Opportunities to Innovate with TCI
Collaborating to Invent the Future
When CEO Larry Young set out to commercialize Envirolock, he discovered that very often, one innovation will lead to another, giving rise to "innovation ecosystems". TCI is proud to have become a part of western Canada's innovation community over the past decade, and we are always on the look out for new, mutually beneficial projects. If you are an innovator interested in our initiatives below, or you have your own idea to pitch, we would love to hear from you. We also invite you to learn more by visiting our news center and following us on LinkedIn.
Exclusive Custom Winder Distribution
TCI will be serving as an exclusive North American distributor for the customized version of Cygnet Texkimp's 3D winders. The custom winder has the unique ability to braid carbon fiber using a multi-axis approach that simultaneously utilizes up to 8 spools, achieving a remarkable winding rate of 1+ kg carbon fibre/min. Sales are tentatively expected to begin in 2027 – please contact TCI if you are interested in learning more or would like to arrange for a demonstration.
Bitumen Beyond Combustion Carbon Fiber Innovations
Carbon fiber is a key component of our Envirolock systems. It must be high quality with consistent specifications capable of handling the tough conditions it might encounter from an explosive rupture or a third-party strike. Sadly, there are currently no carbon fibre suppliers in Canada that can meet our needs. So, TCI is working to change that. We are collaborating with Dr. Yasmine Abdin, the University of British Columbia and Fibernx Technologies on their "Bitumen Beyond Combustion" research project to create what we need locally. The objective is to commercialize a method for producing high-quality carbon fiber made from Alberta's oil sands. If successful, Alberta's energy sector would have a new lower carbon product to sell and we could cut our own life-cycle emissions by avoiding long-distance transportation.
Enviromesh Recycling
TCI is also exploring the possibility of creating a home-grown version of Enviromesh, the material that is included in our Envirolock Containment System (ECS). We believe that LDPE, PVC, and HDPE waste streams could become feedstocks for locally produced versions of this pipe wrap. Reducing Envirolock's life cycle emissions by using recycled materials whenever possible is among our long-term goals. If and when the right opportunity presents itself we would be very interested in moving this project forward.
Helpful Pipeline Research Resources
Looking for a scientific paper or an innovation partner within the pipeline integrity field? Here are a few links that might be helpful to you!