Expanding Compressor Knowledge through Collective Data Analysis
TEP companies continue to work together towards step change-type actions and solutions to reduce emissions from compressors – particularly, compressor engine slip emissions.
Last year, TEP conducted a compressor engine survey to analyze engine stack testing data provided by TEP operators. Stack testing is an important tool used to determine compliance with emission limits. Operators have been collecting stack testing data for a number of years, and TEP’s project provided an opportunity to analyze a broad pool of data to further industry understanding of emissions sources within compressors and assist TEP participants in identifying solutions to reduce these emissions.
Eleven participating companies provided data for over three thousand engine tests. Data spanned a range of engine models, leasing companies, and basins. Methane slip percentage and destruction and removal efficiency (DRE) were calculated using a methodology established through a previous TEP-Colorado State University study. The difference between the actual and modeled methane slip results were plotted for analysis. (Figure 7). Outliers were noted and sent to participating companies for feedback, and final data plots provide a snapshot of field conditions and compressor performance across the industry.
The analysis showed that operational practices to improve engine emissions can yield emission reductions, but the bulk of engine emissions may not easily be addressed by operational practices and may require manufacturers to address emissions through engine design or add-on controls.
