Fit for Future Challenge – Optimizing the Specifications
Authors: Narasimhan Thirugnanam , Molelputhenpura Kuriakose , Adel Khalid , Al Awadhi Ibrahim 
Published: November 2019

"Optimization" or "Fit for Future" is the new norm for any industry in this competitive global environment. To encounter the challenges and to embed 100% HSE, efficiency, performance and profitability in operation, maintenance and new constructions, there is an urgent necessity to review and update existing design and construction specifications. This paper summarizes the approaches, systems and examples of major updates in about 264 Nos. of multi-disciplinary Design General Specifications (DGS) of ADNOC Gas Processing that are brought under scanner and being revised to realize the strategic/ economic benefits of standardization.

In ADNOC Gas Processing, specifications for various engineering disciplines namely, process, automation, control, electrical, static/ rotating equipment, piping/ pipeline, civil/ structural are followed in engineering, construction and maintenance activities. These were developed over years to steer the Company towards unparalleled reliability, operability and integrity. Now, the challenging market demands adaptability, agility and forward thinking with a need to "balance the performance with profitability", without compromising HSE.

Hence, a "Lean" approach towards the specifications is emphasized by focusing on cost-saving and value addition in terms of reduced time and enhanced efficiency. Apart from revisions based on latest international codes/ standards, specific attention is given to details by incorporating latest technologies, materials and processes. Best practices and lessons learnt based on direct involvement with Operation, Projects and Supply are being embedded in the DGSs. A set of DGSs were reviewed by external consultants and Company to incorporate the valuable changes.

A detailed plan to incorporate the changes was worked out and assigned to disciplines. Major optimization features were addressed in the ongoing studies/ projects with immediate effect. This paper discusses potential areas of optimization and cost savings.

A minimum of 15 to 20% cost saving is expected to be realized in adopting the revised specifications in the ongoing and future projects/ studies; more benefits are expected on task completion. Maximum results are obtained by re-visiting the design parameters in the light of latest codes/ standards applicable to all the engineering disciplines. Alternate technologies/ materials contribute to further optimization. Sizing of buildings, equipment and features are addressed in the DGS updates. Operational margin of equipment, stability ratios of the structures and performance of the instruments are scrutinized and brought to an optimal level resulting in overall efficiency. Discipline-wise enhancements and potential cost saving ranges are detailed in this paper.

This paper presents "Fit for Future" initiative that has changed the organizational culture and reflects effectively in all activities across the Company. As all the technical activities are based on DGSs, update plan and potential cost realization are the main drivers for enhancing the performance without compromising HSE. This novel approach of re-visiting the technical specifications in the light of "high efficiency with low cost" can be adopted across other OPCOs and move towards common specifications for ADNOC.