Looking Ahead to 2026: Momentum, Ambition and the Year of the Fire Horse

As we enter 2026, there’s a palpable sense of momentum across Cokebusters. In the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Fire Horse symbolises energy, independence, ambition and forward motion – qualities that feel particularly fitting as we look ahead to what promises to be a busy and exciting year for our teams and clients alike.

The year has already begun at pace. Crews are mobilising from our UK Technology Centre in Chester and our US Operations Centre in Houston, with Q1 shaping up to be an exceptionally active period operationally. But while immediate delivery remains our priority, there is much to look forward to as the year unfolds.

Strengthening Our Operational Capability

One of the most significant developments for 2026 is the build of a new state-of-the-art Double Pumping Unit, CB21 – currently underway at our UK manufacturing workshop. Designed to further enhance performance, reliability and flexibility on site, CB21 is scheduled to enter service later this year and represents another major investment in fleet capability.

Alongside this, we’re looking ahead to a milestone moment in the Americas with the completion of our new bespoke Operations Centre in Houston. Purpose-designed to support our growing US business, the facility has been planned with team wellbeing, efficiency and long-term growth in mind. We’re looking forward to moving into the new premises in Q4, providing an improved working environment for our colleagues and a stronger operational base for our clients across North and Central America.

Expanding Our Global Footprint

Building on partnerships established last year, 2026 will see us further strengthen our international presence. With CB2 now stationed in Qatar, we’re excited to continue developing our relationship with Q-Fab, supporting more mechanical cleaning and inspection projects in the region.

More broadly, we’re looking to re-engage with the Middle East market with a more consistent and visible presence, reflecting the importance of the region to our long-term strategy. With this in mind, we’re already looking ahead to ADIPEC 2026, where we always look forward to reconnecting with partners, clients and industry peers.

Cokebusters exhibits to energy industry at ADIPEC 2024

Diversifying Further Into Pipelines

A key focus for the year ahead is continued diversification into pipeline services. While Cokebusters has long been recognised for expertise in refinery and process environments, we are increasingly applying our technologies and engineering approach to pipeline cleaning and inspection – particularly where assets are complex, constrained or historically difficult to assess.

As operators place greater emphasis on integrity, flow assurance and asset life extension, we see significant opportunity to support pipeline networks with the same data-led, practical solutions our clients trust elsewhere.

Advancing Technology and Innovation

Innovation has always been at the heart of everything we do and it is central to our plans for 2026. We’re looking forward to the launch of the Mk 7 Smart Pig, building on decades of Smart Pig development and responding directly to the challenges faced by operators managing increasingly complex assets.

We also expect to deploy our Header Bypass System on a wider range of projects, helping clients access and inspect process tubing within common header units without modifying existing infrastructure – enabling more efficient, flexible and cost-effective maintenance solutions.

Alongside these developments, our AI-focused Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Strathclyde continues to make strong progress. As the KTP approaches its conclusion later this year, we look forward to sharing further updates on how machine learning is enhancing inspection analysis, reporting speed and consistency.

Entering 2026 With Confidence

From fleet expansion and new facilities to technology development, regional growth and diversification, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined of momentum here at Cokebusters.

We’re entering the Year of the Fire Horse with a renewed confidence and lots of work to do – focused on delivering for our clients today, while investing in the people, equipment and innovation that will support them tomorrow.

We wish you a very Happy New Year look forward to working closely with our clients and partners throughout 2026.