COURSE OVERVIEW:

The selection and design of gas compressors represent a critical phase in the development of any oil and gas or petrochemical project. This course provides a comprehensive analysis of the technical parameters required to choose the most efficient compression technology for specific process needs. Participants will explore the decision-making matrix used to evaluate centrifugal, reciprocating, and rotary screw compressors, focusing on how gas properties and flow requirements dictate the final mechanical design.

The curriculum covers the intricate engineering calculations required to size compressors correctly for varying suction and discharge conditions. We will address the importance of selecting materials that are compatible with corrosive or sour gas environments, ensuring long-term structural integrity and compliance with international standards like API 617 and API 618. The course also details the design of internal components, such as impellers, valves, and seals, to maximize aerodynamic or volumetric efficiency.

Beyond the core machine, the training emphasizes the design of the entire compression package. This includes the selection of lubrication systems, seal gas conditioning units, and the integration of pulsation dampeners and intercoolers. By understanding the relationship between the process envelope and the mechanical limitations of the equipment, engineers will be able to design systems that offer high reliability, low energy consumption, and safe operation under all potential process scenarios.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

1. Apply thermodynamic equations to determine the required compression stages.
2. Select between centrifugal and reciprocating compressors based on the "Selection Map."
3. Design a compression system that accounts for gas compressibility and phase changes.
4. Specify materials of construction to prevent hydrogen embrittlement and stress corrosion.
5. Evaluate the impact of impeller geometry on the pressure-flow characteristic curve.
6. Design effective suction and discharge piping layouts to minimize pressure drops.
7. Select the appropriate dry gas seal configuration for high-pressure applications.
8. Calculate the required horsepower for the driver based on polytropic efficiency.
9. Specify requirements for pulsation dampening in reciprocating compressor systems.
10. Analyze the benefits of barrel-type versus horizontally split casing designs.
11. Design cooling systems to maintain gas temperatures within safety limits.
12. Verify that the compressor design meets API 617, 618, or 619 requirements.
13. Optimize the selection of interstage equipment for multi-stage machines.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Design Engineers, Process Engineers, Mechanical Consultants, Technical Procurement Officers, and Project Managers involved in the specification and acquisition of compression equipment.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.