Buttons and switches, LCD displays and 24 hour surveillance. Although lower in profile, the Mt. Hayes Control Room operates like a “command centre” for the Starship Enterprise. It’s a highly technical and specialized configuration of four computer consoles, ready to automatically control all manner of activity at the natural gas storage facility once it’s fully operational.
From correcting fluctuations and controlling temperatures, to tracking rates of vaporization and monitoring security, the functions at the facility are all digitally monitored and recorded from the operating system. And then, critical details are linked to FortisBC headquarters in Surrey.
Practically infallible, the computers’ safety net is the Triconex System, a “Safety Interlock System”, whereby three computers are running simultaneously. If one fails, the other two continue to operate. In addition, if the system detects a serious problem in the plant, it will shut operations down automatically, without requiring input from the plant operators. Naturally, a continual source of power is critical to the operation of the facility. If power was lost to the site, there is a backup generator and ample fuel supply that will keep the facility’s operational hub running for up to five days.
Tim Stuart, Manager, LNG Operations, cites one of the most interesting high-tech functions as being the ability to monitor the entire facility from the control room through strategically placed cameras. Having a complete picture of the sites, functionability is critical to smooth operation.