Onboard Dynamics

Unique, Patented Natural Gas Compression Technology for Driving Down Emissions

Jason Vosburgh

Use Case: Adding a Valve During a Pipeline Intervention in Belgium

by

Adding a Valve During a Pipeline Intervention

Onstream Pipeline Solutions (OPS) successfully utilized Onboard Dynamics’ (OBD) GoVAC® FLEX System to perform pipeline maintenance on a distribution line operated by a major Belgian network company. This use-case highlights the process of adding a valve during a pipeline intervention, showcasing OPS’s expertise in maintaining pipeline integrity and efficiency. This was a live project performed for demonstration purposes.

Onboard Dynamics environmental impact report
The Environmental Impact Report for This Project

Key Details

  • The pipeline owner and operator: A major Belgian network company, active in all Flemish cities and municipalities with approximately 5800 colleagues. 
  • OPS Technicians: Execute the valve installation.
  • OBD Technician: Performs the pipeline evacuation.
  • Location: Knokke-Heist, Belgium
  • Date: October 22, 2024
  • Pipeline Length: 300 meters
  • Pipeline Diameter: 10 inches
  • Total Natural Gas Evacuated: 3,257.65 SCF
  • Net Natural Gas Recovered: 1.64 MT CO2e

Process

Jeramy Cummings, the Operations Manager at Onboard Dynamics, shown here training OPS technicians to operate the GoVAC® FLEX System.
Jeramy Cummings, the Operations Manager at Onboard Dynamics, shown here training OPS technicians to operate the GoVAC® FLEX System.
  • Preparation: The operations team reviews the plan.
  • Evacuation: The pipeline is safely evacuated using the GoVAC® FLEX System, ensuring no residual gas remains.
  • Valve Installation: The OPS technician installs the valve, adhering to operational safety guidelines.
  • Re-pressurization: The pipeline is carefully re-pressurized, restoring operational capacity.
  • Documentation: The gas recovery process is documented by the system and provides metrics for the project for current and future reference.

Benefits

  • Efficiency: The GoVAC® FLEX System streamlines the process of evacuating natural gas from the pipeline, minimizing downtime.
  • Safety: The GoVAC® FLEX System is equipped with remote operations monitoring and communications.
  • Environmental Impact: The GoVAC® FLEX System prevents methane releases to the atmosphere contributing to reduced emissions and effective gas management during pipeline operations.
The GoVAC® FLEX System can operate in tight-fitting locations easily and quietly.
The GoVAC® FLEX System can operate in tight-fitting locations easily and quietly.

Conclusion

Successfully using the GoVAC® FLEX System to prevent methane releases into the atmosphere during pipeline evacuation demonstrates the owner and operator’s commitment to a sustainable energy infrastructure. It also exemplifies OPS’s technological leadership and commitment to customer-focused solutions in pipeline management.

With certified technicians and a fleet of well-maintained equipment, OPS continues to set the standard for operational excellence in the industry.

Join Us at the 2025 Gas Machinery Conference: The Critical Role of Accurate Reporting in Mitigating Methane Emissions

by

We are excited to announce that Doug Patton, Sales Manager at Onboard Dynamics, will be delivering an insightful presentation titled “The Critical Role of Accurate Reporting in Mitigating Methane Emissions” on Wednesday, January 15th, during the 2025 Gas Machinery Conference (GMRC) in Houston, Texas. This event, taking place from January 12-15, is a fantastic opportunity for industry professionals to come together and explore the latest advancements in gas machinery and emission mitigation strategies.

As the natural gas industry continues to evolve, the importance of automated data collection cannot be overstated. Effective job performance planning relies on accurate and timely data, allowing natural gas companies and service providers to manage projects more efficiently. Doug’s presentation will highlight how real-time monitoring during pipeline evacuation projects can provide immediate visibility into critical project details. This visibility enables timely field actions that can significantly impact a project’s bottom line, ensuring reliable service delivery to customers.

With the amount of pipeline evacuations being performed today, precise documentation of methane emission prevention efforts has become essential. The need for secure and accurate data reporting is paramount, and that’s where advanced pipeline evacuation systems come into play. Doug will discuss how these systems, equipped with remote monitoring capabilities, data integrity measures, and precise measurement tools, are vital for verifying emissions reduction information.

While many solutions are currently being employed to capture and recover natural gas during pipeline evacuations, not all technologies come with on-board control systems that can track and measure these activities. Fortunately, specialized systems, like our GoVAC® pipeline evacuation system, now exist that can electronically capture natural gas flow data, ensuring reliable measurement and reporting. This innovation is transforming the next generation of environmental reporting, providing significant benefits not only to pipeline operators but also to auditing agencies.

In his presentation, Doug will delve into the necessity of control systems that securely communicate with the cloud, which are crucial for today’s methane mitigation efforts. He will cover how data integrity is maintained and the importance of third-party validation processes that prevent unauthorized changes to system data. Attendees will learn about the measures in place to ensure that the information stored is accurate, tamper-proof, and secure.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the critical role of accurate reporting in mitigating methane emissions. Join us at the GMRC to learn from industry leaders and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of our industry. We look forward to seeing you there!

Discover the GoVAC® Pipeline Evacuation System at the 2025 PPIM Conference

by

Onboard Dynamics is excited to announce our participation in the 37th International Pipeline Pigging and Integrity Management (PPIM) Conference, taking place from January 28-30, 2025. Join us at booth #653 for an exciting opportunity to learn about the innovative GoVAC® pipeline evacuation system, engineered and manufactured by Onboard Dynamics.

Discover the GoVAC® Pipeline Evacuation System at the 2025 PPIM Conference

Why Visit Us?

The GoVAC® system is revolutionizing the way natural gas operators handle pipeline evacuations. Our team will be on hand to answer your questions and provide in-depth discussions on how our innovative technology enables operators to adopt best practices for natural gas capture, recovery, and measurement during pipeline evacuations.

Key Features of the GoVAC® System

  • Mobile and Self-Contained: Designed for ultimate flexibility, the GoVAC® system is easy to transport and set up wherever you need it.
  • No External Power Required: Operates independently from a small portion of the natural gas evacuation eliminating the hassle of external power sources, making it ideal for various locations.
  • Measured Evacuation Data: Gain valuable insights with precise data on the evacuation process.
  • Accurate Operational Reporting: Ensure transparency and reliability in your operations with our detailed reporting capabilities.
  • Remote Monitoring: Stay connected and manage your operations from afar with our advanced remote monitoring features.

Find the Right Fit for Your Needs

At our booth, you’ll also have the chance to explore which GoVAC® system best suits your specific pipeline evacuation requirements. Whether you’re interested in the versatile GoVAC® FLEX or the powerful GoVAC® MAX, our team will help you navigate the unique features and benefits of each system.

The GoVAC® MAX system in the field.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your understanding of pipeline evacuation systems and see how the GoVAC® system can optimize your operations. We look forward to welcoming you to booth #653 at the PPIM Conference!

See You There!

Mark your calendars for January 28-30, and make sure to visit Onboard Dynamics at booth #653. Let’s pave the way to more efficient and effective pipeline management together!

Mitch Schmidtke Takes the Helm as CEO of Onboard Dynamics

by

Onboard Dynamics is pleased to announce the appointment of Mitch Schmidtke as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. In conjunction with this transition, Rita Hansen, the current CEO and Co-founder, will take on the role of Co-Founder and Advisor, where she will continue to provide her invaluable expertise and guidance.

Mitch Schmidtke, Onboard Dynamics LLC

Mitch Schmidtke is a results-oriented business executive with experience in driving rapid growth and sustaining success across various organizations. He possesses a proven track record in leading teams to achieve vital business outcomes.

Mr. Schmidtke founded and led the growth of Eagle Tanks, Inc., an original equipment manufacturer of aboveground steel tanks for flammable and combustible liquids. During his sixteen years of leadership, he successfully scaled sales revenue tenfold. His expertise encompasses strategic planning, sales management, business process improvement, lean manufacturing, and organizational leadership.

Mr. Schmidtke also brings a distinguished military background as a retired Colonel in the United States Army Reserve. He has held key leadership positions in infantry and civil affairs branches. His extensive duties and positions include Commander of a Civil Affairs Brigade, Deputy Director of Stability Operations in Southern Afghanistan, and Senior Advisor for the Office of Provincial Affairs, at the U.S. Embassy in Iraq.

Mitch holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master’s degree in Business Administration as well as a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he is an active volunteer, serving as a mentor with SCORE assisting entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. His military contributions were recognized with prestigious awards, including two Bronze Star Medals for combat service.

“I am honored to take on the role of CEO at Onboard Dynamics. I look forward to collaborating with our talented team to drive innovation and growth, and to build on the solid foundation that Rita Hansen and the team have established. Together, we will continue to provide safe, reliable, and innovative solutions that support and decarbonize the natural gas industry.” – Mitch Schmidtke, newly appointed CEO of Onboard Dynamics

We are excited to welcome Mitch Schmidtke’s new role to the Onboard Dynamics’ team and look forward to his leadership as we continue advancing cleaner energy for the environment.

Best Advancement in Maintenance Technology: The GoVAC® MAX System

by

Best Advancement in Maintenance Technology: The GoVAC® MAX System

Onboard Dynamics is thrilled to announce that the GoVAC® MAX System has been recognized as the winner of the Best Advancement in Maintenance Technology award. This prestigious accolade, presented by Gulf Energy Information Excellence, highlights groundbreaking pipeline-related technologies that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety within the energy sector.

The award ceremony took place on October 9th, 2024, at the Post Oak Hotel in Houston, Texas. For more details on this exciting announcement, click here.

Best Advancement in Maintenance Technology: The GoVAC® MAX System

Out of over 500 nominations competing across 29 categories, the GoVAC® MAX System stood out as a leading innovation. This automated, self-contained solution is specifically designed for capturing and recovering natural gas during pipeline evacuations. By preventing methane emissions, it offers a cleaner alternative to traditional gas venting and provides a safer option compared to flaring, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.

Developed by Onboard Dynamics, the GoVAC® MAX System employs cutting-edge integrated engine/compressor technology. By utilizing a small portion of the evacuated natural gas for its operation, the system significantly reduces emissions and minimizes the need for additional equipment. Its compact design allows for operation in challenging locations, and the unit is easily towable with a pickup truck, enhancing maneuverability at job sites.

The GoVAC® Control System for automated data capture.
The GoVAC® Control System provides for automated data capture and remote monitoring.

The GoVAC® Control System is another key feature, providing automated data capture and remote monitoring capabilities. This advanced system allows for continuous oversight, ensuring that operators can access real-time data for informed decision-making. The integration of automated controls promotes operational safety by enabling early detection of issues, streamlining response mechanisms, and providing detailed operational diagnostics for timely maintenance.

The GoVAC® MAX System represents a significant leap forward in natural gas pipeline evacuation, also referred to as cross compression or recompression. Its integrated control system ensures efficient operations and enhances project planning. By delivering real-time insights during pipeline evacuations, it aids operators and service providers in completing jobs more efficiently while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and supporting sustainability initiatives.

Cross compression of a natural gas pipeline
Cross compression, also known as recompression, of a natural gas pipeline

In conclusion, the GoVAC® MAX System is a groundbreaking advancement in natural gas capture and recovery technology. Its ability to mitigate emissions, improve operational efficiency, and align with environmental goals makes it an indispensable tool for natural gas pipeline evacuations. Onboard Dynamics remains dedicated to advancing cleaner energy solutions, celebrating this achievement as part of our ongoing mission to promote sustainability and innovation in the natural gas industry.

Onboard Dynamics Among the Finalists for the Gulf Energy Information Excellence Awards

by

Developed by Onboard Dynamics, the GoVAC® MAX System is built upon patented integrated engine/compressor technology.

Onboard Dynamics is proud to announce its selection as a finalist for the prestigious Gulf Energy Information Excellence Awards in the Best Advancement in Maintenance Technology – Midstream category. This accolade honors innovative pipeline-related technologies that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, or improve safety in the energy sector.

The Gulf Energy Information Excellence Awards are recognized as the premier awards ceremony within the global energy industry, hosted by Gulf Energy Information—the largest independent media company dedicated to the energy sector. This event celebrates cutting-edge technological advancements and outstanding leadership across the industry.

The event will be held on October 9th, 2024 at the Post Oak Hotel in Houston Texas. Learn more about the event here.

The technology nominated for this award is the GoVAC® MAX Pipeline Evacuation System. This automated, self-contained solution captures and recovers natural gas during pipeline evacuations, preventing methane releases into the atmosphere. Moreover, the system generates precise environmental impact and operational reports electronically, facilitating informed decision-making, regulatory compliance, and streamlined project planning.

Developed by Onboard Dynamics, the GoVAC® MAX System is built upon patented integrated engine/compressor technology. This unique design harnesses a small portion of the natural gas being evacuated for power, which eliminates the hassle of managing additional equipment and resources. Its compact design allows for operation in challenging locations, making it ideal for diverse job sites.

The GoVAC System includes an integrated data platform for precise measurement of the natural gas being captured and recovered.
The GoVAC System includes an integrated data platform for precise measurement of the natural gas being captured and recovered.

A standout aspect of the GoVAC® MAX System is the integrated data platform, which offers automated data capture, remote monitoring capabilities and accurate reporting. This ensures secure transmission, data storage, and easy reporting access, with operators able to view detailed environmental and operational reports both on-site and remotely.

In summary, the GoVAC® MAX System represents the next generation in natural gas capture and recovery technology. Its capacity to mitigate emissions, enhance operational efficiency, and align with environmental initiatives positions it as an essential tool for natural gas pipeline evacuations.

Onboard Dynamics remains committed to supporting the natural gas industry with solutions that drive sustainability and innovation. And we celebrate this achievement and continue our mission of Advancing Cleaner Energy For Our Environment.