oil field production facility area classifications

[gascomp]

Some operators classify a "common" oilfield production site as Class 1, Grp D, Div 2 because of the possibility of explosive gases being present during abnormal conditions. How can a gas engine driven gas compressor be located in such an area? (Same problem exists on offshore platforms) It is possible to install a shielded ignition system on an engine but I don't think that this really meets the area requirements. As most of you know, there are thousands of open air production locations with multiple gas engine driven pumps or compressors located with in the location boundaries. Is there some exemption in either the API or Electrical codes to legally allow these engines in such an area?

Thanks for any helpful comments that anyone may have.

 

[JRMacGregor]

How HIGH does your hazardous area extend and can you put the compressor above this height ?

This is done on some floating production vessels I am aware of.

 

[gascomp]

In the cases that I am concerned with we are usually looking at a site that has limited space available to locate the compressor away from the potential source of explosive gas. Since most of these compressors require a concrete foundation and sometimes weigh in excess of 150,000# it is not practical to locate them on an elevated platform.

 

[JLSeagull]

Neither internal-comustion nor gas-turbine engines are permitted; only steam drivers.

;-)

 

[bcs5274]

all engine and compressors can be class 1 div 2, all locations in canada and our enclosed compressors here in cold climates are class 1 div 2, the wiring in the buildings and all controls are sealed and meet class 1 div 2 requirements

 

[JLSeagull]

Many if not most gas plants have natural gas or diesel recip engines or gas turbine drivers for compressors. I don't recall many (any?) with steam in gas plants; and hot-oil is common. Perhaps some of the billion cfd plants have steam but most that I know of at that size are in deserts.