Introduction

Operating in remote and rugged environments is challenging on its own, but inconsistent network connectivity adds a serious layer of risk, jeopardizing both worker safety and operational efficiency. A petroleum refinery found itself grew increasingly dependent on connected devices to maintain smooth and safe operations; unreliable connectivity, however, frequently disrupted workflows and hindered performance.

Challenges

The refinery operators faced significant challenges due to inconsistent network connectivity across its expansive and rugged operational environment. Challenges include:

  • Inconsistent connectivity: Workers often had to collect data in areas with poor Wi-Fi signals and then move to locations with better connectivity to transmit the data. This process delayed decision-making and reduced operational efficiency.
  • Safety risks: Wi-Fi "dead spots" increased operational risks, particularly concerning worker safety in remote and hazardous areas of the refinery.
  • Scalability concerns: The existing Wi-Fi infrastructure was not only inadequate but also posed challenges in scaling to meet future technological advancements and increased device connectivity.

Requirements

To address these challenges, the refinery wished to partner with Lanner in order to implement a private 5G network, the resulting deployment must deliver the followings:

  • Reliable and consistent connectivity: Ensuring seamless communication for mobile crane operations, handheld devices and other connected equipment across the entire facility.
  • Enhanced safety measures: Consistent network coverage enabled the effective use of safety devices and cameras, crucial for monitoring and ensuring worker safety in hazardous environments.
  • Real-time data collection: The Private 5G Network facilitated immediate data transmission from any location within the refinery, enhancing decision-making processes.
  • Cost and complexity reduction: By transitioning from a Wi-Fi infrastructure to a private 5G network, the refinery reduced the costs and complexities associated with scaling and maintaining network infrastructure.
  • Flexibility for future automaton integration: The robust network infrastructure should set the stage for integrating Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) and computer vision.

Lanner Solution

Equipped with the Intel Xeon 6 SoC, Lanner’s ECA-5555 delivers up to 2.4x capacity gain and 3.2x AI RAN performance per core gain compared to the previous-generation platform. It also features integrated Intel Advanced Matrix Extensions (Intel AMX) and Intel Advanced Vector Extensions (Intel AVX) acceleration for RAN and AI workloads, as well as integrated vRAN acceleration with Intel vRAN Boost.

With support for two 100Gbps QSFP28 ports and 8 25Gbps SFP28 ports, it maximizes vRAN performance while maintaining a wide operating temperature range of -40 to 55ºC, ensuring reliable performance even in the most challenging environments. Further more, ECA-5555’s front I/O design make it ideal for 5G RAN deployments as a DU/CU server, while also serving as a Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) platform for content delivery, including media streaming and cloud gaming.

With Xeon® 6 SoC’s core scalability, integrated AI acceleration, and high-speed networking, the ECA-5555 delivers exceptional processing power at the edge. Dual M.2 slots for NVMe storage and secure BMC remote management enhance expandability, reliability, and streamlined maintenance.

Results

The deployment of the ECA-5555-based private 5G network succeeded in delivering the following results:

  1. Increased operational efficiency: Workers experienced more "time on the job" due to reduced delays in data transmission and improved communication tools.
  2. Improved safety: Consistent connectivity allowed for better monitoring and quicker response times to potential safety hazards.
  3. Enhanced decision-making: Real-time data availability from all areas of the refinery enabled more informed and timely decisions.
  4. Scalable infrastructure: The new network provided a scalable solution, accommodating future technological integrations without significant additional investments.

Conclusion

The implementation of a private 5G network transformed the refinery's operations, addressing critical connectivity challenges and laying a solid ground for future hardware integration, further enhancing operational efficiency, safety and scalability in rugged, remote and industrial settings.

And in terms of environmental sustainability, predictive maintenance and efficient operations contribute to reduced emissions and environmental impact, not to mention the ability to monitor and control processes in real-time also ensures compliance with environmental regulations and promotes sustainable practices.

Featured Product

ECA-5555

Multi-access Edge Computing Appliance With Intel® Xeon® 6 SoC Processor

CPU Intel® Xeon® Granite Rapids D
Chipset N/A

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