MUELLHEIM, Germany -- Approved Saudi Aramco vendor status, strong technical support and strength in after-sales service were key reasons for the selection of AUMA valve control devices at the Al Wasit Gas Program, Saudi Aramco’s development scheme for the Arabiyah and Hasbah offshore Saudi Arabian gas fields located in the Arabian Gulf. The significant oil and gas contract for AUMA included an order for more than 400 electric actuators and gear boxes.

Reporting to contractor Saipem, who was awarded the Engineering, Procurement, Installation, Commissioning (EPIC) contract for the project, AUMA’s Middle East organization provided latest actuation technology for several offshore platforms at the scheme. Dedicated and highly qualified AUMA staff worked on the platforms for a two month period to oversee the installation and commissioning of the company’s devices.

Advanced corrosion protection due to AUMA’s powder coating capabilities was an additional reason for the selection of the company’s electric actuation technology. Fulfilling the requirements of the highest corrosivity category C5-I or C5-Mm, specified in EN ISO 12944-2, the company’s robust devices are proven in performance in challenging, high saline coastal and offshore installations.

The full scope of the development of the Arabiyah and Hasbah fields includes gas production, transportation and distribution. The scheme encompasses the installation of a total of 15 platforms, including 12 wellhead platforms, two tie-in platforms and one injection platform. The $4.7 billion project is estimated to increase Saudi Arabia’s gas production by 21%.