Swire and Aker Solutions to benefit from Spartan virtual assets solution

The development is significant in that it allows Swire and Aker Solutions to connect their supply chains and share real-time information using RFID tags, barcodes and mobile computers. This development has major implications for the oil and gas industry as it allows trusted parties to share transit location, availability, certification and any other equipment status for all items in the supply chain. Quite simply, both companies can now see information on their assets as they move beyond the horizon of their depots into bases and on to platforms. Which helps when operators want to know if equipment is on schedule to arrive at bases and platforms, and service companies want early visibility of equipment mobilisations and returns. For example, Swire can pre-allocate equipment not yet physically returned to the depot, based on the information the new Horizon system provides. Both Swire and Aker are now in a position to deliver an asset tracking service to customers, while also increasing internal asset utilisation. The result: turnaround times for equipment service will be cut and commitments can be made on assets before they are returned to depots and parts ordering streamlined. Says Tor Helgeland, Swire Oilfield Services CEO: “When Spartan approached us with their idea for creating virtual assets, we realised the value immediately – and that it would deliver our long held vision of managing assets beyond our direct supply chain. Our relationship with Aker Solutions was the perfect vehicle to make it a reality.” And Ole Petter Thomesen, president of Aker Solutions’ well service unit, adds: “Our operational excellence always has to be coupled with delivery excellence so we can get on site to do the job. We’re hoping the lead we’ve taken with Swire and Spartan will be supported and built on by the major operators. This will benefit everyone.”