Automating Compression Key Part Of Rockies Express Pipeline Project

In a continued effort to develop state of the art automation standards, River Consulting is working on a variety of pipeline expansion projects for Kinder Morgan, including automating stations and compressor units for the Rockies Express Pipeline. River brings more than 28 years of control system expertise to the automation project team, and is part of a select group of Allen-Bradley Rockwell Solution Providers.

The Rockies Express Pipeline is one of the largest natural gas pipelines ever constructed in North America. River’s natural gas team is providing the design, programming, panel fabrication and commissioning for the reciprocating compressor units, having completed 22 units which will be installed and put into service by late 2009. River developed standards for the pipeline automation to achieve quality control, faster installation and reduced start-up time. Maintaining project timeliness is important, as the schedule relies on a closely coordinated start-up effort.

The pipeline will provide a transportation capacity of 1.8 Bcf/d once completed in late 2009 and will provide a reliable gas supply to eastern U.S. consumers. The Rockies Express project includes multiple interconnects with other major pipeline systems and creates significant flexibility with more options for reaching other demand-anchored markets.

Compressor Unit And Station Automation
River’s automation services have facilitated the development of methodologies that allow each step of an automation project to be tracked and checked off as completed, from design and engineering of the control system topology, to software development, testing and commissioning. As part of these automation standards, the partnership between the automation team and the control system equipment vendors and manufacturers provides the means to produce consistent results utilizing equipment and designs that support the needs of the client.

Another component of automation standards is the control system equipment and panel supply. With so many control system hardware and software platforms available, selecting the best platform for the project can be challenging for the client. Automation implementation and maintainability can be enhanced by partnering with vendors who have strong distributor networks and system integrator partnership programs. Through partnerships, the end user receives quality solutions that meet the current needs and ongoing support and continuing education to meet future needs.

It is also important that panels meet certain standards prior to installation. By participating in a UL Industrial Control Panel (ICP) Custom Builder program, panels are fabricated to meet specific UL requirements and able to stand up to inspections. Along with the rigorous UL demands, each panel is subject to Factory Acceptance Testing, which helps with proper construction and overall quality.

On-Site Start-Up Solutions
Standard solutions allow both engineers and the client to keep tabs on the project development and timeline to completion. These standards help with quality and consistency throughout, starting with the initial project phase through software simulation, in-house Factory Acceptance Testing and Site Acceptance Testing. Standard solutions are invaluable in keeping with schedules and project milestones. Such standards also allow for easy training of the automation process. Another benefit is a reduction of the amount of engineering time, reduced costs and increased quality.