Latest Blogs

While 3D laser scanning captures this complex maze of pipes, vessels and ever-shifting machinery in incredible detail, it's not until that data has been processed that it becomes actually useful in a business. This seemingly simple task unlocks the full potential of your laser scan data, transforming it from a point cloud into an actionable 3D model. So what is scan registration? How does automated scan registration work? And what role is it playing in the time-quality-cost trade off a lot of design engineers encounter on a daily basis? Find out in our latest blog ‘What role can automated scan data registration play in the time-quality-cost trade-off?’

‘Don't put all your eggs in one basket’ It's a simple reminder to diversify and avoid relying on a single source for something important. But when it comes to designing complex piping systems in chemical plants, how can you avoid putting all your eggs in one basket, so you have a safety net that ensures smooth operations even if a component fails? We explore this idea in our latest blog ‘Using Redundancy In Engineering Design To Avoid Cracking Under Pressure’

One of the biggest buzz words in engineering design at the moment is ‘generative AI’... So, what actually is generative AI? And what does it mean for the chemical industry?

Precision, efficiency, collaboration – they’re arguably the engineering trifecta of piping design. Whether you're tackling a maze of pipework within a nuclear power or chemical plant, or are working on a smaller scale maintenance project in oil & gas, choosing the right software can be the difference between success and the whole project being a total headache. And currently, there are two key players in the piping software game: AutoCAD Plant 3D and AVEVA E3D design (previously AVEVA PDMS). So, when it comes to choosing between these powerhouses, what are the benefits that might sway you one way or the other?

As Christmas Day approaches, children worldwide eagerly await the arrival of Santa and his sleigh overflowing with presents. But behind Santa and his reindeer, lies a hidden world of innovation and engineering: Santa's Workshop. Every December, the elves at Santa's Workshop enter a state of frenzied activity. With an estimated 2.2 billion children eagerly awaiting their gifts, the pressure is on to finish building and wrapping an astonishing 6,043,956 toys every single day! So, how can we optimise Santa's Workshop to help him keep up with growing demands? Here’s what we think…

Is your site getting a Christmas break too? Chemical plants are complex facilities that require regular maintenance to ensure their safe and efficient operation - you don't need me to tell you that! But often, during quiet seasons when lots of your staff are off (like Christmas) and production is reduced or halted, is an opportune time to conduct more extensive maintenance activities. Having this proactive approach to maintenance allows for thorough inspections, repairs, and upgrades that might not be feasible during peak production periods. By addressing potential issues during these quieter times, chemical plants can So, are there ways to use 3D laser scanning and engineering design tools during this down time to optimise maintenance operations, minimise downtime, and enhance safety throughout the year?

When you think of chemical plants, ‘sustainable’ and ‘low carbon’ aren't usually the first words that come to mind. In 2021, the chemical industry accounted for around 10% of the UK's total greenhouse gas emissions. But, with the UK's new net zero targets coming into play, many chemical plants are having to make the move towards carbon neutrality, with many opting to make the switch to hydrogen. So, what is the most sustainable step in the move to hydrogen power? And what changes need to be made to existing systems to support this move?

“Should I outsource this or is there someone internally we can train up?” It's a question most project managers have asked themselves, especially on projects with a large team behind you. Sure, factors like… What's the project's budget? How long do you have to get this stage of the project done (i.e. are you planning this ahead of time or is it a last minute problem that needs solving)? Who’s available to do the work? … will always play a role in which option you choose. But, when you’re working on a large site like a chemical, energy or power plant, relying on these factors alone won't always give you a clear answer or direction. So what are the pros and cons of training up your team vs. bringing in the experts? And what other key considerations should you be taking into account?

As technologies like drone and vehicle mounted laser scanning equipment develops, it can be tempting to be swept up in all the hype it generates. But, when you’re surveying a chemical or large scale industrial plant, just how applicable is aerial laser scanning within your project? Find out in this month's blog…