In 1978 Philip Frank was project leader on the initial Helium Leak Test of an offshore production platform, technology which prior to this date had never been used offshore. This was a pioneering venture on the Frigg Field which proved to be the start of his future career within the leak detection industry.
Vaseco was then established in 1990, based in Philip’s garage at his Cheshire home where he worked for 2 years until Vaseco expanded and moved to small premises at Hartford Business Centre. A particularly exciting project at this time was when Vaseco was asked to design and develop the first production helium leak testing system, which was then used to test the Virgin Global Challenger Balloon when Richard Branson and Per Lindstrand attempted to circumnavigate the globe in a helium balloon.
Relocation
By the time 1998 arrived Vaseco had outgrown the premises in Hartford and a decision was made to relocate to a purpose-built headquarters on a 1.6 acre site in Winsford, where the company remains today.
Two years later Vaseco was one of the first companies to assist with leak detection technology at Sellafield Nuclear site, a testament to the reputation that Vaseco had already developed within the Leak Detection Industry.
Expansion continued and in 2006 Philip’s vision was to have a UKAS accredited calibration laboratory at our premises in Winsford. This was achieved following heavy investment and meant that Vaseco was able to extend the calibration capability to numerous international standards.
Pioneering development continued to be a key feature within Vaseco and in 2008 the Umbilical Riser Testing System was developed for the Oil and Gas Industry. Later, in 2011 we enhanced our Environmental Testing capabilities by investing in the latest digital technology and equipment.
Expansion
The latest expansion of Vaseco Headquarters was completed in 2013 with further additions to the Environmental Testing Facility.
Philip always wanted to design, develop and manufacture a Vaseco leak detector as he had been aware of a serious gap in the market, particularly within the Oil and Gas Industry. This has proved to be a difficult task and has been many years in the planning, however we are very pleased and proud to announce that this has now been achieved and in 2018 the Vaseco HD1 leak detector is now in production.
Philip has planned and managed all the changes and developments within Vaseco and now holds the position of Company Chairman, where he continues to design and develop pioneering technology to ensure that Vaseco maintains the present position as a major player within this industry.
