Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) has signed a collaboration agreement with IPC Malaysia B.V. (IPCM) and SLB to advance energy education through the refurbishment of electric submersible pump (ESP) technology. This collaboration coincides with the official opening of the Lukas Artificial Lift Study Laboratory (Lukas ALS Lab) within the university's Petroleum Engineering Department.
The agreement was signed by UTP Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ir Ts Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib, IPCM General Manager Ben Kwa and SLB Managing Director Meng Keong Lee.
The agreement signifies a deeper partnership between UTP, IPCM, and SLB. IPCM will provide internship placements, advisory panel membership for Petroleum Engineering, and its existing track record of employing UTP graduates. SLB, a longstanding supporter of UTP's Petroleum Engineering programme since its inception, has further solidified their commitment by providing valuable industry insights and resources through this agreement.
A key focus of the collaboration agreement is to leverage the ESP, a type of artificial lift system used in oil wells. The refurbished ESP system, the centrepiece of the newly opened Lukas ALS Lab, was donated by IPCM after its retirement from an offshore well.
Traditionally, retired downhole equipment like ESPs were either disposed of or recycled for their remaining materials. Recognising the potential for innovative and sustainable practices, IPCM, SLB, and UTP have challenged this norm.
By refurbishing the ESP, they not only restored valuable equipment but also established a more environmentally conscious approach within the industry. Furthermore, the refurbished ESP provides students and faculty with hands-on experience, enriching their knowledge in energy technology.
This collaboration between UTP, IPCM and SLB demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing education in the energy sector, with a focus on promoting sustainable practices. The combined efforts will equip future graduates with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in a field that is increasingly seeking environmentally responsible solutions.
