Technology

The new coating resists erosion inside pipes located near fracking wellheads. (Image source: Sherwin-Williams)

Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine has launched the new Pipeclad Frac-Shun erosion-resistant coating (ERC) that protects against erosion inside pipes located near fracking wellheads, thereby extending their service life

The inner walls of pipes, especially elbows, located near wellheads can be eroded by fracking sandflows within six to 18 months, or sooner. Such erosion also occurs inside storage vessels and tanks where gritty, multiphase fluid flows strike interior surfaces, often leading to unexpected maintenance shutdowns following pipe wall thickness inspections.

Protection against sandblasting action

The patent pending erosion-resistant coating (ERC) technology protects pipe interiors from the inherent sandblasting action of grit moving rapidly through the pipes. The applied powder coating remains intact far longer than other options, protecting the steel pipes from the metal loss that otherwise leads to potential leaks and early pipe replacements in many operations.

“High velocity fluids containing sand, rocks and other debris moving through a coated fracking pipe create a sandblasting action that’s akin to removing coatings when preparing a surface for a new application,” said Kristin Leonard, Energy Segment director, Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine. “Once those coatings are gone, the steel will begin to erode instead. The new erosion-resistant coating system is able to withstand the impact of multiphase flows striking it without eroding or chipping away like most coatings. The ERC essentially spits the bullet back out after it’s fired at the surface. With the coating intact, abrasive fluids have no chance at eroding the steel.”

Lab tests and long-term field trials have confirmed the adhesion and chemical and erosion resistance characteristics of the new technology, the company says.

The solution will combine thyssenkrup Uhde’s uhde ammonia process and JM’s hydrogen expertise through its LCHTM technology. (Image source: thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH)

thyssenkrupp Uhde, and Johnson Matthey (JM), are teaming up to offer a fully integrated low carbon (blue) ammonia solution that is more climate-friendly than current production methods

Demand for ammonia is growing because it is easier to store and transport than pure hydrogen, given it can use existing infrastructure, and is key to decarbonising the world’s power, shipping, and industrial processes.

The solution will combine thyssenkrup Uhde’s uhde ammonia process and JM’s hydrogen expertise through its LCHTM technology, which will enable the production of blue ammonia with up to 99% CO2 capture. thyssenkrupp Uhde has licensed, engineered, or constructed over 130 ammonia plants worldwide since 1928 and is market leading in plants greater than 3,000 metric tonnes per day with its unique uhde dual pressure technology. JM’s LCH technology, which utilises JM’s autothermal reformer alone, or in conjunction with JM’s gas heated reformer, has been selected for several of the world’s first large scale blue hydrogen projects.

Lucretia Löscher, COO thyssenkrupp Uhde, said, “At thyssenkrupp Uhde, we are committed to our purpose, ‘we create a livable planet’. With this strong partnership we further broaden our portfolio of climate-friendly solutions and can help our customers even better to reach their sustainability goals.”

Alberto Giovanzana, managing director – Catalyst Technologies at Johnson Matthey, said, “We know multiple routes are needed in the energy transition, and ammonia provides several options because it can be used directly in power and shipping industries, and as a hydrogen carrier to safely transport hydrogen to areas it is not easy to produce. Combining our expertise and over two decades worth of partnership with thyssenkrupp Uhde, we are excited to offer this technology which will allow our customers to produce ammonia with significantly lower CO2 emissions.”

The signing of the agreement. (Image source: Pasqal)

Saudi Arabia is set to get its first quantum computer, following the signing of an agreement between Aramco and Pasqal

Under the agreement Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atom quantum computing, will install, maintain and operate a 200-qubit quantum computer, which is scheduled for deployment in the second half of 2025.

Pasqal and Aramco intend to leverage the quantum computer to identify new use cases, and are looking to establish a centre for quantum research within Saudi Arabia, involving leading academic institutions.

Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco EVP of Technology & Innovation, said, “Aramco is delighted to partner with Pasqal to bring cutting-edge, high-performance quantum computing capabilities to the Kingdom. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, we believe it is crucial to seize opportunities presented by new, impactful technologies and we aim to pioneer the use of quantum computing in the energy sector. Our agreement with Pasqal allows us to harness the expertise of a leading player in this field, as we continue to build state-of-the-art solutions into our business. It is also further evidence of our contribution to the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia.”

Georges-Olivier Reymond, Pasqal CEO & co-founder, said, “The era of quantum computing is here. Through this partnership, we'll be at the forefront of accelerating commercial adoption of this transformative technology in Saudi Arabia. This isn't just any quantum computer; it will be the most powerful tool deployed for industrial usages, unlocking a new era of innovation for businesses and society.”

BrightTEK is engineered to address the growing need for advanced wireless communication solutions in industrial environments. (Image source: AMETEK LMS)

AMETEK Level Measurement Solutions (LMS) has launched BrightTEK, a state-of-the-art wireless Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solution designed to redefine operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness in various industries

Initially available for the North American market, BrightTEK leverages wireless technology to facilitate seamless data transmission from AMETEK LMS branded transmitters — including Magnetrol, Orion Instruments, Drexelbrook, SWI and B/W Controls, offering visibility to key variables to help optimise on-site operations. It transmits data wirelessly directly to the customer-facing BrightTEK webserver, addressing the increasing demand for advanced wireless communication services in industrial environments. The BrightTEK webserver provides real-time insights into process variables such as tank levels, volume and location data. With customisable notifications, alerts, and alarms, users can proactively manage their operations, supply chain, and inventory.

BrightTEK introduces two cutting-edge uplink options; the ST95 battery-powered cellular uplink providing power and monitoring to sensors in remote locations without the need for wired connections; and the ST90 AC powered host, which offers the same features as the ST95 in a compact, rugged design.

AMETEK datacentres are certified SOC 2 Type 2 and SOC 3 (Tank Monitoring).

Key advantages

Key advantages include:
• Cost savings: By eliminating the need for extensive wiring, BrightTEK significantly reduces both installation costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
• Direct labour efficiency: The platform's wireless connectivity minimises labour and travel intensity required for monitoring and maintenance, especially in remote locations.
• Enhanced reliability: BrightTEK simplifies the communication infrastructure, streamlining data transmission and reducing the risk of system failures.
• Remote monitoring: BrightTEK offers continuous monitoring for improved operational efficiency and allows for immediate response to alarms or changes from anywhere, reducing downtime.