Implementation of Operator Training System in the MOL Danube Refinery

The Operator Training System (OTS) is a useful tool developed to train operators in a virtual environment under offline conditions. With the help of the OTS, operators are able to learn how to operate existing/future plants to maximise the asset value via solving operational problems in the shortest possible time.

The high-complexity and the advanced technical state of the Danube Refinery has required a more effective training system for the shift-leaders/operators. With the completion of the OTS, the current educational system will elevate to a higher level.
The operators are required to have advanced skills and knowledge of the system and to learn the actions to be taken in response to any possible situations including emergencies and malfunctions. Obtaining such knowledge on a real plant is very risky and should be very carefully planned. Training without jeopardizing the plant thus requires years of experience. This increases the necessity of operator training with a simulator that has identical outlook and performance with the real control system. To reach these goals MOL launched its OTS project in 2005.

Ákos Fürcht, Dr., Tibor Kovács, István Rabi