Enhance the Plant Operating Capacity - Maximize the Revenue/Asset Utilization
Abstract To explore the opportunity for maximum utilization for a Sales Gas Compression Facility (SGCF) in line with ADNOC strategy to enhance profitability and asset utilization. A technical study was conducted to increase the processing capacity up to 133% of its design limit by utilizing the available design margins. This was to identify the potential bottlenecks in the facility and suggest debottlenecking options (if bottlenecks are there). The Technical study covered the following activities: Simulation: Process simulation was performed and H&MB (Heat and Material Balance) was generatd. Engineering: Compressor adequacy checks on increased plant throughputs. Static Equipment rating and adequacy checks performed with the concurrence of original equipment menufacturerers. Line sizing adequacy checks and detailed evaluation of the piping. Adequacy check for In-line instruments like control valves, flow elements/transmitters (Note 1) Relief, blowdown and flare system adequacy check. Utilities adequacy checks. Risk assessment workshop was conducted before the capacity test run. Preparation of Test Run procedure before the actual test run. Actual plant capacity test run to verify the study findings. Note 1: Adequacy check of thermowells had been peformed separately prior to the study. It had already been established that the thermowells were adequate for the increased plant throughputs. The study has concluded the following observations for processing 133% of the design capacity Theoratically, the Sales Gas Compression Plant is adequate to handle the sales gas throughput up to 600 MMSCFD (2 running machines) considering the facts that Sales Gas Compressor suction pressure must always be kept at 32 barg through close monitoring by the operaters.If compressor suction pressure starts dropping below 32 barg, the study outcome would no more valid and the plant throughput would be reduced back to the original design capacity of 450 MMSCFD. Moreover, it was recommended to perform a field test run to validate the study outcome by following the Manageement of Change Procedure as applicable. Based on the successful 48 hours test run, it was established that the facility could handle the increased plant throughput of 600 MMSCFD by following the instructions given in the adequacy study.