MMBL-Pathfinder partner Hambantota petroleum lab 

A hi-tech petroleum testing laboratory in the Hambantota port, run as a joint venture between between Intertek Lanka, a joint venture between MMBL Pathfinder and Interted Caleb Brett (UK) has been operational since early 2021, a news release from the owning company said.

“Intertek Lanka, the MMBL-Pathfinder joint venture with Intertek Caleb Brett (UK) is known for its expertise in qualitative and quantitative analytical assessment services to the oil and gas, chemical, and other commodities markets,” the release said.

In early 2021 Intertek Lanka invested in the Hambantota International Port, establishing an on- site state-of-the-art petroleum testing laboratory. The laboratory has exclusive rights to cater for marine vessels calling on the Hambantota International Port facility and is the first and only privately owned laboratory in the country, to have received Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB) ISO 17025 accreditation to provide cargo quality and quantity testing and inspection for all petroleum products. It is also the only fully qualified laboratory in Sri Lanka to test IMO 2020 global Sulphur protocols, it added.

“This joint venture is another example of MMBL- Pathfinder Group’s approach of focusing on establishing strategic partnerships with reputable global brands in foreign exchange earning niche sectors. These include a diverse portfolio of investments which include business logistics, financial services, tourism, aviation, shipping, and technology,” the release further said.

 Intertek Lanka’s petroleum laboratory is equipped with the latest hi-tech instruments to provide a better analytical service to customers, and it includes: ICP-OES, Hydrogen Sulphur Analyzer by IP570 (one and only instrument in Sri Lanka to analyze bunker fuels for H2S), FTIR, ED-XRF,

 The laboratory follows industry accepted testing standards such as ASTM, ISO, IP, UOP and comprise of highly qualified inspectors with years of experience, who are skilled in quality control, trouble shooting and research activities. They have extensive knowledge in handling multitude loading and discharge operations for major traders and oil majors.

 Clients can get fuel oil, marine diesel and marine gas oils tested efficiently and with ease, according to ISO 8217:2017 at the bunker terminal site. This facility also allows to cater with the fastest turnaround times and accurate results in the region.