The ROGTEC Interview: Colin Duff, Sales Director for Hardbanding Solutions Europe Ltd
What is your position in the company and how long have you held this position?
I was appointed Sales Director when Hardbanding Solutions Europe Ltd was formed as a technical center for hardbanding products Duraband NC and Tuffband NC on 1st September 2011. Before that I held the position of Sales Manager at Mathieson Ltd, who were the previous suppliers of these products to the Russian Market. The new company was formed allowing us to concentrate solely on hardbanding, improving our range and depth of customer support.
How long have you been in business in Russia and the Caspian?
We have been supplying Hardbanding Solutions into Russia since early 2009. First we Identify organisations who could use our technology to improve drilling performance and protect their assets, then we train local service companies to provide the hardbanding service to the highest standards. We recently entered the Caspian market and will expand our presence in 2012.
What companies have you worked with in the Region?
Hardbanding Solutions have been working closely with Operators, Drilling Contractors and Pipe Rental Companies, providing major cost savings through asset protection and more efficient drilling with our hardbanding products. We have also qualified local Russian service companies to apply and re-apply Duraband NC and Tuffband NC.
What is your most recent success in the market?
A Russian Operator recently started using Duraband NC in the Tyumen Region. The Drilling Supervisor was happy to report back that after drilling twelve, three thousand meter wells (2000 hours drilling time) the Duraband NC on their Drill Pipe was holding up very well. In fact, when we asked them to measure the wear, the reply was that there was no need as it was negligible. Hardbanding will save them millions of dollars on Drill Pipe in the coming years.
What is your favourite band and track?
Today it’s ‘Bad’ by U2. The answer to that question changes at least twice a week though!
Where in the world would you most like to visit and why?
I’ve never been to South America. I would love to spend some time in Rio, Brazil. I’d also like to do the trek to Machu Picchu in Peru. I hear Buenos Aires is fantastic for a night out as well…..lets just say South America. All of it.
What is your favourite sport, and what team do you support?
Football! I’m tortured most weeks watching Scottish Premier League side Kilmarnock – they are responsible for my retreating hairline. I passionately follow the Scottish National Team, who also lose very often, but at least I get to have a laugh travelling to other countries to support them, complete with Kilt and Bagpipes. It’s a great way to visit new places and to experience new cultures.
What are your thoughts on the Russian oil and gas market through to the end of this year and beyond?
Based on recent conversations with industry professionals, I think the outlook for E&P in Russia is very positive. The potential for hardbanding specifically is very exciting. I feel this technology is already beginning to capture the imagination of the Russian market and it won’t be too long before it is standard practice to have it reapplied on drill pipe all over the country. In Duraband NC I believe we have the strongest and most effective hardbanding solution, and at Hardbanding Solutions Europe we endeavor to provide the best support to
our customers.
