DESIGNING AND MANAGING A WONDERWARE INTOUCH HMI AT A PORT FACILITY

CLIENT OVERVIEW

Location: North Vancouver, BC

Industry: Petroleum Products Handling & Marine Terminal Operations

Facility Type: Petroleum Storage and Marine Terminal

Services: Vessel Loading and Unloading, Railcar Transloading, Storage and Distribution of Petroleum Products

The terminal, located in North Vancouver, is a key facility operated by a U.S. parent corporation, serving as a vital hub for handling and storing various petroleum products, including ethanol, gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.

Strategically located on the Burrard Inlet, the terminal provides easy access for vessels and connects to major transportation routes. The terminal boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, including deepwater berths, specialized loading and unloading equipment, and extensive storage capacity.

The facility prioritizes robust safety measures, adherence to environmental regulations, and a commitment to sustainability. The terminal ensures the safe handling and storage of petroleum products while minimizing environmental impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

In summary, the terminal plays a crucial role in supporting the energy industry in Western Canada by facilitating the import and export of petroleum products, acting as a vital link between producers, refiners, and consumers.

THE CHALLENGE

Designing and managing a Wonderware InTouch HMI application at a materials handling port facility can present several challenges. Materials handling port facilities consist of various interconnected systems, such as cranes, conveyors, sorting systems, and control devices, making seamless integration and data consolidation from diverse sources complex.

Addressing these challenges requires a combination of technical expertise, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the port facility's unique operational requirements.

Common Challenges:

• Complex System Integration
• Real-Time Data Processing
• Data Visualization and User Experience
• Customization and Adaptability
• Data Security and Access Control
• System Monitoring and Maintenance
• Operator Training and Support
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

THE SOLUTION

QCA Systems engaged closely with port facility stakeholders to understand their specific operational requirements and design a tailored Wonderware InTouch HMI application.

By adopting a comprehensive approach to requirements gathering, system integration, and ongoing support, QCA Systems successfully designed and manages the Wonderware InTouch HMI application. The result was an application that optimized operational efficiency, enhanced situational awareness, and empowered operators to make informed decisions for efficient materials handling operations.

Here's how QCA Systems supports customers in this area:

• Comprehensive Requirement Analysis
• System Integration and Data Connectivity
• Effective User Interface Design
• Customization and Flexibility
• Real-Time Data Processing and Performance
• Data Security and Access Control
• Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance
• User Training and Support
• Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

KEY RESULTS

• QCA Systems designed and manages a Wonderware InTouch HMI application
• QCA Systems is a trusted partner
• QCA Systems is a reliable and proficient System Integrator
• Asset Management and Maintenance are monitored and predictive
• QCA Systems applied the best security practices available
• Redundancy was incorporated into the design, increasing reliability
• The application was designed to scale
• The project was completed with collaboration between IT and OT resources
• Maintenance and Upgrades are part of the support plan
• Network Monitoring was incorporated into the design from the start
• Network security was paramount in the project
• Project management is effective
• QCA Systems addresses many challenges