Nuclear power is set to stay, for now. Announcing the UK’s nuclear energy strategy, the Government’s chief science advisor, John Beddington, revealed that nuclear energy will remain a key component in the UK energy sector. It is expected that nuclear will play a significant part in reaching the climate change targets and provide resilience in the power sector, presenting economic opportunities for the UK market.
Throughout the energy industry flow computers are used to monitor and control resource levels. The world-wide energy crisis means close control must be kept over energy sources and demand on flow measurement systems is often high. Accuracy and reliability are key to ensuring they are reserved as much as possible. Used across the industry flow computers have to deal with variety of substances, and so software must be able to cover a range of density calculations including natural gas, steam, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen and ethylene.
From using the wind and sun through to turning rubbish into electricity, renewable energy of all types is a key focus for energy ministers. Tough targets have been set throughout the renewable energy sector in an effort to reduce carbon emissions by 2020. With high targets to reach close monitoring throughout the renewable energy process is crucial, which is where flow measurement comes in.
In the search for energy sources around the world there has been an increasing focus on gas flow measurement. For years oil has dominated the global energy markets, but recently natural gas has upped the ante in the popularity stakes.
Several companies are currently exploring the possibilities of shale oil in Northern Ireland, and Enegi Oil is the latest company to apply for an exploration license. Since February 2011 the independent oil and gas company have carried out an extensive work program evaluating the Clare Basin Licensing Option and the possibility for shale oil, which they now believe to be highly prospective.
The flow measurement industry is constantly evolving, with new technology and methods emerging regularly. Keeping up-to-date with the latest advances is important, and next week Ex~i Flow will be attending the annual South East Asia Flow Measurement Conference held by leading Flow Measurement experts, NEL to do just that.
For every industry, introducing and installing a new system can be time consuming, costly and disruptive. New technology is constantly introduced in the flow measurement industry, and ensuring systems are kept up-to-date can be difficult. Introducing a new flow computer can cause serious disruption to flow measurement when not managed correctly.
Energy supplies are in high demand as the worlds population continues to grow. Fossil fuels and other energy sources are in dwindling supply, and close monitoring across the industry is fundamental when it comes to preserving the supply levels.
Refineries play an important role in the processing of oil and natural gas. The maze of complex systems which form a refinery need regular maintenance and monitoring.
The Falkland Islands have been back in the news over the last week due to developments at a hydrocarbon find. The British oil exploration company Borders and Southern Petroleum this week deemed the discovery commercially viable.