UPGRADING LNG TERMINAL OPERATION CONTROL SYSTEM TO A SYSTEM ADAPTABLE TO FUTURE EXPANSION AT MINIMAL COST: SYSTEM REPLACEMENT AT SENBOKU LNG TERMINAL I

摘要

Osaka Gas Senboku LNG Terminal I produces city gas using LNG as a feedstock, and engages in the business of cold utilization systems. The computer system presently controlling terminal operation is outdated, having been operative for more than 15 years since entering use in 1988. The system is currently being upgraded.rnThe upgraded system design focuses mainly on (1) drastic cost reduction, (2) realization of efficient operation control, and (3) adaptability to future system expansion. Unlike the traditional manner of upgrading, in which the entire system is replaced, this project employs a parts deterioration diagnostic program to determine the devices to be upgraded. The upgrading will integrate three systems (gas production processing, disaster prevention and power receiving/distribution) that at present are separately controlled, and will also minimize the number of computer units. The software currently in use will be automatically converted and input to the new system. These innovative measures have enabled upgrading of the existing system at the lowest possible cost and within a shorter period of time. In addition, operation screens and equipment layout at central control room have been ergonomically assessed to ensure optimal operability. The new system broadens the range of automatic operation control, unifies existing cold utilization system operation controls, and is adaptable to the system expansion that may be required when the current cold utilization business launches a new field in the future.