluid Technology Group (WMFTG), innovates, develops, manu- factures and assembles a wide and tech- nically advanced range of PTFE lined flexible hose products that are used globally by food and drink manufactur- ers and throughout the automotive and pharmaceutical industries. The ceremony took place at the build-site, which is located at the Bradley Business Park in Huddersfield. Attendees included representatives from Aflex Hose, its parent company Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group, Avison Young and GMI Construction Group. The factory is a key investment by WMFTG in the region. The company says that its new facility will catalyse local employment opportunities: it expects that up to 200 new jobs will be

Aflex Hose staff with representatives from GMI and Avison Young

offer to customers. This investment also demonstrates our commitment to cre- ating new and long-term employment opportunities in one of Britain’s most advanced technology businesses.” Aflex Hose plans to complete the new factory by the summer of 2020.

created as a result of the development over the next ten years. Commenting on the official start of construction of the new factory, David Cole, managing director of Aflex Hose Ltd, said, “We are very pleased to be underway with construction work. “The new Aflex Hose factory will ena- ble us to boost production capacity by 70 per cent as well as widen our

Aflex Hose Ltd – UK info.aflex@wmftg.com www.aflex-hose.com

Plastic Pipes conference accepting abstract submissions for presentation

plastic pipes, processing, test methods and performance of plastic pipes and fittings, sustainability and case studies. The full list of key subjects is posted on the conference web page. “In 2018, more than 400 delegates from 40 countries attended to review 93 technical papers, network at the global level and connect with the 33 exhibiting companies,” stated Ms Patterson. “The conferences are the forum to connect to the industry.” Plastic Pipes Conference Association – USA www.plasticpipesconference.com

“The main programme will comprise approximately 100 presentations relating to the design and development, testing, installation and operation of plastic pipes systems,” stated Sarah Patterson, technical director of the PPI and co-chair of PPXX/technical programme manager. “The papers will detail technical solutions or developments addressing engineering issues using plastic pipes systems or components. Also, papers identifying market trends for future growth of plastic pipes and components will be accepted for consideration.” Topic areas include market issues, plastics pipeline solutions, application areas for

The Plastic Pipes Conference Association (PPCA) has issued a call for papers to be presented at its next conference and exhibition, Plastic Pipes XX, which will be held at the Hotel Okura in Amsterdam from 21 to 23 September, 2020. Abstracts must be submitted, in English, by 22 October. Additional guidelines are posted at www.ppxx.eu and www.plasticpipesconference.com Held every two years, the event is hosted by PPCA members: PE 100+ Association, Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc (PPI) and the European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association (TEPPFA).

12

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

State senator tours infrastructure products plant at Advanced Drainage Systems

“Many local jurisdictions and state departments of transportation, however, have outdated specifications that do not allow plastic pipe. This, unfortunately, creates a monopoly, increasing the cost of a project. Updating specifications to allow approved product alternatives can save taxpayers money.” Another key topic discussed during the senator’s visit was reducing plastic waste. Each year, ADS uses nearly 400 million pounds of recycled plastics to make its products. “Our state’s recycling act just celebrated 30 years,” stated Senator Yaw. “We’re very proud of being one of the first states in the nation to enact legislation to help the environment. And it was gratifying to find out that ADS is turning that plastic scrap into advantageous products that are used to improve our infrastructure.” Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc – USA

piece of that pipe is very strong but also light enough to be easily moved and installed by the crew on a job site.” On the subject of fair and open competition for state- and federally funded projects, Senator Yaw said, “When open competition is allowed, material costs for public projects can drop dramatically and also provide the best possible product. Across the country, open competition could save $22.3bn for storm water in pipe material costs during the next ten years.” According to Tori Durliat, director of marketing for ADS, “The trend by departments of transportation through- out the nation is to improve drainage systems while controlling costs by using thermoplastic – HDPE and PP – pipe. “The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) national construction and main- tenance regulation allows the use of alternative types of pipe on federal-aid highway projects.

Pennsylvania state senator Gene Yaw has visited the Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc (ADS) manufacturing plant in Muncy, Pennsylvania, to gain first- hand experience of how large diameter thermoplastic pipe is made, and to discuss with ADS executives the fair and open competition for products used in federal and state projects. high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) pipe in diameters up to 60" for storm water drainage and sanitary sewer systems. Senator Yaw is the chair of the PA Senate Environmental Resources & Energy Committee and the vice chair of the Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee. “It was quite an experience to see pipe that is five feet in diameter being made,” commented Senator Yaw, “and to find out that even a standard 20-foot ADS manufactures

info@ads-pipe.com www.ads-pipe.com

Pennsylvania state senator Gene Yaw (left) watches a 20-foot length of 48" diameter ADS N-12 pipe being made

Bronx straightening equipment for China Fives has been awarded a contract by a Chinese client, based in Jiangsu Province, to supply Bronx straightening equipment for the ship-building industry. The Bronx 13-roll straightener is designed to process bulb and flat steel sections up to 220mm wide, which feature heavily in the construction of cruise ships and form part of a fully integrated sheet metal and profile- preservation line. The motorised machine is fully automatic. It utilises

the Compass system (Computer Aided Setting System) for automatic precision setting of all work rolls. Fives – France Website: www.fivesgroup.com

14

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

Raccortubi Group strengthens position in Russian market

Petrol Raccord is a manufacturer of specialised butt weld fittings for the oil and gas, power generation, fertiliser and petrochemical industries. Founded in 1969, it was acquired by Raccortubi at the end of 2014 in a move to extend and complete the group’s manufacturing range. In addition to producing hot-formed seamless and welded fittings up to 56", almost without wall thickness limitations, in stainless steel, duplex, super duplex, 6Mo, nickel alloys and titanium, it supplies alloy steel butt weld fittings for power plants. Tecninox is Raccortubi’s integrated manufacturing plant for the production of cold-formed butt weld fittings.

plants, power plants, shipyards, fertiliser plants and offshore platforms through its global distribution network. It provides pipes, tubes, butt weld fittings and flanges in austenitic stainless steel, duplex, super duplex, 6Mo, nickel alloys and titanium, from stocks at distribution points in Italy, Brazil, Dubai, Singapore and the UK. Stock is replenished by the internal manufacturing of butt weld fittings at the two Italian production mills, Tecninox and Petrol Raccord. Raccortubi SpA, based just outside Milan, Italy, represents the group headquarters. It has a large warehouse (for more than 6,000 items) for the direct distribution of piping materials in stainless steel and special alloys, and together with its integrated production mills and strategic supplier partnerships, Raccortubi handles complete projects worldwide.

Raccortubi and its production mills Petrol Raccord and Tecninox have obtained EAC certification (Eurasian Conformity) in compliance to CU TR (Custom Union Technical Regulations) 032/2013. The qualification is fundamental to trade with the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which includes Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. “The EAC certification will enable us to export and sell our products in those countries, proving their safety and quality,” said Faust Ceraulo, Raccortubi’s quality manager. “This will let us take new business opportunities in such a dynamic and fast-growing market.” Since 1949, Raccortubi Group has been manufacturing, stocking and supplying piping materials for critical applications such as chemical and petrochemical

Raccortubi SpA – Italy export@raccortubi.com www.raccortubigroup.com

15

www.read-tpi.com

July 2019 TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL

Business & market news

Resource-efficient spiral pipe production using SMS-designed mill

sources allow an increase in productivity of up to 20 per cent, while process stability remains constant. The systems operate with IGBT (insulated-gate bipolar transistor) power electronics with fully digital welding current control – no transformers are required. As a result, the welding machines can attain an efficiency rate of over 90 per cent. Compared to older welding techniques, energy savings are possible, depending on the operating point. The new plant will enable American SpiralWeld Pipe to expand its production by a high tonnage of spiral- welded steel pipes for the municipal water and wastewater transmission markets, industrial, hydroelectric and power markets, including large diameter fabrication for treatment plants and pump stations.

of up to 30 per cent compared to com- petitor plants. The new spiral pipe production facility is scheduled to start producing in 2020. Material grades up to X-70 will be processed. The pipes will mainly be produced as water pipes according to AWWA (American Water Works Association) standards. The new line will be designed to make pipes of more than 16m (55 ft) in length, with an outside diameter ranging from 610 to 3,658mm (24" to 144"). The maximum wall thickness will be 25.4mm (1").

American SpiralWeld Pipe Company LLC has awarded SMS group an order covering the supply of a new online spiral pipe mill, to be installed in a new greenfield plant (‘Plant 3’) in Paris, Texas, USA. SMS will be responsible for the engi- neering, supply and supervision of erec- tion and commissioning of a coil prepa- ration stand and a spiral pipe machine with submerged-arc welding (Perfect arc ® ). SMS group’s Perfect arc technol- ogy is claimed to enable energy savings

The mill will operate in the so-called one-step (‘online’) process, with submerged-arc welding from the inside and outside taking place directly after spiral pipe forming. The productivity of spiral pipe welding systems can be restrictedby thewelding speeds of submerged-arc welding. Perfect arc power

SMS group GmbH – Germany communication@sms-group.com www.sms-group.com American SpiralWeld Pipe

Company, LLC – USA www.american-usa.com NDC Technologies launches new website The teams from American SpiralWeld Pipe and SMS group after the contract signing

or via the site’s search engine. The information pages provide helpful details to guide users in selecting the right products for their process applications. An interactive contacts map for each NDC business enables local NDC sales representatives to be quickly identified. Throughout the website, pages display ‘featured content’ and ‘featured products’ to illustrate how NDC is helping manufacturers solve challenging measurement applications. Visitors will also be informed of the latest news on company products, accomplishments and events. NDC Technologies Inc – USA

The website welcomes visitors with vivid imagery and a clean modern design, and highlights content focused on the company’s non-contact measurement solutions for the food and bulk, tobacco, cable and tube, film extrusion and converting, and metals industries. The site contains video and a range of imagery to visually communicate NDC’s solutions across various industries and applications. Each page has a floating menu and quick access to the myNDC service and support cloud, requesting a quote, submitting website feedback, signing up for NDC news and accessing the company’s social media sites. Flexible menu navigation allows measurement information to be found based on categories such as industry solution, measurements and products,

NDC Technologies, a global provider of precision measurement and control solutions, has launched a newly redesigned website at www.ndc.com. Created with the user experience in mind, the new website provides a highly visual, intuitive interface and includes features to help visitors quickly and easily access information about NDC’s product and service offering. “We are thrilled to launch the new website and feel it will serve as a useful, informative portal for customers, partners, media and other stakeholders to better understand NDC and all we have to offer,” commented Jay Luis, global marketing communications manager at NDC Technologies. “We want our visitors to have an engaging user experience as we continue to amplify our brand and increase our market presence.”

info@ndc.com www.ndc.com

16

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

Pipe stockholder appoints managing director Special Piping Materials, a stockholder and supplier of pipes, fittings and flanges, has appointed Alex Forth as its new managing director in the UK, as well as regional director for Australia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. stabilising, I believe that Special Piping Materials is in an extremely strong position. We have spent the past few years consolidating our systems and ensuring that our processes are more streamlined than ever before, which allows us to better support our global client base. I am looking forward to taking the team to new heights.”

Mr Forth is an industry expert, having been with the group for 11 years, previously heading up the Singaporean and Australian divisions and being fundamental in establishing the office in Dubai. He will be based in Dukinfield, Cheshire, which is also the global headquarters for the company. Founded in 1989, Special Piping Materials has grown from a single office in Manchester to a global network of seven sales offices and warehouses across five continents. With Mr Forth steering the course, the company plans to continue on its growth trajectory by diversifying into different markets and leveraging its global network. Mr Forth will work to coordinate project work across the

Les Buckley said, “This is a very exciting time for the business as we look to new markets to drive our expansion plans and further strengthen our reputation. Alex has been an integral member of the team for many years now and his focus and expertise means that I’m confident in his ability to take the business forward by renewing relationships with current clients, while also forging new relationships in unexplored markets.” Special Piping Materials Ltd – UK sales@specialpipingmaterials.com www.specialpipingmaterials.com

Managing director Alex Forth

UK, Middle East, Southeast Asia and Australia, while reinforcing Special Piping Materials’ commitment to its clients and stakeholders. He joins the company’s senior management team, which is led by founder Les Buckley and group director Paul Buckley. In Singapore, Steve Chee has taken over as general manager, while Mark Davey continues to operate as sales director in Perth, Australia. Commenting on his appointment, Mr Forth said, “With the oil and gas market

17

www.read-tpi.com

July 2019 TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL

Business & market news

Heat exchanger flow optimising technology receives funding to reduce carbon emissions

Henry Mwai, project manager for Tube Tech International, said, “It is a privilege to be part of the Horizon 2020 project, particularly given the competitiveness of the programme’s funding allocation, where less than five per cent of applications were successful. “We are grateful for the opportunity and support to develop and showcase Flow Optimiser and the revolutionary impact it can make to the critical global challenge of reducing fouling at source.” According to Innovation Kitchen – Horizon 2020 SME Instrument impact report 2018 Edition , companies funded under the SME Instrument grow on average by 118 per cent in terms of turnover, and 158 per cent in terms of employment within 20 months of receiving Horizon 2020 funding. Mr Mwai added, “The coaching and support we will have from [the Executive Agency for SMEs] will be invaluable in bringing our innovation to the market. We will be seeking advice on commercialisation, business development and operations to maximise our performance and further expand our business network.” For 30 years, Tube Tech has been providing cleaning and inspection services for static heat transfer plants, providing savings to clients by reducing downtime, cutting CO 2 emissions, increasing throughput and improving safety standards. Tube Tech International Ltd – UK

resilience by the second half of the century, Tube Tech’s Flow Optimiser solution has been granted funding in recognition of the benefits it can bring to the oil, gas, power and chemical sectors. Flow Optimiser is said to be the world’s first method to combat the global issue of fouling at the source, creating optimal product fluid flow within STHEs to deliver a reduction in accumulation of fouling; reducing blockages disturbing the flow path; increasing production, and decreasing fouling rates and energy consumption; and creating longer asset life on a global scale. During the project, the Flow Optimiser technology will be tested and verified in multiple industrially relevant settings, to create real-world validation of the in-lab physical experiment results, which recorded an approximate average temperature improvement of 7°C and an inflow velocity improvement of approximately ten per cent.

A consortium led by fouling-removal specialist Tube Tech International has received Horizon 2020 SME Instrument funding to develop Flow Optimiser, which will deliver the first optimised flow technology within shell-and-tube heat exchangers (STHEs). STHEs are the most commonly used heat exchangers. Non-uniform flow of product fluid within the heat exchanger causes excessive accumulation of fouling, resulting in lost revenue in refinery operations and a negative, long-term impact on CO 2 emissions due to reduced production and increased energy consumption. The Horizon 2020 SME Instrument is a public programme that funds market- creating innovation in disruptive small businesses that have significant growth potential and global ambitions. The SME Instrument is part of Horizon 2020, the EU’s €80bn funding programme for research and innovation. As part of the programme’s goal to radically reduce carbon emissions and achieve climate

info@tubetech.com www.tubetech.com

Atomat celebrates 50 years of excellence Following the untimely demise, last April, of company founder Oreste De Sabbata, Atomat decided to postpone the celebration of the 50 th anniversary of its incorporation until December, with an open-day gathering for its employees, their families and a selected group of local authorities. The programme start- ed with a short tour of the industrial premises and a brief illustration of the

activities performed in each of the offic- es and workshops. Atomat SpA – Italy www.atomat.com

18

TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL July 2019

www.read-tpi.com

Business & market news

Global HDPE pipe market expected to reach $22.4bn by 2024

that have a direct impact on the dynamics of the HDPE pipe industry include the introduction of mechanical coupling in HDPE pipe, focusing on pipe strength and replacement of traditional material pipes with eco-friendly HDPE pipes. Lucintel, a global strategic consulting and market research firm, has analysed and forecast for the global HDPE pipe market by application, grade type, diameter, pressure rating and region, and has produced a comprehensive research report titled ‘Growth Opportunities in the Global HDPE Pipe Market 2019- 2024: Trends, Forecast, and Opportunity Analysis.’ The report provides data and analysis on trends, key drivers and directions. Lucintel – USA helpdesk@lucintel.com www.lucintel.com

According to a new market report published by Lucintel, the future of the global HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pipe market looks promising, with opportunities in potable water, wastewater, oil and gas, and irrigation sectors. The global HDPE pipe market is expected to reach an estimated $22.4bn by 2024, and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.8 per cent from 2019 to 2024. The major growth drivers for this market are growing residential and non-residential construction activities, replacement of ageing pipelines, and increasing awareness of the properties of HDPE pipes. On the basis of comprehensive research, Lucintel forecasts that PE100 pipes are expected to remain the largest segment and witness the highest growth over the

forecast period because of their high strength, chemical resistance, low cost, durability, minimal maintenance require- ments, and energy efficiency. APAC is expected to remain the largest market and to witness the highest growth rate over the forecast period due to increasing urbanisation, infrastructure development, and continuous growth of the residential construction and industrial sectors in this region. Emerging trends

Jingning Junwen Steel Co., Ltd

Stainless Steel Seamless Pipe / Tube Type:

Stainless Steel Cold Drawn Seamless Tubing in Coils & Pipe Coils (Made of Cold-Drawn Pipe Billet Instead of Plank-Welding) Type: Austenitic stainless steel seamless pipe Process Method: Cold Drawn / Cold Rolled Surface Finish: Bright Annealed Grade: TP304, TP304L, TP316 / 316L Dual Grade Standard: ASTM (ASME) SA / A312 / A213 / A269 and DIN, GB, JIS Size: OD 3 / 16 "-1" (4.76mm-25.4mm), WT 0.028"-0.083" (0.7mm-2.11mm) Tolerance: Outer Diameter: ±0.08mm (0.00315"), Wall Thickness: ±10% Length: 100ft-2,000ft, or according to customers’requests Certification: ISO9001:2000,GB/T19001-2000

Austenitic stainless steel seamless pipe

Process Method: Surface Finish:

Cold Drawn / Cold Rolled

Bright Annealed / Pickling / 180# 240# 320# 400# 600# Manual Polished / Mechanical Polished

Grade:

TP304, TP304L, TP316 / 316L Dual Grade.

Standard:

ASTM (ASME) SA / A312 / A213 / A269 and DIN, GB, JIS " (6mm-38mm), WT 0.028"-0.118" (0.7mm-3mm) Outer Diameter: ±0.08mm (0.00315"), Wall Thickness: ±10% OD 3 / 16 "-1 1 / 2

Size:

Tolerance: Certification:

ISO9001:2000, GB/T19001-2000

Our products are widely used in petrol, chemical, pharmacy, foodstuff, machinery, aerospace, military, hardware, boiler gas, hot-water heating parts, shipping, power and other industries, heat-exchangers and cold treatments for chemical industry, and gas transmission pipelines. We can offer stainless steel pipes according to our customers’ requirements.

No. 88 Shiniu Mountain, Jingning, She Autonomous County, Zhejiang, China Salesman: Sam | Mobile: +86 13305889498 | Tel: +86 578 5973358 | Email: jw@jw-steel.com

www.jw-steel.com

19

www.read-tpi.com

July 2019 TUBE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL