Project Snapshot
| Category | Details |
| Client | Parkland (formerly Chevron) |
| Project Name | Burnaby Refinery Surveying & 3D Scanning |
| Date | 1996–2020 (and ongoing) |
| Reference | Business Intelligence for B.C. |
Project Overview
Introduction
The Burnaby Refinery, now operated by Parkland (formerly Chevron), is a key oil and gas facility in the Lower Mainland. Since 1996, Underhill has provided survey support for the site’s expansion, upgrades, and facility redesign—delivering a wide range of services from construction layout to advanced 3D laser scanning.
Project Challenges
As a high-risk, active industrial site, the refinery requires rapid, safe, and highly accurate surveying. Redesigning legacy infrastructure, such as piping and mechanical systems, depends on precise as-built data in challenging environments with limited access.
Underhill’s Approach
Underhill began by delivering traditional control, layout, and as-built surveys for the refinery. Over time, we transitioned to 3D laser scanning as the preferred method for capturing complex spatial data. Each scan campaign involved more than 50 control points and 30+ scan stations, capturing over 20 million points to model piping, platforms, vessels, and machinery in high detail.
CAD models were generated from the point clouds to support engineering redesigns and upgrades without interrupting plant operations.
Notable Outcomes
- Over two decades of continuous survey support at a live oil & gas facility
- High-resolution 3D scans enabling plant upgrades and piping redesign
- Support for safer, more efficient expansion and construction workflows
- Integration of legacy and modern infrastructure records through digital modeling
Technical Highlights
- 3D laser scanning of piping, vessels, platforms, and structural systems
- Over 20 million points captured per scan campaign
- 50+ control points per project phase for geospatial accuracy
- CAD modeling of complex refinery components
- Layout and control surveys for construction and expansion
- As-built documentation for critical facility upgrades
Legacy and Learnings
This project represents Underhill’s long-standing expertise in industrial infrastructure and complex plant environments. By evolving from traditional surveys to 3D scanning, we’ve helped Parkland modernize the Burnaby Refinery with confidence, accuracy, and safety. It’s a clear example of our ability to grow with our clients over time.
