| Summary: | During the lifetime of an existing gas well, located in the D15FA/FB field in the North Sea, the pressure has dropped and consequently production is reduced. A depletion compressor had to be added to this existing platform to increase the production. This sounds easy but has been very challenging due to physical, noise and vibration restrictions. For this platform it appeared that a reciprocating compressor was the best choice based on its flexibility with respect to the specified operating conditions, available power, and efficiency. However, despite of several advantages a disadvantage of a reciprocating compressor is that it generates additional vibrations and noise in the living quarters, which are located close to the compressor system. The specified requirements, not to exceed the allowable noise limits in the living quarters and the vibration limits of the complete compressor system, could in this specific case, not be met with straightforward solutions. This presentation will explain the dynamic analysis and the efforts taken in compressor, skid, motor, piping and deck design to meet the very stringent specified requirements and to ensure a safe and reliable system for the long term operation. Special attention will be given to the measures taken to reduce the excitations acting on the platform, and the mechanical and acoustical analysis that have led to the final design of this reciprocating compressor system. Copyright © 2011 by ASME.
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