Shell okays ABB control system for projects worldwide

London – ABB’s Extended Automation System 800xA has passed a technical evaluation by Shell Global Solutions, for potential future use in the oil company’s projects worldwide without further technical review.

The core system, as well as its integrated System 800xA safety instrumented system (SIS), were tested by Shell Global Solutions, which provides technical and operational support to Shell.

Thel assessment, which took almost one year, and documented the product’s ability to perform against Shell’s detailed technical specifications. It also examined the system supplier’s project execution capabilities.

Following the evaluation, ABB has been approved for use in Shell as a MAC/DCS supplier for System 800xA and System 800xA High Integrity (SIS).

“ABB’s System 800xA performed very well in wide range of simulated operating conditions during our assessment,” commented Audun Gjerde from Shell Global Solutions. “We found that it can integrate multiple systems and processes, while maintaining a high level of system security and process safety.”

Shell’s evaluation noted the ABB system’s ability to integrate process and power automation on a single platform with related integration and control of IEC61850 devices.

This feature, said ABB, enhances integrated power management capability and can help Shell remotely access and control switchgear – reducing commissioning time and allowing for faster online modifications during operation.

The control system ability to integrate multiple control and other plant systems, to enable control of several plants from one central location, was another key capability cited in the evaluation, the wnedor added.

Shell produces around 3.5 million barrels of oil equivalent a day and is active in more than 130 countries and territories worldwide.