With support from the international Scottish Enterprise team, SVS were given the opportunity to demonstrate their capability and proven track record to personnel within the relevant organisations.

They will be supplied to China for assembly as part of a foundation package in an active offshore windfarm project, the valves will then be used for grouting the jackets during installation off the coast of Scotland.

A great win and contribution to a greener future in Scotland, along with building greater international relations with China.

 The SVS TVM System focuses on the modernisation, organisation & improvement of the operator’s current monitoring & maintenance regime. We work in close liaison with asset process and operations, mechanical, C&I (Controls & Instrumentation), maintenance and procurement departments, gaining an understanding of the operator’s current standards and working methods to deliver a value-added service.

SVS mobilise specialist Field Service Engineers to perform proactive / reactive valve maintenance on site, provide on-the-job training, analyse in-situ valve performance and degradation or failure.

Each of SVS’ field staff are highly experienced in the comprehensive examination of all valves and associated equipment at operator sites in adherence to client and SVS standards, this is done through means of surveyance. Irrespective of any valve and/or actuator survey scale, SVS always plan accordingly prior to personnel mobilisation and survey execution. During the initial planning phase, we conduct a criticality ranking review against asset plans and define applicable areas of importance.

Valve survey records are created specific to site locations and data is recorded using our specialist methodology, all data can be easily transcoded into the operator’s CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) by SVS. This allows us to highlight trends in common failure modes of which data can be used to accompany RCA investigations to determine the root cause of regular failures, SVS can then provide additional support to close any GAPs against any proven anomalies with our GAP analysis approach.

We work closely with the client in forecasting / planning of current and future activities, this ensures full visibility of requirements for the client ahead of time. It also allows operators to put suitable means of risk mitigation and prevention in place to reduce the reactive workload as much as possible, moving focus to a proactive mind-set. We manage and conduct repair, overhaul and supply requirements that derive from this work at our purpose-built headquarters in Aberdeen. Here we hold inventory of specialist long-lead valves and actuators and operate a full engineering facility, including a test and automation shop in one location.

All information is conveyed to our client’s through regular meetings and reports with much of the data attained used to support further processes within our TVM scope, including but not limited to stock and spares management, critical replacement / replenishment strategies and engineering reviews.

 

For further information please contact us on the below and we would be happy to assist with any and all enquiries:

sales@svservices.com / +44 1224 278 840

 

 

 Firesafe Testing

A critical and important industry required test to show that a valve can retain its integrity following a high temperature (750˚C - 1000 ˚C), monitored burning process to prove that following any given fire in service the valve can still provide the required shut off. As with any specialised testing, as design evolves, so does the testing parameters. We as a company are finding more and more end users looking for double isolation in line, and one of the best methods of achieving this is with a Double Block and Bleed ball valve (DBB).

The image shown is of just such a valve. Where there are gaps in the industry standards surrounding the burning of DBB designs, we have targeted this along with the manufacturers and the client directly to burn a valve to an individual test procedure to give the confidence that every potential instance of failure is checked.

This particular high specified, 4” class 2500 DBB valve manufactured by Indra SRL , the cavity pressure was measured at very short intervals to ensure no over pressurisation during the burn. SVS took this a step further to witness the test along with our client, and viewed a completely successful test.

By doing this we have given the client confidence in the valve design as well as proving the high quality of the product supplied.

http://www.indra.it/en/

 

Low Temperature Testing

When valves are subjected to low temperatures, a method to prove the integrity of the valve  is a low temperature test to prove that a valve can operate successfully at such conditions without the risk of leakage. The test is determined along with the client as to the “operation” or “seal and survive” criteria.

Where a valve is to be operated at low temperatures then there is high focus on the elastomers utilised. As a generalisation a Lip seal type is best proven, however where these are not best suited to aggressive medium then there may be a requirement to utilise specialised o-rings.

This particular valve was for a large project with this aggressive service medium. The most suitable elastomer for the service was -6C short of the required temperature range. SVS carried out a risk analysis with the elastomer manufacturer on the use of this valve at such low temperature test, we worked also in conjunction with the valve manufacturer on the design and test parameters to assess every potential risk.

In a combined effort to prove this elastomer was fit for purpose, a bespoke test was carried out to prove that any glass transition of the o-ring would not affect the valve operation tight shut off. This test was witnessed at the manufacturer by SVS and shared with the end user. Thus proving the elastomer was suitable for the supply and again instilling the confidence in a high quality valve package.

https://www.jameswalker.biz/

 

Pushing the boundaries for our customers and manufacturers.”

 

 

It has been essential that we continue to operate as close to full capacity as possible through the everchanging situation we have all faced, this starts with our own staff and ensuring that everyone continues to work in a safe and efficient manner while complying fully with Government and NHS guidelines. Our flexible and robust IT systems have allowed us to implement remote working instantly for those that can work from home. We have also updated our procedures, cleaning routines and PPE requirements, mitigating risk within our workshop facilities too. The exceptional level of teamwork, commitment and hard work of all personnel at SVS is what provides our clients with the high level of service they deserve, especially during these challenging times.

With extensive experience supporting clients internationally we already had many of the required arrangements in place that have allowed us to continue communicating with key personnel within their organisations, providing real-time updates on upcoming deliveries and holding regular planning & review meetings without schedule changes. We have been working closely with our Total Valve Management clients to assist with re-arranging and executing planned shutdown and maintenance scopes. This is entirely in line with their requirements and we endeavour to do so, optimally and safely.

Likewise, we continue to support our Project clients taking their current circumstances fully into consideration to adapt and meet their needs. This has included carrying out preparatory measures for a circa 15,000 sq ft managed storage space within our Hull based facility.

Our close relationships with manufacturers and stockists within our supply chain, many of which are in badly affected countries and areas, have allowed us to keep close contact and monitor on-going activity, provide remote engineering support where required and most importantly, ensure we can still deliver in a timely, efficient and professional manner to our customers. Our dedicated expediting teams have been working around the clock to ensure that this is possible.

Our thoughts are with all our customers, suppliers, friends and their families that have been affected by the outbreak of Covid-19.

For any overhaul, supply or valve management enquiries, contact us now at: sales@svservices.com

 

 

 Here at SVS, we are huge believers in supporting local charities and so it was decided, on the night to arrange various raffles and auctions.  Collectively we raised a tremendous £4495.00 to be split between four local charities. A big THANK YOU, to all who made contributions on the night.

Gerry Henry (Managing Director at SVS) quoted – “This charity is a very important one to me and my family personally, we have known Finlay and his family for many years and wanted to donate the money to Finlay’s Fund to in order to provide continued day-to-day support for Finlay.”

Finlay’s Fund is a local charity and aims to provide financial support to Finlay Sangster who suffers from a neurological syndrome condition called Cerebral Palsy. The money raised by the charity allows his family to consistently ensure he has the best therapy and equipment to make daily life accessible.

The Fund was formed in 2009 after the success of a one-off event and the realisation that disabled equipment and therapy costs were beyond the reach of Finlay’s parents.

The Fund committee was quickly formed with volunteers who were keen to see Finlay thrive by providing him with the best!

Other Charities supported on the night were:

• Finlay’s Fund
• Dravet Syndrome
• Foyer Aberdeen
• CLAN Cancer

Here at SVS, we are huge believers in supporting local charities and so it was decided on the night of our 20th Anniversay party, to arrange various raffles and auctions.  Collectively we raised a tremendous £4495.00 to be split between four local charities. A big THANK YOU, to all who made contributions on the night.

Accepting the cheque on behalf of Dravet Syndrome UK were Angela, Michael & Nathan Snowie, along with SVS’s, Managing Director Gerry Henry and Sales Manger Alina Forbes.

Linzi Cowley - Fundraising Co-ordinator for Dravet Syndrome UK said... We would like to say a huge thank you to all of the wonderful staff and partners at Specialist Valve Services Ltd in Aberdeenshire, along with Alina Forbes, for our nomination - your support will make a huge and significant difference to the lives of those living with this catastrophic condition”

Alina Forbes (Sales Manager) quoted – “This charity is a very important one to me personally, as it has affected my best friends’ family. Dravet syndrome is a very rare form of childhood epilepsy. Out of 500 children with epilepsy, only one, or at most two, children are likely to have this form of epilepsy.

The condition isn’t one that is detected from birth, but the seizures start in the first year of life. The seizures can be prolonged and frequent, meaning that care needs to be around the young babies and children by people that can deal with the patient appropriately. Having heard about the effects that some of these seizures have had on wee Nathan is pretty heart-breaking. With each seizure it can bring behavioural and developmental delays also sleeping difficulties and chronic infections. It’s a very hard task for the family surrounding a child with this syndrome due to the behavioural changes.

Not being a specialist on the condition but having heard and seen the effects it has had on my friend’s nephew has been quite difficult to listen to. This donation will hopefully assist a little in further research for these young children, so there is more of an understanding of the condition and support those children living with the condition on a daily basis.”

Dravet Syndrome UK is an independent UK charity dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Dravet syndrome through support, education and medical research.

The charity was founded in October 2008 and registered with the Charity Commission of England and Wales in January 2009. It was founded by parents looking for support and information about treatments and research, all of which was sadly lacking in the UK at that time. Since the charity was founded the membership has risen from just thirty families to almost four hundred.

 

Other Charities supported on the night were:

• Finlay’s Fund
• Dravet Syndrome
• Foyer Aberdeen
• CLAN Cancer

Front of Camera we have Apache’s new Project Group Manager, Hamish Westwater. Working behind the scenes we have Anne Hedrich, Corporate Communications Manager at Apache, over from the Houston office. Along with Joanna Pirie, the Communications Specialist at Apache Aberdeen, and behind the camera the very talented Videographer/ Photographer Stuart Conway.     

SVS supply, design, modify and test valves for Apache worldwide.   SVS have built up a strong working relationship with Apache to deliver projects on time and on a budget. Our small but efficient and experienced teams, collaborate to supply the best working solutions for Apache, offering, value for money without sacrificing the quality and integrity.

Here at SVS, we are huge believers in supporting local charities and so it was decided, on the night to arrange various raffles and auctions.

Collectively we raised a tremendous £4495.00 to be split between four local charities. A big THANK YOU, to all who made contributions on the night.

Accepting the cheque from Gerry Henry (Director) was Maureen Wilson (Communications Manager) from Clan Support in Aberdeen

Moureen Quoted... “We were delighted to receive a kind donation of £1,123.75 from the charity auction held at THE SVS’s 20^th Anniversary dinner dance. This money will allow CLAN Cancer Support to continue to deliver person-centred services for anyone affected by a cancer diagnosis in north-east Scotland, Moray, Orkney and Shetland.

Thanks to donations like this, CLAN is able to provide a wide range of services including information and support, counselling, complementary therapies, social and wellbeing activities and dedicated support for children and families. All our services are delivered by highly experienced and qualified counsellors and therapists.

For those travelling to Aberdeen hospitals for appointments or treatment, we also offer ‘home from home’ bed and breakfast accommodation at CLAN Haven as well as assistance with transport to and from hospital.”

Gerry Henry (Director at SVS) quoted – “We always like to support local charities and we see CLAN as a very important one in the local community, here at SVS, we have all been affected in some way by Cancer and the devastating effects it has on our families and friends and collectively we all decided it was important to support people living with cancer in the local area.”

CLAN Cancer Support is a well-established, local charity providing emotional and practical support to people affected by cancer, their family, carers and friends.

Services are freely offered to all from pre-diagnosis and diagnosis through treatment and beyond at support and wellbeing centres located across north-east Scotland, Moray, Orkney and Shetland.

Our aim is to help people live with and beyond their or their loved ones cancer diagnosis and improve the quality of life for all those who turn to us for help and support.

 

Other Charities supported on the night were:

• Finlay’s Fund
• Dravet Syndrome
• Foyer Aberdeen
• CLAN Cancer

Collectively we raised a tremendous £4495.00, to be split between four local charities. A big THANK YOU, to all who made contributions on the night.

The Foyer is a successful social enterprise working to support individuals in communities in the North East of Scotland.

Accepting the cheque from Gerry Henry (Director) was Cathy Simpson (Communications Manager) at Aberdeen Foyer

Leona McDermid, (Foyer Chief Executive) quoted... “Certain elements of our work attract little or no public funding. Often it is these hard to fund elements that can and do provide that little bit extra needed to make a lasting change in someone’s life.  For example, clothes for an interview, a bag of toiletries, a bus pass or bike to get to work, equipment required for college/school or a training course that can help someone achieve the qualifications needed to move into work.

We very much appreciate the support and generosity of SVS staff in raising money to invest in the Foyer, allowing us to continue to be imaginative in our approach in providing local people in our communities, who are most in need, a stepping stone into independent living, learning and work.”

Gerry Henry (Director at SVS) quoted – “We always like to support local charities and see it as our way of giving back to the community. Supporting young people in the community is very important to us, everyone deserves to have the same opportunities, to live life to their full potential.”

Established in Aberdeen in 1995 in response to concerns about youth homelessness and unemployment, the Foyer has reached beyond its early focus and provides various services across the region. The Foyer helps people build confidence and develop their skills and talents to make major and lasting changes in their lives.

Foyer provides accommodation with support to former homeless and at risk young people. Delivering services such as - education, training, mentoring, counselling, employment support, and health improvement initiatives to people of all ages.

Other Charities supported on the night were:

• Finlay’s Fund
• Dravet Syndrome
• Foyer Aberdeen
• CLAN Cancer

Our 20th Birthday is a huge cause for celebration at SVS. The 20 year anniversary marks an important milestone for us as we look back on our growth, accomplishments, and relationships built with customers, staff and the community. 

A warm thank you to all of our customers, staff members and partners who attended our Anniversary dinner at the Marcliffe Hotel on Saturday the 20th of November, who made it a memorable night to remember. To those who could not attend thank you for your kind congratulatory messages.

Gerry Henry (Company Director) quoted “The last 20 years can be defined as a kaleidoscope of incredible memories, challenges and a lot of hard work. The business has undergone massive changes such as restructuring, moving to new premises and globalisation, but SVS has become stronger and more efficient than ever before.

My employees who were, are and will always be my intellectual assets and have always stood by my side and helped to make SVS what is it today. I am very lucky to have such a fantastic team of dedicated and loyal employees.

Thanks, you to all who shared the night with us and made it a night to remember, it meant a lot to me and to the staff.  I would also like to thank all our customer and partners who have helped us along the way.

Thank you for a special 20 years and here’s to celebrating the next successful chapter together.”

During the night we also held various raffles in aid of charity and raised a colossal £4,748.50  for the following local charities. Thank you to all who contributed, it means a lot to us.

• Finlay’s Fund
• Dravet Syndrome
• Foyer Aberdeen
• CLAN Cancer