Protolabs report shows oilfield services going green, adopting on-demand manufacturing
September 17, 2021
The oilfield services sector is radically restructuring to survive in a world moving towards net-zero carbon emissions, according to ‘Decision Time’, a report published by Protolabs, exploring the challenges and opportunities for Europe’s oilfield services sector.
The research saw more than 180 senior leaders from oilfield services companies across Europe, including Welltec and Swire Energy Services, interviewed by digital manufacturer Protolabs, headquartered in Maple Plain, Minnesota, USA. The survey was completed in summer 2021.
The majority of business leaders in the sector, who took part in the research, see sustainability as an opportunity, with 77% saying sustainability is a way to differentiate and grow their business, and with 80% saying that experience in sustainability gives European businesses an edge in global markets. Some 82% of respondents stated that they plan to engage in Manufacturing-as-a-Service (MaaS) – Additive Manufacturing and on-demand manufacturing – to streamline component production in order to survive.
“3D printing is valuable for creating spare parts that are not easily accessible,” stated the CTO of a Swedish oilfield services company. “It also allows the re-creation of the necessary piece or can recreate the moulds, templates or tools used in the manufacture of spare parts.”
Bjoern Klaas, vice president and Managing Director of Protolabs Europe, added “The sector’s appetite to secure a long-term future means companies are branching out into other industries and extending their capabilities. With energy transition revolutionising the sector, combined with a much lower profit environment, it is imperative that companies continue to innovate and embrace renewable markets,”
“Companies in the sector appreciate the value of environmental credibility – not only to secure their own reputation and funding, but also in response to the legislative need to cut down on emissions and the competitive need to be sustainable within the global marketplace.”
“Our ‘In Charge’ report earlier this year showed that 58% of respondents believe sustainability principles will give European battery makers an edge in the international market. Also mirroring our battery industry report, 83% of UK respondents to the ‘Decision Time’ report say they are planning to move their supply chain closer to their manufacturing base within the next twelve months.”
“This is an important tactic when considering the need to rely on innovation, create a leaner business and turn to Manufacturing-as-a-Service to deliver an operation that will flourish in the new era,” concluded Klaas.
