TechnipFMC and DNV GL have entered into a partnership to develop a methodology for qualifying the integrity of digital twin technology.
The two said in a statement that the methodology aims to “bring a level playing field” to the oil and gas sector’s varying technical definitions of, and expectations towards, digital twins. They hope to “set a benchmark” for oil and gas operators, supply chain partners, and regulators to establish trust in data generated by digital twins for performance and safety decision-making in projects and operations.
“Digital twin technology results in quicker, better asset design, improved project delivery efficiency, and operation safety and performance during the whole asset life. As more digital twins enter the oil and gas sector, it is key for operators to know that their twin works as planned, and that its output is reliable. Out collaboration with DNV GL aims to address this,” said Julie Cranga, vice president of subsea digital at TechnipFMC.
Digital twins, or digital representations of a physical asset and its behavior, are increasingly being used by oil and gas companies to bring asset information from multiple sources together. They can also connect 3D models with real-time field data during operation phase.
The new methodology will be built upon DNV GL’s recommended practice (RP) for technology qualification, DNVGL-RP-A203. First published more than 20 years ago, the RP provides a common framework for companies to gain acceptance for implementing unproven hardware technology.
“The major challenge with implementing new digital technologies in the oil and gas industry today is the same as when novel hardware technologies were introduced two decades ago. How can you trust that it works when the technology hasn’t been used before?” said Liv Hovem, DNV GL CEO for oil and gas.
TechnipFMC will pilot the methodology on one of its development projects in early 2020. It is expected to be published as a recommended practice during the second half of next year.