Aberdeen-based specialist explosives service provider, SPEX Services, has launched a new company division, SPEX Decom, to capitalise on the major opportunities available within the decommissioning and salvage sectors.

The creation of the division enables SPEX to provide a total, one stop package of products and services for clients operating within the oil and gas industry.

Offering a full range of explosive and non-explosive cutting options, SPEX Decom’s extensive range of in-house capabilities include environmental impact assessments, computer simulation and comparative assessments of potential cutting technologies.

Since SPEX was formed in May, 2009, the expansion of its decommissioning capabilities has been at the forefront of its growth plans.

The company, which in the last 12 months has seen its staff numbers rise from 25 to 42, hopes the forming of SPEX Decom will assist it in increasing its turnover by £2.3million in the next financial year, from £3.9million – recorded in 2010 – to £6.2million.

The firm already possessed an impressive track record in the precision use of explosives – both above and below water – and, as part of a concerted effort, added diamond wire technologies, hydro abrasive cutting and mechanical systems to increase its product portfolio.

Heading up the new division is Eddie Grant, who has been appointed Decommissioning Manager and who brings a wealth of experience with him to the position.

Throughout the 25 years he has worked within the oil and gas decommissioning sector, Eddie has held a number of senior management positions with a host of major companies, including Weatherford and Cutting Underwater Technologies (CUT UK).

With specialist expertise in diamond wire, hydro abrasive and mechanical cutting technologies, Eddie’s work has seen him involved in projects in, primarily, the UK North Sea and the Middle East, Asia Pacific and the Gulf of Mexico.

Eddie’s new role at the company will see him lead the firm’s drive into the decommissioning and salvage sectors markets.

He will also be responsible for spearheading the addition of fresh technologies to the company’s portfolio of cutting tools and equipment, allowing SPEX to offer a comprehensive array of cutting solutions.

SPEX’ Commercial Director, John Fox, added: “These are extremely exciting times for SPEX. Since the company’s inception only two years ago we’ve already enjoyed considerable success and the creation of SPEX Decom will enable us to complete our service offering and allow us to offer a truly one stop solution for clients.

“We are delighted to have someone of Eddie’s talent and expertise join us to spearhead our decommissioning and salvage operations, which I’ve no doubt, with Eddie at the helm, are set to flourish.”

Eddie commented on his appointment: “I am delighted to be joining such a fast growing and forward thinking company as SPEX Services. This new role is an extremely exciting opportunity, which will provide me with the chance to use the significant market experience I have gained over the years in the challenging decommissioning market.

“As a company, SPEX has vast experience in the offshore environment and has created a formidable team that can offer a complete decommissioning package to the industry and I look forward to playing my part in its continued success and growth.”

Tags: SPEX Services