In Episode 10 of the ESD Simulation Training Podcast, Mark Dixon sits down with industry expert Robert Hobber to explore the complexities of Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) units.

They discuss Bob’s extensive career in commissioning and operations, the unique advantages of using mobile floating plants in remote locations, and the critical systems that allow these vessels to operate without pipelines.

The conversation provides an in-depth look at mooring systems, vessel motion challenges, and the vital international safety and environmental regulations.

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In episode 9 of ESD Simulation Podcast, Brian Hillaby and Mark Dixon, explore the pivotal role of hydrogen in the push toward Net Zero within process engineering. The discussion first breaks down the critical safety challenges associated with handling volatile hydrogen compared to natural gas, highlighting its wide flammability range and invisible flame. Next, it clarifies the difference between green hydrogen and blue hydrogen, detailing their production methods and storage implications. Finally, the segment emphasizes the vital importance of high-fidelity, dynamic simulation training for preparing the global workforce to safely and efficiently manage hydrogen production, compression, and transmission systems.  

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In Episode 8 of the ESD Simulation Training Podcast, Brian Hillaby speaks with industry veteran Nick Jackson about production processing and emergency systems on oil and gas installations. They delve into Nick's extensive experience, the comprehensive three-day training course he delivers through ESD, and key aspects of offshore operations including drilling wells, various offshore structures, and fascinating developments in subsea processing. Nick also explains how well fluids are processed, the often-underestimated importance of utility systems, and the critical roles of Emergency Shutdown, and Fire & Gas systems. 

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In Episode 7 of the ESD Simulation Training Podcast, host Brian Hillaby speaks with Managing Director Mark Dixon about glycol dehydration — a key process in gas systems. They explore why removing water is critical, how triethylene glycol is used and regenerated, and the importance of solution management. Mark also discusses the challenges of process changes, ways to improve efficiency and reduce emissions, and how simulation plays a key role in ESD’s training approach. 

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In this sixth episode, host Brian Hillaby sits down with Edward Dilley, a seasoned chartered chemical engineer. Together, they explore the fundamentals and real-world significance of process control in industrial settings. Edward shares insights into why proper measurement and control are essential for safety, environmental compliance, and profitability. The conversation covers common failures in process control systems, the shortcomings of academic theory, and how ESD’s simulation-based training bridges the gap with hands-on, practical learning. Listeners will also hear about the role of alarms, the risks of poor tuning, and how well-designed control systems can enhance plant performance. Whether you're an early-career engineer or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable lessons on mastering process control.

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In our fifth episode, host Brian Hillaby interviews Mark Dixon, founder of ESD Simulation Training, to explore the vital role of compressor stations in natural gas transmission. They discuss key equipment, operational challenges, and the importance of simulation models in training. Learn how ESD’s courses empower engineers worldwide in the operation and maintenance of these critical facilities.

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In the fourth episode of ESD Simulation Training’s podcast series, host Brian Hillaby discusses critical thinking with Howard Thomas, a seasoned process consultant with decades of experience in engineering and operations. Howard shares his "golden rules" for effective critical thinking, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making, precise measurement, and avoiding assumptions. He highlights the distinction between critical and creative thinking and explains how ESD’s immersive training course, built around a practical board game, helps participants develop analytical skills. Howard also touches on themes from his book Simplicity from Complexity, advocating for deeper understanding to simplify problem-solving. 

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In our third episode, host Brian Hillaby and Managing Director Mark Dixon explore the critical role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in meeting decarbonization and net-zero targets. This podcast covers key processes, economic drivers like carbon taxes, and ESD's global experience in CCS projects. 

https://www.esd-simulation.com

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In our second episode, Brian Hillaby speaks with Ken Takon, a Rotating Equipment Consultant, about the purpose, advantages, and challenges of dry gas seals. He touches on the history, development, and practical considerations of using dry gas seals, including their application in various compressor types and operating conditions.

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With over 30 years of experience in the wood pulp manufacturing industry and a decade in developing technical training materials, Brian Hillaby brings a wealth of knowledge to ESD's first episode. In this episode, "Problem Solving and Troubleshooting in Process Operations," Brian interviews Mark Dixon, the Founder and Managing Director of ESD. Mark, a Chartered Gas Engineer and Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers shares his insights from over 25 years of delivering training courses across various process industries. Join us as we explore the importance of problem-solving, effective training techniques, and the benefits of using dynamic simulation models. Tune in to learn more about enhancing plant safety and operational efficiency.

https://www.esd-simulation.com/

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