Hybrid Monitoring of Offshore Compression Systems

Abstract

In this work a hybrid methodology based on statistical approach and phenomenological modeling was developed aiming the monitoring of the performance of compression equipment in an offshore oil platform. A rigorous model was employed in order to estimate thermodynamic based values of the performance of the compression system, given by the polytropic efficiency and head. Residuals were generated by comparing the model values with the ones which were calculated from manufacturer's curves using process data (suction and discharge pressures and temperatures, turbine rotation and suction flow). Even though the monitoring technique developed is essentially multivariable and dynamic, the results are displayed using typical univariate process control charts, providing a friendly interface for the operator and allowing the clear detection of process faults.