Mapco operates and jointly owns this 107,000-b/d NGL fractionator in Conway, Kan.Mapco Inc., Tulsa, has installed this year the first phase of a client/server application for its two refineries and more than 10,000-mile NGL pipeline system.
Enterprise MPAC, supplied by TSW International, Atlanta, includes modules for asset maintenance, workforce management, inventory, procurement, and an electronic document management/workflow program ("Curator").
It has been installed by Mapco to reduce maintenance costs and improve safety procedures at its refineries and along its pipeline by reducing the time required to perform necessary administrative tasks associated with preventive maintenance and workflow management.
After this initial-phase installation will come system-wide installation in 1998.
What's done
According to TSW, a key factor in Mapco's selection was Enterprise MPAC's tight integration with "Oracle Financials," a software package already used by Mapco for general ledger, purchasing, and accounts payable.
Because of this integration, when users create requisitions in Enterprise MPAC, the information automatically is processed through to Oracle's database. This eliminates the need for batch transfer or double-entry procedures.
Enterprise MPAC also will automatically notify Mapco users of parts availability, a step made possible because of the software's integration with the Oracle general ledger function.
Another component of MPAC, says TSW, will provide Mapco with enhanced remote network management.
Mapco has 12 remote area offices for management of its pipeline with approximately 15 field technicians working from each remote location. Field technicians are responsible for inspection of the pipeline.
Before installation of Enterprise MPAC, technicians retrieved written assignments (via fax machine) sent from the home office. Mapco now has the network computing architecture that will enable the home office to send assignment information electronically.
This feature improves maintenance productivity by allowing technicians to spend more time on service rather than administrative tasks, says TSW.
With Mapco's current network capacity, sending constant information between various locations is much more difficult. To achieve this functionality without Enterprise MPAC, Mapco would have had to install updated systems at each remote location.
Meeting OSHA regs
Mapco will also be better able to meet OSHA requirements with Enterprise MPAC installed, says TSW.
OSHA 1910 (Process Safety Management) requires that companies constantly monitor and document work performed on equipment carrying potentially hazardous materials, such as pipelines.
Enterprise MPAC's integrated document-management capabilities will support the access to information, approval routings, and automatic development of post-performance audit trails.
In effect, the software will enable users to capture maintenance information more easily and complete necessary procedures quicker.
