Optimization of compressor stations

Abstract

Gas turbine driven centrifugal compressors are a mainstay in the oil and gas industry for upstream and midstream applications. For an increased effort to reduce greenhouse gases, one of the most promising efforts is the increase in operational efficiency. For the applications in the oil and gas industry, the efficiency increase come from increased equipment efficiency, or from increased operational efficiency. This paper is about increasing operational efficiency. The discussion will lead from the operational characteristics of gas turbine driven compressors to the characteristics of the application, and ways in planning and operation to optimize the system.