Logistics of flows of energy carriers, stages of commercial sale of oil products require not only accurate measurement of quantitative indicators, but also qualified execution of laboratory analyses to control their consumption characteristics. Buyers impose obligations on their suppliers to account for the quantity and prevent the loss of goods, and to preserve their quality during transportation. The loss during transportation (bottling) is subject to environmental legislation. It is not an easy task to prove the source of pollution, but one that is carried out by qualified laboratory specialists. In this context, a key role in the provision of inspection services is played by a testing centre with a chemical analytical laboratory.

During the initial start-up phase, the AST Company purchased or rented premises using existing equipment. Some of the equipment is located in mobile laboratories based on cars. Mobile laboratories allow to take a sample on the spot and quickly give a conclusion on compliance with the basic parameters. If quality questions are raised, the sample is sent to a stationary laboratory where it is tested in more detail. In the past two years, the design and construction of new logistic facilities and stationary research laboratories have been completed. According to the targeted drivers of the Corporate Development Plan, the number of in-house laboratories should be increased to 10 within the next 5 years. The equipment of these laboratories follows the international quality standard ISO 17025. It assumes the use of laboratory equipment of the world’s leading brands and the involvement of highly qualified specialists in the field of oil and petroleum products analysis. There are currently two stationary laboratories in Tengiz and Atyrau. There are two mobile chassis laboratories - fuel quality control and oil quality control. They are received from our foreign partners and also operate in the Western Region. Construction of a new laboratory in the Turkestan region in the area of Shymkent and in Western Kazakhstan in the area of Aktobe is under way. The completion date is 2023. In the future, the commissioning of testing centres in Kyzylorda and East Kazakhstan regions to service traffic flows in the direction of Alashankou (People’s Republic of China). In the longer term, provision of bunkering services at the Aktau seaport after the establishment of the related infrastructure. It is also planned to expand the network of mobile testing points on chassis.