Report Volume XXII, Number 1, September 1st, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Shelton, CT) – Iroquois Gas Transmission System, L.P. has announced the commencement of a binding open season for its Wright Transfer Compressor project which would add up to 15,400 horsepower of transfer compression at Iroquois’ existing interconnection with Tennessee Gas Pipeline’s 200 Line in Wright, New York.
As supplies on Tennessee have increased from Marcellus Shale and Atlantic LNG, Iroquois has received significant interest from shippers in making its Wright interconnect bidirectional. According to Scott Rupff, Vice President of Marketing, Development and Commercial Operations, “The WTC project would enable us to physically receive gas from Tennessee, further diversifying supply options for our customers, enhancing system reliability and reducing supply cost. The siting of this transfer facility adjacent to our existing compressor station brings added benefit as it will minimize the environmental and community impact and help streamline the permitting process.”
WTC would compress up to 375 MDth/day from Tennessee into Iroquois at Iroquois’ rate zone boundary, thereby enabling WTC shippers to supply both Zone 1 and Zone 2 markets on Iroquois. The project is targeted for service commencing Summer 2012. Any party interested in acquiring firm transportation capacity on the WTC project may express such interest during this open season. Results from the open season will determine the final design and scope of the project. Bids will be accepted beginning Monday, August 30, 2010 through Friday, October 15, 2010.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX & Valley Forge, PA) – NiSource Inc. and UGI Corporation announced that NiSource’s NiSource Gas Transmission & Storage unit and UGI’s UGI Energy Services, Inc. unit, are partnering to develop a new natural gas pipeline to provide Marcellus Shale producers in Pennsylvania improved access to high-value markets. An estimated 500,000 Dth/day of transportation capacity will be made available for increased production along NiSource’s Columbia Gas Transmission pipeline system in Clearfield, Centre and Clinton counties to interconnections with Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Corp., Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company, Dominion Gas Transmission, Inc., and Millennium Pipeline Company in north central Pennsylvania and southern New York, as well as connections to UGI’s Tioga/Meeker natural gas storage facilities and extensive gas distribution network.
“With the significant increase in drilling and deliverability of natural gas in the Marcellus Shale, there is a growing need for capacity to facilitate the movement of producers’ gas to downstream markets,” said Christopher A. Helms, executive vice president and group CEO for NGT&S. “Providing solutions to deliver this exciting new supply source to high-value markets is a key focus area for NGT&S. With this and other projects, we are working diligently to advance the NGT&S strategic plan to meet customer needs through thoughtful infrastructure investment.”
Bradley C. Hall, president of UGI Energy Services, said, “This joint marketing agreement brings together two major players with strategic assets, supplier relationships, and customers in and near the Marcellus Shale region. UGI has a large appetite for natural gas and we believe this project will provide our utility and transportation service customers with cost effective and reliable gas supply. We look forward to working with NGT&S on this important new supply initiative, especially given its operating and construction expertise with transmission and gathering pipelines.”
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – PipeLine Machinery International (PLM), Caterpillar’s global pipeline equipment dealer, has recently teamed with ek pass for the provision of global training and consulting services for the pipeline industry.
ek pass is an international training and consulting firm specializing in the development and delivery of all types of heavy equipment and safety training. They have been delivering comprehensive training programs to the pipeline industry addressing a broad spectrum of needs from clearing to clean-up. They have also provided training audit and consultancy to pipeline owing companies and are involved in numerous training and safety committees for energy industry associations.
“We are pleased to partner with ek pass in this important area of training,” said PLM Senior Vice President Tony Fernandez. “Pipeline operator training and safety training programs have always been on our front burner because it is an elemental challenge for our customers around the globe. By teaming with ek pass we connect our customers with world class, custom training delivered in classrooms, at job sites, through elearning – in whatever format the contractors or owning companies require.”
Equipment Operator Training & Certificate Programs – ek pass offers tailored training to meet the specific needs of the contractor. Training is customized right down to the make, model and serial number of the machines in the customer’s fleet. Training begins with classroom instruction where fundamentals are covered, including safety, basic maintenance, operating techniques and advanced skills. The hands-on component is the bulk of the training and is conducted by an ek pass seasoned veteran and usually provided on an actual job site using the equipment the trainees will be operating. This allows for minimal disruption in work production with the added benefit of the operators learning in their actual work environment.
e-learning – Computer-based or web-based training programs are offered by ek pass in addition to the hands-on training. Program material is developed by the ek pass team of instructional designers, graphic designers, multimedia programmers, 3D animators, professional narrators and sound engineers. Content can be customized to machine-specific data and to the client’s specific requirements for policies, procedures, job-specific regulations, etc.
“The most exciting part of the PLM-ekpass collaboration is the potential,” said PLM Vice President – Product Support Lindley Imeson. “Throughout my years in the pipeline business, there has always been a need for bringing new operators and all new pipeline workers, for that matter, up to speed on the unique aspects of pipeline production. Even seasoned hands benefit from updated instruction that covers new machines and evolving best practices for maintenance and operations. With the increasing requirements for on-the-job safety and environmental training, we see the ek pass program as a onestop training solution for the industry.”
PLM was established in 2005 and is the first Caterpillar dealership to focus on a particular industry on a global basis. PLM provides purpose-built and traditional construction equipment to the mainline pipeline construction industry on projects around the world. PLM works closely with pipeline owners, contractors and local Caterpillar dealers to provide solutions tailored to the unique product and service needs of this industry.
PLM’s worldwide activities are currently supported through the corporate offices in Houston, Texas, USA, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, The Hague, Netherlands, Beijing, China, Singapore and Australia.
Report Volume XXI, Number 24, August 15th, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Richmond, VA) — Dominion Transmission and Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co. have reached a 10-year lease agreement to move Marcellus shale natural gas from northern Pennsylvania to upstate New York. Dominion Transmission’s parent, Dominion, announced the agreement with Houston-based Tennessee recently. Richmond-based Dominion says the Ellisburg- to-Craigs project includes construction of additional compression facilities and new regulating facilities. If federal regulators approve the project, construction would begin in March 2012 and operations would begin Nov. 1, 2012. Dominion says it plans to file in December for a certificate from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – El Paso Corporation announced recently that its subsidiary, El Paso Midstream Group, Inc., is holding a 30-day, non-binding open season to solicit expressions of interest concerning the transportation of ethane on its proposed Marcellus Ethane Pipeline System (MEPS). The open season began August 9 and will close September 10. Subject to receipt of sufficient customer interest in the non-binding open season, MEPS plans to pursue with interested parties negotiation of terms to be contained in transportation agreements and, thereafter, conduct a binding open season in October 2010.
The proposed MEPS would be designed to transport up to 60,000 barrels per day of ethane from points of origin at the fractionation plants in the ethane-rich Marcellus Shale production region to destination interconnect points with third-party ethane pipelines and storage facilities in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area. MEPS would be comprised of a combination of new pipeline and existing pipeline segments expected to be acquired from Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company and converted to ethane service. The project has a targeted in-service date of April 1, 2013.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Dallas, TX) – Driver Pipeline, one of the country’s most successful pipeline construction companies, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, announced that pipeline veteran Steve Daigle has joined the company as head of business development and customer relations for the Gulf Coast region. According to Jim Shaffer, President of Driver Pipeline, Daigle will focus on supporting existing customers and the Company’s rapidly growing list of new customers in the Houston/Gulf Coast area.
In making the announcement, Shaffer stated that, “Steve Daigle is very experienced and respected. He knows the region, the companies, and the people, as well as the intricacies of doing business in the Gulf Coast, and we are really happy that Steve has decided to join the Driver Pipeline family.”
When asked about joining Driver Pipeline, Daigle responded, “I’ve been in the pipeline industry for some time now and its not everyday one gets an opportunity to work for a company like Driver Pipeline, where it’s all about the customers. So when Driver approached me to come on board, it wasn’t a difficult decision for me to make. I’m very excited about this opportunity. They are a great bunch of folks and I look forward to working with each and every one of them.”
Originally from Opelousas, Louisiana, educated in Texas, Mr. Daigle now resides in the Houston Area. He is well known and respected in the energy business throughout the gulf coast region. His experience includes position as pipeline general foreman, project manager and vice president of sales.
Mr. Daigle will be working out of Driver’s Pearland, TX office, just south of Houston, and will concentrate on new business opportunities in the Gulf Coast and the Eagle Ford Shale area south of San Antonio.
About the Company – Driver Pipeline is an integrated oil and gas pipeline contractor, dedicated to fulfilling the energy industry’s construction, maintenance and repair needs since 1971. With more than 700 employees, the Company’s reach extends from the Atlantic Coast to beyond the Rocky Mountains and from South Texas to Maryland.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Dover, DE) —Eastern Shore Natural Gas Company which transports natural gas to customers in Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania has a plan to construct a 16-inch diameter pipeline about 8.3 miles through Lancaster and Chester counties.
The new pipeline through West Sadsbury and Salisbury townships will extend Eastern Shore’s pipeline from Parkesburg to a point west of Honeybrook Borough. Once built it will enable Eastern Shore to transport natural gas from Texas Eastern Transmission LP.
The reason for the expansion, is increased demand for natural gas, said Glen DiEleuterio, a projects manager engineer with Eastern Shore in an interview Monday. Currently, Eastern Shore receives natural gas from two major interstate pipeline systems — Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Corporation and Columbia Gas Transmission Company.
Eastern Shore has an application before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for the project and an environmental assessment has been done.
Report Volume XXI, Number 23, August 1st, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Mayville, WI) – Amy Schmid, Erv Schmid and Mike Maslowski have sold Schmid Pipeline Construction, Inc. to owner Todd Schmid’s longtime associate, Joseph Brandenburg. While it was Todd’s goal to continue to build the business, his untimely death lead to the ultimate sale of the company.
Todd started Schmid Pipeline Construction Inc. in Mayville in 1994. Schmid Pipeline Construction Inc. utilizes the latest technology and the most advanced equipment to perform its work in the specialty areas of stations, launchers and receivers, integrity work, hydrostatic testing and mainline oil & natural gas pipeline construction.
While Amy, Erv and Mike have stepped down from their positions, the business will continue its operations as Schmid Pipeline Construction Inc. at 850 Mallard Drive, Mayville, with the same professional and staff.”Amy, Mike and I wish the Brandenburg’s all of the best as they continue to grow Schmid Pipeline Construction Inc. into the company they know it can and will be,” said Erv Schmid.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – CRC-Evans has integrated CMT (cold metal transfer) technology with their P450 automatic welding machine, creating new parameters of quality and speed for work on small-diameter pipe. This exclusive equipment offers advanced capabilities that make a significant difference in productivity for offshore projects.
CRC-Evan’s CMT robotic technology controls all functions digitally with advanced software that instantly processes welding data. Equipped with continuous digital feedback, CMT boosts response time for the power supply and executes precise control of the AC servo wire feed motor. 5G and 2G root bead passes are completed rapidly and perfectly. No copper backup clamp is required.
“This technology is game-changing for small-diameter offshore and spoolbase pipeline operations,” said Paul DeWeese, president of CRC-Evans Automatic Welding. “Once contractors learn about it and use it, they’re sold.”
CRC-Evans Automatic Welding designs and builds the world’s most widely used automatic welding system for land and offshore pipeline construction. In addition to renting or selling these systems to contractors on a project basis, the division provides other specialized services such as engineering, on-site technicians and training. The company is a subsidiary of CRC-Evans Pipeline International, a leading provider of specialized equipment and services for the construction of pipelines.
CRC-Evans manufactures pipeline construction equipment and automatic welding systems, and provides managed subsea services, field joint coating, weighting, heat treatment, and inspection services. Based in Houston, CRC-Evans maintains offices in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Treasure Island, FL) – Helicopter Pipeline Support is a division of The Wilbur Group, a Florida based company, which provides nationwide service.
The Wilbur Group has over 15 years experience in low altitude flying and landing on project sites with a variety of helicopters available to choose from. They develop their program around a project’s specific requirements. The Wilbur Group is fully prepared to handle all aspects of a project’s helicopter services by opening a base at the pipeline construction site and providing a dedicated helicopter and pilot for the duration of the project. Their pilots have many years of experience in flying with safety being the highest priority. Helicopters and pilots are available seven days a week. In addition administrative assistance, flight dispatch and flight following are available 24 hours a day seven days a week to respond to all client needs. A back up helicopter is provided should the helicopter dedicated to a project require unscheduled maintenance, allowing uninterrupted helicopter flying support. Meticulous records are kept by The Wilbur Group, such as detailed trip manifest documenting spreads viewed, companies flown and passengers aboard. Weekly recap and monthly summaries are provided as well, giving clients more time to focus on the execution of the project at hand. The Wilbur Group also has the ability to provide High Definition video. They can capture the entire pipeline, heavy equipment, weekly/monthly video for progress updates and problem areas. A Gyro Stabilized High Definition camera system is used, which has the same clarity that is experienced watching aerial shots of sporting events (i.e. car races, off shore races, football games.) This permits clients the opportunity to record information regarding the pipeline progress, equipment utilized and right of way issues for project records. All video is confidential and is the sole property of the pipeline company.
This special division of The Wilbur Group was created in response to the growing demands of the gas and oil pipeline industry. The president of The Wilbur Group, Gary Wilbur, is a commercial helicopter pilot with 17 years experience flying in many types of environments and missions including pipeline right of ways. This knowledge of the industry is invaluable in providing the right helicopter for a project. The Wilbur Group understands how to support a pipeline project and provide exactly what is required to ensure that it is completed efficiently.
Report Volume XXI, Number 22, July 15th, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Dallas, TX) – Driver Pipeline, one of the country’s most successful pipeline construction companies, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, announced the promotion of James Davis to Vice President. Since joining Driver Pipeline in 2008, Mr. Davis served in a business development capacity and in project management. In his new position, Mr. Davis’ primary responsibility will be contract administration, project management and special projects. Mr. Davis has over 10 years of contracting and management experience. He earned his Bachelor degree in Construction Science from Texas A&M University and his MBA from Southern Methodist University. Prior to joining Driver, Mr. Davis worked in project management, energy finance and as an entrepreneur involved in two start-up contracting companies.
Jim Shaffer, President of Driver Pipeline, said when announcing the promotion, “James has been an important member of the Driver Pipeline management team since joining us two years ago. He is hard working and tenacious in his approach to every challenge. I fully expect that he will bring that same dedication to this new assignment.” Shaffer noted that Mr. Davis’ new duties would leverage his 10 years of hands-on experience in project management and add more depth to the company’s management team. He also stated that Mr. Davis’ familiarity with Driver Pipeline’s diverse customer base and industry essentials should serve him well in his new position.
Mr. Davis said, “I’m excited about this new challenge and the opportunity to work with our customers on a regular basis. Our goal is to communicate, then to execute the job the way our customer expects. No surprises; that’s the best way to get the job done on time and on budget.”
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Enterprise Products Partners L.P. recently announced several new construction projects that will further extend and expand its natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGL) infrastructure in South Texas and Mont Belvieu, Texas to accommodate growing production volumes from the Eagle Ford Shale play. As part of the initiative, Enterprise plans to install 350 miles of pipelines, build a new natural gas processing facility, and add a new NGL fractionator at the Mont Belvieu complex near the Houston Ship Channel. In addition, the partnership recently completed several key, previously announced projects, including the initial 34-mile segment of the east-west rich gas Eagle Ford mainline and the final leg of the 62-mile White Kitchen Lateral. As a result, Enterprise soon will be able to fill the existing 1.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of capacity at its seven South Texas natural gas processing facilities.
Included in the planned construction, is an expansion of Enterprise’s east-west rich gas mainline that will involve adding three additional pipeline segments totaling 168 miles. The first phase will involve the installation of 26 miles of 24-inch diameter pipeline extending the mainline to the far western reaches of the Eagle Ford Shale. The remaining 142 miles, to be built in two segments, will be comprised of 30-inch and 36-inch diameter pipelines that will serve the eastern portion of the Eagle Ford Shale. Upon completion, the Eagle Ford Shale rich gas mainline system and associated laterals will consist of approximately 300 miles of pipelines representing gathering and transportation capacity of more than 600 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d).
The east end of Eagle Ford mainline will terminate at a new natural gas complex Enterprise plans to build that will feature multiple processing trains designed for deep ethane recovery and production of mixed NGLs in excess of 60,000 barrels per day (BPD). Following completion of these projects, which is expected in early 2012, Enterprise’s Texas assets will have the capability to gather, transport and process almost 2.5 Bcf/d of natural gas and produce more than 150,000 BPD of NGLs.
Takeaway capacity for residue gas from the new processing facility will be provided by a combination of existing Enterprise infrastructure and construction of additional natural gas pipelines. Specifically, Enterprise is planning to construct a new 64-mile, 30- inch diameter residue gas line from the cryogenic facility to its Wilson natural gas storage facility in Wharton County, Texas. Wilson offers access to major interstate pipelines, including Trunkline, Tennessee Gas, Transco, NGPL, Gulf South and Texas Eastern. An expansion project to increase capacity at the storage facility by 5 billion cubic feet is currently under way.
Transportation of mixed NGLs from the new processing facility to the Mont Belvieu complex will be accomplished by expanding Enterprise’s infrastructure, highlighted by the planned construction of a new 127-mile, 12-inch diameter pipeline. The new NGL pipeline will have an initial capacity of more than 60,000 BPD, readily expandable to over 120,000 BPD. The project is scheduled for completion early in 2012. To accommodate the increased volumes from the Eagle Ford Shale and other producing regions, Enterprise is moving forward with plans to construct a fifth 75,000 BPD NGL fractionator at the Mont Belvieu complex. Construction of the fourth fractionation train is on schedule for completion by the end of 2010, at which time the Mont Belvieu complex will have capacity in excess of 300,000 BPD. The addition of the fifth unit, which is expected in early 2012, will increase fractionation capacity at the Mont Belvieu complex to approximately 375,000 BPD. With access to 15,000 miles of pipelines that deliver NGLs to petrochemical plants and refineries that reach essentially all of the nation’s ethylene capacity and approximately 90 percent of motor gasoline refining capacity east of the Rockies, Enterprise is uniquely positioned to distribute NGL finished products to end users.
In Nueces County, Texas, the partnership completed the expansion of the Shoup natural gas processing and fractionation facility on June 27, 2010. Modifications at Shoup have increased NGL capacity to 77,000 BPD, allowing the facility to handle the additional volumes from the other six existing Enterprise natural gas plants which are seeing increased production from the Eagle Ford Shale. Along with the natural gas and NGL projects, Enterprise continues to move forward on the expansion of its crude oil pipeline system into the Eagle Ford Shale play. The 140-mile pipeline, which originates in Karnes County, Texas and extends to Austin County, Texas, is supported by a long-term transportation agreement and progress is being made with other producers to provide crude oil transportation services through additional connections to the pipeline. The expansion is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2011.
Report Volume XXI, Number 21, July 1st, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – PipeLine Machinery International (PLM), Caterpillar’s global pipeline equipment dealer, has recently teamed with LaValley Industries and is the exclusive distributor of the DECKHAND™ Pipe Handling System, for use in pipeline and directional drilling construction.
The DECKHAND system accomplishes precise pipe handling and placement without requiring ground crew to work in the vicinity of moving pipe. The system can also safely handle pipe in inclement weather and snow and ice conditions. “We are pleased to offer this new-generation pipe handling system to the industry,” said PipeLine Machinery International Senior Vice President Tony Fernandez. “Precision movement of pipe, until now, necessitated putting ground crew in close proximity to moving pipe in order to line it up, stabilize it and sometimes to clear it of snow or mud debris. Not anymore. The DECKHAND system is one more solution for our customers’ safety and operating challenges in the field.” The system consists of the main head which mounts to most excavators, as any other work tool, using the Quick Attach function. The excavator’s hydraulics and electrical systems are easily connected to the DECKHAND, using two quick couplers. Interchangeable grab arms are designed for use with directional drilling pipe casing (Directional Drilling Arms), multiple sizes of utility pipe (Utility Arms) and mainline pipe (Pipeline Arms).
Winter Conditions-The DECKHAND system performs as well as the excavator in extreme temperatures because it uses the excavator’s hydraulics and power. The grab arms can pick up even snow-covered pipe and hold it securely as it is lifted, lowered, rotated, tilted and moved.
Precise Control-The Directional Drilling Arms for the DECKHAND system securely grip pipe casing and easily maneuver it through various angles and either stack it or securely hold it for connection on the drilling platform. The DECKHAND head has full 360 degrees of controlled movement plus side-to-side and tipping capability. This allows the operator working with directional drilling operations to manipulate, stack and hold the pipe without endangering platform crew. The operator working with pipe stockpiling and stringing uses the tilt function to handle pipe in multiple working angles to allow for grade conditions. The shift function on the DECKHAND main beam allows the pipe to be moved 5.5 inches from side to side for clean, neat stockpiling. The DECKHAND Pipeline Arms are designed to securely grip the pipe without disturbing a stockpile or truckload of pipe. Specially designed pipe protection pads on the Pipeline and Utility grab arms are easily replaced as needed and with predetermined and preset hydraulic pressures, prevent damage to the pipe and coating. In addition, the grab arms can grip securely from an offcenter position on the pipe allowing for more control in areas with tight accessibility.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Pearland, TX) – Driver Pipeline, one of the country’s most successful pipeline construction companies, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, announced the addition of Anthony (Tony) Perot to its management team as Senior Vice President of Operation. In his new position, Mr. Perot will be responsible for operations in all five divisions of Driver Pipeline and report directly to Driver Pipeline President, Jim Shaffer.
In making the announcement, Shaffer stated that, “The addition of Tony Perot to the Driver Pipeline management team adds depth and tremendous experience to a group of managers that are already among the best in the industry. We are very excited that Tony has decided to join our family here at Driver Pipeline.”
A well know professional in the pipeline industry, Perot has held senior management position with several major oil and gas companies in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. His extensive experience includes numerous large projects in most of the major oil and gas fields in the South and Southwest. A native of Columbia, Louisiana, Perot has degrees in both business and construction management from Northeast Louisiana University to go with his 40 years experience in pipeline construction and construction management. That experience includes both onshore and offshore pipelines, natural gas compressor stations, oil pumping stations, meter and regulator piping facilities. “Driver Pipeline has great people and terrific facilities,” Perot said. “I’m excited about joining a company that is so committed to their people and the incredible growth opportunities that are on the horizon. This is going to be exciting.”
Driver Pipeline operations include five divisions located in Dallas, Fort Worth, Pearland (Houston), Balch Springs, (Eastern Dallas County), and Haynesville (Shreveport).
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. recently launched a 30-day non-binding open season to further gauge shipper interest for its Marcellus Lateral Project, which would enable the company to offer a new service for moving natural gas liquids (NGL) from the Marcellus Shale Basin to fractionation plants and petrochemical facilities near Sarnia, Ontario. The NGLs would be transported via approximately 230 miles of new pipeline and KMP’s existing Cochin pipeline system. Subject to regulatory approvals and necessary capital investments, Marcellus NGL shipments could begin as soon as mid-2012. Given appropriate levels of shipper support, Kinder Morgan could move over 150,000 barrels per day (bpd) at a rate as low as nine cents per gallon.
“We have developed our proposal based on discussions with Marcellus producers and gas processors and believe that Kinder Morgan offers the quickest and most efficient solution for the delivery of NGLs to the premium Ontario market,” said Don Lindley, vice president of business development for KMP’s Products Pipeline group. “We also anticipate, at some point in time, reversing a section of Cochin to offer service to Chicago area refiners, fractionation plants and petrochemical facilities.” Cochin is a multi-product pipeline consisting of approximately 1,900 miles of 12-inch pipeline operating between Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Windsor, Ontario. Cochin traverses three provinces in Canada and seven states in the United States, transporting propane, butane and natural gas liquids to the midwestern United States and eastern Canadian petrochemical and fuel markets. The pipeline includes 31 pump stations spaced at 60-mile intervals and five U.S. propane terminals. Underground storage, owned by third parties and KMP, is available at Fort Saskatchewan and Windsor.
Report Volume XXI, Number 20, June 15th, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Dallas, TX) – Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. announced recently the construction of a 63-mile natural gas pipeline that will provide its customers additional transportation, gathering, and treating services in the rapidly expanding Haynesville Shale in East Texas.
The pipeline project, which will originate in southeast Shelby County, Texas, traverse San Augustine County and terminate in Nacogdoches County, Texas, will consist of predominately 20- and 24-inch pipe and will have an initial capacity of 645 million cubic feet per day. The pipeline is supported by natural gas production from multiple 10-year agreements that encompass approximately 264,000 acres in the East Texas area.
The pipeline will interconnect with two interstate pipelines in addition to the Partnership’s Houston Pipeline System, which provides producers the optionality to access numerous other interstate and intrastate markets including the Carthage, Waha, Katy and Houston Ship Channel hubs in Texas. Partial service is expected to begin on the pipeline in the third quarter of this year and the full in-service date is expected to be in the fourth quarter 2010.
“This project shows our continued emphasis on developing organic growth projects and providing producers unparalleled access to markets throughout the country,” said Energy Transfer Partners’ Tim Dahlstrom, Senior Vice-President. “Our partnership is excited about this new opportunity to expand our pipeline network into a rapidly growing area of James Lime, Bossier and Haynesville production.”
INDUSTRY NEWS (Conroe, TX) – Environmental Crossings Inc. (ECI) announced June 3rd, that long time Shareholder Bruce Brasher has purchased all of the outstanding shares and has assumed the position of President. Greg Charney of Lone Star Investments Corp, The Woodlands, TX, was advisor on this transaction and sourced the needed financing.
ECI has been in the mid to large diameter horizontal directional drilling (HDD) industry for 18+ years. To date, ECI has installed over 326,000 linear feet of all types of product lines up to 42″ in diameter with many over the length of 5,000 feet. Work has been conducted all over the United States, Asia & Canada in all soil conditions including some of the hardest rock formations. ECI is known and used across many different industries, has rigs up to 1.2 million in pull back and has done as many or more sub-sea ocean landing than any other HDD Contractor. “We are certainly not the biggest HDD Contractor in the industry but there is no better talent, and our job completion and safety record is tops in the industry” says Mr. Brasher. All field operations will continue to be headed up by Steve Meaders, VP Operations. Steve is a long time HDD veteran and started his drilling career with Reading & Bates back in 1979 and is well known & respected throughout the industry. No major changes are expected in the ECI operations and our Clients can expect the same dependable service we have been providing for years.
The only notable change is that ECI plans to shut down its Michigan offices and consolidate all operations to the Conroe, TX offices located at 1306, N. FM 3083, Conroe, TX 77303-1827, Main Office (936) 441-9080, www.ecihdd.com.
For additional information, please contact Greg Charney (281)- 923-2733 or Bruce Brasher (936) 441-9080.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Pipeline operators Mark- West Energy Partners LP and Sunoco Logistics Partners L.P. have teamed up to build a distribution system to transport ethane produced in the Marcellus Shale Basin to markets along the Gulf Coast.
Known as the ‘Mariner Project’, the initiative is expected to begin service by the second quarter of 2012. It will initially ship up to 50,000 barrels of ethane per day to Gulf Coast markets that may be increased to support additional ethane production in the Marcellus region. The Mariner Project is supported by key producers including Range Resources Corporation and Chesapeake Energy Corporation.
MarkWest, through its majority- owned joint venture Mark- West Liberty Midstream & Resources, has been working since late 2009 to construct and operate natural gas midstream services to support producers in the emerging Marcellus Shale play in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
MarkWest runs a fractionalization complex in Houston, Pennsylvania, where gas gathered from Marcellus wells is processed and sent to storage facilities or pipelines. For the Mariner Project, MarkWest Liberty will be required to make minor adjustments to its processing facility to recover sufficient ethane (the primary constituent in ethylene) to allow the residue gas to meet interstate gas pipeline specifications. Mark- West Liberty will also install additional facilities at its processing and fractionation complex to separate the ethane for delivery to downstream Mariner Project facilities.
Additionally, MarkWest Liberty will build a 45-mile pipeline from its Houston complex to an interconnection with an existing Sunoco Logistics pipeline at Delmont, Pennsylvania. The ethane will be piped to an existing East Coast facility where Sunoco Logistics will construct refrigerated ethane storage facilities. Subsequently, the ethane will be transported through a marine vessel to premium markets in the Gulf Coast. Some of the natural gas liquid may be transported to markets in the northeast, providing multiple ethane blending options in the process.
We believe that the Mariner Project will provide an efficient solution for producers to move ethane across Pennsylvania to a Delaware River marine port to access multiple markets, while taking advantage of MarkWest Liberty’s extensive experience in the highly prospective Marcellus Shale play. MarkWest Liberty is the largest provider of midstream services in the region and is investing a significant amount of capital to provide infrastructure that will be required for the development of the Marcellus Shale leaseholds.
Report Volume XXI, Number 19, June 1st, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Portland, OR) – Northwest Natural Gas Co. will forge ahead with plans to build a portion of its Palomar pipeline through Eastern Oregon, despite failed plans to connect it to a proposed liquefied natural gas terminal at the Columbia River.
The announcement, made recently by Chief Executive Officer Gregg Kantor at the company’s annual shareholder meeting in Portland, comes despite opposition from environmental advocates, including some shareholders, who fear the pipeline’s construction will damage crucial habitats and displace landowners along its path.
NorthernStar Natural Gas Co. on May 4 declared bankruptcy and abandoned its proposed Bradwood Landing import facility in Oregon. The bankrupt company had contracted with NW Natural to build the Palomar pipeline, which would have connected the terminal to the interstate system. NW Natural, in return, would have purchased a portion of the imported liquefied natural gas to diversify its natural gas supply.
Now without the Bradwood terminal, NW Natural is in a bind. The company must find other new supplies of natural gas and NorthernStar still owes NW Natural $17.2 million for the contract, Kantor said recently.
“NW Natural is holding the only lien on the assets of that company so we’re confident they’ll be able to recover what little investment they’ve made so far,” said Michael Bates, a research associate with D.A. Davidson & Co.
That leaves the supply issue. The 217-mile Palomar pipeline would stretch across the Cascades into the Willamette Valley to provide a back-up supply of natural gas from Canada and the Rocky Mountain region.
The company will abandon the western portion of the pipeline, which would have connected Bradwood to the interstate pipeline system. But, he added, finishing the 111-mile eastern portion of the pipeline between Molalla and Madras is now even more crucial for maintaining reliability and supporting population growth.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Construction of a $3 billion gas pipeline from Wyoming to Oregon has been pushed back amid work to protect cultural sites and endangered species.
The 42-inch Ruby Pipeline will run 675 miles from Opal (oh- PAL’) in western Wyoming to Malin, Ore., crossing Utah and Nevada along the way. El Paso Corp. initially hoped to begin work this spring.
The BLM says it hopes to approve the project in early July, after the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission works out agreements with each state along the route to protect historic and cultural sites. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service meanwhile is working on a plan to protect endangered species.
An El Paso spokesman says he hopes the project can begin as soon as possible.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Ennis, TX) – Polyguard Products, Inc. received the President “E” Award, given by the United States Secretary of Commerce, in Washington D.C. Nate Muncaster, Global Business Development Director, and Shawn Eastham, VP of Corrosion Products Group, accepted the award.
“I always felt Polyguard had a very good shot at winning,” Muncaster said. “But it was never certain. The Commercial Service had after several years of doing the Gold Keys around the world, and starting to see sales come in, informed us we had as good a shot as any company, but it is never certain, as the competitiveness every year is so intense.”
According to the International Trade Administration Web site, the award was created by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, to recognize persons, firms, or organizations which contribute significantly in the effort to increase United States exports.
The site also states that during World War II more than 4,000 “E Pennants” were presented to war plants in recognition of production excellence. The famous flag with the big “E” emblazoned on it became a badge of patriotism in action.
Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke, stated Polyguard’s achievement in enhancing export growth, helps strengthen the economy and create American jobs.
“I want to congratulate you on your achievement, and for supporting critical exportrelated jobs for American workers,” Locke said. “President Obama’s initiative was designed with one overriding goal: to get people back to work in jobs that provide security, dignity, and a sense of hope for the future. It’s businesses like yours with a proven record of success that are going to help us meet or exceed that goal.”
Shawn Eastham, VP of Corrosion Products Group, said the award was a great accomplishment for the company, and that it would have not been possible without dedication.
“I’m excited about our International growth opportunities for the next 10 years and beyond,” Eastham said. “Our International Division is a big part of our company’s future plans.” Muncaster is a member of the North Texas District Export Council.
“The award represents a successful accolade for 5 1/2 years of single minded focus and dedication, jet lag, disturbed sleep patterns, and heightened coffee consumption!” Muncaster said. “But it was a labor of love.”
Chic Hughes, VP of Pipeline Coatings, and Dolores Dlabaj, Supervisor/Global Sales Support, traveled with Muncaster and Eastham to receive the award.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Bringing the most advanced technology to the concrete coating process, CRC-Evans Engineered Systems has raised the levels of accuracy and efficiency that operators can achieve. Based on many years of customer input, CRC-Evans has put digital technology to work so that the coating process is completely consistent and reliable.
Now every aspect of the coating process is digitally controlled from a central console. When an operational parameter needs to be changed, all systems are updated simultaneously and automatically. The result is a remarkable level of efficiency in the field, day after day. Every coated pipe is on-spec, with recorded data to back it up. Gaining complete control over the process means that quality is always superior and productivity is assured.
“The digital applications we have made in our coating plants have revolutionized the process,” said CRC-Evans (title, name). “Our customers like being able to control the operation so easily, especially because it means a reliably good end product.”
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Gaining greater efficiencies on a pipeline construction project means employing the most advanced technology to cut time and costs. With a double jointing operation from CRC-Evans Engineered Systems, right-of-way welds are reduced by half, as would be expected – but there are other advantages as well.
From long experience in the field, CRC-Evans knows what operators need and provides a choice of land-based double jointing equipment options. Standard systems are pre-engineered for typical and predictable applications. Modified systems can be custom engineered to accommodate special conditions, such as building footprints, automation needs and additional stations. If there is already a setup in place, CRC-Evans can refurbish and upgrade it. Or CRC-Evans experts can examine current setups, troubleshoot problems and present a system evaluation so that the owner can make improvements.
CRC-Evans double jointing systems come with an array of digital technologies that streamline the process and ensure quality. A digital control system allows the operator to increase weld speeds and improve efficiency in single or multi-arc applications. These digital enhancements provide up to 35% more throughput over standard multi-arc systems. Other CRC-Evans system advantages include: 95% power factor correction (for lower installation costs where multiple machines connect to the same plant); remote access; complete versatility in voltages and software; and waveform control technology for complete control of welding details. A user-friendly panel provides single-point control over all functions throughout the welding project and saves procedure data for later access.
With these advantages, CRC-Evans double jointing systems are designed to enhance productivity and efficiency, reduce repairs in the field, and help operators cover more ground faster – all leading to better profitability.
Report Volume XXI, Number 18, May 15th, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Baton Rouge, LA) – On March 30, 2010, Stupp Corporation successfully completed the manufacture, coating, shipment and delivery of 90 miles of 36″OD, X- 70 API-5L PSL2 custom steel line pipe.
Ed Scram, President and COO said, “With the completion of this, our first Spiral pipe order, Stupp is the most successful new start-up Spiral Weld pipe facility in North America. Our $80 million expansion gives us the ability to produce product up to 60″ OD, up to 1.00″ in thickness and in grades through X-80. Stupp has proven itself to be a reliable, high quality domestic source for large diameter line pipe.”
Scram added “When our customer asked Stupp to provide an on-time shipment of pipe for their project, we accepted without hesitation. We were focused on success from the very beginning. Stupp relied on a six prong approach to make sure that no details were overlooked. We counted on our steel supplier relationships, proven, state of the art equipment, installation expertise, world recognized management, quality assurance processes, and a highly regarded coating operation to do it right. Stupp has proven with this success that we continue to be the premiere custom steel line pipe producer in North America.”
Stupp Corporation, established in Baton Rouge, LA in 1952, is the leading North American manufacturer of custom line pipe for the transport of oil and natural gas. With the most modern HFW and now Spiral Weld pipe manufacturing facility in North America, Stupp Corporation is well located to provide pipe for both onshore and offshore pipe line transmission projects, and to export pipe from the Port of Baton Rouge. Stupp is ready to serve the future needs of the domestic energy market.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – UniversalPegasus International has been approved for ISO 9001:2008 certification by ABS Quality Evaluations, USA. The Houston headquarters office has been certified to ISO 9001 since March of 2001. As of March 2010, the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) has now been expanded to include UniversalPegasus International regional offices and its subsidiary companies, Pegasus International Inc. and Peak Power Engineering Inc. As a leading onshore and offshore oil and gas design engineering firm with worldwide operations, UniversalPegasus customers can be confident of the company’s ongoing commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
“This is an important milestone for us,” said Jerry Mayfield, President and CEO of UniversalPegasus International. “Our reputation as a leading services provider to our clients is further enhanced by achieving ISO 9001:2008 certification. This is a clear sign that we are committed to continually improving our QMS in order to meet the needs of our clients and the evolving oil and gas markets.”
The ISO, “International Organization for Standardization 9000″ family of standards represents an international consensus on good management practices with the aim of ensuring that an organization can continually deliver all aspects of UniversalPegasus’ services including onshore and offshore engineering, procurement, survey, inspection, electrical design, and construction management. Further, it emphasizes strong customer focus and top management involvement at every level of the organization.
“UniversalPegasus International’ ISO 9001:2008 Certification builds on the existing ISO infrastructure of commitment to quality and continual improvement.” said James Rodgers, Director/VP Quality, of UniversalPegasus International. “Our staff and management teams have worked enthusiastically to evolve our current QMS in everyday work processes. Our services will contribute to the inherent success of the company and improve customer satisfaction.”
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – UniversalPegasus International’s employees on the TransCanada Keystone XL Project recently received a shared commendation for the vital role they played in the achievement of this milestone. The TransCanada Keystone XL Project completed one (1) year without a recordable incident or accident on the entire project, which runs from Ada, Oklahoma down to Beaumont, Texas. The President’s Award for outstanding Safety Performance was awarded to both UniversalPegasus International and Trow Engineering for their joint achievements and safety partnership on the project.
Project safety representatives John Weatherall, Jerry Garza, Forrest Nelson and Project Safety Manager Joe Whitaker were vital in the success of this milestone, along with all UniversalPegasus employees who are involved in the project. The group is comprised of surveyors, inspectors, project managers, engineers and all associated office staff. Without the individual efforts, determination and commitment to safety of everyone on this project, the milestone could not have been achieved.
We have strong beliefs in regards to safety and we are committed to our companies’ core values with a “We Can – We Will” attitude towards incident prevention and the protection of our most valued asset our employees.
Report Volume XXI, Number 17, May 1st, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Charleston, WV) – Two companies are joining forces to expand natural gas production and transmission in the northern West Virginia part of the Marcellus Shale formation.
NiSource Inc. and MarkWest Liberty Midstream & Resources recently announced plans to bolster natural gas gathering, processing and transmission projects to support a production increase in the Marcellus Shale.
Houston-based NiSource and Denver-based MarkWest Liberty are talking with a number of natural gas producers and pipeline operators about the expansion plans, the companies said.
The pipelines will deliver gas into Smithfield, where Mark- West Liberty plans to build a 120-million-cubic-feet-per-day processing facility next year.
“With the significant increase in drilling activity and recent uplift in deliverability in the Marcellus Shale, there is an immediate need for capacity to allow producers to move gas out of the basis and further develop the area,” said Christopher Helms, NiSource’s CEO.
NiSource’s extensive pipeline network will serve producers in Marshall, Wetzel and Doddridge counties. Natural gas also will be gathered for the NiSource-MarketWest Liberty partnership through non-affiliated natural gas systems in Marion, Harrison, Tyler and Pleasants counties.
NiSource subsidiaries include Columbia Gas Transmission, Hardy Storage and Crossroads Pipeline. The company operates about 15,000 miles of natural gas pipeline and 37 storage fields.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Williamsville, NY) — National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation and Empire Pipeline, Inc, the companies that comprise the Pipeline and Storage segment of National Fuel Gas Company have reached major milestones on two pipeline expansion projects that are the first in the industry designed to receive natural gas produced from the Marcellus Shale and transport it to key markets of Canada and the Northeast U.S. Supply has entered into a binding precedent agreement with Statoil Natural Gas LLC for 100 percent of the capacity on Supply’s “Northern Access” expansion project. Empire also has a binding precedent agreement in place with anchor shipper East Resources, Inc. for Empire’s “Tioga County Extension” project, and is concluding negotiations for additional capacity with a second shipper. The precedent agreements provide for Statoil and East to sign, after satisfaction of conditions, firm transportation service agreements under which Supply and Empire will transport natural gas for Statoil and East.
“The market dynamics generated by the Marcellus Shale development have created a unique opportunity to move gas away from the increasingly competitive Appalachian Basin and into the newly expanding markets of Canada and the Northeast,” said David F. Smith, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of National Fuel. “We are excited to provide the pathway to new markets for Appalachian gas production and we look forward to executing our plans while continuing to identify new opportunities to alleviate regional infrastructure constraints. In addition to these projects, we continue to implement the first phases of other Appalachian infrastructure projects designed to transport 190,000 dekatherms per day for a number of Marcellus producers, including Range Resources Corporation, Seneca Resources Corporation and EOG Resources, Inc.” Supply’s Northern Access expansion project is designed to transport 320,000 dekatherms per day of Marcellus Shale production utilizing Supply’s existing pipelines to an existing interconnection between Supply and TransCanada Pipeline at the Niagara River near Lewiston, New York, for delivery to the diverse markets accessible on the TCPL system. The required project facilities include bidirectional metering at Niagara and at Supply’s interconnects with Tennessee Gas Pipeline at East Aurora, New York, along with incremental compression at Supply’s interconnect with TGP at Ellisburg Station and at East Aurora. Initial estimates place project costs at approximately $60 million, with an expected inservice date of June 1, 2012. The Open Season for firm transportation capacity that concluded on February 17, 2010, received requests for transportation of more than 1.6 million dekatherms per day.
The Statoil agreement, which was executed today, includes a 20-year firm transportation commitment for all of the available 320,000 dekatherms per day of natural gas transportation service from Ellisburg for delivery to Niagara. Statoil is currently a partner in a joint venture with Chesapeake Energy Corporation for the development of natural gas from the Marcellus Shale. Empire’s Tioga County Extension project will stretch approximately 16 miles south from its existing interconnection with Millennium Pipeline at Corning, New York, into Tioga County, Pennsylvania. The project will require the construction of 16 miles of new 24-inch diameter pipeline. Additionally, Empire will replace 1.3 miles of pipeline near Victor, New York, and construct a new interconnection with TGP’s Line 200 in Ontario County, New York. Project costs are estimated to be approximately $45 million and the facilities are expected to be operational by September 1, 2011. The Open Season for the project offered pipeline capacity of at least 300,000 dekatherms per day and concluded on November 25, 2009.
Earlier this year, East executed a precedent agreement that contains a 10-year firm transportation service commitment with Empire for 200,000 dekatherms per day. East’s contracted capacity allows for gas produced in both the Marcellus Shale and Trenton-Black River formations to be delivered to an interconnect with TCPL at the Canadian border between Grand Island, New York, and Chippawa, Ontario, Canada. Based on this anchor shipper support, on January 28, 2010, Empire began the FERC National Environmental Policy Act pre-filing process. Additionally, Empire expects to conclude negotiations with another shipper for an additional 150,000 dekatherms per day. “These two projects are the most recent examples of our continued progress in executing on our Appalachian development strategy across multiple subsidiaries of our Company,” said Smith. “From Seneca Resources Corporation’s accelerating Marcellus Shale drilling program, to our ongoing investment in National Fuel Gas Midstream Corporation’s gathering assets, to market broadening projects like these from Supply and Empire, our Company is positioned to be a key player in the increasingly important Appalachian market.”
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – Officials with the Williams’ Transco natural gas pipeline system are currently planning the addition of a six-mile loop parallel to three existing natural gas lines in Gaston County to improve delivery and increase capacity.
The Williams’ Transco pipeline, which has operated in Gaston County since the 1950s, includes more than 10,000 miles of pipe from Texas to New York City, delivering 8.6 billion cubic feet of gas each day. That’s more than any other transmission pipeline in the country, said Chris Stockton, a spokesman for Williams’ Transco.
Current plans would add 23 miles of new pipe in Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas, including three new loops in Gaston, Davidson and Rowan counties and modification of an existing compressor facility in Cleveland County.
If approved, the new Gaston loop would start at an existing valve setting on Franklin Boulevard east of Kings Mountain and end near the Gastonia Technology Park in Dallas.
“It’s a big project,” Stockton said. “As demand for gas grows, we have to add capacity so we can move more gas through the system.”
The company has scheduled a public workshop April 29 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Gaston Citizens’ Resource Center, 1303 Cherryville Highway (N.C. 279), in Dallas, to provide residents with information about the project.
Williams’ Transco expects to file a formal application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in October. If approved, the projected timeline calls for construction to begin in September 2011 and finish a year later.
Report Volume XXI, Number 16, April 15th, 2010
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – The $3 billion Ruby Pipeline project to carry natural gas from Wyoming to the West Coast, a project that garnered the support of Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter, has received federal approval.
El Paso Corp. said recently that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has approved the project.
The Ruby Pipeline will run 675 miles between a hub at Opal, Wyo., and a connection point near the Oregon-California border.
Ritter asked FERC in February 2009 to approve the project.
“We are at a place where added infrastructure is needed for when the economy comes back,” Ritter said then. “When the economy comes back, and it will come back, more infrastructure will be needed to get our gas to market.”
The pipeline, 42 inches in diameter, will have the capacity to ship up to 1.5 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas. El Paso said it’s still waiting for right-of-way approval from the federal Bureau of Land Management, but expects construction to start within a few months with completion expected in March 2011.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – UniversalPegasus International has promoted Craig Pierrotti in the corporate role of Vice President of Business Development.
Pierrotti has fifteen years of experience in the energy industry and has been the Director of Business Development for UniversalPegasus’ Offshore division. Now, Pierrotti will facilitate overall Domestic and International business development at the corporate level.
“We are very pleased to have Craig join our team. His skills and achievements will be an asset to our company,” stated Jerry Mayfield, President and CEO of UniversalPegasus International.
Perriotti’s goal is to build a larger and stronger business development team to assist with the expansion initiatives. “We hope this will better assist our clients as well as provide support to our projects in the future”, says Perriotti.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Baton Rouge, LA) – Jared Riddle, son of Mr.& Mrs. David Riddle, is the winner of Stupp Bros. Bridge & Iron Co. Foundation merit-based scholarship, a potential 4 year award of up to $10,000 per year.
Jared currently attends Central Private School where he is enrolled in all Honors classes and has a 3.93 GPA. He plans to study Biology or Wildlife Management at an in-state school – maybe LSU.
Jared is the third award recipient whose parent is employed in the Stupp Fabrication Shop in Baton Rouge. “We are very proud of Jared and his accomplishments and wish him a bright future. It is a source of pride to all Stupp employees that one of our own has received this generous award” concluded Ed Scram, COO and President of Stupp Corporation.
Stupp Corporation, established in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 1952, is a leading North American manufacturer of custom line pipe for the transport of oil and natural gas. With the most modern ERW pipe making facility in North America, Stupp Corporation is well located to provide pipe for both onshore and offshore transmission pipeline projects, and to export pipe from the Port of Baton Rouge.
Stupp Bros., Inc., founded in St. Louis, Missouri in 1856, is the privately held parent company for Stupp Corporation. The nonprofit Stupp Foundation was established in 1952.
INDUSTRY NEWS (Houston, TX) – PipeLine Machinery International (PLM) President Mel Ternan, on behalf of the Board of PLM is pleased to announce that Scot Jenkins has taken on the new position of Vice President Asia Pacific Region. He joins the executive team at PLM and will hold full responsibility for growing PLM’s investment and impact in the China and Asia Pacific pipeline markets.
Scot joined PLM in 2009 and has been working on developing PLM’s presence in China and the Asia Pacific region. While leading the sales and product support team on the ground in the area, he has been instrumental in establishing a corporate presence in Beijing as well as setting up region headquarters in Singapore.
Scot holds Mechanical Engineering and MBA degrees and has extensive experience with establishing support and sales offices in the Asia Pacific region, including China. Prior to joining PLM, he held senior positions in the compression industry providing marketing and business development in Asia and China along with sales and manufacturing-side experience in Europe.
“Scot has built some solid relationships throughout the China and Asian business community and is well-respected for his knowledge and sensitivity to the needs and styles of the international business community,” Ternan said. “With the growth of our business in the region, Scot’s expertise in the establishment of local processes and agreements suited to that business environment has been a tremendous advantage. In the past year he has shown an excellent grasp of the customer base and the inherent business challenges of the region.”
The expansion of PLM’s Asia- Pacific team is designed to address the long-term growth in the China pipeline construction industry as well as growing pipeline and LNG opportunities throughout India and Southeast Asia. “With the current success of our equipment provisioning contract on the Papua New Guinea LNG plant construction and pipeline project, we see many opportunities ahead for Caterpillar purpose- built and traditional equipment to serve the industry,” remarked Ternan. “Scot will lead the PLM team in Asia-Pacific and participate at the executive level in overall leadership of the company.”