What it is Wherever the distance and other geographical considerations allow it, natural gas is moved from producing regions to points of consumption by means of a network of pipelines. Gas boosting stations are installed along a pipeline at variable distances (100 to 250 km) to compensate for the loss in gas pressure that occurs along the pipeline to ensure the adequate flow of product at the delivery end of the pipeline. Pipelines with large diameters transport large amount of gas over long distances (interstate or cross-regional) at pressures ranging from 60 to 100 bar. Small/medium pipelines distribute smaller amounts of gas to usage points across shorter distances and at lower pressure.

How it works

A boosting station includes inlet separation facilities to remove liquid droplets that may be present, a compression unit to increase the gas pressure, a cooling system, and station auxiliaries and a control system.

The heart of the station is the compression unit, which is most frequently a gas turbine driven centrifugal compressor having a low compression ratio and large gas flow. The gas turbine uses a small portion of the same gas that is compressed as its fuel. Therefore the combined efficiency of the turbo-compressor unit is of great importance.

Electric motor driven compressors are often used in populated areas or highly industrialized areas to cope with emission restrictions. This solution does not consume any of the compressed gas, however it requires a reliable source of electrical power.

Reciprocating compressors driven either by reciprocating gas engines or by electric motors may also be used in small pipelines.

GE Oil & Gas Offerings

• Mechanical Drive Gas Turbines (10 to 34 MW)
• Gas Turbine Packages for power generation (10 to 34 MW)
• Pipeline Centrifugal Compressors
• Other Compressors (Reciprocating, Oil-free Screw)
• Turboexpanders
• Compression packages
• Compression islands
• Air Cooled Heat Exchangers
• Control & Safety Valves and Ball Valves
• Reducing and Metering Systems
• Product Installation & Maintenance Services
• Revamps & Rerates
• Contractual Service Agreements
• Technical Training