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Replace Butterfly Valve on A Live System

Posted on: September 4th, 2024 by Amanda Eden


Butterfly valves are essential components in various industries and are responsible for regulating the flow of liquids and gases through pipelines. However, these valves can face challenges over time due to exposure to harsh chemicals and high temperatures, leading to erosion or corrosion that can impair their performance and create safety risks. Recognizing the signs that a butterfly valve needs replacement is vital for maintaining optimal valve function and avoiding costly downtime or potential hazards.

Traditionally, replacing a butterfly valve required draining the relevant section of piping and taking the system out of operation. However, this is no longer necessary with the introduction of the AOGV replacement system. This innovative solution is gaining popularity as it allows for efficient valve replacement without disrupting system operation.

Retracting and installing Butterfly valves in live piping systems using the AOGV method is a tried and tested, robust alternative to traditional methods. There is no need to drain or restart the processing system or do a full shutdown. The AOGV is installed over the wafer-type Butterfly valve, sealing on the pipe flanges as normal for this method.

The AOGV system for Butterfly valves handles the valves and the raised face sealing surface with care. The old valve is floated out from the piping system flanges on an integrated transportation trolley, not touching the flange sealing surface. The steps are then reversed. The new valve is floated in, positioned accurately and re-installed in the piping system. The system is fully operational upon completion, with the original pipe and the new valve requiring no additional fittings.

The first planned operation for the second-generation AOGV now in use, replaced an isolation valve on a firewater main ring without taking the firewater system down. In another case, six Butterfly valves at one plant were planned for replacement using an AOGV. This significantly simplified the replacement process compared to the previous method, which included shutting the system down and moving lots of pipework.

As demonstrated by recent successful operations, the AOGV system ensures timely replacement of butterfly valves without disrupting process operations. Today, it stands out as a reliable and effective alternative to traditional methods that require system shutdowns.

Izomax wins milestone maintenance contract with Shell.

Posted on: August 21st, 2024 by Amanda Eden

Izomax, the mechanical isolation specialist, has scored a significant milestone frame agreement with Shell, one of the world’s largest energy companies. The contract will enable Shell to leverage Izomax’s patented AOGV technology to reinvent plant maintenance procedures. The three-year frame agreement allows Shell to fulfil ambitions for executing maintenance and modification work while maintaining production and avoiding unplanned downtime.

Izomax has pioneered the Add-On Gate Valve (AOGV) technology, allowing repairs and maintenance in operating plants and installations without the need for shutdowns, hot work, or unplanned downtime. AOGV can be used for valve and component replacements, tie-ins, and module decommissioning without downtime of operating installations.

Izomax has delivered a number of AOGV isolations to Shell installations globally. They range in complexity, from 2” pipe diameters to a 36”/150 isolation to facilitate replacement of a jammed butterfly valve in 2022. AOGV is approved by the Shell Technical Authority.

“Izomax has an outstanding track record in successful isolations for Shell using the AOGV, and we are happy to see that our previous work has laid the foundations for this comprehensive frame agreement. The contract represents a milestone for Izomax in our drive to establish our groundbreaking technology as a proactive maintenance standard. AOGV provides Shell with new maintenance options that reduce risk, increase operational uptime, and maximise revenue,” said Izomax CEO, Jesper Veidung Moberg.

The non-exclusive enterprise frame agreement will run for three years until August 1st, 2027, and lets Shell and subsidiary companies place Purchase Orders on AOGV isolations with Izomax. Twelve isolations, worth approximately USD 5 million, are currently in planning stages in various locations worldwide.

“The Izomax AOGV system gives us the opportunity to eliminate risks associated with hot work and substantially reduce downtime as maintenance can be executed while the rest of the plant is operating. We see multiple benefits in AOGV technology and are looking to ramp up AOGV isolations moving forward,” said Alfred Kruijer, Principal Technical Expert Piping & Valves and Technical Authority Level 1 at Shell.

Signs Your Industrial Piping Needs Repair

Posted on: August 14th, 2024 by Amanda Eden

Industrial piping systems can develop issues that can lead to costly downtime and repairs. Recognizing the signs that your industrial piping may need repair can ensure the safety and efficiency of your operations and avoid larger shutdowns down the line. Here are seven key signs to look out for.

Unusual Noises

If you hear banging, clanging, or other abnormal sounds, it could indicate a problem like low pressure, gas in the lines, or water hammer. Water hammer occurs when a fluid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly. It can cause significant damage to pipes and should be addressed immediately.

Visible Corrosion and Rust

Metal pipes can corrode over time due to chemical reactions with water and other substances they carry. This weakens the pipes, making them more susceptible to leaks and bursts. If the pipes carry materials that are incompatible with the pipework, connectors, flanges, valves, or other parts of the system, this can hasten the corrosion effect.

Regularly inspecting your pipes for any signs of rust or corrosion can help catch this issue early.

Leaks and Drips

Leaks can occur due to cracks, loose connections, or corrosion. If left unchecked, they can lead to things like

  • Significant fluid loss
  • Increased utility bills
  • Environmental compliance violations
  • Workplace hazards like poor air quality and slipping 
  • Potential damage to your facility
  • Damage to equipment downstream due to suboptimal fluid pressure

If you start to find frequent leak issues throughout your line, it may be time to bring in an expert to assess the area for repairs.

Decreased Water Pressure

A sudden drop in pressure can indicate several issues within your piping system. It could indicate a blockage, a leak, a change in the viscosity of its contents, or even a burst pipe. If you can not detect the immediate source, it may be time to have your pipes inspected for potential repairs.

Discolored Fluids

If the fluid flowing through your pipes appears discolored, it could be a sign of rust or sediment buildup. It could also indicate that something in the piping system is not compatible with the fluid being transported. 

This contamination affects the quality of the fluid and indicates that the pipes are deteriorating from the inside. Discoloration should be investigated immediately to determine the source of the problem.

Unpleasant Odors

Unpleasant odors emanating from your piping system can be a sign of bacterial growth, mold, or mildew within the pipes. These odors can also result from trapped gasses or waste material backup, which are serious issues that need to be addressed promptly. Ignoring these odors can lead to health hazards for your employees and contamination of your products.

Age of the Piping System

Finally, the age of your piping system is a crucial factor in determining when repairs or replacements may be necessary. Older piping systems are more prone to wear and tear, corrosion, and other issues. Regular maintenance and proactive replacement of aging pipes, flanges, and other parts of the system can prevent major failures and ensure the longevity of your system.

Izomax Can Help Reduce or Eliminate Downtime During Repairs

Our patented mechanical isolation system provides reliable, positive isolation during critical maintenance or repairs. We can safely isolate valves, flanges, production systems, and other key areas in your pipeline to enable critical repairs without downtimes and lengthy shutdowns. Contact us today to put us to the test.

Izomax Appoints Alex Follington as Technical Sales Specialist for APAC Region

Posted on: July 31st, 2024 by Amanda Eden

We are thrilled to welcome Alex Follington as our new Technical Sales Specialist for Australia, East, and South-East Asia.

Alex brings over 15 years of technical sales experience in the Oil and Gas industry. His diverse background includes working closely with both established and new operators in the Australian market across greenfield and brownfield projects. He has a passion for solution sales and thrives on tackling complex applications, enjoying the challenge of solving client problems.


With his expertise in valve sales background, Alex was immediately excited about the AOGV. He recognized it as a game-changing product that can transform how companies plan and execute maintenance in their plants. Alex is eager to introduce this innovative solution to customers in the APAC region and explore how Izomax can address their challenges.

Please join us in welcoming Alex. We are thrilled to have him as part of the Izomax team.

Mike McCue to Speak at Marcus Evans Group’s 16th Edition Chem/Petrochem and Refinery Shutdowns and Turnarounds Conference

Posted on: July 29th, 2024 by Amanda Eden

At Izomax, we’re excited to participate in the marcus evans Group 16th Edition Chem / Petrochem and Refinery Shutdowns and Turnarounds Conference.

In this edition, Michael McCue (Mike), our North American Downstream Sales Manager, will speak on the topic “Eliminate Maintenance Downtime, Reduce TAR Schedule, and Increase Safety and Efficiency with the Patented Izomax AOGV Mechanical Isolation System.”

📅 Date: July 31, 2024
📍 Location: The Westin New Orleans, New Orleans, LA



The marcus evans Group Conference is a must-attend event, offering engaging topics designed to help turnaround and plant managers and leaders gain valuable insights into improving shutdowns and outages throughout the entire lifecycle.

If you’re in the city, don’t miss this chance to learn how Izomax’s cutting-edge technology can revolutionize your maintenance and turnaround strategies. Our team is always ready to chat, so feel free to DM Mike—he’ll be delighted to connect with you. 🤩

Cecilie Torvund to Speak at ONS Technical Sessions.

Posted on: July 3rd, 2024 by Amanda Eden

ONS 2024 is just around the corner, and we are thrilled to announce that Cecilie Torvund, our Global Account Manager, will be a speaker during the ONS Technical Sessions. She will be sharing valuable insights about our AOGV, a patented technology that allows you to perform critical maintenance while keeping your process and production flow uninterrupted.

Cecilie will be the first speaker at the Brownfield Bonanza, a session dedicated to showcasing the latest technologies and innovations for optimising existing assets. It promises to be an enlightening session, so don’t miss it! The Brownfield Bonanza session starts at 10:00 on Wednesday, August 28th, in Hall 5, Room 1.

If you are curious to know more about the AOGV, the Izomax team will be available to meet you during the ONS. DM us or visit us at the IK Group booth in the center of Hall 7.

We are looking forward to seeing you there.

Izomax to attend the Downstream USA Conference.

Posted on: June 24th, 2024 by Amanda Eden

Our Izomax US team is thrilled to be attending the Downstream USA Conference from June 26th-27th in Galveston, Texas. Michael McCue, Matthew Fabre, Jesper Moberg, and Kristoffer Helliesen Ueland will be on-site, ready to present our AOGV mechanical isolation system, answer your questions, share insights, and build relationships.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn about the AOGV (Add on Gate Valve) —a patented technology that reduces downtime by inserting an isolation spade on a live flanged connection. Say goodbye to shutdowns and postponed maintenance! With Izomax, you can perform critical maintenance while keeping your process and production flow uninterrupted. 

Visit our booth 725 or DM our team to grab a coffee and talk about the latest advancements and solutions in isolation technology. We look forward to engaging in exciting discussions about our innovative tool and how it provides positive isolation while maintaining system integrity, allowing you to perform maintenance or modifications without downtime.

We can’t wait to see everyone at the Downstream USA Conference!

Employee Spotlight – Lynne Lyon

Posted on: June 10th, 2024 by Amanda Eden

As we gear up for the Isolation Tech Day in Aberdeen this week, we’re excited to continue our Employee Spotlight series.

Today, we invite you to an insightful conversation with Lynne Lyon, the driving force behind Izomax’s Sales in the UKCS market. If you’re attending the Isolation Tech Day this year, be sure to connect with Lynne to discover how our innovative solutions are transforming the UKCS region. She’ll be delighted to meet you.

Tell us about your background and how you entered the oil and gas industry. Can you share some insights into your role as the UK Sales Manager for Izomax?

I joined the oil and gas industry as an economics graduate, initially in an operations role for a specialist engineering company that delivers innovative downhole solutions to the global drilling sector. I was so taken by the technology that it was only four months later that I joined the Sales team and developed into the Regional Account Manager for the UK and Europe.


Now solely focused on operations above ground level, I’m delighted to be working at the helm of innovation once again. Izomax is an exceptional technology making a positive impact in the global maintenance, turnaround and intervention sector delivering efficiencies and cost savings to its users. I spread the word about all the excellent work we’re involved in and, more so, listen to and really understand the challenges that customers are facing so we can deliver safe, robust, and durable solutions.   

With Izomax recently opening an office in the UK, how do you foresee this strategic expansion enhancing your ability to serve the UKCS market and drive business growth in the region?

We’ve built a strong track record within the UKCS market, and having a regional presence here in Aberdeen, in the heart of the oil and gas market, is a fantastic next step. Complemented by workshop space, there are already plans afoot to deliver our first AOGV demonstration day, which will bring together many of the UKCS market players under one roof and further make our mark.
I look forward to sharing more details soon and with significant projects already in discussions, I am excited for the future.

Given the critical importance of safety in managing ageing assets in the North Sea, how does Izomax’s AOGV mechanical isolation system enhance safety protocols and ensure the integrity and longevity of these vital infrastructures?

The safe and successful execution of the AOGV technology starts long before the actual operation. Our close-knit team of operations, engineering and commercial departments work closely to understand the operating environment and the challenges presented so that a safe and robust solution is delivered. We take great pride in delivering autonomy to the maintenance sector, as the AOGV can be operated without disrupting process flow, offering flexibility to schedules so that critical intervention and shutdowns needn’t be postponed, reducing the risk of unwanted incidents while increasing asset uptime.

Izomax is co-hosting Isolation Tech Day next week in Aberdeen, an event featuring presentations and live demonstrations of cutting-edge isolation technologies. As a speaker for Izomax at this event, what key messages will you highlight?

We’re extremely excited to host Aberdeen’s inaugural Isolation Tech Day alongside collaborators Valvetight and IKM Testing this Thursday, June 13th, 2024. Izomax and speakers will share insights into their latest technologies, showcasing alternatives to hot tap and stopple. The event will include notable use cases of each isolation technology and how each company is pushing the boundaries to deliver safe and efficient solutions to the market. It will be a great chance to network with a live panel discussion addressing market challenges and questions.  

In a market where downtime can result in significant financial losses, how does Izomax differentiate itself from competitors in terms of providing efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for maintenance and repairs in the UKCS?

To reiterate, I really do think the power of delivering greater autonomy to operators’ schedules is what places Izomax ahead of the rest. Time is of critical importance, and being able to carry out critical intervention when you need it, outside of turnaround schedules, means that risks can be avoided and system integrity upheld. The AOGV is a solution that leaves the pipe as found, so you also avoid the timely and costly implications that come with traditional solutions.
Izomax are making the impossible, possible and is changing the way the industry approaches critical intervention scopes and the story doesn’t end there. We are delivering the real-time savings for tie-in and decommissioning scopes, mirroring the ever changing needs of the industry.

AOGV technology enables tie-ins for carbon capture without the need to shut down – safely and cost-efficiently.

Posted on: June 5th, 2024 by Amanda Eden

During AOG (Australian Oil and Gas) earlier this year and in subsequent conversations with prospective clients in the Australian market, we heard a broad alignment in attitude – recognition that as an industry, we all need to do more, or we will lose our “social license” to operate.

This is being reinforced nationally by the 2022 Australian climate bill and associated Safeguard Mechanism, which clearly outline targets to help increase compliance and, wherever possible, minimize or mitigate carbon footprint and CO2 emissions.

As a result, rapid adoption of newer energy solutions, such as carbon capture, is needed.

From an infrastructure perspective, this means tie-ins are required to install newer, more efficient equipment or to allow integration of CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage) related equipment as part of plant modification.

Tie-in operations for CCUS typically involve the integration of CCUS equipment on production systems or utilities, and in most cases, common practice involves full or partial system shutdown. Where possible, tie-in work is scheduled to coincide with a planned shutdown, allowing for improved planning and minimizing downtime. However, in many instances, shutdowns or turnarounds are planned at four-year intervals, a frequency which may not fit the tie-in requirement for upgrading the facility and lead to severe commercial impacts on the project.

As a result, aging plants, whether offshore, onshore, Oil, gas, LNG or chemical processing, often have a common denominator; the cost of upgrading can be prohibitive.

Clearly, this topic is not relevant only to Australia; it extends across the energy sector globally, and industrial giants such as MHI (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) are exploring it.

A recent case study by MHI, entitled Reducing CO2 emissions while realizing long-term use and cost savings, states that “A series of LNG plants were built around the world in the 1960s and 1970s. Many of these plants, especially larger ones (1 MTPA and above), use gas turbines for the refrigeration compressors in the liquefaction process. While LNG is a more cleaner energy alternative, it can still create emissions from fuel gas combustion, flaring and venting, fugitive emissions and plant upsets. This creates multiple sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the LNG production chain”.

With aging infrastructures requiring modernization to meet modern-day energy requirements, coupled with prohibitive costs to rectify the issue, it’s clear that a solution is needed.

The AOGV (Add On Gate Valve) mechanical isolation system is a game changer in addressing this.

AOGV provides positive isolation while maintaining system integrity, meaning it’s possible to execute tie-ins on utilities and production systems outside of shutdowns.

In a project for a Norwegian customer, a platform tie-in was evaluated, and the outcome was a step change for tie-in planning.  Utilizing the AOGV positive isolation system, the tie-ins are now being performed without any downtime or system shutdowns.

AOGV’s full isolation capabilities extend beyond tie-ins, and to date, AOGV has been proven in over 160 projects across four continents for over 25 customers.

AOGV is suitable for projects wherever flanged piping is in place, meaning leaking valves, gaskets, inefficient cooling systems or process plants can be rectified immediately, without shutdown. As a result, the AOGV mitigates or minimizes the need for draining, venting, purging and flushing in most instances.

Once a project is complete, the AOGV tools are simply removed, returning the plant to its original condition (but with new valves, gaskets, or tie-in equipment) or as new state. As a bonus, hot work is not required using AOGV systems.

Given that the driving factor behind tie-ins for CCSU modifications is the positive impact on sustainable energy production, we (Izomax) have partnered with experts Climateadvisor AS to determine and drive our own carbon footprint. Through this process, we engaged Terravera to model the carbon footprint of AOGV with mathematically verified digital twins, so we have clear data and benchmarks. From this input, we can develop and activate strategies to help make positive steps with our own footprint.

Our technology has an excellent track record, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional interventions.

If you are engaged in plant or process modifications onshore or offshore, then our team are on hand to discuss and help you plan and execute interventions without a shutdown. Please get in touch.

Izomax make strategic commitment to Aberdeen with first UK office and Sales Manager.

Posted on: May 14th, 2024 by Amanda Eden
  • Norwegian company Izomax opens first UK office in Aberdeen and appoints Lynne Lyon as Sales Manager
  • The appointment signifies regional investment by Izomax into the UKCS sector
  • Local office gives Aberdeen clients direct access to AOGV products and mock-up tests

Izomax, a mechanical isolation specialist, has strategically invested in Aberdeen, with the opening of a new office and appointment of Lynne Lyon as Sales Manager.

Lynne Lyon appointed as Sales Manager.

The company, which is headquartered in Stavanger, Norway, is the inventor of the AOGV (Add On Gate Valve), a patented mechanical isolation system. AOGV, unlike traditional isolation technologies, allows customers to safely isolate process segments for inspection, maintenance, or repair without a shutdown.

The tool was developed in 2016 and has a proven track record of 160 completed jobs for 24 different customers across four continents.

Izomax wants to bring that value to UKCS customers. To address this, Izomax has opened an office in the Blackburn Business Park, Aberdeen and appointed Lynne Lyon as Sales Manager.

Lynne has 12 years of experience in sales, with much of her career dedicated to delivering technical solutions to the downhole drilling industry in the UK and Europe. Lynne has a passion for delivering industry first technology and was latterly responsible for managing commercial contracts for IT services.

Talking of her appointment Lynne said: “I’m delighted to be working with Izomax to bring AOGV to the UKCS. Izomax is a fast paced, driven and ambitious company, with a fantastic reputation and track record. The AOGV is a game-changer in isolation and while the technology has already been used for projects in the UKCS, I really hope to extend our operations and deliver great results for our clients.”

Jesper Veidung Moberg, Managing Director / Vice President Izomax AS, said: “Aberdeen and the UKCS are key strategic focuses for us. With maturing assets in the North Sea, asset maintenance and integrity are critical issues for the Aberdeen market. We firmly believe that AOGV will help customers improve efficiency, safety and achieve maintenance execution without the need for shutdown – ultimately helping their bottom line.

“Establishing a local presence brings us closer to our customers and gives us an opportunity to showcase AOGV and deliver mock-up tests in proximity, adding further value to our UK client base.

“I’m delighted to have opened an Aberdeen office and warmly welcome Lynne to the team.”

Izomax currently employs 52 people worldwide, with offices in Stavanger (Norway), Perth (Australia), Houston (America) and Aberdeen (UK).

About Izomax

Izomax is the creator of the unique AOGV (Add On Gate Valve) mechanical isolation system, providing positive isolation without the need for hot-work, shutdowns or downtime. Their products allow safe, cost-effective repairs and modifications on platforms, FPSO’s, LNG terminals, processing plants and refineries onshore and offshore across the globe. The Izomax customer-base includes NOC’s, Super-majors and independent energy companies. Izomax is an independent company in the IK Group.