Industrial Computing: Changes in the Oil and Gas Industry

The field of industrial computing has evolved to such a degree that the devices that are currently available transform the very industries that they are deployed in. There are a number of computers suitable for a variety of industrial working environments. Some working conditions may require the use of computers designed to respond to its stringent demands. The oil and gas industry is an area where specialized computer devices need to be employed. In this industry, it is common for prices to fluctuate due to the changes that occur on a production level. Recently, prices for gas and oil have been less expensive due to the high production rates the refineries. The availability of advanced technological tools like rugged industrial grade computers have contributed to this production boom.

New Sources of Fuel

Growth in oil and gas come as a result of the ability of refineries to tap into previously unheard of sources of fuel. Now, it is possible to extract oil from oil sands, shale deposits, and subsea strata. This new way of extracting energy resources requires the use of industrial computers that are capable of handling the complex tasks that are associated with the process. One of the biggest requirements for computers that are deployed in the oil and gas industry is the ability to withstand punishing working environments.

Harsh Working Environments

The amount of data that is associated with the process of extracting oil is considerable. With refineries tapping into new sources like subsea deposits, it becomes imperative for the devices that are being used to withstand the stresses associated with these working environments. Every computer device that is deployed in the oil and gas working environment needs to be able to withstand the harsh environmental conditions long enough for producers to capture and analyze the data that they gather. Should these devices fail in the middle of data gathering procedures an oil rig could shut down resulting in a substantial loss to the company.

Industrial Computers as a Vital Work Hub

Apart from the ability to withstand a host of environmental pressures, industrial grade computers are being used to connect a host of equipment that is being used in oil rigs across multiple locations. The ability of these industrial computers to function as a hub enables users to remotely access the data that they gather. Remote access to critical data enables professionals to make critical decisions in real time as developments occur. A greater degree of communication between field staff, oil producers, and other experts results in a safer and more proactive working environment.

Reliability

It is vital that industrial computers possess a high quality of reliability. One of the most important features that oil producers need from devices that are to be deployed in the oil and gas industry is a high mean time between failures rate. Ideally, there should be a complete lack of downtime when it comes to the devices that are being used in the oil and gas industry. A critical failure in a device that is used for oil and gas extraction can result in lengthy downtime periods that result in massive losses. Given the nature of the locations of these rigs, maintenance procedures require a great expenditure of financial resources, time, and manpower. Purchasing reliable rugged industrial computers reduce the possibility of system failures and prevent the producers from wasting resources in maintenance procedures.

Product Life Cycle and Maintenance Needs

One of the most critical areas that producers need to take a look at before they purchase a rugged industrial computer is the life cycle of the device. Oil and gas producers need to look for a device that is supported by its manufacturer on a long term basis. This ensures that parts and components that are needed for repairs and maintenance procedures will be available long after the device has been purchased. Given the nature of the locations of oil rigs, it is critical for the manufacturer of a device to possess a global presence as well. The oil and gas industry span multiple locations across the globe and the manufacturer of your industrial grade computer needs to be able to respond to maintenance needs accordingly. With new sources for oil and gas being discovered, it is critical for oil producers to utilize technology that is capable of keeping up with the demands of the industry. As the industry continues to evolve, the growth of rugged industrial grade computers can be expected to reflect those changes as well.