SPECIAL TOPIC : Actuators & Automation
Electrifying Upstream Oil and Gas Processes
It has become increasingly imperative for governments and businesses worldwide to prioritize the reduction of total methane emissions generated by industrial processes . The oil and gas sector emits around 80 Mt of methane annually , accounting for roughly 40 % of total human-cause methane emissions . These emissions may be reduced by over 75 % by implementing leak and detection repair programs and upgrading leaky equipment . Methane abatement in oil and gas is highly cost-effective , and approximately 40 % of methane emissions may be eliminated at no net cost . 1
By Chris Hardy , Head of Strategy for Oil & Gas – Rotork
Electric actuation emerges as a dependable , cost-effective , and suitable solution for operators to achieve methane emissions reduction objectives . This article explores the benefits of utilizing intelligent electric actuation to decrease methane emissions across upstream oil and gas processes , thereby enhancing efficiency , mitigating risks , and improving uptime .
Electric Over Pneumatic Actuation
Traditionally , oil and gas applications have favored spring-return and diaphragm actuators powered by processed gas , especially in remote or extreme conditions . However , transitioning to electrically powered flow control can eliminate vented gas . Within the oilfield infrastructure , pneumatic diaphragm actuators have been standard , constantly venting methane as they modulate . Replacing pneumatic actua-
A gas lift process pipeline with process control actuators . tors with electric flow control solutions is an effective way to reduce upstream methane emissions .
Electric actuators demand significantly lower maintenance when compared to pneumatic actuators and control instruments .
Using self-contained electric actuators instead of pneumatic solutions with multiple parts and systems results in cost savings and increased operational efficiency . Electric actuators , such as Rotork ’ s intelligent IQ3 , CMA , and CVA process control actuators , for example , feature user-friendly interfaces and software tools that simplify the commissioning process , making them a perfect solution for upstream applications .
Electric actuator technologies offer numerous benefits compared to pneumatic ones . Pneumatic actuators can be affected by environmental factors such as air quality fluctuations and temperature variations due to their intricate structure . On the other hand , electric actuators are less susceptible to such influences . They are more energy efficient as they only consume electricity when in operation . In contrast , pneumatic actuators and controls require a constant supply of either motive pipeline gas or a compressed air supply .
A production tree with actuator .
6 Valve World Americas | April 2024 • www . valve-world-americas . net