Casey Stoner continues fast form

By Matthew Birt - MotoGP

Casey Stoner’s exceptional start to the 2011 MotoGP world championship showed no sign of relenting today when he topped the opening practice timesheets in Jerez.

A best lap of 1.39.551 set in cooler conditions this morning put the Aussie on top of the leaderboard by just 0.028s from Repsol Honda team-mate Dani Pedrosa.

Stoner, who has never finished higher than third in a MotoGP race at the Jerez circuit, said the Honda RC212V was an easier bike to ride at the Spanish venue than the Ducati he rode between 2007 and 2010.

Stoner, who claimed a stunning debut victory for Honda at the season’s opening round in Qatar last month, said: “It seems to be a bit smoother to ride Jerez this year than in the past although this afternoon wasn't the best conditions, it was windy and it helped in some corners but in other corners it was pushing you wide.

"I felt the wind picking up in the final two laps of the morning session so I expected it this afternoon. It was a bit disappointing we couldn't improve the setting because it was quite difficult in the conditions.

"We need to wait for tomorrow to get a good understanding for the race. In the morning it is quite cold and difficult to find a feeling and then it becomes so windy in the afternoon."

For the second race in succession, Stoner and Pedrosa took each other on in their own private duel. Nobody else in the field could lap inside of 0.5s of Stoner’s quickest lap today but he refused to rule out another determined fight from reigning world champion Jorge Lorenzo in Sunday’s 27-lap race.

He said: “As we saw in Qatar you just don't know. Dani and I seem a little more confident and ahead of the others but anything can happen, as we saw with Jorge in Qatar.

"He made a big step in qualifying and warm-up and in the race he was much faster than in practice. At the moment we have to focus on ourselves.”

Stoner also denied that he would have an advantage over Spaniard Pedrosa in Sunday’s race. Pedrosa will undergo surgery early next week to try and solve a long-running issue with his left arm that he suffered after a big practice crash in Japan last October.

Pedrosa was fighting for the victory in Qatar when he faded to third having complained of a numbness issue with his left hand and arm.

He has no idea how long he will make it in Sunday’s race before the problem strikes but Stoner said: “Sometimes riders are able to overcome a lot of different things.

"We know Dani is having more trouble at the end of race but if he is really determined and can block out the problem, maybe this weekend he can fight right until the last lap.

"You don't think about one rider who has a disability because they will do something special that you don't expect, this is a big mistake."

Stoner also expects new factory Ducati recruit Valentino Rossi to pose a stronger challenge this weekend after the Italian finished third fastest today.

Making some progress with the finicky GP11 machine, Rossi was five places higher up the rankings than the next best Ducati with Randy de Puniet eighth.

And Stoner said: "In the first session everybody is getting comfortable and if he had a good feeling he looked like he was pushing quite hard. He looked like he was angry with (Cal) Crutchlow, which is not normally Valentino's style. He's normally calm.

"Every week I think his shoulder is coming better so you never know. I won races with this bike at the end of last year so I'm sure Valentino can win races when the shoulder comes better, he'll be competitive."

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Mercedes GP launch MGP W01 at Valencia

The Mercedes GP F1 team launched today at Valencia their new car, the MGP W01.

Mercedes GP drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg along with team principal Ross Brawn unveiled the team’s challenger for the 2010 season, before the start of the scheduled testing session.

On the first day of Formula One winter testing, the Mercedes GP Petronas garage doors opened at 08:50am for the new car to make its entrance in front of the assembled photographers and camera crews.

Michael, Nico and Team Principal Ross Brawn posed for photos with the new Silver Arrow in its silver and green livery before the car went back into the garage to prepare for the start of the test session at 10:00am.

Rosberg will be the first of the Mercedes GP drivers to try out the new car with Schumacher taking over later today.

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Marussia Virgin Racing MVR-02

Marussia Virgin Racing MVR-02 Technical Specifications:

Chassis:
Construction: Virgin Racing carbon fibre construction monocoque and nosebox
Supension:
Wishbones: Virgin Racing carbon fibre construction with titanium flexure joints
Uprights: Virgin Racing aluminium alloy construction
Dampers: Penske
Wheels and tyres:
Wheels: BBS
Tyres: Pirelli P Zero
Fuel System:
Fuel cell: ‘FT5′ safety specification
Fuel Capacity: In excess of 220 litres
Brakes:
Calipers: AP Racing 4 pot calipers
Discs/pads: Hitco Carbon-Carbon
Steering:
Steering wheel: Virgin Racing carbon fibre construction
Power steering: Virgin Racing hydraulic steering assist
Driver seat: Anatomically formed carbon composite
Seat belts: Six-point harness (75mm shoulder straps with HANS system)
Electronics:
ECU and logging system: FIA standard ECU & FIA homologated electronic & electrical system
Transmission:
Gearbox: Virgin Racing precision aluminium construction with 7- speed, longitudinally mounted internals
Differential: Electronically controlled hydraulic differential
Gear selection: Paddle operated hydraulic shift system with “seamless shift”
Clutch: AP Racing
Driveshafts: One-piece driveshafts with integral tripod joints
Dimensions:
Overall length: Approx 5200 mm
Overall height: Approx 950 mm
Overall width: Approx 1800 mm
Wheelbase: Approx 3300 mm
Cosworth CA2011 Engine:

Designation: COSWORTH CA2011
Duty cycle type: 4 stroke reciprocating piston, normally aspirated
Configuration: 8 cylinders in banked V configuration with an angle of 90 degrees
Construction: cast aluminium alloy cylinder block and head, forged aluminium pistons, steel crankshaft
Capacity: 2,400cc
Valves: 32 with pneumatic valve springs
Maximum speed: limited to 18,000 rpm
Timing: double overhead cams driven via compliant gear from crankshaft
Mass: in excess of 95 KG
Cyclinder bore: less than 98mm
Fuelling: 8 injectors supplied by a pressurized system at 100 bar
Ignition: 8 ignition coils each driving single spark plug
Lubrication: dry sump
Spark plugs: Champion

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Accounting Manager Vacancy at PT Vanadia Utama

We are looking for diligent, motivated individuals who are looking at long term commitment to join our team as this is a very specialized industry.

At PT VANADIA UTAMA, we make sure your interests and abilities are developed to the maximum with our support. Enrich your professional life with limitless opportunities for you to flourish. If you have an ambition to grow, so join us immediately for the position below:

Accounting Manager (ACM)
(Jakarta Raya)
Requirements:
* S1 Degree in Accounting
* Experiences in handling Accounts
* Able to handle tax
* Able to operate Accounting software is an added value
* Able to communicate effectively both in written and spoken English
* Able to work in a team as well as individually
* Knowledge of customs procedure is an advantage

Please submit your application code together with a complete resume to:

Our Address : Komp. Sentra Industri Terpadu
Pantai Indah Kapuk Blok. G1 No. 5
Jakarta Utara 14470

Our Email: vu_hrd@yahoo.com
Attn: HRD Manager

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Production Manager Vacancy at Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd

Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd is developing Singapore’s first Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal on Jurong Island which will be part of Singapore’s critical energy infrastructure. We are looking for highly motivated and committed people to be part of a multicultural team and help build SLNG into an excellent and values-driven company.

Production Manager
(Singapore)

Responsibilities:
You will be responsible for managing the continuous safe and reliable production operations of the LNG import/export terminal; including the berthing and unloading/reloading of LNG ships and running the plant to reliably deliver regasified LNG to the downstream pipelines to meet the nominations of our customers. Leadership of your teams of skilled production supervisors and operators will ensure that these production objectives are achieved efficiently.

Responsibilities:
* Responsible for leadership of a team of Production Supervisors and Production Operators to safely and efficiently operate the terminal facilities.
* Liaises with the Maintenance Manager and Engineering Manager to ensure maintenance and shutdown activities are safe, planned, and executed in a timely fashion with minimum impact on the terminal’s LNG and gas handling capability.
* Based on experience and the supporting advice of the Engineering team, acts to optimise plant operations from the throughput, use of energy and minimisation of losses perspectives.
* Recruitment, interviewing and selection of all Production team staff.
* Arranging and approving shift rosters and relief schedules for Production staff.
* Authorisation of Hot Work and Vessel Entry permits to work.
* Issuing of daily instructions on deployment of online plant, process conditions and shutdown and maintenance activities.
* Development of Standing Instructions for Production.
* Makes command decisions to prevent incidents that could escalate and affect the safety of the company staff, contractors or the community or the integrity and safety of the facility.
* Ensure training of Production staff including on the job training is completed ready for commissioning.
* Ensures that the terminal is operated on a 24/7 basis in a professional manner by competent staff.
* Prepares annual Production budget and executes production activities within same.
* Leads emergency response actions on site
* Have a trained and ready delegate at all times.
* Takes on additional responsibilities as directed by the Head of Operations.

Requirements:
WORK EXPERIENCE
* At least 10 years’ experience in similar roles at an LNG import or liquefaction facility or 20 years’ experience in complex hydrocarbon processing or oil refinery, preferably with exposure to cryogenic processes (e.g. ethylene, LPG, ammonia, air separation).
* Extensive experience with administering daily work instructions, permit to work systems, safe preparation for maintenance, troubleshooting and shutdown planning and execution.
* Excellent leadership skills and staff development capability with adaptability to work in multinational and multicultural environment.
* The successful candidate is most likely to be a smart and capable production operator who has risen through the supervisory ranks or a hands-on professional engineer who has made their career in hydrocarbon plant operations.
* General knowledge of statutory codes and regulations pertaining to LNG facilities is required.
* Expert with the operation of (and good understanding of the maintenance of) equipment such as cryogenic heat exchangers, refrigerated storage tanks, cryogenic pumps, large reciprocating gas compressors, reciprocating engine driven generators (and gas turbine drivers), electrical switchgear up to 66kV, process control systems, field instrumentation, fire & gas systems, shutdown systems, security systems, gas metering and gas chromatographs.
* General knowledge of the operations and maintenance of LNG related equipment such as centrifugal pumps, tanks, valves, ship unloading arms, hydraulic systems, fire protection systems, diesel engines, centrifugal and reciprocating compressors, ship mooring systems, seawater intake screens, cranes and lifting devices.
* Expert knowledge of Permit to Work Systems, equipment preparation for maintenance, gas testing and Emergency Response.
* Conversant with the safe control of ship berthing, use of loading arms and Simultaineous Operations.
* Understanding of Management of Change.
* Familiar with Quality management, risk based inspection, preventative maintenance systems and concepts in management of spare parts and consumables.
* Working knowledge of environmental concerns and regulations.
* Good written and spoken English.
* Proficient in using Microsoft Office software and CMMS systems.

The successful candidates shall also possess the following personal attributes:
* Excellent leadership skills and staff development capability.
* Good general interpersonal and communication skills
* Excellent adaptability to work in a multi-national, multi-cultural environment.
* Ability to work well in a team.
* Ability to train personnel.

An attractive remuneration package shall commensurate with candidate’s experience and qualifications. Interested applicants are invited to email their detailed resume, stating their current and expected salary.
(via Click Here to Apply button / to corpsvcs@SLNGCorp.com)
We regret only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
To find out more about Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd, visit our website at http://www.SLNG.com.sg.

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Maintenance Manager Vacancy at Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd

Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd will be developing Singapore’s first Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal on Jurong Island which will be part of Singapore’s critical energy infrastructure. We are looking for highly motivated and committed people to be part of a multicultural team and help build SLNG into an excellent and values-driven company.

Maintenance Manager
(Singapore)

Responsibilities:
You will ensure that the principles of reliability, asset integrity and cost effectiveness are incorporated into the maintenance of the LNG terminal’s facilities. Key tasks include the setting of maintenance philosophies; establishing maintenance procedures; and implementation of a computerised Maintenance Management System. You will need strong leadership, planning and organising skills to set up the team to satisfy all maintenance requirements for a safe and efficient plant.

Responsibilities:
The incumbent shall undertake the following activities:
* Develop the maintenance philosophy.
* Involvement in the design and development stage to ensure completeness and practical maintenance of the facility including ensuring that sufficient spare parts and tools are purchased and maintained in the terminal warehouse and maintenance workshop.
* Assist in the development and maintenance of a computerised Maintenance Management System for the terminal.
* Work closely with your Maintenance Planner and the Production Planner to schedule maintenance activities to maximise plant availability whilst ensuring reliability and asset integrity.
* Liaise with project construction group in ensuring all the inputs into the maintenance management system are complete.
* Manage site maintenance and service contractors providing outsourced maintenance services.
* Ensure that all corrective work requests are properly closed out.
* Be the person to accept handover of completed vendor packages and/or mechanical equipment within the various completed systems and play a leading role in the system completion with counterparts in the Project team.
* Provide input into the staffing and recruitment plans for Maintenance team including interviews of supervisor, planner and maintenance technician candidates.
* Determine the maintenance procedures, planned preventative maintenance and predictive maintenance required during the pre-commissioning, commissioning, start-up and normal operations of the facility.
* Liaise with the Project team, vendors, HSSER, contractors, Procurement and Production teams to ensure that all the maintenance procedures are available on time for initial training and implementation. In addition, ensure all records are properly maintained including competency testing examinations.
* Review the facility maintenance requirements and put in place healthcare contracts or maintain such contracts with the Original Equipment Manufacturers.
* Responsible for setting up in conjunction with the Procurement team the required maintenance contracts with local contractors for personnel and equipment requisition to support or supplement the Maintenance team’s maintenance efforts.
* Identify the requirements for specialised contractor services.
* Overall responsibility for ensuring training and competence levels of maintenance personnel of both SLNG and contractor employees.
* Provide input and establish training requirements for Maintenance staff.
* Develop the Maintenance budget for the various phases of the project and on an annual basis for on-going terminal operations and execute maintenance activities within that budget.
* Develop in conjunction with the Production Planner and Maintenance Planner the short term and long term planned shutdown requirements for the terminal.
* Have a trained and ready delegate at all times.
* Takes on additional responsibilities as directed by the Head of Operations.

Requirements:
WORK EXPERIENCE
* At least 10 years’ supervisory level plant maintenance experience in the oil and gas sector involving complex mechanical, electrical and instrument/control/shutdown systems.
* Experience in pre-operations, commissioning, start-up and commercial operations phases of new hydrocarbon processing plant including witnessing of initial testing of equipment/systems and the setting up of a plant maintenance organisation is a must.
* Experience of the design, development, commissioning, and maintenance of LNG import or liquefaction facility is preferred.
* Experience with computerised Maintenance Management Systems and Asset Integrity Management Systems and in dealing with consultants and contractors involved in servicing equipment for hydrocarbon processing plants.
* General knowledge of statutory codes and regulations pertaining to LNG facilities is required.
* Familiar with maintenance of equipment such as cryogenic heat exchangers, refrigerated storage tanks, cryogenic pumps, large reciprocating gas compressors, reciprocating engine driven generators (and able to maintain gas turbine drivers), electrical switchgear up to 66kV, process control systems, field instrumentation, fire & gas systems, shutdown systems, security systems, gas metering and gas chromatographs.
* General knowledge of LNG related equipment such as centrifugal pumps, tanks, valves, ship unloading arms, hydraulic systems, fire protection systems, diesel engines, centrifugal and reciprocating compressors, ship mooring systems, seawater intake screens, cranes and lifting devices.
* Good experience with the Permit to Work System, Management of Change and Emergency Response.
* Familiar with Quality management, risk based inspection, preventative maintenance systems and concepts in management of spare parts and consumables.
* Working knowledge of environmental concerns and regulations.
* Good written and spoken English.
* Proficient in using Microsoft Office software and CMMS systems.

The successful candidates shall also possess the following personal attributes:
* Excellent leadership skills and staff development capability.
* Good general interpersonal and communication skills
* Excellent adaptability to work in a multi-national, multi-cultural environment.
* Ability to work well in a team.
* Ability to train personnel.

EDUCATION
* Bachelor’s Degree in an Engineering discipline (preferably in Mechanical or Instrument/Electrical Engineering) would be a plus but is not essential.

An attractive remuneration package commensurate with candidate’s experience and qualifications. Interested applicants are invited to email their detailed resume, stating their current and expected salary.
(via Click Here to Apply button / to corpsvcs@SLNGCorp.com)
We regret only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
To find out more about Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd, visit our website at http://www.SLNG.com.sg.

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Fly Emirates XI gear up for title defence

Dubai - The team of Emirates airline employees, which stunned the opposition to take victory at last year's inaugural Emirates Airline Twenty20, face a tough task defending their title.

With the likes of county champions Nottinghamshire, the international star-studded Durham and Sussex sides and the Sourav Ganguly-captained MCC in the mix, Fly Emirates XI certainly have their work cut out for them this weekend at The Sevens cricket ground.

But the team is up for the challenge and relishing the chance to take on the ‘big boys'.

"We are extremely excited with a couple of new county teams that are coming here this year. We're the defending champions so we need to live up to those expectations," said Fly Emirates XI wicketkeeper/manager Shoaib Muljiani.

"But more importantly the boys are very keen because this is a wonderful opportunity to rub shoulders with the professionals so we should do well," Muljiani added.

Bad season

The Fly Emirates XI haven't had the best of seasons so far, losing out to the Lord's Taverners at the same ground recently.

"But the boys are feeling good to go," Muljiani said.

"When you've held the title for the first year, you should be performing to that standard so there is a bit of pressure — and we aren't professional so that adds a bit more coming up against the big names," he added.

"But we're about three quarters of the way through our season so we have been practising regularly. On both the grounds at The Sevens the outfield is superb," Muljiani said.

"The wicket is coming up excellently. There's a good bounce on the wicket and good carry. It looks to be a good track and we should have some very exciting cricket," he added.

Matches begin at The Sevens at 10.30am on Friday. Also running alongside the Emirates Airline Twenty20 will be an Under-11s Kwik Cricket tournament.

Friends and families of the school children participating in this fun tournament are expected to come and cheer them on, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Source: http://gulfnews.com
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