In Uncertain Era, Building Flexibility is Key to LNG’s Future – and Four Tried-and-Tested Digital Technologies Can Help
As the energy landscape evolves, the LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) industry faces a transformative period characterized by both challenges and opportunities. With multiple new LNG terminals expected to be operational by the end of this decade, the importance of efficient project and operations management cannot be overstated. To navigate this uncertainty, flexibility and predictability in production, storage, and distribution become paramount. Fortunately, digital technologies are stepping up to meet these needs, offering solutions that can significantly enhance the flexibility and efficiency of LNG operations.
A Digital Backbone for Comprehensive Project Management
Given the complexity and vast scale of LNG projects, achieving operational efficiency demands a foundational digital backbone that supports compliance, collaboration, and automation. This is where the innovative HxGN SDx2 platform shines. Developed for asset-intensive industries like oil and gas, HxGN SDx2 is a new-generation digital twin platform that facilitates interoperability with design, engineering, and construction software.
With its ability to integrate with various popular platforms, including Hexagon’s design and engineering solutions (e.g., Smart 3D, Smart P&ID), third-party design systems (such as Navisworks and IFC), and operational systems (such as HxGN EAM, SAP PM, IBM Maximo, and Aveva PI System), it provides real-time data on asset performance. Its robust Web API further ensures flexibility by connecting with other data sources, making it a central hub for data across the LNG project and operation lifecycle.
Cloud Technology: A Perfect Fit for Global LNG Projects
Being cloud-native, HxGN SDx2 is especially well-suited for LNG projects. The cloud offers several advantages, ideal for the global spread and complexity of LNG projects. It enables seamless connection of workers across geographical locations and simplifies the management of complex stakeholder networks, approvals, and workflows.
An exemplary case is the design, build, and operation of an LNG export terminal in British Columbia by a global energy consortium. This marked the lead operator’s inaugural use of a full-cloud approach, significantly benefiting from Hexagon’s specialized design solutions and cloud capabilities.
The Crucial Role of Effective Handovers
Effective data-driven handovers are vital for the success of any LNG project. From the FEED (Front End Engineering Design) phase to detailed design and operational handovers, a seamlessly integrated approach ensures significant time and cost savings. For instance, by integrating FEED data into the Smart Digital Reality environment, it becomes part of the asset’s digital twin, accessible to all stakeholders and thereby minimizing miscommunications and data discrepancies.
Moreover, advanced solutions like Intergraph Smart® Completions significantly enhance the outcomes of commissioning and handover phases, facilitating the reuse of best practices and expediting standardized work planning and executions.
Digital Solutions for Existing Assets: Enhancing Flexibility and Safety
For existing assets, transitioning from manual to digital processes is crucial for enhancing efficiency, safety, and compliance. Yet, the path towards digitalization is often fraught with challenges, from the complexity of software systems to the stringent safety and regulatory requirements of the industry.
A shining example of overcoming these hurdles is Singapore LNG Corp.’s (SLNG) successful digitalization of operations at a key terminal. By adopting j5 Operations Management Solutions, SLNG was able to efficiently manage operations logbooks, shift handovers, permits to work, and ship unloading processes. This solution’s ease of use, powered by a spreadsheet-like configuration environment and a low-code/no-code approach, was crucial in meeting deadlines and staying within budget.
This success story underlines the importance of selecting digital solutions that are not only tailored to the unique challenges of the LNG industry but are also integrative and user-friendly. The emphasis on interoperability across the asset lifecycle, as well as solutions that prioritize compliance, safety, and usability, are key factors enabling LNG players to thrive despite the inherent complexities of their projects.
To learn more about how Hexagon’s solutions can revolutionize LNG project and operations management, click here to explore further.
