Refiners are constantly adapting to the impacts of decarbonization mandates, geopolitical changes, and resource scarcity. The need to modernize operations for efficiency and flexibility is essential.  To achieve this, they are transforming and digitalizing their operations and workforce with programs including digital monitoring, robotics, AI and IoT. Automation will be integral to success – connected assets can help instruct and monitor workers and equipment and keep workplaces safe by identifying anomalies like pressure gradient variations, anticipate pipe corrosion, and better predict and respond to seismic events, severe weather, and events that cause accidents.

Having the right connectivity solution is essential to ensure reliable, secure automation. Today, refiners use a hybrid of connectivity technologies including their own fixed network and private cellular networks using licensed or unlicensed public spectrum. This disjointed network does not meet future needs – visibility and control across the network is siloed, with public network visibility closed to IT teams.