GMRC 2008 Research Projects

Pulsation Control
Champions: Michael Smith, Hoerbiger Engineering Systems
Principal Investigator: Marybeth Nored, SwRI
Co-Funders: El Paso Corporation, Dresser Rand, Kinder Morgan
Objectives: To (1) advanced selected pulsation control concepts to the final level of commercialization or a higher level of technology readiness; (2) utilize existing pulsation control technologies in field site applications requiring specific solutions; (3) investigate new concepts, variations on existing pulsation control technologies and methods of reducing dynamic pressure loss through fundamental, laboratory testing. These tasks primarily focused on advancing key nozzle and pulsation bottle/system concepts at various levels of technology readiness.

Compressor Valve Research
Champions: Meron Wollie, BP
Principal Investigator: Klaus Brun
Co-Funder: BP
Objective: To (1) complete the technology transfer of the semi-active valve to the application contractor (Cook Compression); (2) investigate advanced features of the semi-active valve such as capacity and flutter control; (3) continue the improvement of the valve like analysis program by adding poppet valvves and valve flutter physics; (4) investigate the potential to convert the semi-active valve into a full active valve; and (5) investigate the physics of sticktion and examine anti-sticktion technologies.

Reciprocating Compressor Field Performance Test Guidelines
Champion: David Krenek, Caterpillar Inc.
Principal Investigator: Melissa Wilcox, SwRI
Co-Funders: Caterpillar, Compressor Systems, Inc., ACI Services, Ariel Corporation, Dresser Rand, El Paso Corporation, Cameron Compression Systems
Objective: To update, expand and advance the guidelines for reciprocating compressor field performance testing in order to address new compressor technologies and applications, to expand the scope of testing objectives, to take advantage of modern instrumentation and testing methods, and to generally provide accurate and practical guidelines for field testing of reciprocating compressors within the gas industry.

Centrifugal Compressor Surge Testing
Champion: Rainer Kurz, Solar Turbines Inc.
Principal Investigator: Jeff Moore, SwRI
Co-Funders: Solar Turbines, ExxonMobil, BP
Objective: To measure high-resolution and high-fidelity compressor surge and piping system transient data from full-scale experiments. These data will be used for benchmarking of existing transient flow solvers that are currently employed by the indstry to design compressor station surge control systems. Fluid transients and compressor performance of the onset of surge or full surge were documented from at least nine different piping geometries and/or pressure/flow conditions. Also, another six different non-surge fluid transient events were tested. The system transient tests were induced by ESD events or sudden valve movements. The test conditions were as representative as possible of actual compressor surge events and both the onset as well as full surge events were documented.

Application Guideline for Electrical Motor Drives for Gas Compressors & Pumps
Champion: Rainer Kurz, Solar Turbines Inc.
Principal Investigator: Marybeth Nored, SwRI
Co-Funders: Solar Turbines, ExxonMobil, BP
Objective: To develop a guideline for the selection, installation, and operation of electric drive motors for compressor and pump system application. This guideline provides practical application information to industry about the use of electric motor drives in compression and pumping applications. This guideline also provides specific selection guidance and criteria based on common design requirements and environmental conditions. Operational aspects and installation requirements are also discussed..