Eztek Exceeds Expectations

(As printed in Issue 514 of Roustabout)

Eztek Limited is proud to be designing and manufacturing an improved version of a Surface Electronic Control Panel (SECP) for use in the Shah Deniz project. As with all products designed and manufactured by Eztek, the focus is on creating a solution that minimizes user error, limits downtime, and reduces installation time.

Eztek, a global supplier of electronic instrumentation for the oil and gas industry, has a history of working with Expro, a leading international services company, to design and manufacture their compact 15Kpsi SECP systems.

Eztek also supplies Simulation Panels, which allow Expro to carry out full testing of surface equipment prior to interfacing with subsea equipment. These include RCM, umbilical and SOV simulators, all provided as 19” rack panels for easy transportation and setup.

Overcoming Challenges

SECPS are an important part of the topside equipment used to control and monitor the operation of 8 distinct functions within the Riser Control Module (RCM). The SECP interfaces with the RCM via topside electrical jumpers and the subsea umbilical.

The SECP is based within a compact DNV 2.7.1 certified frame, which contains instrumentation suitable for ATEX Zone 2 hazardous area. The system includes ESD controls and Local HMI, which interfaces with a Zone 1 HMI system. The integrated UPS ensures safe shut down during a power outage. The unit also includes a full redundancy backup control system that ensures continuous operation in the event of a primary system failure.

The frame’s compact design ensures it is easily transportable and takes up little space on the platform. Its lockable stainless steel doors protect the unit in transportation and normal operation mode.

Following the delivery of the initial design some engineering changes were required, however Eztek worked directly with Expro to implement these quickly and meet the high standards required for this project.

“Working closely with our clients is rewarding,” says Eztek’s General Manager, Robin Hunter. “The SECP projects have met with some challenges. However, with our excellent in house team of designers and skilled assembly technicians, we were able to overcome these in a professional and prompt manner, ensuring the delivery exceeded expectations.”

Daniel More, Expro’s Technology Director, added, “Expro was delighted to win the contract for the provision of landing string technologies on Stage 2 of Shah Deniz. We are pleased to continue our close technology collaboration with Eztek on this very important project.”

Optimizing SECP Design

The latest design is for a ‘simplified SECP’, due for completion later this year. Because the units will be used in both shallow and deep water fields, the connectors have been designed with different key positions for the varying umbilical cable lengths. This simplified setup prevents the cables from being attached in the incorrect way, adding another level of safety. The circuitry behind the connectors also increases efficiency as it removes the need to reconfigure the software for each setup, saving valuable time.

This design includes a pneumatic shut down panel with third-party interface, all contained in a small frame envelope.

The new units are due to ship out later this year and will be used in the Shah Deniz project in the South Caspian Sea.

Engineering Flexible Solutions

The company is also currently working on new designs in their other product ranges, including a version of their TalkBack intercom system that interfaces with drilling cyber-chairs, a new battery-powered version of their TallyBook Touch 7 data logger, and a battery-operated version of their MultiLog workshop data logger.

“The battery-operated MultiLog will be of huge benefit to our clients,” says Regional Sales Engineer, Tom McMillan. “Our clients need to be flexible, just as we do, to provide the best value for those they work for. The MultiLog is already several steps above paper chart recorders. A portable, battery-powered unit will allow the user to set up a temporary test location where needed, without having to spend time linking to a power source.”

Expanding Production

Following Eztek’s recent move into their new office building, the company is focused on expanding its production and design teams.

With their clients in mind, Eztek have recently set up a dedicated calibration and repair department. This investment, including trained staff and testing and calibration equipment, is available to clients who wish to FAT prior to accepting delivery.

“We are on track to hit our growth target for this year,” says Mr. Hunter. “We are committed to using that success to fuel future growth by investing in staffing, efficiency improvements and new product design.”