What’s in the blog:
Modifying existing piping systems in operational plants—known as brownfield modifications—is often a complex, high-risk task. Traditional methods of manual measurement and outdated drawings can lead to rework, clashes, and extended downtimes. At InOpTra, we leverage cutting-edge 3D laser scanning technology to bring precision, safety, and speed to brownfield piping projects in refineries, chemical plants, and oil & gas facilities.
Challenges in Brownfield Piping Modifications
Brownfield environments pose several engineering and execution hurdles:
- Incomplete or outdated as-built drawings
- Limited physical access to piping systems
- Safety risks during data collection
- High potential for interferences with live systems
- Costly errors due to inaccurate site data
What Is 3D Laser Scanning?
3D laser scanning is a non-contact, high-accuracy technology that captures millions of spatial data points (point clouds) in a short time. These data points are used to generate a detailed 3D digital replica of the plant environment, including piping systems, supports, equipment, and structures.
Benefits of Laser Scanning in Piping Projects
Here’s how InOpTra integrates laser scanning to transform brownfield projects:
1. Accurate As-Built Models
Capture the exact geometry and spatial relationships of existing piping, enabling clash-free designs and seamless integration.
2. Reduced Site Visits
Minimize disruption to operations by completing data collection in a single visit—even in hazardous or hard-to-reach areas.
3. Faster Project Turnaround
Accelerate the design, validation, and fabrication phases with high-fidelity data that reduces guesswork and rework.
4. Enhanced Safety
Keep personnel out of confined or risky spaces.
5. Seamless Integration with 3D CAD
Point cloud data is directly integrated into software such as SmartPlant, AVEVA E3D, AutoCAD Plant 3D, and others for precise modelling.
InOpTra Digital’s Workflow
- Laser Scan Data
Our experts utilize advanced laser scanned data and digitize the entire site environment, ensuring precise as-built data for your project. - Point Cloud Processing
The raw scan data is cleaned, registered, and converted into usable formats. - 3D Modeling
Our piping engineers develop intelligent 3D models that accurately reflect the existing plant layout. - Design Integration
Modifications are designed, verified, and optimized within the real-world context—ensuring zero clashes. - Documentation & Handover
Clients receive updated as-built models, isometrics, and MTOs—ready for execution and compliance.
Why Choose InOpTra Digital?
Piping design in the oil and gas sector is a complicated process that requires careful consideration of technical, economic, and environmental concerns. By following these essential principles, engineers can design systems that are efficient, safe, and long-lasting, ensuring smooth operations in one of the world’s most demanding industries.
At InOpTra Digital, our highly skilled piping professionals leverage laser scanning technology to deliver innovative and efficient solutions for your brownfield projects. Investing in quality pipe design and laser scanning improves efficiency while also protecting personnel, assets, and the environment, resulting in a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
Contact us today to learn how our laser scanning expertise can optimize your brownfield piping modifications!
