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SCADA System for Pipelines
—Advanced Pipeline Applications are software tools installed on top of the SCADA system, that provide extended functionality to perform leak detection, leak location, batch tracking (liquid lines), pig tracking, composition tracking, predictive modeling, look ahead modeling, operator training and more.
The SCADA system at the Main Control Room receives all the field data and presents it to the pipeline operator through a set of screens or SCADA#Human Machine Interface, showing the operational conditions of the pipeline.
To optimize and secure the operation of these assets, some pipeline companies are using what is called Advanced Pipeline Applications.
The operator can monitor the hydraulic conditions of the line, as well as send operational commands (open/close valves, turn on/off compressors or pumps, change setpoints, etc.) through the SC ADA system to the field.
Study the material and prepare the report. Business of Pipelines
Most pipeline operators do not own the throughput they are shipping. Shippers - oil and gas producers, refineries, utilities and industrial customers - own the throughput and pay the pipeline operator to ship it based on the type of the product shipped, amount of throughput and distance transported.
Since oil and natural gas have to be transported to market, shippers generally reserve a fixed volume per month on the pipeline in order to ensure reliable delivery to their customers. Pipeline revenue is based on costs and throughput volumes.
How Do Oil, Natural Gas and Products Move Through a Pipeline?
No matter what the throughput, liquids in a pipeline move in discrete batches. Because every batch in a pipeline moves at the same speed - about four to eight kilometers per hour for liquids - the batches don’t mix except where they actually come in contact, and these small volumes can be reprocessed. Rarely are batches separated by physical means such as metal or plastic pigs. Natural gas volumes are not batched. They move through the pipeline at about 40 kilometers per hour. Strategically placed centrifugal pumps or compressors move liquids or natural gas respectively through pipelines. These facilities are necessary because of energy loss due to friction.
How Are Pipelines Operated?
Pipeline operation involves more than loading and off loading batches at the right time and place.
Control centre personnel are responsible for:
monitoring the pipeline system 24 hours per day,
scheduling batch receipt and delivery,
controlling batch movement, and
responding to emergencies.
Field personnel are responsible for:
inspecting the pipeline and pipeline safety measures such as cathode protection,
maintaining and repairing the pipeline, pumps, compressors, valves, metering equipment, safety measures and electronic equipment, and
calibrating instruments.
How Are Pipelines Monitored?
Control centre personnel monitor pressure, temperature, flow rates and look for any inconsistencies which may indicate a potential leak or equipment failure. Information is fed to the control centre through remote supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems.
Sudden, large pressure drops will trigger automatic emergency systems that close valves to isolate the section of the pipeline in question.
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