Advanced SCADA automation and control system for hydrocarbon storage terminals
Company
Olivia Petroleum manages hydrocarbon storage terminals. At its facilities in Cadiz, it needed an advanced solution that would allow it to centralize the monitoring and control of storage tanks and associated equipment.
The goal was to have a robust automation and SCADA system capable of integrating all tank measurement equipment and controlling pumps and valves from a centralized and intuitive environment.
Challenge
Design and implement a complete automation and monitoring system based on PLC and SCADA that would allow real-time monitoring of the status of storage tanks and safe control of terminal pumps and valves.
The solution had to be stable, scalable, and adapted to an industrial environment with high safety and operational reliability requirements.
Problem
- Decentralized tank monitoring
Critical tank data (level, density, pressure, temperature) was not integrated into a single control platform. - Lack of centralized equipment control
The operation of pumps and valves was not managed in a unified manner and supervised by a SCADA system. - Operational and safety risks
The lack of a global view made it difficult to detect deviations or abnormal situations early on. - Limited traceability of process data
Operational information was not structured to facilitate analysis, historical records, and decision-making.
Solution
How we do it?
A complete industrial automation system was developed and implemented using PLC and SCADA for Olivia Petroleum's hydrocarbon storage terminals in Cadiz.
- Integration of tank measurement equipment
Integration of tank measurement systems into SCADA, including product height, density, liquid volume, pressure, and temperature. - Advanced PLC programming
Development of PLC control logic for the safe management of pumps and valves, including start/stop and controlled opening/closing functions. - Centralized SCADA system
Design and programming of an industrial SCADA system that allows real-time monitoring of all terminals, providing a clear and structured visualization of the process. - Safe operational control
Implementation of manual and automatic controls from SCADA, improving operational safety and reducing human error. - Scalable architecture
The system was prepared for future expansions, the addition of new tanks, or the integration of more process variables without complex redesigns.
Results
- Centralized monitoring of terminals Cádiz I, II, and III
- Precise and secure control of pumps and valves
- Real-time visualization of critical tank variables
- Reduction of operational risks and response times
- Improved traceability and analysis of process data
- Robust, scalable platform ready for future growth