Following completion of the long-term modernization project, ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ Breda is now preparing to launch more specialist fracture mechanics testing and 'fitness for service' engineering critical assessments (ECAs) in early 2014.
Rick Sluiters, ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½’s VP of Europe Operations, says: “From next year, ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ Breda will be joined by laboratories at Houston and Aberdeen in forming part of ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½'s international testing platform offering a globally standardized, advanced ECA service in three of the most active O&G locations in the world.
ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ Breda's floor space has been increased to over 990 sq m and the building has simultaneously undergone a radical redesign to provide a more open, efficient layout, which is predicted to reduce lead times for customers who, thanks to the redesign, will now be able to view tests as they are being conducted.
Alongside the upgrade, there has also been significant investment in new equipment for the laboratory, which includes test frames and the latest digital servo controllers. Following the expansion and in order to support new service offerings in demand among Major clients, the laboratory has also undertaken an extensive recruitment drive, welcoming nine new staff members.
As a result, the laboratory’s fracture mechanics department has effectively doubled and is being supported in developing leading-edge test methodologies by Andy Barron, an internationally recognized technical specialist with many years of experience in fatigue and fracture mechanics.
“This is a significant milestone for ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½'s strategic growth plans in the Oil & Gas sector, as we develop new capabilities in order to continue providing Majors with world-class materials testing services,” Rick concludes.
About ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½:
ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ is a company with a global presence; its laboratories are staffed by experts specializing in materials testing, product qualification testing and failure analysis for the Aerospace & Defense, Oil & Gas, Power Generation, and Transportation sectors. ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½’s team of 1,400 scientists, engineers and technicians work in 40 laboratories located throughout the U.S. and Europe. For complete Accreditations & Approvals and more information, please visit www.element.com.Media Contact:
Alison Dwyer or Benjamin Pfeffer, Smith & Smith PR Ltd., tel: +44 161 927 9487, e-mail: element@smithandsmithpr.co.uk.“This is a significant milestone for ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½'s strategic growth plans in the Oil & Gas sector.”
Rick Sluiters
vp, european operations