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Reducing energy consumption and emissions of chemical plants by predictive modelling

3 ways how KROHNE can help you increase overall efficiency:

In the chemical industry, efficient pipeline management is crucial for minimising energy consumption and reducing emissions. Pipelines are the lifelines of chemical plants, transporting raw materials and products across various stages of production. However, inefficiencies or failures in pipeline operations can lead to excessive energy use, increased emissions, and costly disruptions. KROHNE’s PipePatrol Predictive Modelling and Digital Twin technology offer a cutting-edge solution to these challenges by enabling proactive management and optimisation of pipeline systems.

Why is this important?

Imagine a chemical plant where pipelines transport volatile chemicals between processing units. These pipelines must operate under precise conditions to ensure safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. Any deviation in pressure, temperature, or flow rate can result in increased energy consumption and higher emissions. For instance, if a pipeline feed fails unexpectedly, it can lead to a significant spike in energy usage as the system compensates to maintain operation. PipePatrol’s Predictive Modelling and Digital Twin technology continuously monitor these pipelines, providing real-time insights and forecasting potential issues before they become critical, looking 24 hours or longer into the future. This allows operators to make informed decisions that optimise energy use and minimise emissions.

Steel pipelines in front of an industrial plant

How does KROHNE’s PipePatrol Predictive Modelling and digital twin help?

PipePatrol integrates predictive modelling with digital twin technology to create a virtual representation of the pipeline system. This is how it works:

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Real-Time monitoring and prediction

The system continuously evaluates the current state of the pipeline and predicts future behaviour based on continuously comparing a real-time simulation to measured data and process conditions. This predictive capability allows operators to take pre-emptive actions, such as adjusting flow rates or switching feed lines, to maintain optimum pipeline performance.

Digital twin technology

The digital twin mirrors the physical pipeline system, simulating its thermodynamic and fluid-mechanical conditions. This virtual model enables operators to test different scenarios, foresee potential disruptions, and implement corrective actions without impacting the actual operation.

Principle of Extended Real-Time Transient Model (E-RTTM)
PipePatrol service circle

Energy and emissions optimisation

By predicting and mitigating pipeline inefficiencies, the system helps to reduce unnecessary energy consumption and lower emissions, supporting the plant’s sustainability goals.

Digital Twin future hydraulic behaviour

Contribution to Sustainability

  • Energy efficiency: PipePatrol’s predictive capabilities allow for precise control of pipeline operations, reducing energy waste by ensuring the system runs under optimum conditions at all times.

  • Emissions reduction: By preventing pipeline disruptions and inefficiencies, the system minimises the need for reactive measures that often result in increased emissions. This proactive approach supports compliance with environmental regulations and contributes to a lower carbon footprint.

  • Resource optimisation: The system's ability to predict and prevent failures also reduces the need for frequent maintenance and replacement of pipeline components, conserving resources and reducing the environmental impact associated with these activities.

Further Benefits

  • Predictive pipeline simulation: The system simulates the future state of the pipeline based on current data, enabling operators to foresee and prevent potential issues.

  • Digital twin for testing and optimisation: The digital twin provides a virtual environment for testing different operational scenarios, allowing for the optimisation of energy use and emission reduction without disrupting actual operations.

  • Real-Time alerts and actionable insights: Operators receive real-time alerts about potential inefficiencies or failures, along with actionable insights for corrective measures.

The solution for sustainable pipeline management

In chemical plants, efficient pipeline operation is key to reducing energy consumption and emissions. KROHNE’s PipePatrol Predictive Modelling and Digital Twin technology provide a comprehensive solution for achieving these goals. By continuously monitoring pipeline conditions, predicting potential issues, and allowing for proactive management, PipePatrol not only enhances operational efficiency but also plays a critical role in the plant’s overall sustainability strategy.

With PipePatrol, chemical plants can achieve significant reductions in energy consumption and emissions, ensuring a more sustainable and efficient operation. This advanced technology empowers operators to make data-driven decisions that enhance both performance and environmental stewardship.

Related Products, Services & Solutions

PipePatrol NEO New Energies Predictive Modelling

Proactive hydraulic forecasting for safer, more reliable pipeline operation

  • Real-time hydraulic look ahead using a fully dynamic digital twin
  • Early warning of upcoming pressure violations, supply shortages or operational instabilities
  • Scenario simulation (“what-if analysis”) for evaluating corrective actions and optimisation steps
  • Supports throughput optimisation, demand forecasting and safe operational planning
  • Suitable for gas pipelines (natural gas, chemical gases, hydrogen, CO₂, etc.) and complex pipeline networks

PipePatrol NEO Refining Batch Tracking

Full transparency and control for multi product pipeline operations

  • Real-time tracking of batch head and tail positions for clear product boundaries
  • Accurate batch and interface identification for enhanced operational control
  • Precise estimated time of arrival (ETA) calculation for each batch reaching its destination
  • Slop and pure volume calculation to maximise product yield and avoid product contamination
  • Integration with field instrumentation (e.g. density meters, ultrasonic flowmeters) for improved prediction accuracy
PipePatrol NEO Oil Leak Detection

Maximum sensitivity and reliability for any pipeline

  • Multi-method leak detection combining hydraulic modelling, pattern recognition, AI optimisation and real-time sensor data
  • Highly sensitive leak detection & localisation, including small and hidden leaks
  • Proven fastest alarming performance, even during transient conditions
  • Robust operation under all pipeline scenarios: steady state, transient, start-up, shutdown, standstill and shut-in
  • Compliance with international regulations, including API 1130, API 1175, TRFL, CSA Z662 and industry standards from Shell, DOW, Saudi Aramco and others