Integrating AI engine into 3DView application

MOLDE, Norway, January 10, 2024 – Axess Digital has enhanced the 3DView application launched in 2023, by integrating an Artificial Intelligence (AI) engine. As part of the suite of applications within the inspection software, Bridge, the purpose of 3DView is to enable seamless collaboration and sharing of 3D models, eliminating the need for specialised hardware or software.

The AI engine was developed to enhance efficiency by streamlining the inspection process. Upon uploading data to the application, the AI identifies defects before users verify the accuracy. This is an ongoing process, where any corrections made by users will be utilised as training data for developing new AI models.

(Photo: Example of annotations made by AI)

Additional enhancements include the capability to view images in a carousel and the option to filter images with annotations from users or AI. It is also possible to divide the 3D models into zones for more precise reporting and to assist in monitoring inspection progress. The solution also pinpoints the locations of defects in the images on the corresponding 3D model, enabling the identification of unique defects and the calculation of lengths and areas. This approach facilitates the efficient evaluation of defects suggested by the AI, and enables users to conduct manual inspections on specific parts of the 3D model.

All processes and data are run and stored in Microsoft Azure, offering the best security and reliability within the industry. In addition, Axess Digital will soon obtain ISO 27001 certification. Conformance to the globally recognised standard for information security management systems, underscores its dedication to IT security, cybersecurity and privacy protection.

“To date, we have utilised this application to inspect bridges and tanks for cracks. Our commitment is to continuously enhance productivity and efficiency for clients by consistently improving the capabilities of our AI models. This involves detecting more defects with greater accuracy, while ensuring the security of all information,” Ole-Erich Haas, Head of Product Development at Axess Digital said.

Axess Group emerges as a global leader in high-voltage cable pull-in operations for floating wind turbines

MOLDE, Norway, January 4, 2024 – The completion of high-voltage cable pull-in operations for Equinor’s Hywind Tampen and two floating wind farms in the Mediterranean Sea has firmly established Axess Group as the most experienced supplier in this specialised field.

To date, the burgeoning floating wind sector has about 30 turbines in operation, and Axess has performed cable pull-in operations for 17 of them.

“We take pride in our dedicated team that ensures seamless project planning and execution. These projects have equipped us with valuable experience to contribute to other wind projects, and we eagerly anticipate contributing to the progress within this sector,” Erik Wold Aalde, Director of Renewables at Axess Technologies said.

Axess Group offers a comprehensive approach by providing both cable pull-in and termination & testing services as an integrated package. This strategy proves effective for both bottom-fixed and floating offshore wind turbines, resulting in efficiency gains, reduced overall project risk and decreased capital expenditure. Beyond the operational expertise, Axess Technologies also offers in-house cable pull-in systems ranging from 2T to 35T, for both sale and rental.

Axess Group secures frame agreement extension with global leader in wind energy

MOLDE, Norway, December 7, 2023 – Axess Group has signed another frame agreement extension with a global wind energy company.

The frame agreement encompasses the provision of inspection and maintenance services to its onshore wind farms located in Northern and Central Europe. This includes a wide range of scopes aimed at ensuring the functionality, safety and overall performance of the wind turbines. It involves inspecting and maintaining vital components such as safety and lifting equipment, anchor points and fire suppression equipment.

Julia Winkler, Business Development Manager – Renewables at Axess Group, said, “The client is a leading player in the wind industry and we are thrilled to continue the successful partnership since 2018. In 2023 alone, we inspected over 400 wind turbine generators. This milestone is significant for us and reflects our commitment to support our partner in delivering best-in-class wind energy solutions.”

Axess Technologies secures caisson replacement contract with Equinor on Oseberg C

MOLDE, Norway, November 28, 2023 – Axess Technologies has signed a caisson replacement contract with Equinor, an international energy company.

The scope of work includes the replacement of four caissons on Oseberg C, located in the North Sea. Through a study conducted earlier in 2023, it was determined that the replacement method would be similar to what was done on the Brage platform in 2018, which saved almost 1 700 tCO₂e for the client.

The engineering and procurement phases have already begun. The offshore preparation campaign, including subsea preparations, and the operations are planned to take place in 2024.

Jan Owe Stenløs, Director – Solutions at Axess Technologies, said, “We are grateful for another opportunity to work closely with Equinor on such a significant project. Our replacement method is an innovative one, which involves performing the lifting operations below the platform deck with the aid of a specialised ROV. This eliminates the need for a support vessel, which significantly reduces carbon emissions. The caisson replacement will ensure a stable seawater supply for Oseberg C for its remaining lifetime.”

Facts about Equinor, visit Equinor.com

Header photo: Øyvind Hagen / © Equinor

Revolutionising tank inspections with advanced technology

Client: Global renewable energy company
Industry: Infrastructure
Asset: Fuel tank for district heating local hub
Location: Norway
Year: 2023

Challenge

The client was in the process of transitioning from conventional diesel to eco-friendly biodiesel, derived from renewable sources like plants and crops. As part of this transition, they needed to assess the current state of the tank to ensure that it was in operationally good condition before commencing the biofuel filling process.

Recognising the importance of regulatory compliance, Axess’ QC team in Norway was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the cleaning process and executing inspection activities. The latter was carried out in accordance with the Norwegian DSB’s regulatory requirements for atmospheric storage tanks as well as recognised norms.

Solution

The cleaning process employed high-pressure water jetting, which is a highly-effective method. Pressurised water was used to thoroughly clean and remove any contaminants, debris, or deposits from the tank’s interior surfaces, ensuring that there were no substances that could potentially interfere with applied techniques for inspection.

Subsequently, a thorough assessment of the tank was conducted to guarantee its structural integrity. This assessment involved the utilisation of advanced Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) floorscan technology to scan the tank floor. This method provided a detailed analysis of its surface condition and detected any potential issues such as defects or thickness irregularities due to corrosion.

Furthermore, to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the tank’s three-dimensional structure and integrity, a state-of-the-art laser scanner was employed. Utilising this technology enabled the creation of a precise 3D scan of the entire tank, offering a detailed and accurate representation of its shape and structural components which was later evaluated. The scan could also aid the production of construction drawings that are either missing or need to be updated due to larger repairs or modifications.

(Photo: Axess employee inspecting the tank using FloormapX)

Results

The examination of MFL scans and the analysis of the 3D scan data yielded evidence of the tank’s structural integrity.

The successful results of the inspection provided the client with the assurance needed to continue using the tank. This outcome not only upheld stringent regulatory compliance but also safeguarded the client’s operational continuity and financial resources by avoiding substantial modifications or tank replacement.

“For us at Axess, being technology-driven is a commitment to enhancing value for asset owners, and to maximise the potential of their assets. As one of the few companies in Norway equipped with an extensive portfolio of cutting-edge equipment and a skilled workforce, we ensure that tank inspections are executed with unparalleled efficiency and quality,” Øystein Aamo, Department Director – QC at Axess Group said.

Expanded partnership with world’s leading integrated energy company

MOLDE, Norway, November 21, 2023 – Collaboration between Axess North America and an American multinational energy corporation has paved the way for an expanded partnership that now includes Axess Australia.

Since the Master Services Agreement (MSA) was signed in 2021, Axess Group has carried out crane audit services around the globe to provide assurance to the client’s project teams.

Looking ahead, Axess Australia is set to contribute its specialised expertise in lifting engineering services, including the preparation and review of lifting plans, delivery of complex lifting engineering solutions and lifting consultancy services.

The strategic diversification of the partnership’s scope is aligned with the evolving needs of the client.

Ruano Stumpf, Regional Manager – Oceania at Axess Group, said, “Axess has established itself as a specialist supplier of complex lifting operations in the Oceania market. Clients have engaged us to review and ensure that their lifting operations are carried out safely and efficiently. Additionally, we are entrusted to deliver full turnkey projects, from the planning and engineering phases to the execution on site.”

Axess Group secures contracts for US offshore wind farm under construction

MOLDE, Norway, November 9, 2023 – Axess Group has secured multiple contracts with several developers and tier 1 clients for an offshore wind farm that is under construction in the United States (US).

These involve quality assurance and quality control inspections of wind turbine components for the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), vessel maintenance, US regulatory compliance, statutory inspections and crane inspections. These are essential for maintaining safety, optimising performance and complying with regulations.

Additionally, Axess is also delivering compliance services and vessel inspections using eCMID (Common Marine Inspection Document), which is not a common service offered in the US. This ensures that the vessels are compliant before being chartered to install the wind turbines.

Thomas Lynch, Managing Director – Boston at Axess Group, said, “We are excited to provide these needed services to our clients in the emerging US offshore wind industry. We have built an extremely talented and experienced team here that can provide value-added solutions to operators and developers.”

(Photo: Nacelles ready for load out in New Bedford, MA)

PSV and Instrument Calibration onboard drilling rig in Norway

Client: International offshore drilling contractor
Industry: Drilling
Asset: Semi-submersible rig
Location: Norway
Year: 2023

Challenge

The client required an annual pressure safety valve (PSV) and instrument calibration on its semi-submersible rig. The purpose was to ensure safety, regulatory compliance and the long-term reliability of equipment.

Solution

Using compact and advanced equipment, the Axess Norway team tested PSVs, pressure relief valves (PRVs), density transmitters and level transmitters, and calibrated pressure gauges, pressure transmitters as well as temperature sensors.

Traditionally, large testing containers were used for such projects. In contrast, our equipment was easily transported offshore using ZARGES boxes on a pallet. This approach not only minimised deck space and the demands on crane capacity, but also reduced transit time and associated costs, providing significant value to the client.

In addition, the multi-skilled team also performed non-destructive testing (NDT) of a lifting sub, inspected critical drilling equipment, and more.

(Photo: Testing of ballast level sensors)

Results

In total, 370 instruments were calibrated and 271 PSVs and PRVs were tested during a yard stay. Findings were all uploaded to Bridge, Axess Digital’s inspection software.

Replacements for PSVs and instruments that failed the inspection were also sourced. Subsequently, calibration was carried out in the warehouse situated at the headquarters, to ensure that the quality of the products meets Axess’ standards, as they are often manufactured in large batches where only a small percentage is spot-checked for accuracy.

“Having an up-to-date maintenance programme is essential for ensuring equipment reliability, safety, compliance with regulations, cost-efficiency, and prolonged equipment life. The phenomenal teamwork between Axess and the client enabled the timely completion of the project. Our enduring partnership stands as a testament to our shared commitment to excellence and our expertise within the industry,” Kristoffer Roberts, Service Manager – PSV & Instrument Calibration at Axess Group said.

(Photo: Calibration of pressure transmitters on riser tensioner system)

Axess Technologies wins riser replacement contract with Equinor for platforms in the North Sea

MOLDE, Norway, October 10, 2023 – Axess Technologies has secured a riser replacement contract with Equinor, an international energy company.

The contract includes replacing 3 multi-purpose risers using Equinor’s linear winch on Visund, and replacing a water injection riser on Snorre A. Both platforms are located in the North Sea.

Riser replacements are crucial for maintaining the safety of offshore operations, protecting the environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, enhancing operational efficiency, and managing risk.

Planning work commenced in Q3 2023 at Axess Technologies’ headquarters in Molde. Offshore operations are planned to take place in 2024. Multi-skilled personnel will be deployed to reduce the number of mobilisations, hence greenhouse gas emissions.

Jan Owe Stenløs, Director – Solutions at Axess Technologies, said, “Axess Group has a long working relationship with Equinor in both oil & gas and wind energy. This is the third year in a row that Equinor has selected us as the topside contractor for riser replacements on their assets in the North Sea. We are thankful for the continued trust in us and we are committed to delivering excellence and contributing to their continued success.”

Riser replacement project on Snorre B — (Photo: Employees working on a riser replacement project on Snorre B earlier this year)

Facts about Equinor, visit Equinor.com

Axess Group secures fabric maintenance contract for US offshore wind farm

MOLDE, Norway, October 3, 2023 – Axess Group has secured numerous contracts within the offshore wind market in the United States (US), including a fabric maintenance contract for the first operating offshore wind farm in the country.

Fabric maintenance is essential for wind turbines to operate efficiently, safely, and reliably amidst challenging offshore conditions. Regular maintenance prevents deterioration, optimizes performance, and prolongs the lifespan of the turbines.

This contract is managed by Axess’ Boston office, which was established in 2022 to capitalize on the growing offshore wind sector in the East Coast, in line with the Group’s strategy. The operations will be carried out by Praxis*, marking its inaugural entry into the offshore wind market, following successful collaborations with major clients in the energy and chemical sectors. This demonstrates Axess Group’s collaborative efforts on a global scale, transcending the boundaries of business segments and geographic regions.

Thomas Lynch, Managing Director – Boston at Axess Group, said, “With a diverse array of scopes secured within a remarkably brief timeframe, this stands as a significant milestone for the Group. Since 2018, we have executed over 150 onshore and offshore wind projects in Europe, Asia and the US, and our portfolio continues to grow. We are proud to provide needed asset maintenance to the leading developer of offshore wind energy in the world.”

* Praxis is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Axess Group and is a specialist company in all aspects of surface treatments and integrity.