A Real Case Application of Integrated Production Optimization Modelling: Wellhead Compressor Performances Available to Purchase

Production optimization is one of the most complex and multi-disciplinary task in the oil & gas industry from an operational point of view. Integrated asset modelling of surface assets has already shown its effectiveness in comparison to standalone simulation of gathering system and process plant. In gas fields, the use of wellhead compressors to enhance production is widespread, and the management of this equipment has a great influence on field optimization. This paper introduces a new integrated workflow for surface facilities production enhancement, based on a powerful algorithm, capable to take into consideration also the performance of wellhead compressors. This tool will enable to investigate different compressor configurations, in order to search for the global optimum. The workflow presented integrates a commercial simulator to obtain compressor performances, allowing to consider as variables suction pressure, discharge pressure, driver rotation speed, number of stages, variable volume clearance pocket status, and valve status for single and double acting operation of each cylinder. The application of the tool to a real case study has shown that the model defines the best possible configuration for the entire system. This work will turn to be strategic for assets equipped with wellhead compressors, allowing the maximum integration of the various systems in the asset.