How does a natural gas compression station work?

Natural gas compressor stations utilize electric motors, natural gas engines and gas turbines to power reciprocating and centrifugal compressors that collect incoming gas, compress it to increase its flow pressure, and channel it to the next station.

What does gas compression do?

Compression Throughout Natural Gas Processing In pipeline transport of purified natural gas, compression stations ensure the movement of gas from the production site to the consumer. As the gas moves through the pipeline, it will naturally lose pressure due to distance and friction.

Why are compressor stations used on natural gas pipelines?

Compressor stations enable the natural gas itself to travel through the pipelines which is crucial to the natural gas transport system. They also allow the gas to be rerouted into storage areas during periods of low demand.

Can you fill a CNG vehicle at home?

When there are no public fueling stations available, anyone who has natural gas at home can purchase their own fueling system that will “time fuel” their vehicles overnight. 1 GGE/hr or 4 GGE/hr systems are available. …

What happens when natural gas is compressed?

During compression, the following occurs: As the pistons advance, the volume within the cylinder is reduced, increasing the pressure and temperature of the gas. At a certain pressure, the discharge valves open. The pressure remains fixed while the volume decreases for the rest of the advancing stroke.

How much pressure is in a natural gas pipeline?

Natural gas is compressed in transmission pipelines to pressures typically ranging from 500 to 1400 pounds of pressure per square inch.

How loud is a natural gas compressor station?

The noise level near a compressor station can be up to 100 decibels whereas the usual nighttime noise level in many rural areas is around 35 decibels.

What are examples of compressed gas?

Common Compressed Gases

Classification Examples
Flammable (Inflammable) Hydrogen, Acetylene, Propane
Inert Helium, Argon, Neon
Toxic Carbon Monoxide, Cyanogen , Hydrogen Sulphide
Corrosive Hydrogen Chloride, Chlorine, Hydrogen Fluoride

How are compressor stations part of the natural gas pipeline?

Compressor stations are an integral part of the natural gas pipeline network that moves natural gas from individual producing well sites to end users. Figure 1. A separator filters out liquids, solids, and other particulate matter that may be in the gas stream.

What should a natural gas compressor building look like?

Compressor buildings in historic districts and other visually critical areas have been built with design features that mimic surrounding architecture. In rural areas, a compressor building that looks like a barn or other agricultural structure will be less obtrusive than a conventionally built compressor.

What happens to the temperature of natural gas as it is compressed?

As natural gas is compressed, heat is generated and must be dissipated to cool the gas stream before leaving the compressor facility. For every 100 psi increase in pressure, the temperature of the gas stream increases by 7-8 degrees.

How are compressor stations regulated in the state of Pennsylvania?

Gathering lines are regulated at the state level and compressor stations that are part of a gathering system are also regulated by the state. In Pennsylvania, the Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) is responsible for environmental permitting and regulation during gathering system compressor planning and construction.