The proposed solution is a digitally-based service for operational diagnostics on gas network PRSs.
Short description
Integrity and operational failures on gas network pressure reduction stations (PRSs) can lead to unplanned maintenance events, gas releases, metering errors, and potential failure of supply to downstream customers. This JIP will develop a digitally-based service for enhanced monitoring of the operation and performance of these generally unmanned sites. Coupled with online data analytics, this would enable the early detection of fault conditions allowing proactive action to be taken.
Challenge
Pressure Reduction Stations (PRSs) on gas transmission and distribution networks are generally unmanned, with infrequent routine visits for inspection and maintenance. As a result, integrity and operational failures can lead to unplanned maintenance events, gas releases and the associated health, safety and environmental concerns, metering errors, and potential failure of supply to downstream customers. Failures of regulator components are typically not picked up by site instrumentation due to the automatic back-up and pressure relief systems which maintain a steady downstream supply pressure. These factors can lead to high vibration levels and subsequent asset damage. Furthermore, the time between failures for components such as plugs and seals is variable, resulting in difficulty in efficient planning of maintenance activities.
Solutions
This JIP will develop a digitally-based service for enhanced monitoring of the operation and performance of PRS sites. Coupled with online data analytics, this would enable the early detection of fault conditions, highlighting to operator staff any issues arising as a result of network operation, and any changes due to potential component degradation, so proactive action can be taken.
Benefits
Real-time operational diagnostics of PRS performance and condition Rapid detection of a failure on a regulator stream and/or metering errors Trending of historical datasets for analysis and comparison Predictive assessments used to identify and distinguish failure modes.
Value
Avoidance of integrity-related failures would realize savings related to some/all of the following:
- Shut-down / outage costs
- Unplanned repair and maintenance
- Safety incident investigations
- Inability to fulfill contractual obligations.
For example, failure of a PRS supplying a gas-fired power station could result in penalty costs in excess of GBP 0.5 million per day.
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