Proposal for the transformation towards Industry 4.0 of the monitoring, maintenance and inspection of oil reservoir tanks in Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction. The oil industry in Ecuador needs to change the way it monitors, inspects and maintains crude oil tanks. Industry 4.0, with IoT, AI and smart sensors, improves efficiency and reduces costs. However, there are technological and economic implementation gaps. A model is proposed to modernise and optimise these processes. Objective. To propose the technical and technological requirements necessary for the evolution of monitoring, inspection and maintenance processes in crude oil tanks in the oil industry in Ecuador towards a model based on the principles of Industry 4.0, to optimise operational efficiency, reduce environmental risks and improve sustainability.  Methodology.  Modernising crude oil tank monitoring, inspection and maintenance towards Industry 4.0 with IoT, drones and standardised cyber-physical systems includes diagnostic analysis, requirements definition, technology design, pilot testing and impact assessment. Results. The physical and cyber-physical Industry 4.0 system integrates IoT sensors, robots, drones and advanced technologies. Estimated investment of $196,000, optimizing efficiency, safety and operating costs, within global standards and ensuring long-term sustainability. Conclusion.  The implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies for the monitoring, inspection and maintenance of crude oil reservoir tanks is feasible in Ecuador's oil industries, as, with an initial investment of $196,000, it could optimize costs, increase operator safety and offer a high return on investment in the long term. General Area of Study: Industry and technology. Specific area of study: Industry 4.0, Oil & Gas. Type of study: Original article.