Case Study: Advanced Technology Underpins Efficiency and Climate-Related Goal Gains

Abstract

_ Today’s gas-compression operators are under increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Fortunately, multiple technologies are available that can support that objective while enabling operators to move more gas cost-effectively. Embracing such advancements can positively impact a reduced-carbon future without compromising operational efficiency or profitability. To choose the right technologies for a gas-compression package, it’s critical for operators to have a clear understanding of their business and GHG emissions-related goals. Operators also need clarity concerning the impact of evolving requirements on total cost of ownership (TCO) as well as potential financial ramifications. Producing more gas at a lower cost with lower GHG emissions is possible with new technologies. Operators can support their success by choosing the right engine driver for a gas-compression package based on their unique needs and site conditions. It’s critical to consider an engine’s power density and TCO, as that informs an operator’s selections and can lower a gas-compression package’s operating cost in terms of dollars per thousand cubic feet ($/Mcf) of gas throughput. An engine, such as the Cat G3600 A4 Gen 2, that can deliver a 10% power increase compared to the previous model can allow operators to use fewer engines to perform the same amount of work. This advantage can lower capital requirements, reduce operating expenses, and decrease fuel consumption. Fewer engines operating in the field may also contribute to lower GHG emissions. Modernizing Existing Assets Operators prioritize flexibility, durability, and lower TCO. They can support those objectives by choosing an engine platform that allows performance upgrades across the life of the engine. This enables operators to apply advanced technology in their existing fleet year after year without incurring the substantial cost of purchasing a new engine. Engine upgrade kits offer operators an option to maximize and modernize active assets in a streamlined way, as the upgrades can be applied conveniently and cost-effectively at the time of a scheduled overhaul to minimize disruption. For example, by using an upgrade kit for an A4 Gen 1 engine model referenced above, operators can lower volatile organic compounds up to 32%, formaldehyde up to 24%, carbon monoxide up to 13%, methane emissions up to 33%, and total GHG emissions up to 5% on a grams per brake horsepower-hour (g/bhp-hr) basis* while saving the traditional capital expenditure of a new engine. (*Site conditions: Same power level between the G3600 A4 Gen 1 and Gen 2, 85MN, 905 BTU/scf, 100% load, 25°C ambient, 500-ft altitude.) Such updates are relatively cost neutral when applied as part of a scheduled major overhaul and require minimal or no change to the compression package. This makes upgrade kits a wise choice to ensure equipment keeps pace with industry demands.