Listen in: Gas processor to apply simulator/optimizer platform

Enbridge Energy Partners , an independent midstream natural gas company, has ordered a new optimization platform from eSimulation for its Avinger and Longview gas processing plants. ( Click here to hear more about the technology from Mark Roop , president of eSimulation.)

Enbridge will deploy the eSimOptimizer real-time process optimization solution to maximize profitability at these two new plants, following installations at its Henderson and Zybach gas processing facilities.

The eSimOptimizer reportedly calculates optimal process targets for the plant based on current operational conditions, equipment capability, commodity pricing, and producer contracts. Optimal process targets are then posted to a secure area on the eSimulation Website for use by plant operations staff.

Key to this initiative is the eSimulation value capture program, which provides for weekly reporting and conference calls to discuss the optimization results. The company says these weekly calls also provide a forum to allow operators, engineers, and managers to ask questions, and for eSimulation to be aware of current operational constraints and directives.

“I was impressed by the eSimOptimizer solution installed at our Henderson, Texas facility,” says Charles Raiborn, manager of East Texas operations for Enbridge. “Local management likes it and uses the recommendations from eSimOptimizer to manage plant profitability. The eSimulation team members most impressed us with their willingness to structure their solutions to match our requirements.”

Mark Roop, president of eSimulation adds, “Enbridge has made effective and novel use of the eSimOptimizer solution. For example, Enbridge is our first client to display optimal plant targets along side key process variables on the operations console. This integrated approach provides optimal targets to the operators in a timely fashion and in a single console window.”

eSimulation provides predictive analytic solutions designed to strengthen commercial, gas supply, marketing, and operational business processes, and integrate those processes with the planning and budgeting process. eSimEvaluator is a model-based planning, forecasting, and business optimization solution that helps management more effectively address fluctuating economic and operating conditions. eSimOptimizer is a plant-level tool that helps gas processors effectively manage the tradeoffs inherent in gas processing facilities and maximize asset value.

—Edited by Peter Welander, process industries editor, PWelander@cfemedia.com ,
Process & Advanced Control Monthly
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