Emerson Launches Copeland Scroll Modular Compression for Offshore Oil and Gas Applications
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Maintenance costs reduced as much as 85 percent, modular compressor designs reduce equipment packaging size requirements and weight compared to traditional offerings
AUSTIN, TEXAS (May 10, 2006) - Emerson Process Management today announced that its Copeland Scroll(TM) modular compression technology has been launched for offshore oil and gas applications. The compression technology's compact footprint, light weight, modular design and flexibility lend itself for the design and operating constraints of offshore platforms and FPSOs. This proven approach to gas compression is especially suited to help producers optimize and restore production from mature oil and gas fields.
For more than three years, Emerson has worked closely with industry producers and packagers to adapt Copeland Scroll technology into superior gas compression solutions. With more than 350 units currently installed and operating in North America, these compressors have logged more than two million hours of operation since the technology's introduction in 1993.
"Emerson's Copeland Scroll compressor technology has been incredibly successful in land-based applications with oil and gas producers. The unique hermetic compressor design is allowing producers to economically produce older wells where operating costs were previously unacceptable, or where discharge pressure has shut-in production. The step change in lower maintenance costs and small compressor footprint enables us to pursue offshore projects," said Mark McCormick, director for Emerson's Copeland Scroll oil and gas products. "We are excited to extend Emerson's scroll compressor technology leadership position and be first to market scroll technology for offshore applications."
With unprecedented once-per-year maintenance capability, estimated annual planned costs are approximately $500 in parts, requiring about one hour of labor per compressor. For a 30-horsepower application this translates into significant annual maintenance cost savings of about $1,500 to $4,000 (65-85 percent savings), when compared to similar sized screw and reciprocating compressor solutions. Because they do not contain shaft seals, the hermetically-welded scroll compressors do not require mechanical adjustment, periodic lubrication or traditional daily checks. Dramatically lower oil carryover ranges from 15 to 60 ounces per year, depending on the application. When combined with commercial air conditioning sound levels, the compressors can operate in environmentally sensitive and sound-restricted areas.
Emerson's Copeland Scroll compressors are currently being used in a growing number of oilfield applications, including coal bed methane, oil well casing gas (production optimization), conventional gas and vapor recovery. The compressors have proven to be well-suited for mature oil production, where high casing gas pressures can significantly reduce oil production rates. Variable speed compressor operation can automatically reduce and control casing pressures to a desired set-point, which optimizes and/or restores oil production rates.
Packaged compression flow rates are 20 to 600 mcfd. Suction pressure capability is vacuum to 25 psig suction, with single-stage discharge pressures to 190 psig. Discharge pressure capability to 325 psig is planned for release later in 2006. The compressor modules are approved for Class I, Division II locations. Each module is factory built and tested and includes the compressor and motor, oil cooler/fan, full oil charge, oil/gas separation and pressure/temperature shutdowns, as well as a variable speed drive.
Copeland Scroll compression packages can currently be found in oilfield applications for EnCana, Conoco Phillips, BP America, Nexen, Husky Energy, Kerr McGee, Devon Energy and numerous independent producers. Emerson also has an authorized network of packagers, including PC Compression (Nisku, Alberta), Toromont Energy (Calgary, Alberta), S&R Equipment (Oklahoma City, OK), Henry Production (Farmington, NM) and Hy-Bon Engineering (Midland, TX).
Emerson pioneered the practical application of scroll technology in compressor design beginning in the late 1980s. The success of Copeland Scroll technology in air conditioning, refrigeration and natural gas applications makes it an ideal choice for oil and gas producers seeking a low maintenance, flexible and reliable package. For more information, visit www.emersonprocess.com/copelandscroll.
About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management, an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the oil and gas, refining, chemical, pulp and paper, power, food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other industries. Copeland is the world's leading compressor manufacturer and is headquartered in Sidney, Ohio. Copeland's technology and innovation play a key role in Emerson's combining of industry specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Emerson brands include PlantWeb®, Copeland Scroll®, Fisher®, Micro Motion®, Rosemount®, Daniel®, DeltaV(TM), Ovation® and AMS(TM) Suite. For more information, visit www.emersonprocess.com
About Emerson
Emerson (NYSE: EMR), based in St. Louis, is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions to customers through its network power, process management, industrial automation, climate technologies, and appliance and tools businesses. Sales in fiscal 2005 were $17.3 billion. For more information, visit www.GoToEmerson.com.
CONTACTS:
Mark McCormick, Copeland Corporation
937.493.2844, mark.mccormick@emersonprocess.com
Tony Castillo, Sabatino/Day
937.859.0599, tcastillo@sabatinoday.com
Jerry Moon, Emerson Process Management
512.832-3089, Jerry.Moon@EmersonProcess.com
