Istvan is the plant designer at TCM

Istvan`s role is to support study projects by estimating piping and structural scope and involves collaboration in establishing procedures and best practices for creating content in design databases. “The most fulfilling part of my job,” states Szabo, “is the opportunity to work closely with emerging CO₂ capturing technologies, contributing directly to environmental sustainability.”

”How was your first encounter with TCM, Istvan?”

”I remember when I started at Technological Engineering Company, my first employer at Mongstad, in 2008 that TCM was built and we could see the amine tower being erected from the office window. The company also got a project with TCM two years later. It was about some air intake on the RFC blower. At that time the administration building was not taken in use, and we went to the barrack offices for meetings. We discussed engineering of the platform, which was necessary to access this new air intake and the valves on it.

I remember I did some onsite  measurements in the refinery and made a 3D model of the surroundings and the platform, because we couldn’t afford 3D scanning those days. My colleague were running the fininte element analysis on it and we delivered the drawings. At that time, I did not understand the business idea of TCM; I only concentrated on my small project. The only person at TCM I remember from that time is Karstein Mangersnes, who worked in electrical installation and led the meetings. Later on he became a good colleague at TCM.”

Name: Istvan Szabo

Age: 43

Marital status: In a relationship

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Budapest University of Technology, Hungary

Position: PDMS designer at TCM 2015 –

”In 2015 you got a full time job at TCM after one year as a PDMS designer at Equinor’s refinery. What was the reason for your transition to TCM?”

”The reason why I was contracted was that TCM needed a person who understood 3D design and could use this software in the plant. At that time I think I was the only person in Mongstad with this knowledge. So it was an easy option.

I straight away decided that this is something interesting to happen but knew little of the challenges. The main one was that TCM was designed by three different companies, Aker, Alstom and Aibel who all have their separated PDMS models. They each had their own way of configuring the software and storing the data. When it was delivered, these 3D model databases were combined in one multi-database. This posted and still poses challenges to work with. So my first task was to actually keep the 3D model up-to-date with the modifications happened on site. Different methods are required to extract isometrics from one database configuration to another, and finding or reporting information from the databases varies.

This was challenging due to differing data structures for the amine plant, chilled ammonia plant, and utilities. However, I found it fascinating to gain a deeper understanding of the 3D tool and database structuring, thanks to these challenges rather than simply measuring and modeling the plant in 3D. Today, the model is functional and effective, but there is still room for improvement. It appears to be an everlasting task.”

”How has your interest in CO₂ capture grown since joining TCM?”

”Initially, CO₂ capture wasn’t my primary focus, but my involvement has deepened with each project. This has significantly broadened my understanding of various CO₂ capture technologies and their potential impact on climate change.”

”How is a typical day at work as a PDMS Designer at TCM?”

”Each day varies, but generally, my tasks involve refining and verifying the 3D models for TCM. I utilize tools like HoloLens to overlay 3D models onto the real-world environment, ensuring accuracy and up-to-date modifications.”

”How do you prepare towards a new test campaign?”

”My role in campaign planning is focused on modifications. I create detailed 3D models and isometric drawings, and handle the procurement process by estimating costs. For emerging technology campaigns, my involvement extends to layout planning and interfacing with vendors to ensure compatibility with existing systems.”

”What do you highlight as the most rewarding and interesting aspects of the work you have been involved in at TCM?”

”The most fulfilling part of my job is working closely with emerging CO₂ capturing technologies. Participating in the planning and assessment stages of new technologies offers me a glimpse into how these innovations could potentially reduce CO₂ emissions — a highly rewarding aspect of my job.”

”Istvan, reflecting on your time at TCM, how do you think that the team has evolved?”

”Since joining TCM, I’ve observed a shift towards more diverse and innovative approaches in technology applications, particularly in emerging technologies. The environment at TCM fosters continuous improvement and adaptation, contributing to personal and organizational growth.”

”How have you adapted to the Norwegian climate, language, and culture and what are your thoughts about the future, Istvan?”

”Moving from the bustling city of Budapest, where I studied, to the quieter, more spread-out landscapes of Norway was a significant shift for me and my girlfriend. Engaging with locals and learning Norwegian has enriched our experience, allowing us to integrate more deeply into the community. Our initial plan was to stay in Norway for a few years, but as time went on, we have found ourselves more and more deeply rooted here. We moved from renting an apartment near Risasjøen to owning our own home in Lindås, where we are content.

As for the future, it remains unpredictable. However, at TCM, the potential for using 3D modeling is increasingly apparent. There are numerous intelligent ways to gather data and use 3D models as interfaces for this data. I am also eager to contribute to Equinor’s 3D strategy, leveraging my skills in a field that is quite similar to my current work.”