PetroChina uses RFID technology to track thousands of its pipelines in the wild

PetroChina, China's second-largest oil and gas producer, is using rugged RFID tags to track oil pipeline Assets in Xinjiang oil fields.

       The project involves the deployment of RFID tags on oil pipelines in Xinjiang for a period of 5 years to improve the life cycle management of pipeline assets, reduce costs, shorten non-productive time of critical processes, and reduce risks associated with pipeline failures.

       PetroChina is a subsidiary of Beijing-based state-owned China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). As China's second largest oil producer, it is also one of the most profitable companies in Asia. Xinjiang Oilfield is the largest oilfield in western China, mainly covering the exploration, development, gathering, transportation and sales of oil and gas resources in the Junggar Basin and its surrounding basins.

       With the advanced application of RFID technology, PetroChina can ensure that its operations are not disrupted by delays or unexpected failures, while also improving oilfield safety and compliance. Automated tracking and real-time data can also help CNPC manage proper drill pipe records and integrity and better manage its maintenance and inspection processes.

       The purpose-built RFID tags have been developed specifically to handle the harsh conditions found in deployments in the oil and gas industry. This RFID tag can be read up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) when embedded in metal, and its IP68 rating protects against dust and liquids. The tag is designed to withstand extremes of high and low temperatures, as well as exposure to drilling fluids and hydraulic oils. Specially designed RFID tags are also resistant to UV rays and seawater immersion.

PetroChina oil field site

       "RFID is a significant improvement over traditional paper-based practices, which are time-consuming and error-prone," said Mr. Zhang, general manager of China Petroleum Technology Cooperation Company, which is deploying the solution. “Fast and accurate tracking is critical to ensuring operational efficiency and timely maintenance, and RFID solutions can help us achieve this.”