What to Look for in a Surface Production Equipment Partner

In the oil and gas industry, choosing the right surface production equipment partner is a decision that can shape the success, safety, and profitability of an entire project. From separators and heater treaters to vapor recovery towers and free water knockouts, this equipment forms the frontline in processing and managing raw production fluids at the wellhead. As operators push into more remote locations, work under tighter regulations, and demand greater uptime, they must rely on equipment partners who can deliver not only high-quality fabrication but also comprehensive support and field reliability.

At Smith Industries, we have worked with leading energy producers to manufacture, test, and deliver surface production equipment that meets the highest standards. Based on decades of hands-on experience, this article breaks down what to look for in a surface production equipment partner and why it matters more now than ever.

Surface Production Equipment Partner Checklist

1. Proven Experience in Oil and Gas

Your surface production equipment partner should have a long-standing history in the oil and gas sector. Equipment like heater treaters, separator vessels, and knockouts must perform in harsh, often unpredictable field conditions. A partner with a strong track record understands not only the engineering behind each piece of equipment but also the operational realities your teams face in the field.

Look for a company that has:

• Delivered equipment across multiple basins and formations

• Worked with both major operators and smaller independents

• A deep understanding of upstream processing methods

This level of experience leads to better decision-making, fewer design errors, and equipment that lasts longer in service.

2. ASME and API Certifications

Certifications are non-negotiable when selecting a surface production equipment partner. They provide a third-party benchmark for safety, reliability, and compliance. Two of the most important standards in this space are:

• ASME Section VIII: Governs pressure vessel design and fabrication. Vessels must be stamped with the U or UM symbol to show full compliance with ASME code.

• API 12F and 12K: These standards apply to storage tanks and separators used in oil field production. API-compliant tanks are designed for safe operation under field conditions.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), pressure equipment failure is one of the top hazards in oil and gas. A partner with ASME and API certifications demonstrates their commitment to equipment integrity and worker safety.

3. In-House Engineering and Fabrication

A strong surface production equipment partner offers in-house engineering and fabrication under one roof. This alignment between design and build eliminates costly delays and communication breakdowns that often occur when outsourcing components.

Advantages of in-house capabilities include:

• Faster turnaround times for design revisions and change orders

• Tight control over quality, materials, and welding procedures

• Streamlined project management and less risk of error during handoffs

Whether the project is standard spec or completely custom, Smith Industries uses in-house teams to maintain full control from blueprint to blast-and-coat.

4. Customization Capabilities

No two well sites are the same. Your partner must be able to adapt surface equipment to meet specific production volumes, flow compositions, and regulatory constraints. This includes the ability to:

• Adjust nozzle placement and sizing for tie-ins

• Modify internal baffling and heating elements

• Support both horizontal and vertical configurations

• Integrate accessories like control panels or measurement skids

Custom options are particularly important in unconventional plays, where flowback volumes and gas-liquid ratios can vary significantly between pads. A true partner helps you meet these variables with smart, field-proven solutions.

5. Quality Control and Testing Protocols

Quality control should not be an afterthought. It should be built into every weld, every inspection, and every final check. Ask potential partners about:

• Weld procedure specifications (WPS) and certified welding inspectors (CWI)

• Non-destructive testing methods like ultrasonic or radiographic inspection

• Hydrostatic pressure testing and leak detection

• Internal paint, coating, and blast specifications for corrosion resistance

The American Welding Society (AWS) notes that improper welding and post-weld heat treatment are among the top causes of early failure in pressure vessels. By working with a partner who enforces strict quality standards, you reduce rework, warranty claims, and downtime in the field.

6. Transportation and Delivery Support

Surface production equipment is large, heavy, and expensive to move. A great partner helps you navigate the logistics side as well. This means:

• Loadout planning and securing permits for oversize hauls

• Onsite coordination for crane and rigging support

• Proper skid design and lifting lugs to avoid field damage

• Delivery documentation to assist with inspection and setup

Smith Industries handles transportation in-house with our own truck and crane fleet, providing clients with reliable service that keeps project timelines intact.

7. Commitment to Safety and Environmental Responsibility

Surface equipment directly affects operational safety and environmental compliance. Improperly designed or malfunctioning vessels can result in spills, emissions violations, or worker injury. Choose a partner that prioritizes:

• Emissions-reducing designs such as vapor recovery systems (VRTs)

• Secondary containment options and leak monitoring

• OSHA-compliant walkways and ladders

• Up-to-date training for all shop and field personnel

Environmental risk is business risk. Working with a responsible manufacturer helps you avoid noncompliance penalties and demonstrates leadership to regulators and stakeholders.

8. Ongoing Customer Support

Your relationship with a surface production equipment partner should not end at delivery. Look for a company that offers:

• Start-up support and commissioning assistance

• Field troubleshooting and equipment training

• Spare parts availability and documentation

• Responsive service for warranty or repair needs

This type of long-term support is critical for maintaining uptime and building trust between field teams and vendors.

9. Transparent Communication and Project Management

Finally, your surface production equipment partner should be easy to work with. Transparent timelines, clear documentation, and regular updates help you stay in control of your project from start to finish. They should offer:

• Dedicated project managers for communication and coordination

• Realistic lead times and consistent manufacturing schedules

• Digital reporting and documentation to support inspections and audits

A reliable partner knows that communication is as important as construction.

Why the Right Partner Matters in Surface Production Equipment

Surface production equipment is not just another line item. It’s the heartbeat of your wellsite, responsible for separating oil, gas, water, and solids safely and reliably. Selecting the right surface production equipment partner reduces operational risk, improves uptime, and maximizes ROI.

Smith Industries has built its reputation on quality, speed, and field-proven performance. From ASME-certified pressure vessels to custom fabrication packages, we offer the capabilities and support that modern oil and gas operators need.

If you're looking for a trusted surface production equipment partner, reach out to our team to learn how we can help on your next project.