Gas Turbines or Electric Drives in Offshore Applications

Offshore oil and gas production requires both electric and mechanical power for various applications. Traditionally, gas turbines have been the driver of choice for both the power generation, compression and larger pump applications. Today, an alternate approach of electric motor drivers is sometimes considered for pump and compressor drivers. In this case, the power for the electric motor and utility power is supplied by larger gas turbines used as a central power generation plant. This is sometimes referred to as the “All Electric” solution. There are several important factors to be evaluated when considering options and selecting the optimum solution for this type of application. Based on general assumptions on the parameters and characteristics of possible solutions, decision criteria are derived and the sensitivity of the results relative to varying assumptions is determined.Copyright © 2005 by ASME