The Significance of Mechanization in Petrochemical Maintenance

In the petrochemical industry, a catastrophic incident can cost millions of dollars and cause a significant loss in productivity. According to the Aberdeen Group, unplanned downtime can cost between $10 and $250k per hour and account for $50 billion in lost revenue annually. Despite the enormous costs associated with rest, it is essential to recognize that a minor equipment failure can significantly reduce productivity. The loss can often go unnoticed and result in a significant breakdown.

Petrochemical maintenance requires facility maintenance to remain operational and in good condition. Increasing the productivity of maintenance work is essential for plant performance. The use of automated equipment can reduce the number of workers and increase the quality of the work. This paper aims to identify areas of maintenance that can be mechanized and apply technology solutions to improve productivity. It found that several petrochemical maintenance activities are lower than their potential and that over 50 technology solutions were identified.

The petrochemical industry requires a high level of equipment maintenance. Pipelines transport liquids and gases. These chemicals are corrosive and combustible and are transported at high pressures. The presence of these substances can cause problems in pipes and equipment, affecting the safe operation of the plant. If the pipe system becomes compromised, production can be disrupted. As a result, the process becomes more expensive and time-consuming.

Petrochemical maintenance of facility maintenance can reduce skilled labor and enhance plant productivity. While automation is not ideal for every situation, it is a cost-effective way to boost the productivity of maintenance activities. The research identifies more than 50 technology solutions that can increase the efficiency of maintenance tasks. The results of this study are promising. In addition to mechanization, the study also identifies numerous activities with low automation.

A petrochemical plant must avoid critical path situations. Proper maintenance prevents critical events from occurring. A petrochemical plant is in constant competition with other oil and gas producers. A high level of efficiency can be achieved through improved technology. A successful resale of petroleum products depends on their availability. By using advanced technology, a renowned petrochemical company can be on the cutting edge of the industry.

Petrochemical Industry should optimize its production capacity to avoid critical path situations and reduce costs. This means maximizing crude oil production, refining and processing, and delivering products to the market. While no human precaution can prevent a natural disaster, day-to-day measures can keep oil platforms, pipelines, and pumping stations running. While it's impossible to avoid all possible hazards, the best petrochemicals maintain efficiency and reliability.

Various petroleum chemicals are produced. The products produced by these industries include fertilizers, polymers, solvents, dyes, and pesticides. A petroleum chemical is transformed into several different compounds in petrochemical maintenance. Petrochemical is a chemical used in manufacturing many different products. Besides fuels, petroleum chemicals are also used in fertilizers, cosmetics, and other goods.