Advanced Engineering Solutions Ltd

Advanced Engineering Solutions Limited (AESL) are specialist pipeline and pipeline equipment engineers. The Company has core expertise in Mechanical, Material, Electronics and Software Engineering. Based on a blend of applied consultancy, engineering development activities and specialist technical operations, AESL provides high quality engineering services to pipeline operators and suppliers.

Established in 1995, AESL has operated from the North East of England for over 20 years. In 2017 AESL was acquired by South Staffordshire Plc. to operate alongside Hydrosave and several other specialist infrastructure service companies in SSI Services (UK) Ltd.

The Water Engineering Group are involved in water project activities across the UK and internationally. These projects are generally related to the assessment and improvement of the operating performance of raw and treated water pipelines and sewers. Activities include topographical and connectivity surveys, the assessment and supervision of water pipeline equipment maintenance requirements.

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The Gas Engineering Group is involved in project activities across the UK and overseas. We provide gas engineering services, technical consultancy and development facilities to Utility companies. Our main activities include condition assessment of low and medium gas mains, stress analysis and assessment of high pressure gas pipeline against IGE/TD/1. We also undertake site based activities including refurbishment of pneumatic control cabinets, control valve maintenance and training.

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We offer pipeline coating refurbishment or replacement using approved material, coating inspectors and operatives. The service extends to the refurbishment of pipeline furniture eg walkways and handrails etc on pipe bridges.

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The software group is involved with software development, both nationally and internationally. Software is developed to assist pipeline operators and utilities companies with auditing and asset tracking software, providing options for both online and offline applications.

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South Staffordshire Plc appoints new Head of Ground Source Heat Pump Services as it expands its sustainable service offerings

South Staffordshire Plc, the integrated services group that supports clients in essential services markets such as water, rail and gas, has welcomed Richard Canning to the business to lead the growth of its ground source heat pump solutions division. This news follows hot on the heels of the recent appointment of Iain Coleman to lead its EV charging infrastructure solutions division, as the business continues to grow its sustainable solutions arm to support its clients on their decarbonisation journeys.

Richard has worked in the heating industry for equipment manufacturers, heating system installers and as a building services design consultant, acquiring an in-depth knowledge of all things heating. In the last ten years, Richard has worked for heat pump manufacturers as well as renewables sales and installers.

South Staffordshire Plc is harnessing the significant expertise within its Group companies –to offer a unique end-to-end ground source heating solution for district heating, ambient loops and ultimately carbon reduction.

Simon Dray, Managing Director – water and heat energy services, at South Staffordshire plc said: “With the country’s efforts to reach net zero increasing, we are already seeing growth in heat pump deployment as a low carbon option of choice, and we only expect this to accelerate further in the coming months and years. We’re pleased to be able to draw upon our expertise gained through working in highly regulated industries and our ability to deliver end to end engineering services for heating solutions using ground and water source heat pumps for commercial and industrial premises. Richard is a key appointment for us to support our future growth in this space, and we are delighted to welcome him to our business.”

Richard Canning, Head of Ground Source Heat Pump Services, South Staffordshire Plc added: “It’s a great time to join South Staffordshire Plc as the business expands its core skills and services into new emerging asset markets. Commercial and industrial clients are beginning to more seriously consider heat pumps as a route to carbon reduction and ultimately a carbon zero future. With the current environmental agenda, and following COP26, clients are looking for specialist advice, guidance, and project management to achieve their ambitions. I’m really looking forward to working with both existing and new clients to help them achieve their goals.”

25 November 2021

HydroSave & AES awarded place in Yorkshire Water’s new Innovation Marketplace

Yorkshire Water recently invited 32 partners to join its ‘innovation marketplace’; an opportunity for companies to showcase and supply new approaches for water supply interruptions, leakage and avoiding the need to break ground.

The water company’s objective is to provide innovative solutions to improve regulatory performance, cost efficiency, and deliver a safer and less intrusive experience for customers.

Hydrosave and its “sister company” Advanced Engineering Solutions, (AES), successfully demonstrated several innovations to secure a place on the framework. Amongst the innovations recognised by Yorkshire Water were its HydroV valve release and SmartCat pipeline analysis solutions.

The companies’ internationally patented HydroV valve release technology, which has never failed in releasing a valve, utilises vibration to carefully release stuck valves, removing the need for the usual high torque and high force that often lead to damaged valves. In addition, its SmartCat pipeline analysis tool, provides a rapid non-intrusive assessment of the condition of metallic pipes. The innovative use of magnetic flux leakage (MFL) technology along with proximity, distance and azimuth sensors, allows internal and external defects to be identified and their position located. All while scanning the entire circumference of the pipe.

Simon Dray, managing director, Hydrosave & AES said “We’re proud to be recognised by Yorkshire Water as a partner to potentially provide innovative solutions for the future. Innovation is at the heart of our business as we continue to work closely with the UK water sector on their current challenges and ODI commitments.

“We’re really looking forward to taking part in the company’s procurement competitions and showcasing our water sector technologies and services.”

Neil Dewis from Yorkshire Water said: “The Innovation Marketplace will help us to adopt solutions that are new to market or have been developed through our innovation programme.

“We hope the solutions will improve the quality of service on our network, reduce customer supply interruptions and carbon emissions.”

10 November 2021

New Technical Director - Andrew Austin

Welcome to Andrew Austin who has now joined Hydrosave AES, part of the SSI group, as Technical Director for AES (Water).

Andrew has extensive water industry experience spanning over four decades covering; pipeline engineering, operational management, network management and strategic asset planning.

From 1st October 2020 Andrew will take over the strategic leadership of the AES (Water) team based at Cramlington and is looking forward to showcasing our various innovative pipeline and asset management solutions to the water sector both in the UK and globally.

Matt Foster, Engineering Director for Hydrosave, said, "It is fantastic to have someone of Andrew's experience and insight join the business. As the Water Industry continues to evolve its approach to asset management, Andrew's knowledge will be a huge benefit to our client offering."

01 July 2020

AESL purchased by SSI Services (UK) Ltd

SSI Services UK Ltd has recently completed the purchase of Advanced Engineering Services Ltd (AESL).

SSI Services is the specialist contracting arm of South Staffordshire Plc - a Group that provides a broad range of specialist services from design through to installation, testing and repair to long term maintenance contracts. SSI Services does not trade as a company, instead it operates individual companies within their own specialist business sectors.

The existing SSI Services companies include Fleet Services, OnSite, Hydrosave, Omega Red, G Stow, IWS Water Hygiene, IWS Mechanical/Electrical and Immerse Asset Management.

This acquisition forms part of SSI's strategy to enter new utility sectors as well as further develop our water services and specialist engineering offering.

AES will continue to run as normal with the business reporting through the existing SSI Services business Hydrosave (UK) Limited.

19 October 2017

AESL retains UVDB Verification

AESL has sucessfully retained it's UVDB verification, assessed by Achilles under the UVDB Verify Scheme

23 March 2016

Pipe bridge refurbishment

AESL has recently completed the refurbishment of the 118 year old Swalwell pipe bridge on behalf of Northumbrian Water Limited. Apart from the obvious visual improvements resulting from the re-coating and painting works, the pipe bridge was also subject to replacement of critical supporting elements. The photos show a view prior to refurbishment and following the repainting activity

29 January 2016

AESL wins 3 year contract with Northern Gas Networks

AESL has been awarded a 3 year contract by Northern Gas Networks to undertake all scheduled inspections of gas filters and pig traps under the Pressure System Safety Regulations inspection regime. In addition to this AESL will also undertake all scheduled maintenance of Northern Gas Networks water bath heaters and heat exchangers. Over the contract period AESL will undertake inspections of 175 filters and 55 pig traps along with maintenance overhauls of 33 water bath heaters and 4 heat exchangers

1 April 2015

AESL is not currently recruiting staff

Q: Who are Advanced Engineering Solutions Ltd?

AESL was set up by a number of senior managers who were formally employed by British Gas at their Engineering Research Station at Newcastle Upon Tyne. The company was formed in October 1995 following the closure of the research establishment. The founding members realised that there was a market for their skills and knowledge within a privatised and competitive energy market.

The company was originally based at Sunderland in small offices on a business park. However due to rapid expansion it was necessary to find larger and more appropriate premises, moving to Cramlington in 2000.

The founding directors have well over 100 years of experience between them related to all aspects of gas engineering, pipeline materials and equipment. The company originally offered consulting services but soon saw the opportunity to provide pipeline condition assessment and asset management services both within the gas and water sectors. The company has developed its own pipeline inspection equipment and related condition assessment and life prediction techniques based on a statistical modelling. The company is rapidly becoming recognised as one of the leading companies in this field.

In October 2017 the business was acquired by SSI Services (UK) Ltd to operate under Hydrosave.

SSI Services (UK) Ltd is a specialist infrastructure services Group containing several leading companies. The Group is part of South Staffordshire Plc.

Q: What services can we provide?

The company is split into four departments, click the links below to find out more about the department which interests you.

Water Engineering

Gas Engineering

Pipeline Coating

Civil Engineering

Software Development

Q: Where can I obtain technical documents relating to your services?

Technical documents are available in PDF format and can be downloaded here.

Q: How do I contact AESL?

Contact details and a contact form can be found on the contact page.

Introduction

Welcome to the Advanced Engineering Solutions LTD privacy notice. This notice does not apply to employees or prospective candidates, these can be found at Employee Privacy Notice and Candidate Privacy Notice Advanced Engineering Solutions LTD respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This privacy notice will inform you as to how we look after your personal data when you visit our website (regardless of where you visit it from) and tell you about your privacy rights and how the law protects you.  

Important information and who we are

Purpose of this privacy notice

This privacy notice aims to give you information on how Advanced Engineering Solutions LTD collects and processes your personal data, including any data you may provide through this website when you send in an enquiry or sign up to our newsletter. This website is not intended for children and we do not knowingly collect data relating to children. It is important that you read this privacy notice together with any other privacy notice or fair processing notice we may provide on specific occasions when we are collecting or processing personal data about you so that you are fully aware of how and why we are using your data. This privacy notice supplements the other notices and is not intended to override them.

Controller

Advanced Engineering Solutions LTD is the controller and responsible for your personal data (collectively referred to as Advanced Engineering Solutions LTD,"we", "us" or "our" in this privacy notice). We have appointed a data privacy manager who is responsible for overseeing questions in relation to this privacy notice. If you have any questions about this privacy notice, including any requests to exercise your legal rights, please contact the data privacy manager using the details set out below.

Contact details:

Data Privacy Manager Advanced Engineering Solutions LTD, Green Lane, Walsall, WS2 7PD Email Address: privacy@ssi-services.co.uk Telephone Number: 01922 638 282 You have the right to make a complaint at any time to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). We would, however, appreciate the chance to deal with your concerns before you approach the ICO, so please contact us in the first instance.

Changes to the privacy notice (and your duty to inform us of changes)

It is important that the personal data we hold about you is accurate and current. Please keep us informed if your personal data changes during your relationship with us.

Third-party links

This website may include links to third-party websites, plug-ins and applications. Clicking on those links or enabling those connections may allow third parties to collect or share data about you. We do not control these third-party websites and are not responsible for their privacy statements. When you leave our website, we encourage you to read the privacy notice of every website you visit.

The data we collect about you

Personal data, or personal information, means any information about an individual from which that person can be identified. It does not include data where the identity has been removed (anonymous data). We may collect, use, store and transfer different kinds of personal data about you which we have grouped together as follows:

• Identity Data [includes first name, maiden name, last name, username or similar identifier, marital status, title, date of birth and gender].
• Contact Data [includes [billing address, delivery address, email address and telephone numbers].
• Financial Data [includes bank account and payment card details].
• Transaction Data [includes details about payments to and from you and other details of products and services you have purchased from us].
• Technical Data [includes internet protocol (IP) address, your login data, browser type and version, time zone setting and location, browser plug-in types and versions, operating system and platform and other technology on the devices you use to access this website].
• Usage Data [includes information about how you use our website].
• Marketing and Communications Data [includes your preferences in receiving marketing from us and our third parties and your communication preferences].

We also collect, use and share Aggregated Data, such as statistical or demographic data, for any purpose. Aggregated Data may be derived from your personal data but is not considered personal data in law as this data does not directly or indirectly reveal your identity. For example, we may aggregate your Usage Data to calculate the percentage of users accessing a specific website feature. However, if we combine or connect Aggregated Data with your personal data so that it can directly or indirectly identify you, we treat the combined data as personal data which will be used in accordance with this privacy notice. We do not collect any Special Categories of Personal Data about you (this includes details about your race or ethnicity, religious or philosophical beliefs, sex life, sexual orientation, political opinions, trade union membership, information about your health and genetic and biometric data). Nor do we collect any information about criminal convictions and offences.

If you fail to provide personal data

Where we need to collect personal data by law, or under the terms of a contract we have with you and you fail to provide that data when requested, we may not be able to perform the contract we have or are trying to enter into with you (for example, to provide you with goods or services). In this case, we may have to cancel a product or service you have with us but we will notify you if this is the case at the time.

How is your personal data collected?

We use different methods to collect data from and about you including through:

• Direct interactions. You may give us your Identity, Contact and Financial Data by filling in forms or by corresponding with us by post, phone, email or otherwise. This includes personal data you provide when you:
  • apply for our products or services
  • subscribe to our service or publications
  • request marketing to be sent to you
  • give us some feedback.
• Automated technologies or interactions. As you interact with our website, we may automatically collect Technical Data about your equipment, browsing actions and patterns. We collect this personal data by using cookies, server logs and other similar technologies. [We may also receive Technical Data about you if you visit other websites employing our cookies. Please see our cookie policy for further details.
• Third parties or publicly available sources. We may receive personal data about you from various third parties and public sources as set out below:
  • Technical Data from the following parties:
    • analytics providers such as Google based outside the EEA
    • search information providers such as Google based inside or outside the EEA

How we use your personal data

We will only use your personal data when the law allows us to. Most commonly, we will use your personal data in the following circumstances:

• Where we need to perform the contract we are about to enter into or have entered into with you.
• Where it is necessary for our legitimate interests (or those of a third party) and your interests and fundamental rights do not override those interests.
• Where we need to comply with a legal or regulatory obligation.

See lawful basis section to find out more about the types of lawful basis that we will rely on to process your personal data. Generally we do not rely on consent as a legal basis for processing your personal data other than in relation to sending third party direct marketing communications to you via email or text message. You have the right to withdraw consent to marketing at any time by contacting us.

Purposes for which we will use your personal data

We have set out below, in a table format, a description of all the ways we plan to use your personal data, and which of the legal bases we rely on to do so. We have also identified what our legitimate interests are where appropriate. Note that we may process your personal data for more than one lawful ground depending on the specific purpose for which we are using your data. Please contact us if you need details about the specific legal ground we are relying on to process your personal data where more than one ground has been set out in the table below.  

Purpose/Activity	Lawful basis for processing
To register you as a new customer	Performance of a contract with you
To process and deliver your order including: (a) Manage payments, fees and charges (b) Collect and recover money owed to us	(a) Performance of a contract with you (b) Necessary for our legitimate interests (to recover debts due to us)
To manage our relationship with you which will include: (a) Notifying you about changes to our terms or privacy policy (b) Asking you to leave a review or take a survey	(a) Performance of a contract with you (b) Necessary to comply with a legal obligation (c) Necessary for our legitimate interests (to keep our records updated and to study how customers use our products/services)
To administer and protect our business and this website (including troubleshooting, data analysis, testing, system maintenance, support, reporting and hosting of data)	(a) Necessary for our legitimate interests (for running our business, provision of administration and IT services, network security, to prevent fraud and in the context of a business re-organisation or group restructuring exercise) (b) Necessary to comply with a legal obligation
To deliver relevant website content and advertisements to you and measure or understand the effectiveness of the advertising we serve to you	Necessary for our legitimate interests (to study how customers use our products/services, to develop them, to grow our business and to inform our marketing strategy)
To use data analytics to improve our website, products/services, marketing, customer relationships and experiences	Necessary for our legitimate interests (to define types of customers for our products and services, to keep our website updated and relevant, to develop our business and to inform our marketing strategy)
To make suggestions and recommendations to you about goods or services that may be of interest to you	Necessary for our legitimate interests (to develop our products/services and grow our business)

Marketing

We aim to provide you with choices regarding certain personal data uses, particularly around marketing and advertising. We have established personal data control mechanisms.

Promotional offers from us

We may use your Identity, Contact, Technical, Usage and Profile Data to form a view on what we think you may want or need, or what may be of interest to you. This is how we decide which products, services and offers may be relevant for you (we call this marketing). You will receive marketing communications from us if you have requested information from us or purchased goods or services from us and, in each case, you have not opted out of receiving that marketing.

Third-party marketing

We will get your express opt-in consent before we share your personal data with any company outside the SSI Services group of companies for marketing purposes.

Opting out

You can ask us or third parties to stop sending you marketing messages at any time by contacting us at any time. Where you opt out of receiving these marketing messages, this will not apply to personal data provided to us as a result of a product/service purchase, warranty registration, product/service experience or other transactions.

Cookies

You can set your browser to refuse all or some browser cookies, or to alert you when websites set or access cookies. If you disable or refuse cookies, please note that some parts of this website may become inaccessible or not function properly. For more information about the cookies we use, please see our cookie policy.

Change of purpose

We will only use your personal data for the purposes for which we collected it, unless we reasonably consider that we need to use it for another reason and that reason is compatible with the original purpose. If you wish to get an explanation as to how the processing for the new purpose is compatible with the original purpose, please contact us. If we need to use your personal data for an unrelated purpose, we will notify you and we will explain the legal basis which allows us to do so. Please note that we may process your personal data without your knowledge or consent, in compliance with the above rules, where this is required or permitted by law.

Disclosures of your personal data

We may have to share your personal data with the parties set out below for the purposes set out in the table above.

• Internal Third Parties as set out in the Glossary
• External Third Parties as set out in the Glossary
• Specific third parties listed in the table above

International transfers

We do not transfer your personal data outside the European Economic Area (EEA).

Data security

We have put in place appropriate security measures to prevent your personal data from being accidentally lost, used or accessed in an unauthorised way, altered or disclosed. In addition, we limit access to your personal data to those employees, agents, contractors and other third parties who have a business need to know. They will only process your personal data on our instructions and they are subject to a duty of confidentiality. We have put in place procedures to deal with any suspected personal data breach and will notify you and any applicable regulator of a breach where we are legally required to do so.

Data retention

How long will you use my personal data for?

We will only retain your personal data for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes we collected it for, including for the purposes of satisfying any legal, accounting, or reporting requirements. To determine the appropriate retention period for personal data, we consider the amount, nature, and sensitivity of the personal data, the potential risk of harm from unauthorised use or disclosure of your personal data, the purposes for which we process your personal data and whether we can achieve those purposes through other means, and the applicable legal requirements. Details of retention periods for different aspects of your personal data are available in our retention policy (which you can request by contacting us). By law we have to keep basic information about our customers (including Contact, Identity, Financial and Transaction Data) for six years after they cease being customers for tax purposes. In some circumstances you can ask us to delete your data: see Request erasure below for further information. In some circumstances we may anonymise your personal data (so that it can no longer be associated with you) for research or statistical purposes in which case we may use this information indefinitely without further notice to you.

Your legal rights

Under certain circumstances, you have rights under data protection laws in relation to your personal data. For instance, you may:

• Request access to your personal data.
• Request correction of your personal data.
• Request erasure of your personal data.
• Object to processing of your personal data.
• Request restriction of processing your personal data.
• Request transfer of your personal data.
• Withdraw consent.

If you wish to exercise any of the rights set out above, please contact us

No fee usually required

You will not have to pay a fee to access your personal data (or to exercise any of the other rights). However, we may charge a reasonable fee if your request is clearly unfounded, repetitive or excessive. Alternatively, we may refuse to comply with your request in these circumstances.

What we may need from you

We may need to request specific information from you to help us confirm your identity and ensure your right to access your personal data (or to exercise any of your other rights). This is a security measure to ensure that personal data is not disclosed to any person who has no right to receive it. We may also contact you to ask you for further information in relation to your request to speed up our response.

Time limit to respond

We try to respond to all legitimate requests within one month. Occasionally it may take us longer than a month if your request is particularly complex or you have made a number of requests. In this case, we will notify you and keep you updated.

Glossary

LAWFUL BASIS:

• Legitimate Interest means the interest of our business in conducting and managing our business to enable us to give you the best service/product and the best and most secure experience. We make sure we consider and balance any potential impact on you (both positive and negative) and your rights before we process your personal data for our legitimate interests. We do not use your personal data for activities where our interests are overridden by the impact on you (unless we have your consent or are otherwise required or permitted to by law). You can obtain further information about how we assess our legitimate interests against any potential impact on you in respect of specific activities by contacting us
• Performance of Contract means processing your data where it is necessary for the performance of a contract to which you are a party or to take steps at your request before entering into such a contract.
• Comply with a legal or regulatory obligation means processing your personal data where it is necessary for compliance with a legal or regulatory obligation that we are subject to.

THIRD PARTIES

Internal Third Parties

Other companies in the South Staffordshire Plc Group acting as joint controllers or processors and who are based in the United Kingdom and provide IT and system administration services and undertake leadership reporting.

External Third Parties

• Service providers acting as processors based in the United Kingdom who provide IT and system administration services.
• Professional advisers acting as processors or joint controllers including lawyers, bankers, auditors and insurers based in the United Kingdom who provide consultancy, banking, legal, insurance and accounting services.
• HM Revenue & Customs, regulators and other authorities acting as processors or joint controllers based in the United Kingdom who require reporting of processing activities in certain circumstances.

YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS

You have the right to: Request access to your personal data (commonly known as a "data subject access request"). This enables you to receive a copy of the personal data we hold about you and to check that we are lawfully processing it. Request correction of the personal data that we hold about you. This enables you to have any incomplete or inaccurate data we hold about you corrected, though we may need to verify the accuracy of the new data you provide to us. Request erasure of your personal data. This enables you to ask us to delete or remove personal data where there is no good reason for us continuing to process it. You also have the right to ask us to delete or remove your personal data where you have successfully exercised your right to object to processing (see below), where we may have processed your information unlawfully or where we are required to erase your personal data to comply with local law. Note, however, that we may not always be able to comply with your request of erasure for specific legal reasons which will be notified to you, if applicable, at the time of your request. Object to processing of your personal data where we are relying on a legitimate interest (or those of a third party) and there is something about your particular situation which makes you want to object to processing on this ground as you feel it impacts on your fundamental rights and freedoms. You also have the right to object where we are processing your personal data for direct marketing purposes. In some cases, we may demonstrate that we have compelling legitimate grounds to process your information which override your rights and freedoms. Request restriction of processing of your personal data. This enables you to ask us to suspend the processing of your personal data in the following scenarios: (a) if you want us to establish the data's accuracy; (b) where our use of the data is unlawful but you do not want us to erase it; (c) where you need us to hold the data even if we no longer require it as you need it to establish, exercise or defend legal claims; or (d) you have objected to our use of your data but we need to verify whether we have overriding legitimate grounds to use it. Request the transfer of your personal data to you or to a third party. We will provide to you, or a third party you have chosen, your personal data in a structured, commonly used, machine-readable format. Note that this right only applies to automated information which you initially provided consent for us to use or where we used the information to perform a contract with you. Withdraw consent at any time where we are relying on consent to process your personal data. However, this will not affect the lawfulness of any processing carried out before you withdraw your consent. If you withdraw your consent, we may not be able to provide certain products or services to you. We will advise you if this is the case at the time you withdraw your consent.

CONDITION ASSESSMENT - Low and medium gas distribution systems

We specialise in assessing the condition and performance capability of in-service gas pipelines, including PE, steel and ageing grey and ductile iron mains. We have developed condition assessment and modeling techniques to give an improved understanding of maintenance requirements and the remaining service life of the pipeline.

STRESS ANALYSIS

We have expertise in conducting stress analysis of pipelines. The primary tool used for completing stress analysis of high pressure pipelines is the CAESAR II software. We have used this tool for various projects including the analysis of pipework arrangements against IGE/TD/12 requirements.

IGEM/TD/1 - 4 Year MOP Affirmation Reports

We have undertaken IGEM/TD/1 affirmation reports for various clients since 2005. We provide an online web accessed data storage solution to enable relevant information to be stored and accessed by the client from anywhere in the world. The client can view the progress of their reports via their own password protected website.

AERIAL SURVEYS

We have developed with a supplier of aerial photography, photographic techniques specifically designed for IGEM/TD/1 surveys. We can deliver high definition photographs at a competitive price.

BESPOKE PDA SOLUTIONS

We have developed PDA based software solutions for its clients' specific needs. This is the latest mobile technology and it can use GPS, GPRS and WIFI. Bespoke solutions have been developed to collect data from site and transmit it back to AES servers for office based data processing.

SITE WORK

We can provide mechanical teams to undertake a wide range of gas site activities. Our operatives are fully trained to accept permits to work under the Safe Control of Operations scheme and as such can operate independently. Our teams are also trained in lifting operations under LOLER and are able to organise for CPA crane hire activities.

Typical gas site experience includes;

• VS02 type inspection activity
• PSSR inspection of pressure vessels including pig traps and gas filters. This includes grit blasting of welds, MPI & Ultrasonic inspection and repainting
• Dinsearch™ small bore tube inspection
• Heat exchanger PSSR inspections, including site removal / install, transport, non destructive testing, pressure testing and repainting
• Strip down & inspection of water bath heaters
• Refurbishment of water bath heaters including remanufacture of fire tubes, gas coils & shell repairs
• Valve overhauls / refurbishment / replacement
• Overhauls of high pressure regulating equipment
• Control cabinet refurbishments & high pressure impulse pipework installation

Gas control modules

Our engineers and technicians have extensive expertise and knowledge of gas control modules and can provide the following services:

• Module overhaul and testing using the ERS Mk1 testing rig
• Conversion to Visi Wink and Auto Vent Snubber
• Rectification of broken clock towers
• Supply of standard maintenance tools
• Manufacture of bulkhead gaskets
• Replacement components manufactured to original drawing specifications

High pressure regulator

Engineers and technicians have expertise in the operation and maintenance of the ERS type high pressure regulators. We provide full maintenance overhauls of these regulators including replacement hard and soft parts. We also offer training and consultancy on the maintenance and operations of these regulators.

TECHNICAL CONSULTING SERVICES

Our gas consultants provide broad support to many clients including the following services:

• Materials performance - Polyethylene, grey iron, ductile iron, and steel
• Asset management/replacement strategies
• Pipe system construction standards
• New/replacement pipe-laying techniques
• Pressure testing and purging
• Gas flow modeling and analysis
• Street works engineering
• Reinstatement materials recycling
• Failure investigations
• Gas related incidents
• Gas in building audit and inspection
• Gas metering audit work
• Hazardous area studies and assessment to IGEM/SR/25
• Mechanical, Civil and Cathodic Protection design approvals and appraisals to PS6/GL5

Click here to contact the Gas Engineering Director for more information...

CONDITION ASSESSMENT - Low and medium gas distribution systems

We specialise in assessing the condition and performance capability of in-service gas pipelines, including PE, steel and ageing grey and ductile iron mains. We have developed condition assessment and modeling techniques to give an improved understanding of maintenance requirements and the remaining service life of the pipeline.

STRESS ANALYSIS

We have expertise in conducting stress analysis of pipelines. The primary tool used for completing stress analysis of high pressure pipelines is the CAESAR II software. We have used this tool for various projects including the analysis of pipework arrangements against IGE/TD/12 requirements.

IGEM/TD/1 - 4 Year MOP Affirmation Reports

We have undertaken IGEM/TD/1 affirmation reports for various clients since 2005. We provide an online web accessed data storage solution to enable relevant information to be stored and accessed by the client from anywhere in the world. The client can view their data and reports via their own password protected website.(more)

AERIAL SURVEYS

We have developed with a supplier of aerial photography, photographic techniques specifically designed for IGEM/TD/1 surveys. We can deliver high definition photographs at a competitive price.

BESPOKE PDA SOLUTIONS

We have developed PDA based software solutions for its clients' specific needs. This is the latest mobile technology and it can use GPS, GPRS and WIFI. Bespoke solutions have been developed to collect data from site and transmit it back to AES servers for office based data processing.

SITE WORK

We can provide mechanical teams to undertake a wide range of gas site activities. Our operatives are fully trained to accept permits to work under the Safe Control of Operations scheme and as such can operate independently. Our teams are also trained in lifting operations under LOLER and are able to organise for CPA crane hire activities.

Typical gas site experience includes;

• VS02 type inspection activity (more)
• PSSR inspection of pressure vessels including pig traps and gas filters. This includes grit blasting of welds, MPI & Ultrasonic inspection and repainting
• Dinsearch™ small bore tube inspection (more)
• Heat exchanger PSSR inspections, including site removal / install, transport, non destructive testing, pressure testing and repainting
• Strip down & inspection of water bath heaters
• Refurbishment of water bath heaters including remanufacture of fire tubes, gas coils & shell repairs
• Valve overhauls / refurbishment / replacement
• Overhauls of high pressure regulating equipment
• Control cabinet refurbishments & high pressure impulse pipework installation (more)

Gas control modules

Our engineers and technicians have extensive expertise and knowledge of gas control modules and can provide the following services:

• Module overhaul and testing using the ERS Mk1 testing rig
• Conversion to Visi Wink and Auto Vent Snubber
• Rectification of broken clock towers
• Supply of standard maintenance tools
• Manufacture of bulkhead gaskets
• Replacement components manufactured to original drawing specifications

(more)

High pressure regulator

Engineers and technicians have expertise in the operation and maintenance of the ERS type high pressure regulators. We provide full maintenance overhauls of these regulators including replacement hard and soft parts. We also offer training and consultancy on the maintenance and operations of these regulators.(more)

TECHNICAL CONSULTING SERVICES

Our gas consultants provide broad support to many clients including the following services:

• Materials performance - Polyethylene, grey iron, ductile iron, and steel
• Asset management/replacement strategies
• Pipe system construction standards
• New/replacement pipe-laying techniques
• Pressure testing and purging
• Gas flow modeling and analysis
• Street works engineering
• Reinstatement materials recycling
• Failure investigations
• Gas related incidents
• Gas in building audit and inspection
• Gas metering audit work
• Hazardous area studies and assessment to IGEM/SR/25
• Mechanical, Civil and Cathodic Protection design approvals and appraisals to PS6/GL5

Click here to contact the Gas Engineering Director for more information...

The Company offers complete re-coating and refurbishment services for above ground pipelines and associated integral structures, principally bridge crossings.

The process can include grit blasting, pipe wrapping and painting using two pack epoxy and polyurethane coating systems. The Company applies tape and liquid coating supplied by Winn & Coales who have been providing anti-corrosion coating and wrappings for over 100 years. Winn & Coales issued AESL with its first approved applicator certificate based on the quality of the work carried out.

All work is carried out in accordance with our ISO9001:2000 procedures and work instructions. AESL provide all the necessary Risk Assessments and Method Statements as well as coordinating all the works with the necessary statutory bodies such as the Environmental Agency, Landowners and occupiers. The work is carried out by trained operators and supervised by qualified painting inspectors.

The works can include the project management for the replacement of associated pipeline structures such as handrails, walkways and valve covers etc. including minor civil works as part of the overall refurbishment programme.

We have carried out pipeline coating works for a number of major clients including Northumbria Water Limited, Essex and Suffolk Water Limited, BNFL and Scottish & Southern Energy. Schemes undertaken have varied from 30m to 4.2km in length and £4,000 to £180,000 in value.

AESL provides the service to customer specification and prides itself as the premier coating contractor for above ground pipelines.

Click here to contact the Special Operations Director for more information...

Case Study: Click Here

Pipeline Surveying

AESL provide land surveys including logitudinal sections and profiling.

Impounding Reservoir Surveys

In addition to the above, AESL provide First Order Surveys for Impounding Resevoirs, monitoring control stations, essential for compilation of the supervising engineers report.

Design Work

Concrete Ground Floor Slab Design

Ground floor slab design to BS 81110: part 1 1997 and Concrete Society Technical Report 34.

Drainage / Soakaway Design

Site soil infiltration tests and Soakaway Drainage Design to BRE 365.

Thrust Block / Pipeline Anchorage Design

Restraint of water pipeline pressure/movement, Mc Alloy anchors and thrust block design.

Utility Asset Surveys

Pipelines, valves, pumping stations and service reservoirs surveyed including valve and pressure checks, GPS updating of pipeline routes to sub metre accuracy.

The company offers a complete start to finish software development service. Involving the customer at all levels during the development of the applications.

Typical developments include:

• Data Collection
• Data Storage
• Server Side Software for Collection and Processing of Data
• Desktop Application for Collection and Processing of Data
• Online access to data via custom developed websites
• PCM (Pipeline Current Mapping) Surveys
• Remote Data Logging
• Online mapping of data
• Other Technical Software including:
  • Fiscal allocation of hydrocarbon products
  • Software to calculate hazardous zones to IGEM/SR/25 Edition 2
  • Asset risk prioritisation software and database
  • Software to calculate loading of buried pipes

Data collection activities are provided for both desktop and PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), with the option of collecting data on site and uploading to a central server either remotely via standard mobile communications or back in the office.

Click here to contact the Software Development Department for more information...

Water Industry

	Northumbrian Water Ltd
	Thames Water
	United Utilities
	Scottish Water
	Wessex Water
	Northern Ireland Water
	Suez Environnement
	Melbourne Water
	City West Water (Melbourne)
	Sydney Water
	South Australia Water

Gas and Oil Industries

	Northern Gas Networks
	Scotia Gas Networks
	National Grid Gas
	Scottish and Southern Energy
	The Hong Kong and China Gas Company
	Apache Corporation
	Khalda Petroleum Company
	IGas Engery
	Gas Networks Ireland
	Mutual Energy
	Premier Transmission
	Cadent Gas

It is the policy of Advanced Engineering Solutions Limited to supply products and services to its customers to a consistent quality and standard defined by Company targets customer requirements and specifications. The Company, in order to meet this objective has established and operates a Quality Management System. The Company is committed to ensure the effectiveness of it's Quality Management System and to seek to ensure its continual improvement. Mechanisms for the recording of the Company's performance against it's Quality Objectives are a fundamental part of the Quality Management System.

1 General

The Quality Systems detailed in this Quality Systems Manual and associated Procedures and Work Instruction Manuals are designed to ensure that all products and services supplied by the Company conform to the Company's and client requirements. The Quality System is based upon the International Standard ISO 9001: 2000

Level 1: Quality Systems Manual (QS-1): This document will be at the highest level and will reference all documentation below it. This manual gives an overview of the policies, procedures and practices adopted towards the various sections of ISO 9001: 2000.

Level 2: Procedures Manual (QS-2): These documents contain the procedures pertinent to key business activities. The procedures define the purpose and scope of the activity, outlining the "what, when, where and by whom" the activity is to be carried out. Where required, the manuals also document the appropriate Quality Records and maintenance of those records.

Level 3: Work Instruction Manual (QS-3): Where required, individual documents will refer to more detailed work instructions specifying how individuals will undertake one or more specific tasks.

2 Responsibility and Authority

The responsibility, authority and the inter-relation of all personnel who manage or perform or inspect work affecting the quality of our products and services are defined in the Procedures Manual (QS-2) and the Work Instructions Manuals (QS-3).

3 Resources

The Company's Directors are responsible for the appointment of Quality Management representatives who will have responsibilities and authority for ensuring the implementation and compliance of the systems in accordance with the International Standard. The Company will ensure that adequate resources are provided for the identified requirements of this Quality Systems Manual and that trained personnel are assigned to all critical Quality tasks.

4 Responsibility

The MD has the ultimate responsibility for establishing, implementing and maintaining the Company Quality Policy, via the Quality Manager and Group Directors and he has delegated to the Quality Manager the 'hands on' implementation and maintenance of the Quality System.

5 Management Review

The Quality Review Panel will co-ordinate the Company's quality and standards functions and as such will be the prime resource for management review of the quality system. The review is a Senior Management function, which will be instigated by the Quality Manager and concluded with a meeting of the Quality Review Panel as appropriate, and the following will be considered as a minimum for carrying out such reviews.

6 Contract Review

The Contract Review procedure will ensure that before submission of a tender or the acceptance of a contract or order that the client's requirements are clearly understood and recorded with due regard to any special requirements.

The control of Contract Review activities will be in accordance with procedure QS-2-P-01. The responsibility for this procedure will be with the Managing Director.

7 Document and Data Control

The Company operates procedures to control all relevant documentation that constitute the Quality System, these include the Quality System Manual (this manual), operational procedures (Procedures Manual), work instructions (Work Instruction Manual).

Document and Data Control will be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-03.

8 Purchasing

The Company will use suppliers and sub-contractors with a known capability to meet specific quality requirements; consideration will be given to the following when assessing such capabilities, evaluation of Sub-Contractors technical capability and PI insurances, purchasing records and other data, verification of Purchased Product, verification of Sub-Contractors product.

Evaluation and the control of the purchasing process will be in accordance with procedure QS-2-P-04 and work instruction QS-3-WI-001.

9 Control of Customer Supplied Product

The Control of Customer Supplied Product Procedure will address the following quality aspects, identification of Customer Supplied Product, product or material storage, sduitability of product for intended use, the separate storage of damaged or unsuitable product or material.

The Control of Customers Supplied Product shall be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-05.

10 Product Identification and Traceability

Documented systems will be maintained to ensure that constituent materials for use in the production of intellectual property (reports etc.) or assembled or manufactured goods and for the goods themselves are adequately identified and traceable by means of advice notes and inspection records.

Product identification and traceability will be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-06

11 Process Control

Any part of the production processes that could affect quality will be identified and documented into procedures and/or work instructions, such documentation will be made available to all relevant personnel and will be displayed at appropriate work stations.

Process Control will be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-07

12 Inspection and Testing

The Inspection and Testing Procedure will address the frequency of testing, receiving inspection and testing, in process inspection and testing final inspection and testing and inspection and testing records.

Where necessary the Inspection and Testing with be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-08

13 Measuring and Test Equipment

Where applicable the Control of Inspection, Measuring and Test Equipment Procedure will address the measurements required, frequency, accuracy of testing, precision, calibration, equipment maintenance, test standards traceability, inspection, testing and calibration records.

The control of inspection, measuring and test equipment will be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-09.

14 Inspection and Test Status

The Inspection and Test Status Procedure will address the suitable visual identification and segregation of material stocks/stocking areas, reference to inspection records and identifiable process data, the inspection and test status of materials, components and other items used to provide finished products or services will be positively identified to prevent inadvertent use or delivery of defective materials, products or services to customers.

The Inspection and Test Status will be in accordance with procedure QS-2-P-10.

15 Control of Non Conforming Product

The Control of Non Conforming Product Procedure will address, can the product be accepted, can a concession be obtained from the customer, can the product be reworked or repaired, should the product be returned to the supplier, should the product be scrapped, suitable visual identification and segregation of material stocks/stocking areas, reference to inspection records and identifiable process data.

Non Conforming Product as identified by the Inspection and Test procedure will be subject to an investigation that will result in the product being accepted or rejected in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-11.

16 Handling, Storage,Packaging, Preservation and Delivery

The Handling, Storage, Packaging, Preservation and Delivery Procedure will address the following quality aspects, handling, storage, packaging, preservation, delivery.

Handling, storage, packaging, preservation and delivery will be carried out in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-13

17 Control of Quality Records

The Company operates a system to identify, record and retrieve quality records. Records will be maintained to provide evidence of the operation of the quality system. The control and identification of the relevant quality records will be in accordance with the relevant procedure.

This will be carried out in accordance will be carried out in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-14.

18 Internal Quality Audits

Internal quality audits will be carried out in accordance with Procedures Manual - Internal Audits and the Work Instruction Manual. A planned system of internal audits will be administered by the Quality Manager to verify that the quality systems specified in this manual and designed to meet the requirements of BS EN ISO 9002: 1994 are operating effectively throughout the company.

Internal Quality Audits will be in accordance with procedure QS-2-P-15.

19 Training

The Training Procedure will address the following, identification of training needs, ensure that personnel are fully trained to carry out their specific tasks, ensure that personnel are competent to carry out their tasks through formal training, experience and training, maintain appropriate records of all training received, including 'on-the-job' training.

Employee training will be in accordance with the procedure QS-2-P-16

Advanced Engineering Solutions Limited have a responsibility as a company to take proper care of the environment on behalf of our neighbours, customers, staff and the communities in which we operate. Caring for the environment is an essential part of the way we run our business.

We attach maximum importance to all legal requirements and to minimizing any adverse environmental effects that may result from our activities or products. We are committed to manage responsibly the way in which we may affect the environment.

Advanced Engineering Solutions is a science-based engineering company providing technical and scientific support to its customers. It is our policy to satisfy our customer's reasonable requirements and minimize any impact on the environment. Advanced Engineering Solutions is a science-based engineering company providing technical and scientific support to its customers. It is our policy to satisfy our customer's reasonable requirements and minimize any impact on the environment.

In particular Advanced Engineering Solutions Limited will:

• Optimise the use of energy throughout our operations,
• Provide appropriate environmental training and educate our employees to be environmentally responsible,
• Seek to minimize waste in all operations and development and to prevent releases to the atmosphere, land or water,
• Seek to prevent pollution before it is produced, reduce the amount and toxicity of waste generated and ensure its safe treatment and disposal by responsible methods,
• Seek to realize the dual benefits of reduced fuel consumption and lower exhaust emissions by coordinating route planning and delivery schedules,
• Work with suppliers to minimize the impact of their operations on the environment through a quality purchasing policy.

We will integrate environmental consideration into our daily work and use management systems designed to promote activities and conditions that will seek to assure the protection of human health, safety and quality.

We will set objectives and targets for activities that significantly affect the environment and will measure our performance over time and publish details of our progress.

Environmental audits will be undertaken to monitor our progress in this policy, in implementing these principles and in complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

Our company will assign an Environmental Manager committed to:

• Identify and improve our significant environmental aspects and impacts from current and relevant past activities and services,
• Ensure that our environmental performance is measured and reviewed against agreed targets to demonstrate continuous improvement,
• Document, implement and reinforce the principles of this policy to all employees, customers and suppliers, and communicate and make this policy available to all.

Advanced Engineering Solutions Limited is committed to developing a working environment that is safe and healthy for its employees, visitors and the general public in all of the office and site based activities. The Directors will ensure the promotion of health and safety, as a mutual objective, at all levels within the Company, and will extend this policy to all Company work activities, wherever and whenever they may take place.

The Company Management is responsible for, as far as reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of all employees and will ensure that they are provided with all necessary tools, protective equipment and training therein, to allow them to perform their work duties in a safe and healthy manner.

• To provide adequate control of health and safety risks arising from our work activities.
• To consult with our employees on matters affecting their health and safety.
• To provide and maintain safe plant and equipment.
• To ensure safe handling and use of substances
• To provide information, instruction and supervision for employees.
• To ensure all employees are competent to do their task, and to give them adequate training.
• To prevent accidents and cases of work related ill health.
• To maintain safe and healthy working conditions.
• To review and revise this policy as necessary at regular intervals.

The commitment of all employees and associates will be required in order to successfully implement this policy. Therefore, it will be a condition of employment for all employees, and will be required by the terms and conditions of all associates, contractors, and secondees, that they all co-operate fully with this policy. The Company are committed to this Health and Safety policy and will fully support all persons responsible for its implementation. The Managing Director will review the policy, annually, to ensure its continuing compliance with current legislation.