Dynamic simulation of a centrifugal compressor system

A compressor system from an oil platform in the Norwegian Sea has been simulated in HYSYS Dynamics TM in order to evaluate a planned reconstruction. The model has been validated with operating data from the current system and then extended to simulate critical events of the new system. The focus of the simulations is on dynamic processes such as start-up and is intended to compliment existing steady-state models. The validation proved that the model mimics the real dynamics well with some exceptions, such as temperature profiles. When evaluating the proposed compressor system redesign, it was found that the anti-surge system of second compressor stage performed below expectations. Other benefits of using dynamic simulations in process design are also illustrated.