The Value of VRU Service Responsiveness - Maximizing Uptime and Efficiency
Reliability and the smooth functioning of equipment is critical to achieving operational efficiency and maximizing uptime. Vapor Recovery Units (VRUs) play a crucial role in minimizing emissions and maximizing efficiency of oil and gas production processes, however, like any mechanical system, VRUs require regular maintenance and prompt servicing to ensure optimal performance.
In this article we cover common reasons for VRU failures, the significance of the Platinum Control guarantee of having a service technician on-site within 24 hours of a service call, and how this commitment translates into enhanced uptime, cost savings, and improved cash flow for Oil and Gas operators. And perhaps more importantly, we discuss the strategies our customers are using to avoid unexpected service calls all together.
Reasons for VRU Repair and Service
In this section, we focus on the three main factors impacting VRU efficiency including, flow efficiency, piping and component location.
VRUs are just one part of a complex production process involving several interdependent pieces of equipment. Given ideal operating conditions, almost every individual piece of equipment can provide high mechanical reliability. Real-world conditions encountered in the field, however, are frequently anything other than “ideal.”
VRUs sit in the middle of the production process, situated downstream of a Vapor Recovery Tower (VRT) and the tank battery. As a result, their performance is impacted by variables on both sides of the production flow.
Some common issues that can compromise VRU efficiency and effectiveness, include:
Water condensation. Gas flow containing too much water can result in reduced efficiency at best and at worst, create higher pressure, corrosion and freeze-ups. A slug of water-laden gas hitting the VRU can result in a sudden system upset and downtime.
Crude oil contamination. If a VRT operating upstream of the VRU is not operating efficiently due to worn components or an unexpected production surge, raw crude oil can be sent downstream to the VRU, which in turn can shut down the system.
High line pressure. From time to time, pressure from the sales line can exceed normal operating parameters, causing compressors to work overtime and creating more stress on VRU components, ranging from leaking seals and gaskets to excessive oil consumption and unexpected upsets.
Low oil pressure. Low oil pressure is symptomatic of a variety of potential problems ranging from a bad seal to an active leak. Quick identification is needed to prevent mechanical failure and system shut down.
Tripped breakers. A tripped breaker is also a symptom of a different root cause, and unfortunately there can be countless reasons why a breaker shuts down a VRU. For example, we have witnessed pebbles getting into gears causing a mechanical stoppage, which tripped the breaker and shutdown the facility.
Addressing these issues promptly is critical to maintaining operational efficiency and preventing costly downtime.
The Value of Responsive VRU Service
When your wellsite or facility is not operating at peak efficiency or shutdown, you are losing economic value. Assuming 1,000 MCFD and a price of $3.00 per MCF, one day of downtime can result in lost revenue of $3,000.
However, the primary concern with an offline VRU is the heightened risk of escalated flaring and potential site shutdown, leading to a substantial decrease in crude oil sales.
The cost of lost or delayed production can rise very quickly when considering large multi-well production pads producing several thousands of barrels of oil per day.
We understand the impact VRU performance and uptime has on your operations and economics. That is why we at Platinum Control guarantee a 24-hour service response time, or the labor cost is free.
READ MORE: 24/7 Service and Support (1-877-374-1115)
Avoiding Unexpected VRU Service Calls
While responsive service is essential, preventing service calls altogether is even more advantageous. That is why we developed PULSE™ remote monitoring solution for VRU performance management.
PULSE is a cloud-based solution that provides real-time data on critical Platinum VRU performance metrics right on your desktop or mobile device, anywhere where you have an Internet connection.
Some of the PULSE features that help maximize uptime include:
Real-Time Alerts. Notifications go to your email or cell phone when issues occur, so they can be addressed before they result in unplanned events and downtime. Importantly, alerts are not limited to just VRU downtime, PULSE monitors more than 40 critical data points in real time, including oil pressure, and an alert can be assigned to each one. We receive them and typically dispatch service before our customers know there is a problem.
VRU Performance Tuning and Optimization. Powerful algorithms monitor performance and alert you (and us) to issues that can be addressed before they result in degraded performance. Regular tuning and proactive maintenance help optimize VRU performance, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.
VRU Fleet Monitoring and Management. Visibility to see your VRU fleet in real-time and quickly focus time and resources on optimizing and tuning the individual units that need it. The best way not to experience an unexpected service call is to avoid them in the first place. We get that, which is why we developed PULSE™ remote monitoring to maximize operational efficiency and VRU uptime.
LEARN MORE: PULSE Remote Monitoring
Summary
An efficiently operating VRU is necessary for reliable oil and gas production and maximizing uptime. Platinum Control provides you with the fast service response needed to keep your well sites and facilities operating at optimal efficiency and productivity.
Contact us today to learn more about the Platinum service guarantee and how we can help you get back online and even prevent future downtime.
Contact
Chance Lauer
VP Sales & Service
Platinum Control
Email: clauer@platinumcontrol.com
Phone: 800-994-0579
About Platinum Control
Our core competency in Facilities Optimization sets us apart. We work with operators in the Permian Basin of all sizes, from companies having only a handful of wells to supermajors. As a result, we leverage the experience gained with larger operators, build best practices into our products and services, and then disseminate that knowledge to our smaller customers.
A well site or facility with an optimized configuration will help you harness its full potential, maximizing its long-term economic value and environmental performance.
Comments