Requirements, drivers and analysis of wireless sensor network solutions for the Oil & Gas industry

The IEEE 802.15.4 specification has enabled low-power, low-cost wireless sensor networks (WSNs) capable of robust and reliable communication. For the Oil & Gas industry, switching from wired to wireless sensors cost-efficiently eliminates the need for cables, allows data collection in remote or hostile areas, and enables new applications. However, there are concerns related to the use of WSNs, of which reliability, power consumption and standardization are most important. This paper identifies technical requirements for WSN deployment within the confines of the Oil & Gas industry. Experiments have been performed to determine whether or not currently available technologies fulfill these requirements. The conclusion of this work is that an open, and energy-efficient, standard is needed before WSNs can be fully utilized in the Oil & Gas industry.