Serica and GDi create a Digital Twin of the Bruce Platforms

Serica Energy, operator of the UK North Sea Bruce, Keith and Rhum fields, has contracted Aberdeen based energy services company GDi to create a digital twin of its Bruce platforms and facilities. A full laser scan of the Bruce platforms is almost complete and GDi will use its software, GDi Vision, to create a high density virtual platform that can be utilised by people onshore to do a number of tasks normally performed offshore.  For example it can be used to inspect for corrosion, wear and tear and to design new or replacement parts or repairs. It will also help with planning future work, being able to visualise what needs to go where, saving time and improving accuracy, especially in hard to reach areas.  During the COVID-19 restrictions on bedspace and travel, it is even more beneficial to cut down on the requirements for people to go offshore, saving time, money and reducing risk.  Overall, this technology has been proven to cut down on inspection and manpower costs by up to 25%, whilst improving accuracy and reducing operator error.

Gareth McIntyre director at GDi, said: “Working with Serica Energy is a fantastic opportunity for us to deliver our services to a forward-looking client, as well as highlighting the full range of capabilities held by the GDi team in this specialist arena.  
“GDi has benefited from healthy demand for its services, which demonstrates our value proposition and a shift of focus from UCKS operators as they embrace new technologies. The ability for GDi to rapidly deploy our turnkey solutions has allowed our clients and industry partners to quickly realise value. We firmly believe our commitment to providing innovative technology-led solutions has been pivotal in our ability to attract and retain leading energy industry businesses, such as Serica Energy.”

Clara Altobell, VP ESG and Business Innovation said: “We are only scratching the surface as to what this technology can offer.  We are really excited to see where it can take us, with inspection, fabric maintenance, training and future design.”

Read the latest issue of the OGV Energy magazine HERE.