Oil And Gas News Africa, 10798/26 Quartar Crescent, Johannesburg (2025)

05/08/2025

Driving Petrochemical Performance with ABB’s Digital Innovations.

As global industries accelerate their journey towards digital transformation and sustainability, the petrochemical sector is no exception. Faced with evolving safety regulations, rising energy demands, and the need for greater operational efficiency, businesses within this critical industry must turn to innovative technologies that offer more than just performance—they must offer adaptability, intelligence, and resilience. ABB’s cutting-edge digital solutions, including UniGear Digital, the Relion® SSC600, and ABB Ability™ Zenon, are designed to meet these exact needs.

UniGear Digital: A New Standard in Switchgear

The UniGear Digital is ABB’s next-generation medium-voltage switchgear that blends proven hardware with digital intelligence. Built on a modular platform, UniGear Digital uses current and voltage sensors in place of conventional instrument transformers, reducing energy losses, improving measurement accuracy, and offering increased safety and flexibility.

For petrochemical environments, where operational continuity is vital and downtime is costly, UniGear Digital offers exceptional benefits. It allows for real-time condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, significantly reducing the risk of failure and enabling proactive intervention. Its compact footprint and flexible configuration also make it ideal for retrofits and expansions in space-constrained facilities. In hazardous areas, its ability to minimize arc flash risks through safer fault detection and isolation further strengthens plant safety protocols.

SSC600: Simplifying Protection and Control

The Relion® SSC600 is ABB’s revolutionary centralized protection and control device, designed to replace multiple traditional relays across switchgear panels with a single, intelligent unit. By consolidating protection functions into one platform, SSC600 simplifies system architecture, reduces wiring, and streamlines engineering and maintenance efforts.

For petrochemical operations—often characterized by vast electrical networks and complex protection schemes—SSC600 introduces a new level of operational efficiency. Through IEC 61850 digital communication, SSC600 offers seamless integration into existing substations, facilitating faster configuration changes, remote diagnostics, and reduced commissioning times. Most importantly, SSC600 is scalable and future-proof. As plant needs evolve, users can expand functionality through software updates without physically altering the switchgear infrastructure—translating into long-term savings and operational agility.

ABB Ability™ Zenon: Real-Time Data, Smarter Decisions

ABB Ability™ Zenon is a SCADA and automation software platform that enables industrial operators to monitor, control, and optimize their operations in real time. Its strength lies in transforming raw operational data into actionable insights, displayed through intuitive dashboards and accessible across multiple devices.

In petrochemical facilities, which require precise control over thousands of variables—temperatures, flows, voltages, pressures—Zenon becomes a game-changer. The platform allows operators to detect anomalies before they escalate, automate responses to critical events, and implement energy optimization strategies. Additionally, Zenon’s advanced alarm management and cybersecurity features ensure both reliability and regulatory compliance, critical concerns in such high-risk environments.

Together, the UniGear Digital, SSC600, and ABB Ability™ Zenon offer a unified, future-ready solution tailored to the petrochemical sector’s unique demands. By enabling smarter operations, enhancing safety protocols, and lowering total cost of ownership, ABB empowers petrochemical producers to maintain their competitive edge in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

ABB’s commitment to innovation, combined with its expertise in electrification and automation, positions it as a trusted partner for digital transformation in petrochemicals. Whether you’re modernizing a legacy plant or designing a new facility from the ground up, their digital technologies provide the reliability, flexibility, and intelligence needed to power your next leap forward.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/08/05/driving-petrochemical-performance-with-abbs-digital-innovations

04/08/2025

When the Heat Was On: How Our Team Pulled Off the Impossible.

It started as just another Monday when the phone rang at Pre-Eminence Trading and Projects. Except this wasn’t just any call, it was a frantic contractor whose voice alone could make your heart race. They had a big audit coming up in two days, and their tanks and pipes looked like they hadn’t seen a cleaning crew since… well, ever. They needed our combination jetting and vacuum truck yesterday, and the scope sounded tight but manageable. Until I checked our schedule.

Our one and only combination jetting and vacuum truck, our pride and joy was booked out for its scheduled service. Timing couldn’t have been worse. For a second, even I thought: “How are we going to pull this off?” But then I remembered this is exactly the kind of moment we prepare for.

Because we believe in always being ready, we’ve built great relationships with OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers). When others would have said, “Sorry, can’t help,” I picked up the phone and called one of our trusted OEM contacts. Within hours, they came through with a replacement truck. The relief was almost enough to make me do a little happy dance in the office.

With the truck sorted, we thought we had things under control. That was, of course, before the client called back to say: “Oh, by the way, the jetting and vacuum isn’t enough, our auditor is very particular. Everything needs to shine.” Suddenly, the scope doubled. What was supposed to be a five-day job now had to be completed in two.

So, we brought out the big guns, our 1000-bar high-pressure jetting machine and unleashed our team like the superheroes they are. You could almost hear the Mission Impossible music playing as everyone sprang into action.

It was all hands on deck. The team worked day and night, taking turns without complaint. There was mud, sludge, and more than a few moments when it felt like the job would swallow us whole but our people kept at it. At one point, one of our operators even said, “It feels like we’re trying to clean the ocean with a toothbrush,” but he said it with a grin and kept going.

What stood out most wasn’t just the speed at which they worked, but the pride they took in making sure every inch was spotless. They weren’t just cleaning; they were proving something to themselves, to me, and to the client.

By the end of the second day, the tanks gleamed, the pipelines were clear, and the client stood there, looking at the finished job with their jaw on the floor. “I don’t know how you did it,” they said. We just smiled and replied, “It’s what we do.”

What could have been a disaster turned into one of our proudest moments. Not just because we saved the day for the client — which we did — but because it showed what we’re made of. We don’t just show up. We show up prepared, creative, and determined to get the job done, no matter the odds.

For us at Pre-Eminence Trading and Projects, it’s never just about machines and pipes. It’s about people, the kind of people who go above and beyond, even when it seems impossible. People who turn what looks like chaos into a success story.

And yes, we celebrated afterwards, with tired smiles, a few jokes about mud in places mud shouldn’t be, and maybe a little too much pizza. But moments like these remind us why we do what we do.

So, to any contractor, client, or fellow entrepreneur reading this: never underestimate the power of preparation, good relationships, and a team that refuses to quit.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/08/04/when-the-heat-was-on-how-our-team-pulled-off-the-impossible

04/08/2025

Delivering Trusted Environmental Solutions in the Petrochemical Sector.
Across industries, challenges are mounting—from economic uncertainty to evolving environmental regulations and pressure to decarbonise. Nowhere is this more evident than in the petrochemical sector, which faces tightening margins, rising operating costs and growing environmental scrutiny. At EnviroServ, we understand that navigating these challenges requires more than just technical competence—it demands a trusted partner who places the customer’s needs at the centre of every solution.

Customer centricity is not a buzzword for us. It’s a business mindset rooted in our decades of experience operating across South Africa and the African continent. We’ve learned that every client, every facility, and every operation comes with unique needs and pressures. As such, our approach is designed to be highly responsive and personal. We embed ourselves within our clients’ operations, stationing dedicated teams on-site or nearby to ensure quick, expert support—particularly in emergencies where time and precision are critical.

The South African petrochemical industry, like many globally, is confronting a combination of structural and environmental challenges. Feedstock costs are rising, energy inputs are volatile, and stakeholders—government, shareholders, and communities—are demanding accountability on sustainability and safety. There is no margin for error, and definitely no time for a learning curve when it comes to high-stakes operations including spill response, shutdowns, and tank cleaning.

enviroserv
That’s where EnviroServ’s legacy of reliability comes in. Our specialised HazTech team—has the training, certifications, and experience to handle complex environmental services safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with legislation. From chemical spill response to specialised waste containment products, our people are equipped with industry-leading products and protocols to prevent environmental harm and protect client operations.

One of our most critical service areas in the petrochemical sector is tank cleaning, particularly during plant shutdowns. These projects are inherently complex and high-risk, involving confined space entry, work at heights, and strict safety procedures. However, when managed properly, tank cleaning offers significant operational and commercial value. It extends asset life, improves safety, and—where feasible—can even generate returns by recovering usable sludge and by-products.

We approach tank cleaning not as a simple task, but as a turnkey environmental solution. Our scope of work includes:

Desludging: Removing built-up sludge and sediment from the tank floor.

Flushing: Using fluids to remove loose materials from internal surfaces.

High-Pressure Cleaning: Employing water jets to eliminate stubborn residues.

Chemical Cleaning: Where applicable, utilising approved solvents to dissolve contaminants.

Waste Disposal: Handling, transporting, and disposing of waste at our green landfill site and in accordance with strict legal and environmental requirements.

What sets EnviroServ apart is not just our process—it’s our proven track record and capacity to deliver at scale. We’ve conducted extensive shutdown support services for some of the continent’s leading petrochemical producers. Our clients trust us because we do more than meet compliance—we proactively help them optimise operations, avoid costly mistakes, and reduce downtime.

In a climate where reputation, compliance and operational uptime are tightly intertwined, companies can’t afford to take chances. That’s why we don’t just manage waste and “clean tanks”; we deliver peace of mind. Our teams are trained to perform under pressure, anticipate risks, and align our work with our clients’ strategic goals.

At EnviroServ, we believe that doing right by the customer and the environment go hand in hand. We are not just a service provider—we are a strategic partner with the expertise, insight, and footprint to support petrochemical operations safely, sustainably, and profitably.

In short, we enable our customers to focus on their core business, while we focus on what we do best—solving environmental challenges, safely and efficiently.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/08/04/delivering-trusted-environmental-solutions-in-the-petrochemical-sector

14/07/2025

Byrne showcases extensive range at open day.

Byrne Equipment Rental gave visitors a view of its extensive range of equipment at a long awaited in-person Product Open Day in their Abu Dhabi facilities in the UAE.
The equipment showcased included diesel and hybrid generators, cargo containers, temporary buildings, hoist and access and more.
Steve Caygill, Regional General Manager UAE and Oman and Group Head – Specialist Divisions, said: “It has been fantastic to finally host an on-site, in-person event in our yard after almost two years of restrictions due to the pandemic.
He said the showcase demonstrated Byrne’s full product offering and helped inform clients on a more personal level of new products coupled with its existing offering.
“This has also been a great opportunity to showcase the capabilities of our equipment, for example our temporary buildings,” he said.
Byrnes’ team prepared a variety of internal configurations and different set-ups to showcase the diversity of the units. On display were medical facilities, VIP and junior sleeper accommodation, kitchen and catering facilities, mess hall and office set ups.
The out-door display of equipment was designed as a walk through, enabling clients to walk freely around the site and view the items up close and personal.
Furthermore, clients also had a chance to try out some of the equipment as the team were able to demonstrate the efficiency of some of the machines, namely the hoists and mast climber, showcasing the ease of access for servicing and the benefits of the units.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/06/11/byrne-showcases-extensive-range-at-open-day/

16/06/2025

CNOOC starts oil production at South China Sea field.

China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) has commenced production at the Weizhou 5-3 oilfield development project in the Beibu Gulf Basin of the South China Sea.

With an average water depth of around 35m, the project is expected to reach peak production of approximately 10,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) by 2026.

The Weizhou 5-3 Oilfield utilises one self-installing wellhead platform and uses nearby existing facilities for its development.

The production plan includes the commissioning of ten development wells, consisting of seven production wells, two water injection wells and one gas injection well.

CNOOC owns a 51% interest in the Weizhou 5-3 oilfield, while Smart Oil Investment holds the remaining 49% stake.

CNOOC is reputed to be the largest producer of offshore crude oil and natural gas in China and one of the largest independent oil and gas exploration and production companies globally.

The company focuses mainly on the exploration, development, production and sale of crude oil and natural gas.

In China, CNOOC carries out oil and gas exploration and development primarily via independent operations and cooperation projects.

The company has been increasing its reserves and production mainly through independent exploration and exploitation.

As of the end of 2024, around 88.7% of net proved reserves and 85.1% of net production in China were from the company’s self-operated oil and gas fields.

In April, CNOOC commenced production at the Wenchang 9-7 Oilfield Development Project in the western Pearl River Mouth Basin.

Furthermore, in March, production began at two additional projects: the Caofeidian 6-4 Oilfield Comprehensive Adjustment project and the Wenchang 19-1 oilfield phase two project.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/06/11/cnooc-starts-oil-production-at-south-china-sea-field/

16/06/2025

Eni and YPF to take part in Argentina LNG project.

talian energy company Eni and Argentina’s state-run oil company YPF have finalised an agreement to collaborate on a liquefied natural gas (LNG) project being developed in the South American nation.

The deal follows a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in April 2025 and represents a further strategic step towards the maturation of the $50bn (59.25trn pesos) LNG project.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Argentine President Javier Milei and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, outlining the steps towards a final investment decision (FID) for the phase of the project that includes gas production, treatment, transportation and liquefaction through floating units.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/06/11/eni-and-ypf-to-take-part-in-argentina-lng-project/

11/06/2025

WearCheck earns DGA (Dissolved Gas Analysis) accreditation.

earCheck, the specialist condition monitoring company, is now accredited to perform DGA, or Dissolved Gas Analysis, for transformers, following a recent assessment by SANAS (South African National Accreditation System).

The company’s Johannesburg transformer oil testing laboratory now has ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for testing DGA, moisture, acidity, dielectric strength, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls).

Gert Nel, WearCheck’s transformer division manager, outlines the importance of DGA in transformer maintenance: ‘Dissolved Gas Analysis is used mostly for fault detection in transformers, and it is critically important that the analysis is accurate. By analysing the gases dissolved in the transformer’s oil, we gain important clues about the health of the transformer.

‘WearCheck is pioneering the way in transformer maintenance in Southern Africa, and this SANAS accreditation is a powerful attribute for our laboratories.’

Transformers help to transfer electricity over long distances, often playing key roles in the infrastructure of a region and ensuring power supply to cities, industrial plants and other critical users. Therefore, early detection of faults and potential failures is very important.

DGA saves transformer operators money on avoidable repairs, time, and helps avoid greater problems such as interrupted power supply. It also helps prolong the life of the transformer.

Nel explains the process, ‘Small amounts of gases are formed in the oil when a transformer is in operation. Using DGA, hidden problems inside the transformer are revealed by detecting the gases in the oil.

‘Some of the common transformer problems and the associated gases include oil overheating (ethane and ethylene), insulation paper overheating (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and acetic acid gases), air ingress (oxygen and nitrogen), and partial discharge (hydrogen gas and carbon monoxide gases), sparking and arcing type of faults (methane and acetylene).

‘The early detection of potential transformer faults enables remedial action to be implemented, and major failures averted.

Case study

Nel discusses a WearCheck client that only requested for M/A/D (moisture / dielectric / acidity) results over the years, and when the very first DGA was done, it showed a critical error.

‘The DGA indicated an actual internal electrical problem, however the client wasn’t convinced and even did two oil changes in 24 months, hoping this would solve the problem. Changing the oil did not fix the problem, however. All this did was to remove evidence of the problem. The actual electrical fault was still present in the transformer, and a and a new trend was then required after the oil was changed.

‘In this case, the DGA was indicative of an actual fault, and the oil changes did not fix the fault. This is very important, as a lot of clients only test for M/D (moisture / dielectric), and not the full DGA analysis. Eventually, the client made the decision to include all tests in their ongoing maintenance plan, and took the recommended remedial action to fix the electrical fault.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/06/11/wearcheck-earns-dga-dissolved-gas-analysis-accreditation/

11/06/2025

Engen brings the Blue Mile vibe – and FREE fuel for a year – to Comrades Marathon 2025.

When 22 000 runners thunder towards Durban’s brand-new street finish outside People’s Park at this year’s Comrades Marathon, Engen will be there to cheer them to the finish line.

From the Engen CB Downs Convenience Centre at the start of the race and the Engen Blue Mile Fan Stop @ Engen 45th Convenience Centre at 1134 Jan Smuts Highway, Sherwood – just 9 km from the finish line – South Africa’s favourite fuel brand is transforming these forecourts into high-energy Fan Stops packed with music, giveaways, and front-row views of the world’s greatest ultramarathon.

Visit the crème de la crème: Blue Mile Fan Stop @ Engen 45th Convenience Centre

Location: Just 9 km from glory on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue – perfectly positioned on the iconic Blue Mile stretch.
Experience: Live DJ sets, roaming MC, hype crew, and a “photo moment” wall so fans can capture their Comrades memories in VIP
FREE FUEL FOR A YEAR – One lucky supporter will win R35 000 in Engen 1app fuel vouchers.
R40 000 more in instant prizes – Simply spend R50 or more in the Quickshop at Engen 45th on race day and keep your slip to enter.
In-store specials: Limited-time food and drink deals to keep spectators energised while runners power past.
Engen’s Blue Mile Fan Stop offers supporters the best seat in the house, turning a forecourts into celebration hub. It’s Engen’s way of saying thank you to South Africa’s road warriors and their fans.

Engen Fan Stops all along the 89.98 km Down Run

With the 2025 route slightly extended to accommodate the new finish, Engen is well positioned along the route to runners encouragement and spectators access to safe, convenient viewing zones, complete with parking, clean ablutions, and quick-serve eats.

A celebration of heart, distance, and determination

The 2025 Down Run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban will test heart as much as distance. Along the way, Engen will give runners a much-needed boost of energy and encouragement – a reminder that Engen stands with every participant, from first-timers to seasoned athletes chasing their personal best.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/06/11/engen-brings-the-blue-mile-vibe-and-free-fuel-for-a-year-to-comrades-marathon-2025/

11/06/2025

TotalEnergies looks to sell 50% stake in renewables assets in U.S., Spain

06/06/2025

Prior Power Solutions secures £1mn nitrogen pump contract in the Americas.

The UK’s Prior Power Solutions has won a £1 million contract in the Americas to deploy its nitrogen pump technology across multiple oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.

Left to right: 180k Zone 2 nitrogen pump, 180k Zone 2 compact nitrogen pump, and 90k Zone 2 CE-marked nitrogen pump. All pumps manufactured by Prior Power Solutions.
Left to right: 180k Zone 2 nitrogen pump, 180k Zone 2 compact nitrogen pump, and 90k Zone 2 CE-marked nitrogen pump. All pumps manufactured by Prior Power Solutions.

This is Prior Power Solutions’ first export contract for its newly launched nitrogen 90k pump rental product.

“This is a fantastic win for us and is the first contract over the line for our newly launched pump rental product,” said James Rix, managing director at Prior Power Solutions. “The fact that this contract has been placed for use across multiple oil and gas assets in the Gulf of Mexico not only demonstrates the flexibility of this product but also the appeal of standardising the technology used when owner operators need to make a well intervention and where the suppression of gases or liquids is required.”
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2024/06/18/prior-power-solutions-secures-1mn-nitrogen-pump-contract-in-the-americas/

20/05/2025

Leading-edge Atlas Copco skid-mounted nitrogen generator enhances laser cutting precision and efficiency at Transerve-JHT.

Atlas Copco’s state-of-the-art skid-mounted nitrogen generator, which has been operating at Transerve-JHT Laser Cut (Pty) Ltd for over six and a half years, has earned high praise from the laser cutting specialist’s Technical Director, Douw Meyer. “This solution consistently provides transformative benefits to our operations. Since implementing the nitrogen skid, the company has achieved a payback period of under two years, demonstrating substantial financial advantages along with enhanced operational efficiency.”

The innovative skid-mounted system consists of an Atlas Copco GA22VSD+FF compressor with integrated Variable Speed Drive (VSD), the LB15 air and nitrogen booster, and the NGP100+ PSA nitrogen generator, along with nitrogen storage tanks. This on-site nitrogen generation solution has proven invaluable for Transerve-JHT’s laser cutting processes which demand very high air purity for precision cutting of metal components ranging in thickness from 0.5mm to 4mm. The success of this skid-mounted system is based on two key factors: Advanced VSD technology that delivers market-leading energy efficiency and allows for seamless operations, and the NGP100+ Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) nitrogen generator that delivers on-site air with a purity level of up to 99.999%, complemented by the LB15 nitrogen piston booster system that increases nitrogen pressure to a maximum of 40 bar.

“Our previous reliance on liquid nitrogen was not only proving to be costly but also inefficient in meeting our stringent requirements for exceptionally high air purity,” asserts Meyer. “The transition to the Atlas Copco nitrogen skid has addressed all these issues and has been a game-changer. This nitrogen system minimises waste, enhances our cutting speed and enables us to cut various steel thicknesses with unparalleled accuracy, leading to a consistent ‘burr-free’ output. This translates to less material handling and improved product quality, significantly bolstering our service delivery to customers.”

“Initially, Transerve-JHT sought a high-pressure air compressor to support their new innovative 4 kW fibre laser cutting machine,” says Dean Adriaanse, Product Manager at Atlas Copco Compressor Technique. He explains that the customer, however, faced geographical constraints that limited the availability of liquid nitrogen. So, instead of traditional solutions involving costly multi-cylinder packs (MCPs), Atlas Copco Compressor Technique offered a modular skid-mounted nitrogen generation system designed specifically for laser cutting applications. “This advanced solution mitigates all the challenges associated with liquid nitrogen, including reduced operational costs, increased productivity and the elimination of transport and handling issues which also addresses worker safety enhancement, adding tremendous value for our customer.”

The system’s robust performance has been crucial in meeting the demanding requirements of laser cutting, allowing Transerve-JHT to dynamically scale operations in response to market fluctuations. Atlas Copco’s dedicated after-market service has further solidified this success, through the provision of ongoing support and proactive maintenance. “Their team has been exceptional in ensuring our equipment operates at peak performance, and their rapid response to our needs has been invaluable,” affirms Meyer.

The successful integration of the nitrogen generator skid has enhanced Transerve-JHT’s operational capabilities while solidifying Atlas Copco’s commitment to providing cost-effective and sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of their customers. This is a clear demonstration of how innovation and collaboration can drive operational excellence.

“Our innovative on-site nitrogen generation solutions empower customers like Transerve-JHT to achieve independence from traditional gas suppliers while ensuring superior performance and sustainability,” states Adriaanse. He concludes, “This project marks the first complete nitrogen system sold to the laser cutting industry in South Africa and has unquestionably set a benchmark for future installations.”

Transerve-JHT has been servicing the South African road haulage industry for the past four decades, stocking an extensive range of truck and trailer replacement spares for the haulage, mining and industrial hydraulics markets. The company offers specialised precision in-house laser cutting services (up to 20mm) in accordance with customer drawings and specifications.
https://oilandgasnewsafrica.com/2025/04/07/leading-edge-atlas-copco-skid-mounted-nitrogen-generator-enhances-laser-cutting-precision-and-efficiency-at-transerve-jht/

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