Oil and gas automation, also known as oilfield automation, in the oil and gas industry refers to a growing number of processes, many involving digital technologies, that can help energy producers better compete in global markets. While some industry areas are riper for automation than others, top oil and gas automation candidates include drilling, production operations and process control, logistics and supply chain, safety and retail operations.
Oil and gas automation often utilizes sensors based on the internet of things (IoT), predictive and self-learning systems to increase productivity, and expert systems/use of artificial intelligence (AI) to fill in gaps brought on by a skilled labor shortage.
Measurements of pressure and flows of oil and gas can be improved through automation and can benefit upstream, midstream and downstream producers. Interconnected, automated systems allow for the easy distribution of data and greater efficiency enterprise-wide.