A surface preparation method using focused laser energy to remove rust, coatings, or contaminants from metal. Subcontractors use it as a cleaner alternative to sandblasting on pipelines and structural steel. It reduces waste disposal costs and meets strict environmental site requirements.
Laser Surface Ablation
Related Terms
IEA (International Energy Agency)
IndustryAn intergovernmental organisation that publishes global energy outlooks and demand forecasts, which subcontractors and field service companies use to anticipate shifts in upstream and downstream activity levels that may affect project pipelines and contract opportunities.
Bladder Tank
IndustryA collapsible, flexible fluid storage container used on job sites to hold fuel, water, or chemicals. Subcontractors often mobilise them where permanent tanks aren't practical. They're common on remote oil and gas and construction sites.
RAP (Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement)
IndustryMilled or crushed material salvaged from existing asphalt surfaces during road removal or rehabilitation work. Subcontractors reuse RAP as base material or blend it into new asphalt mixes, reducing material costs. Proper handling and testing requirements may apply depending on project specs.
Grade Separation
IndustryA crossing where a road, pipeline, or utility passes over or under another route using a bridge or culvert. Subcontractors must account for grade separations when planning equipment moves and material hauls. Permits and escort requirements often apply when loads approach clearance limits.
Working Interest
IndustryAn ownership stake in an oil and gas lease that obligates the holder to pay a share of exploration and production costs. For subcontractors, knowing who holds working interest helps identify who is ultimately responsible for approving work orders and invoices. Operators typically hold majority working interest and are your primary point of contract.
Multi-Zone Testing
IndustryA well evaluation process where multiple reservoir intervals are tested separately in a single wellbore operation. Subcontractors must coordinate pressure testing, fluid sampling, and equipment rigging across several zones. Scope changes between zones can affect crew hours, tool rentals, and invoicing significantly.
Latest Industry News
Laser Surface Ablation Offers Precise, Waste-Free Alternative to Sandblasting for Corrosion Control
A new analysis in Inspectioneering Journal examines laser surface ablation as a cleaner, more precise alternative to sandblasting and hydroblasting for surface prep and corrosion control, with real implications for field service companies working in refineries and energy infrastructure.
6 months agoIndustryJacobs-PCL Wins $1B SF Plant Upgrade Built Around Live Operations
SFPUC picked a Jacobs-PCL joint venture for a $1 billion progressive design-build nutrient reduction project at its largest treatment plant. The plant must keep running during construction, which shapes how subs should pursue early involvement.
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Xcel Energy's five-year capital plan rises 17% to $70 billion, with 9.2 GW of renewables, 2.3 GW of storage, 3.3 GW of gas and 2,400 miles of new transmission. Here is what the plan means for foundation, collection and substation crews.
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