COURSE OVERVIEW:

The integration of compression systems within production networks is essential for maintaining reservoir delivery and meeting pipeline export specifications. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the mechanical and operational principles governing centrifugal, reciprocating, and screw compressors used in the oil and gas industry. Participants will examine how these machines function within the broader production context, focusing on the thermodynamic processes that occur during gas elevation and the critical role of cooling and scrubbing systems.

The scope of this training extends beyond the primary drivers to include the auxiliary systems that ensure reliability and safety. Coverage includes lubrication systems, dry gas seals, and the control logic required to prevent catastrophic failures such as surge or mechanical overload. By understanding the performance curves and operating envelopes of different compressor types, participants will learn how to match equipment capabilities with changing field conditions, such as declining reservoir pressure or fluctuating gas compositions.

Troubleshooting and performance optimization are central themes throughout the curriculum. The course details diagnostic techniques for identifying mechanical wear, valve inefficiencies, and cooling system degradations that lead to reduced throughput. Attendees will gain the skills necessary to interpret vibration data and thermal trends, allowing them to implement proactive maintenance strategies. This ensures that the production compression system remains a reliable link in the value chain, minimizing flaring and maximizing the economic life of the asset.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

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

• Explain the fundamental thermodynamic cycles associated with gas compression.
• Identify the distinct mechanical components of reciprocating and centrifugal compressors.
• Analyze compressor performance curves to determine optimal operating points.
• Implement surge protection strategies to prevent mechanical damage in centrifugal units.
• Evaluate the efficiency of interstage cooling and liquid separation systems.
• Troubleshoot common lubrication and sealing system failures in high pressure units.
• Select the appropriate compressor type based on field flow rates and pressure ratios.
• Assess the impact of gas composition changes on compressor horsepower requirements.
• Diagnose valve and piston ring leakages in reciprocating compression cylinders.
• Utilize vibration monitoring data to predict bearing and shaft fatigue.
• Design start-up and shutdown sequences that minimize thermal and mechanical stress.
• Calculate the polytropic and isentropic efficiency of active compression stages.
• Formulate a comprehensive maintenance plan to improve the mean time between failures.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Production Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Maintenance Supervisors, and Senior Plant Operators involved in the operation and upkeep of gas compression facilities.

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.