Air filtration system helps improve gas turbine performance on BP's Clair platform

摘要

THE OFFSHORE oil and gas industry has long focused on the importance of maintaining gas turbine engines, but a critical issue that often escapes attention is air filtration systems. Located at the front of the gas turbine, these systems can enhance gas turbine performance and availability, while promoting better compressor cleanliness and long-term part integrity. As seen on BP's Clair platform in the North Sea, optimum air filtration systems can unlock considerable financial, operational, and environmental benefits. Gas turbines are essential to the production of oil and gas, running both mechanical drive and power generation applications on offshore platforms. However, they are repeatedly exposed to the most arduous atmospheric conditions. Air in the offshore environment contains numerous airborne particles that have the potential to harm gas turbines. These include water droplets, sea salt aerosols, salt in solution and sub-micron particulate, as well as industrial airborne particulates from burnt and unburnt hydrocarbons, drilling activities, mud burn, and grit blast.