1. TANK STORAGE • May/June 2015 67
Although laser scanning has been around for a number
years the software, until now it has not been capable of
handling larger brownfield sites typified by the oil and gas
sector. Advances in technology have dramatically increased
the speed of data acquisition and storage capacity,
significantly reducing the time on-site and data processing.
As a consequence, the cost of mapping a complex site
has plummeted, making it an affordable proposition
for those with the vision to appreciate all the potential
benefits to be gained from 3D mapping their assets.
Vopak’s London terminal has embraced the potential
of 3D laser scanning and has commissioned UK-based
Advanced 3D Laser Solutions (ALS), a company with both
process engineering and 3D laser scanning knowledge, on
a programme to 3D map the entire terminal commencing
with the areas affected by a current large capital investment
project and the more complex elements of their operations.
ALS proactively delivers, adhering to client
specification, plus applying their technical knowledge,
they are able to hone and enhance client expectation
by advising on attributes and capabilities of the process
which the client may not have been aware.
The benefits of 3D mapping are many fold:
• At a high level, an accurate 3D ‘fly-through’ can be
created for commercial presentations and serve
as a site familiarisation/appreciation tool.
• Accurate to +/- 2mm, considerable time can be saved
as drawings can be checked and plant items and
dimensions verified using the free viewing software,
negating the need to physically walk through the site.
• Piping detail and drawings can also be created
or modified as a desktop exercise.
Integration with other software packages further enhances
the overall capability and potential benefits.
3D mapping of oil
assets for Vopak’s
London terminal
For more information:
This article was written by Colin Pittman, commercial director, Advanced
3D Laser Solutions, +44 (0) 1277 829976, www.lasersurveying.com
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