Electrical integration in oil & gas integrated control and safety system using IEC 61850

Traditionally, process automation and power automation systems in an oil & gas platform are interconnected by extensive hardwiring. This method is not cost efficient due to the amount of cabling and engineering involved. In addition, different protocols used in power automation leads to a variety of engineering tools, protocol converters, gateways and additional hardware which increases the engineering and maintenance costs1. This paper is a case study of a typical application of IEC 61850 in the Oil & Gas ICSS, in comparison with Modbus and Profibus protocols, in the monitoring of compressor motors and other low voltage switchgear supplying power to the platform. By utilising Industrial Ethernet standards such as IEC 61850, it is possible to optimise commissioning efforts, minimise project risks and lower the total cost of ownership. All devices communicate back to the main control system and thereby provide a unified way to maintain the entire plant. This also enables the personnel to make informed decisions on energy management and plant life cycle management.