ON-LINE PARTIAL DISCHARGE CONDITION MONITORING STRATEGIES FOR OIL AND GAS HIGH VOLTAGE ASSETS OPTIMISATION

With lower-for-longer wholesale price conditions in the oil and gas market, asset optimisation is now more critical than ever. To avoid unplanned outages, and extend asset lifecycles, condition-based maintenance can be used to prioritise maintenance and/or repair. The early detection of medium and high voltage insulation faults can maximise network safety, improve reliability and help to implement asset extension life programs. On-line partial discharge (OLPD) detection and monitoring is adopted and recognised as one of the best, non-intrusive, early warning indicator of insulation degradation in MV/HV networks. This paper describes industry approaches for OLPD monitoring showing the benefits and results of using such technology. Strategies for condition-based maintenance are discussed along with how data can be used strategically in the operation of the network, including network reconfiguration, maintenance prioritisation, refurbishment and/or replacement. A case study where effective OLPD monitoring of critical 11 kV generators in a downstream European oil refinery was implemented and allowed informed decisions to be made prior to unplanned outages is presented.