Technology

The solution is delivering measurable improvements in efficiency, planning accuracy, and performance across Aramco’s global refining operations. (Image source: Aramco)

Emerson has announced the successful deployment of an AI-driven optimisation solution for Aramco with the integration of Emerson’s Aspen Hybrid Models into Aramco’s existing refinery
planning framework, creating one of the world’s largest and most advanced refinery optimisation frameworks

Aspen Hybrid Models combine first-principles models, deep domain expertise, and purpose-built industrial AI to significantly enhance the accuracy of refinery planning models and improve operational efficiency across global refining operations. The deployment has already achieved yield and quality prediction accuracy of up to 98.5% in key refinery units.These hybrid AI models have been implemented in Continuous Catalyst Regeneration (CCR) and Platformer Units, where they are enabling more precise feedstock blending, minimising gaps between planning and execution, and improving the accuracy of margin forecasting across Aramco’s global refining network.

Current efforts are focused on expanding the hybrid modelling approach to hydrocracker units across Aramco’s assets. This is expected to further enhance model accuracy and demonstrate the scalability and robustness of this AI-driven optimisation strategy across the enterprise.

"This deployment represents a significant milestone in Aramco's AI strategy and our long-standing relationship with Emerson," said Ahmad Alkudmani, director of the global optimiser department at Aramco. "We are committed to leveraging innovative technologies for smarter, more efficient refining optimisation. With improved model accuracy, we are enhancing planning decisions, reducing the manual adjustments required from our engineers, and uncovering new value across our global assets."

By using Aspen Hybrid Models Aramco was able to create highly accurate nonlinear optimisations using thousands of converged simulation cases built upon rigorous first-principles models calibrated with actual plant data. The approach provides Aramco with a scalable, robust tool for global refinery planning.

"Aramco continues to set the standard for operational excellence through digital innovation," said Claudio Fayad, chief technology officer of Emerson's Aspen Technology business.

"This deployment of AI-driven Aspen Hybrid Models to optimise complex, multi-site, multi- period planning workflows demonstrates the tangible value of combining deep domain expertise with advanced AI. We're excited to expand our strategic relationship with Aramco as they advance their digital transformation goals."

AlphaSight provides operators with real-time data to make faster more accurate geosteering decisions, optimise well placement and maximise reservoir contact. (Image source: SLB)

SLB has launched AlphaSight, a new reservoir mapping and drilling intelligence technology designed to deliver clearer subsurface insight at increased depths

AlphaSight provides operators with real-time data to make faster more accurate geosteering decisions, optimise well placement and maximise reservoir contact in even the most complex geological environments.

The solution delivers the industry’s shortest extra-deep azimuthal resistivity sensor, positioned closer to the bit with downhole computing for superior reservoir visibility.

It has demonstrated proven success in the field across the Middle East, North Sea, North America, and Asia, helping operators improve well placement, sharpen reservoir contact, and enhance overall drilling outcomes – driving stronger asset productivity across diverse reservoir environments.

By expanding petrophysical insight and accelerating geosteering decisions, AlphaSight supports faster, more accurate and streatmlined well delivery and advances the transition toward digital and autonomous drilling operations.

“AlphaSight is the cornerstone of our new Sight family of advanced measurement solutions, marking a true breakthrough in geosteering technology – it's not just an incremental improvement, but a complete transformation in well placement,” said Cecilia Prieto, president of Well Construction. “With unprecedented resolution, depth, and look-ahead capabilities, AlphaSight, empowers operators with clarity to make more confident decisions and achieve greater production than ever before.”

The M6000 Launch and Recovery System (LARS). (Image source: Forum Energy Technologies (FET)

Houston-headquartered Forum Energy Technologies (FET) has unveiled the Model 6000 (M6000) Launch and Recovery System (LARS), a compact, all-in-one solution for inspection and light work-class ROV operations

Part of FET’s Dynacon product line for subsea operations, the M6000 integrates the A-frame, winch and hydraulic power unit into a single skid-mounted package, allowing for a single-point lift with no need for additional cabling or hose connections. This design streamlines mobilisation and demobilisation, significantly reducing vessel interface time and onboard footprint.

Developed for deployment with inspection and small work-class ROVs such as FET’s Comanche and Super Mohawk, the system delivers optimal performance for inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR), cable lay, and pipeline or structural inspections. Applications are versatile, ranging from wind farms and dam surveys to pre-survey and light construction tasks.

Key features include a gimbal docking head with swing and sway functionality, a compact footprint and pre-wired, plug-and-play electrical integration. Together, these developments enhance safety and efficiency by minimising setup time and maximising reliability in the field.

The M6000’s design is DNV-certified and incorporates the latest hydraulic and control technologies. With a safe working load of up to 5,200kg and umbilical capacity of 3,300m, it provides robust handling performance within a reduced footprint.

The first M6000 system, equipped with a Perry Super Mohawk ROV, was manufactured and tested at FET’s US manufacturing facility in Bryan, Texas and delivered to a US-based client this year. It is now in operational service.

Kevin Taylor, vice president at FET Subsea, said, “The M6000 reflects our ongoing commitment to deliver more integrated solutions for subsea operators to maximise cost effectiveness. By combining all topside components in a single compact package, we’re helping customers mobilise faster and operate more efficiently. This is a system built with versatility and performance at the forefront.”

The technology automates the design of rod lift systems to optimise surface and downhole components. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

LUFKIN Industries, a leader in rod lift optimisation solutions, products, automation, software technologies and services, has enhanced its intelligent rod lift design platform with the launch of SROD V9.5.0

The technology automates the design of rod lift systems to optimise surface and downhole components, thereby enabling the maximisation of production from the well..

SROD V9.5.0 allows engineers to seamlessly migrate existing well design files from various platforms to the SROD system, saving hours of data entry as well as allowing engineers to quickly determine if mature wells are underbalanced, over-torqued or using excessive energy. The software leverages its proprietary wave equation and Multi-Case Generation Wizard to test hundreds of simulations in seconds to determine the physical limits of the equipment, and applies iterative balancing to ensure motors use the least amount of effort to reach those limits.

SROD V9.5.0 promotes greater operational efficiency and equipment longevity through the new Counterbalance Report which automatically calculates the most economical counterbalance configuration to efficiently balance well designs, using the counterbalance weights now embedded in the SROD library. A number of user enhancements are also included to streamline the user experience.

“We’re continuing to invest in rod lift optimisation technology to help operators enhance productivity and efficiency of wells,” said Brent Baumann, chief executive officer for LUFKIN Industries. “SROD V9.5.0 automates key design development requirements, providing accuracy and speed like never before. Operators now have access to designing the most accurate, cost-effective rod lift systems.”