Modeling of energy-saving operating mode of a compressor station of a main gas pipeline

RELEVANCE of the study is determined by the need to reduce the high energy costs of pumping natural gas through main gas pipelines, a significant portion of which is associated with overcoming hydraulic resistance in the process equipment of compressor stations (CS), in particular, in gas cooling units. PURPOSE. To model and evaluate the efficiency of an energy-saving technological solution - bypassing the gas cooling units using a bypass line - in order to reduce fuel gas consumption to drive the gas pumping unit.

METHODS. The process flow of natural gas at a typical compressor station was simulated using a software package for modeling technological processes. The model is based on the actual operating parameters and component composition of the gas provided by Gazprom Transgaz Kazan LLC. The Peng-Robinson equation of state was used for thermodynamic calculations. Two process flow diagrams were compared: the basic one (with gas passing through the GCU) and the alternative one (with gas cooling units bypassing).

RESULTS. The simulation results showed that bypassing the gas cooling units under given temperature conditions reduces the required compressor outlet pressure by 19 kPa. This leads to a reduction in the required compressor drive power from 11.93 MW to 11.80 MW. Accordingly, the fuel gas mass flow rate decreases by approximately 0.00266 kg/s, which is equivalent to a savings of approximately 230 kg (or ~323 m³) of fuel gas per day.

CONCLUSION. It has been shown that even a small reduction in energy consumption due to hydraulic optimization can yield a significant economic benefit during long-term compressor station operation. Practical implementation of this solution requires the development of operating regulations taking into account permissible temperature ranges and gas flow rates, as well as the possible modernization of shut-off valves and automation equipment.

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