Operational Technology (OT) refers to the hardware and software used to monitor and control physical devices, processes, and infrastructure in various industries, including the energy sector.
The term is used to differentiate between traditional information technology (IT) systems and industrial control systems. While IT systems are used for data processing, communication, and administrative functions, OT focuses on the operational and real-time aspects of a business, ensuring that critical processes run smoothly and efficiently.
OT is widely used in the energy industry to monitor and control various aspects of energy production and distribution. OT can be required to control valves, engines, conveyors, and other machines to regulate various process values such as temperature, pressure, and flow, and to monitor them to prevent hazardous conditions. For example, they are used in smart grids to monitor and control power generation and distribution. They are also used in oil refineries to monitor and control the refining process. In addition, OT systems are used in wind farms to monitor wind turbines and optimize their performance.
How does OT help with safety and security in the energy industry?
OT systems play a critical role in ensuring safety and security in the energy industry by providing real-time monitoring, cybersecurity measures, physical security, and emergency response capabilities. By safeguarding critical infrastructure and data, OT helps ensure the uninterrupted and secure operation of energy systems, reducing the risk of accidents, outages, and security breaches.
Cegal has for many years been an IT partner for the oil and gas industry and over time saw the need for solutions for OT.
Based on the rigid requirements in the energy industry Cegal developed Connect@Plant, a product that enables the customer to comply with several regulations and standards. Connect@Plant provides the ability to digitalize work processes for companies with industrial networks and systems that are categorized as critical infrastructure. The Connect@Plant solution provides value to any industries operating with critical infrastructure such as oil and gas, shipping, energy, chemical, and more by providing a complete security platform for secure, efficient, and manageable access to critical industrial control systems.
Read more about our solution Connect@Plant here >