Gas turbine compressor system design using dynamic process simulation

Almost all petrochemical processes are modeled as steady state to establish the required sizes of pipe, vessels, compressors, pumps, and valves. A dynamic simulation study of the process compressor system design can now be done as part of the initial plant design activity. The system piping design and proper placement of the anti-surge valves (ASV) along with preliminary valve sizing can be evaluated. Additional control strategies may be evaluated for emergency shut down (ESD). This will confirm the system design to safely shutdown a compressor without surge. Many of the issues that may be uncovered during study execution can save time and expense before the initial commissioning of the process. For a plant start up, the driver capability, compressor loading, positions of valves, and control philosophy may be tested before the components are committed to hardware.