OMS, SIMTech to Spearhead R&D for Regional Oil and Gas Sector

SINGAPORE, October 02, 2023 – Upstream energy producer OMS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech). The MoU will see both parties explore opportunities for collaboration, especially in the manufacture of additives, aiming to scale up the process. The parties will also explore qualification through standards and certification in additive manufacturing to allow OMS to achieve consistent and quality production.

The MoU signing took place at the 12th Global Additive Manufacturing Summit (GAMS) on September 29, 2023 and was witnessed by guest-of-honour, Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry, Dr. Ho Chaw Sing, CEO of the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), and Frederick Chew, CEO, A*STAR.

Singapore is the leading oil refining and trading hub in Asia, and hosts over 100 refining and petrochemical companies. This includes some of the most established international companies with major refining and petrochemical operations. The sector plays a key role in Singapore’s economy, accounting for approximately 5% of the country’s total gross domestic product (GDP). Singapore also serves as the main manufacturing hub for many major international oilfield services and equipment companies. With its extensive infrastructure and technological expertise, Singapore is poised to lead the sector’s path towards a more efficient and sustainable future.

Additive manufacturing allows for faster testing of prototypes, as well as enables innovative thinking and design iterations to improve quality and reduce time to market for new parts, and explore new avenues for cutting-edge sustainable energy solutions.

Dr David Low, executive director of ASTAR’s SIMTech said, “ASTAR’s latest collaboration with OMS signifies a shared commitment to driving innovation in additive manufacturing, and in elevating the production standards and processes of high-value metal components. This collaboration not only aims to boost OMS’ competitiveness, but also paves the way for local manufacturers in the oil and gas sector to thrive amidst continuous sector transformation. A*STAR hopes to enhance end-to-end additive manufacturing solutions with OMS, to encourage more companies in Singapore to adopt additive manufacturing.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Ho Chaw Sing, chief executive officer of the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster said: “This partnership is testament to the growing awareness of leading local manufacturing service businesses to future-proof their business through technology investment and workforce re-skilling, transitioning from the traditional manual welding, cladding processes and workflows to a digital and more automated workflow incorporating additive manufacturing processes.”

The employees of OMS will be provided with training courses, to contribute towards future-proofing OMS’ workforce, and ensuring that they remain competitive and competent in the ever-evolving oil and gas sector.

“By collaborating with SIMTech, I am confident that this will not only boost our technological capabilities in additive manufacturing but enhance the competitiveness of my workforce by equipping them with essential skills, empowering us to serve our customers better. More importantly, this partnership is a testament to our commitment to drive advancements in our field”, said How Meng Hock, CEO, OMS.