OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE
gas sector key assurances with equipment built to API specifications and operated according to API recommended practices. Some compressed air suppliers – such as Ingersoll Rand – can customise packages to meet API demands. In the case of some EPC contracts, these standards are legislative and regulatory requirements because they are viewed as critical for helping to safeguard the health and safety of those using a facility. Other key benefits of adhering to API standards include:
IMPROVED EFFICIENCY Compressed air systems that are designed to API standards will be optimised for performance and managing any potential issues that might arise, so these can be resolved quickly. Many industrial installations will require a customised compressed air solution to meet the specific needs of a site. Any standardisation efforts ensure equipment interchangeability, meaning EPC contractors can meet the technical specifications of the end customer for a greater number of projects.
OPERATIONAL SAFETY Guaranteeing the health and safety of site operatives should be a number one priority and adhering to API standards demonstrates that the correct steps have been taken to safeguard employees. Specifying compressed air equipment that has been designed and built to API specifications and best practice can mitigate any risks to the operator, or at least reduce these to an acceptable level. Industry standards written to meet the industry’s needs also provide a clear structure for operating processes, resulting in better working methods and risk reduction.
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY Today, eliminating potential damage to any ecosystem by reducing waste and possible hazards is a priority for organisations
Suppliers meeting API specifications can bring more to oil & gas operators
operating in the oil and gas industry. Specifying equipment that meets API standards helps ensure any opportunities to lessen the environmental impact of operations or limit risks to ecosystems will have been taken.
DOWNTIME COSTS CUT Equipment that meets API standards can provide added assurance that all possible measures have been taken to ensure safer operations with little to no downtime. Any equipment inefficiencies will result in production losses and impact potential revenue and profit. Also, should problems arise with a compressed air system, then there will be additional costs to remedy these.
PRODUCTION RELIABILITY To help ensure a compressed air installation continues to deliver against expected projections for its service lifetime, equipment that adheres to API standards should perform as expected throughout the duration of its working life. As such, clients can protect their capital investments with products that meet API standards. Many API standards will be included in contractual agreements to guide the specification and control the quality of compressed air systems, and so it is critical that suppliers have the experience and expertise to meet these demands. API standards cover every aspect of
EPC clients benefit greatly if their suppliers meet API standards
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compressor technology. From general system considerations, such as its design, the materials used, casings, rotating elements, dynamics, bearings and
Compressed air is a critical part of several oil & gas applications
bearing housings, shaft and seals, and integral gearing. Factors such as a site’s altitude, ambient temperature and the weather and humidity of the region can all influence the best compressor for the job. For example, when it comes to the design of a compressor for an oil and gas installation, there are many factors that can be customised to help meet API requirements. Tis might include special separators for wet gases, or stainless-steel components and piping to overcome the effects of demanding operating environments. A compressed air system, particularly those specified on EPC projects in the oil and gas sector, is a huge investment. By understanding the value of participating in API industry standardisation efforts, not only does the industry as a whole benefit but EPC clients receive tangible benefits too.
Amit Bhan works for Ingersoll Rand in the Middle East.
www.irco.com
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