How to Modernize Pipeline Maintenance

A comprehensive plan for modernising your pipeline maintenance operations must include the necessary components and cost of control systems. This includes SCADA, DCS, and PLCs. These systems monitor pipeline flows, leaks, and compressor/pump stations. If a leak is detected, SCADA and PLC systems can automatically shut off the flow of oil or natural gas. Control systems cost money and modernization efforts should take this into account.

Modernise data pipeline infrastructure to meet data integration challenges.

Streamlining data pipeline infrastructure can help you deliver faster, more accurate insights into data. From massive data volumes to multi cloud landscapes, you must ensure that your pipeline can handle these challenges. This modernization process is easier if you use a platform based on data products.It eliminates application silos and places data at the center of your business processes.? how. This modernization process starts with identifying data sources, integrating and masking them and building web service APIs to securely deliver data to consumers. All data is tested and validated before delivery and the entire pipeline is continually monitored and managed.

Today's data volume is rising at a rapid pace and the sources of data are expanding. Processing streaming data in real-time is a must for reliable business intelligence. Change data capture technology, previously a niche solution for updating data warehouses, it's now a common solution for addressing data integration challenges. But be aware that not all change data capture approaches are created equal. Fortunately, there are some solutions available that streamline data pipeline operations and enable real-time adjustments.

Enhance reliability

The purpose of modernizing pipeline maintenance is to protect the public and improve bottom line by reducing risk. Refurbishing old automation systems is a good way to modernize and improve monitoring, asset management, and overall reliability. As gas turbines become the standard technology for new pipeline compressor stations in the U.S., many older frame 3 and frame 5 units are in service. By modernizing such systems, companies can reduce risks associated with vintage systems and increase business performance.

A major challenge to implementing predictive maintenance methods is the lack of data on pipeline failures. While predictive maintenance is a proven method, there is still much to learn. The first step is to define risk and evaluate the consequences of failure. There are many consequences of failures - loss of revenue, property and human life. Moreover, modern pipeline companies are increasingly exposed to the mishandling of pipelines. Fortunately, the technology available today allows pipeline operators to make informed decisions with the help of predictive maintenance.

Reduce methane leaks.

The federal government is moving to reduce methane leaks from the oil and gas industry. The EPA issued a proposal this year to replace the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) finalized in August 2020. President Biden disapproved of the NSPS in January 2021, so the new proposal is being worked on. An EPA final rule should be issued before the end of the year.

In addition to reducing methane emissions, PHMSA is urging pipeline operators to update their maintenance plans. They must address the elimination of hazardous leaks and natural gas releases and replace or remediate facilities with known leaks. The proposed rule is expected to be published this May. Until then, pipeline operators must review their existing plans and update them as necessary. By the end of the year, pipeline operators must have a better understanding of the causes of methane leaks and take action to eliminate them.

Improve regulatory compliance.

In an effort to reduce the risk of leaks and other pipeline incidents, PHMSA is proposing new regulations to improve the efficiency of operators. These proposed regulations would require pipeline operators to install remote shutoff valves and install rupture-mitigating valves. Additionally, operators would need to meet new regulatory standards for identifying ruptures, including defining the size and location of the pipeline. As pipeline operators struggle to keep up with the latest regulations, new solutions are needed to address this issue.

One way to reduce regulatory burdens and improve outcomes is to automate the work that is currently done by regulators. By implementing data standards, integrating systems and implementing external aggregators, regulators can make compliance transactions as seamless as possible. Ultimately, these technologies will also help regulators reduce their costs and make their processes more effective. They will also make regulatory compliance easier to do and boost voluntary compliance rates, which will be beneficial for citizens and businesses alike.