How has business been for Ariel Corporation during the first quarter of this year?
The industry that we serve has seen a significant slowdown in terms of business levels around the world, and Ariel Corporation is no exception. However, both Ariel and its distribution personnel have been very successful in securing numerous Middle East projects – in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and in the UAE.
Could you describe some of your clients in the region and your scope of work with them?
Ariel Corporation works through a global network of packaging distributors, many of which are very active in the Middle East market. These packagers provide gas compression and gas treatment solutions for many of the international, national and independent oil and gas companies operating in the region. The equipment is used in the production, processing, transport, and storage of natural gas, as well as in the myriad compressed gas applications that exist within the petrochemical, refining and industrial gas markets.
What new gas compressor products has Ariel recently launched?
Ariel offers the most comprehensive selection of standard compressor frames and cylinders. The most recent compressor products offered are focused on improved efficiency, operational flexibility, reliability (maximum in-service), and minimised fugitive emissions, all while maintaining the most competitive cost of ownership in the marketplace. We now offer cylinders with 10,000 PSI MAWP. There are more than 53,000 Ariel compressor frames, with more than 200,000 Ariel cylinders in operation throughout the world.
What is your opinion of the gas compression market in the region? Is there enough demand for your products?
Where there is natural gas and oil, there will always be a need for gas compression equipment. The region certainly meets those qualifications. While any manufacturer would like to see more demand, we believe that the Middle East is
a growing market, as changing technology and field conditions will require more and more compression.
How do you intend to expand in the regional market in the years to come?
Over the last 15 or so years, Ariel’s focus in the region has expanded. In addition to adding our own personnel in Dubai, our packaging distributors have added significant staff and physical facilities. We have seen our market grow with the acceptance of high-speed compressors, and certainly with the national oil and gas companies. With oil and gas sales prices currently affecting investment decisions in the region, the use of high speed packaged compressors has become more commonplace.
