PetroEcuador Overhauls SOTE Pipeline Using PlantWeb Process Automation Solution

Strategic Insights -

PetroEcuador is undertaking a major overhaul of the Ecuadorian national SOTE pipeline by installing a PlantWeb process automation solution and FOUNDATION Fieldbus devices. The project aims to increase the pipeline's pumping capacity from 350,000 barrels per day to 390,000 barrels per day, representing a significant boost in performance. The upgrade is estimated to cost $2.5 million and involves the retrofitting of six manually run pump stations and the addition of a seventh pump.

Key Takeaways:

  • The SOTE pipeline, a 20-year-old infrastructure, is being revamped to enhance its performance and efficiency through the installation of a PlantWeb process automation solution and FOUNDATION Fieldbus devices.
  • The solution is being implemented in collaboration with several companies, including Emerson Performance Solutions from Venezuela and local representative SEIN (Sistemas Y Equipos Industriales Ltda) in Ecuador.
  • The upgrade is expected to significantly increase the pipeline's pumping capacity from 350,000 barrels per day to 390,000 barrels per day.
  • The project is valued at $2.5 million, representing the largest single PlantWeb automation solution awarded in Latin America for Fisher-Rosemount.
  • By using PlantWeb architecture, PetroEcuador can easily add functions to the pump stations and expand their capabilities without having to start from ground zero.
  • The project involves the supply of six DeltaV automation systems, three Remote Operation Controllers (ROCs), 36 Fisher FIELDVUE digital valve controllers, and 864 Rosemount pressure and temperature transmitters by Fisher-Rosemount.
  • Emerson Performance Solutions Venezuela will provide assistance in engineering, integration, and startup, scheduled for the second quarter of 2000.
  • The project demonstrates the confidence of PetroEcuador in the PlantWeb architecture as the cornerstone technology for automating and managing the SOTE pipeline across Ecuador, as stated by Manual Villacis, head of instrumentation and control systems engineer for PetroEcuador.
  • Fisher-Rosemount is excited about the prospect of participating in this effort to raise the efficiency of the SOTE pipeline, as stated by John Berra, senior vice president and process group leader for Fisher-Rosemount's parent company, Emerson Electric Co.

Statistics:

  • The SOTE pipeline currently pumps 350,000 barrels per day, which is expected to increase to 390,000 barrels per day after the upgrade.
  • The total investment for the project is estimated at $2.5 million.
  • The pipeline upgrade is scheduled to be completed in the second quarter of 2000.
  • Fisher-Rosemount is providing six DeltaV automation systems, three Remote Operation Controllers (ROCs), 36 Fisher FIELDVUE digital valve controllers, and 864 Rosemount pressure and temperature transmitters.
  • Emerson Performance Solutions Venezuela is assisting with engineering, integration, and startup.

Sources:

  • BUSINESS WIRE, April 26, 2000
  • Fisher-Rosemount, PlantWeb field-based architecture, www.testdriveplantweb.com/go/p190
  • Emerson Electric Co., Sales in fiscal 1999 were $14.3 billion.