Practical Automation for Mature Producing Areas

Abstract

Successful installation and operation of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems on two US gulf coast platforms, prompted the installation of the first SCADA, or automation, system in Oklahoma in 1989. The initial installation consisted of four remote terminal units (RTU`s) at four beam-pumped leases and a PC-based control system communicating by means of a 900-MHz data repeated. This first installation was a building block for additional wells to be automated, and then additional systems, consisting of RTU`s, a PC, and a data repeated, were installed. By the end of 1992 there were 98 RTU`s operating on five separation systems and additional RTU`s are being installed on a regular basis. This paper outlines the logical development of automation systems on properties in Oklahoma operated by Phillips Petroleum Co. Those factors critical to the success of the effort are (1) designing data-gathering and control capability in conjunction with the field operations staff to meet and not exceed their needs; (2) selection of a computer operating system and automation software package; (3) selection of computer, RTU, and end-device hardware; and (4) continuous involvement of the field operations staff in the installation, operation, and maintenance of the systems. Additionally, specific tangible andmore » intangible results are discussed.« less