Air compressor

[Mechh007]

We need to install burner boom in offshore rig, which has the capacity of handling 16000 BPD or 120 MSCFD,100% burn. We have to provide compressed air line to burner boom. So We need to place a compressor with sufficient air volume and pressure to allow burners to function at a maximum rate of 16000 BPD. How to choose the right compressor? This rig is going to work for Saudi Aramco. Please advice.

 

[EnergyMix]

Mechh007

This is really outside my area, but since you haven't received a reply, I'll give you a suggested starting place. I would suggest that you go talk to your procurement folks (specifically the people who have the specifications) about how they generally specify air compressors. I'm sure Aramco has done this before and there is no need to invent an new specification. If this is a new size, then you might need to specify the "16000 BPD" but overall you'll have all the information that you need.

 

[Latexman]

First you figure out how much O2 is needed to burn the fuels. Pick the limiting case - oil or gas. Then, with the max. O2 demand, figure out how much air (21% O2) that is. Finally, add a safety factor and you have the capacity of the air compressor.

Good luck,
Latexman

 

[TD2K]

Are you burning both liquids and gas in this flare tip? Is there a requirement for smokeless flaring?

You can do the combusion calculations as suggested but I'd talk to the flare tip vendor, they will be able to advise you how much air you need to supply as a check. Saudi Aramco's specs may also get into this area. The flare tip vendor will also be able to tell you what air pressure they need. Add that to the air supply piping from the compressor to the flare boom/tip and you have the necessary information to spec out a compressor.