Digital technology boosts throughput and stability across newly acquired system
Midstream is seeing early results from deploying Advanced Process Control (APC) technology across its Coastal Bend system, safely increasing throughput on existing assets to deliver more value for customers and the business.
Why it matters
As demand for natural gas liquids (NGLs) grows, maximizing the performance of existing assets is critical to delivering a reliable supply without new infrastructure. Technologies like APC enable facilities to operate more efficiently and consistently, helping the company extract more value, improve performance, increase flexibility and support reliable supply for customers while laying the groundwork for more connected, automated Midstream operations.
Natural gas liquids — including ethane, propane and butane — are essential products used for heating, cooking and plastics and chemical manufacturing. Systems like Coastal Bend play a critical role in moving and separating these products so they can reach customers and markets.
Driving more throughput with existing assets
At a key facility near Robstown, Texas, Phillips 66 recently commissioned APC on a plant that separates mixed NGLs into individual products. In February, the facility processed an average of about 121,000 barrels per day. With APC in place, the team is now targeting an improved, sustained rate of approximately 130,000 barrels per day over a 10-day period. These efforts demonstrate how digital optimization can unlock incremental capacity from existing infrastructure.
how apc works
APC uses real-time data and predictive models to automatically adjust plant operations — much like cruise control in a car — making continuous, small adjustments to maintain stability across temperature, pressure and flow conditions. Operators can run closer to safe operating limits without exceeding them, reduce variability, improve overall performance and focus more on broader system oversight while the technology manages routine adjustments.
Scaling digital tools across the system
The Coastal Bend system was acquired as part of Phillips 66’s 2025 purchase of pipeline and fractionation assets along the Texas Gulf Coast. Applying APC is one of the first steps in integrating the company’s digital capabilities into the system and more tightly connecting it with the broader Midstream network.
“This is a great example of bringing proven digital technology into a newly acquired asset and unlocking value quickly.
We’re still in the testing phase, but early indications at Coastal Bend are very encouraging.”
Cesar Filizzola
Director, automation, Phillips 66
Phillips 66 has already deployed APC across other parts of its network, including gas processing plants, fractionation units at Sweeny Hub and export operations at Freeport, with plans to expand its use further.
“These tools support our operators,” said David Bevill, Senior Manager, Area Ops – South Clean and Crude. “APC helps us maintain a steady, reliable operating window so we can safely handle more barrels each day.”
As Phillips 66 continues expanding and scaling its digital capabilities, technologies like APC are helping the company build a more connected, efficient operation designed to deliver stronger returns.