The oil and gas industry relies on high quality tubing for various activities. This includes exploration, extraction, transportation, and refining. As a result, when activity increases, demand does too. That is happening at the moment in various parts of the world. It could speed up further in the UK in the future too if we have a change in leadership at the next General Election. As the top provider of ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands, we want to take a closer look.
The US
One of the biggest news stories is there has been an uptick in oil and gas activity in the US. Recent figures from last week show an increase in the total number of rigs (539). The figure is down on 2024 (51 less), but activity is starting to pick up.
The significant finding is the number of gas rigs in the US was 118, up 21 year on year. Oil rigs have had a harder period, down 72 year on year. However, there have been new ones opening recently, including 4 in a two week span. This pushed the total back up to 416.
The UK
Oil and gas is one of the most interesting industries in the UK. It’s been up and down for the last 60 years, driven by activity in the North Sea. There have been many amazing developments over the decades, including better cranes able to handle heavier weights, dynamic positioning for boats, and the ability to drill deeper. Many of these have been possible because of high quality materials. If you need ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands, we have them for you.
Another interesting thing about the oil and gas industry is the improvements in safety. Sadly there have been a number of tragedies in the North Sea over the years. The collapse of Sea Gem in 1965 and the disaster at Piper Alpha in 1988 were two of the worst. In the aftermath of both, there were significant changes in rules and regulations to improve safety.
At one point, the UK became a net exporter of oil and gas. Production has been in decline for decades now, but it is still a significant industry. It could have a brighter future too, especially if we see political change at the next General Election. Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch said she would look to remove the ban on new licenses to allow more businesses to drill in the North Sea. This could mean a big increase in activity.
Ordering ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands
Union Steel Tubes appreciates how important quality tubing is in various industries. It’s necessary for all kinds of things, including oil and gas, manufacturing, furniture, and more. Even more importantly, it works well for safety products, including handrails, roll bars, and scaffolding.
We’re very proud to supply high quality steel tubes. Our standards are impeccable, and we have the credentials to prove it. We’ve also built a solid reputation and have clients in various industries.
So, if you want to order ERW steel tubes in the West Midlands, talk to us first. We’re confident we can deliver the tubing you need, cut to size and finished how you want it.
