Brammer digs deep with specialist panel design

Each of the vessels used for the transportation process from offshore rigs typically accommodates up to 16 tanks. The panels produced by Brammer control the operation of pumps which help to transport the tank contents by passing air through the tank interior, as well as managing the filling and emptying of the tanks. Each tank has chambers and process valves, all controlled from the Atex-rated stainless steel panel.

Each of the two designs of panel can take 8-10 hours to construct. The tanks and panels are being supplied to exploration projects run by the likes of BP and Shell as far afield as Italy, Russia and the Middle East, as well as to the North Sea.

They are designed to operate in the demanding environment of oil and gas extraction, with a robust, corrosion-resistant design able to protect against the effects of salt water; laser-engraved text due to the propensity of labels to detach and melt in very hot conditions; and automatic shut-off. Integrated timers allow the panels to run in automatic mode or manual mode, while the panels also incorporate heavy-duty SMC lever valves which are suited for use in extreme weather conditions.

Per Stale Grude of Halliburton comments: "Our tanks require a precise yet robust control panel and Brammer were able to combine the most suitable components in a bespoke design which allows for easy and rapid control. We are currently commissioning around 40 panels per annum from Brammer but anticipate significant further growth to meet customer demand."

Brammer's Technical Specialist - Control Panels and Pneumatics, Francie Gill, says: "This is an exciting project for us and confirms the capabiity of our in-house panel building team to meet the exacting demands of leading global players. The project demands not just precision control but a high degree of robustness given the environments in which the equipment is operating."

For more information on the full range of products and services offered by Brammer, including control panels, visit www.brammer.ie.