Automation Improvements in Batch Cutting Process: The Last Profit Center for Pipelines Available to Purchase

Two major developments have recently emerged driving pipeline companies to re-evaluate transmix and regrade generation within their systems, along with the process which is the primary driver of transmix production — batch cutting. Dramatic increases in product cost and the advent of ultra low sulfur (ULS) regulation and ULS products have brought renewed focus on transmix generation and control. Given that pipeline tariffs are generally controlled by government agencies, and power cost can only marginally be controlled, transmix/regrade reduction and the corresponding savings is probably the last great revenue generator for pipelines and shippers. Batch cutting techniques and technology have remained largely unchanged for several decades. However, new technologies and greater automation have created renewed opportunities to significantly reduce transmix/regrade on a system-wide basis. Analysis has shown that projects related to transmix reduction are highly profitable and improve the overall precision and accuracy of batch cutting. This paper reviews the sources of variability in the manual batch cut process and how this variability can be eliminated through automation and new technologies.