Commonly Applied Barrier Gas Control Skids For Dry Gas Seals

Gas seals are commonly used in various industrial applications to prevent the leakage of gases from rotating equipment such as pumps, compressors, and turbines. These seals rely on barrier gas control skids to maintain the pressure and purity of the gas used to create the seal. In this article, we will explore the importance of barrier gas control skids for dry gas seals and how they are commonly applied in different industries.

The Function of Barrier Gas Control Skids

Barrier gas control skids play a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness of dry gas seals. These skids are responsible for supplying the necessary barrier gas to create a seal between the rotating shaft and the stationary housing of the equipment. The barrier gas control skids are designed to control the pressure, flow rate, and purity of the barrier gas to optimize the performance of the seal.

The primary function of barrier gas control skids is to prevent the leakage of process gas from the equipment, which can lead to safety hazards, environmental contamination, and loss of product. By maintaining a positive pressure in the seal chamber, the barrier gas control skids help to create a barrier that prevents the process gas from escaping. Additionally, the controlled flow rate of the barrier gas ensures proper lubrication of the seal faces, reducing wear and extending the lifespan of the equipment.

To achieve optimal performance, the barrier gas control skids must be properly designed, installed, and maintained. They should be equipped with sensors and instruments to monitor the pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the barrier gas in real-time. This data is essential for detecting any abnormalities in the seal operation and taking corrective actions to prevent failures.

Common Applications of Barrier Gas Control Skids

Barrier gas control skids are widely used in various industries where dry gas seals are essential for equipment operation. Some common applications of barrier gas control skids include centrifugal compressors, gas turbines, and process pumps in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation industries.

In centrifugal compressors, barrier gas control skids are critical for maintaining the integrity of the seals that prevent gas leakage between the rotating impeller and the stationary casing. The barrier gas control skids ensure that the seal faces are properly lubricated and pressurized to create an effective barrier against gas leakage. This is particularly important in high-pressure compression applications where any leakage can result in significant losses and safety risks.

Gas turbines also rely on dry gas seals with barrier gas control skids to maintain the efficiency and reliability of the equipment. These skids help to prevent air contamination in the seal chamber, which can lead to corrosion and erosion of the turbine components. By supplying a clean and dry barrier gas, the control skids ensure that the seal faces remain in good condition and provide a tight seal throughout the turbine operation.

Process pumps in the oil and gas industry often handle hazardous or corrosive fluids that can damage the equipment if leaked. Barrier gas control skids are used to protect the process pumps from leakage by providing a barrier gas that prevents the process fluid from escaping. The skids are designed to handle a wide range of operating conditions and maintain the seal integrity in various pump applications.

Design Considerations for Barrier Gas Control Skids

When designing barrier gas control skids for dry gas seals, several factors need to be considered to ensure their effectiveness and reliability. The skids must be designed to meet the specific requirements of the equipment and operating conditions in which they will be installed.

One key consideration is the type of barrier gas to be used, which can vary depending on the process gas and operating temperature of the equipment. The skids must be capable of handling different types of gases and maintaining their purity to prevent contamination of the seal faces. Additionally, the pressure and flow rate of the barrier gas must be carefully controlled to create a stable seal without causing excessive wear on the seal faces.

The design of barrier gas control skids should also take into account the environmental conditions in which the equipment operates. The skids must be able to withstand high temperatures, corrosive gases, and other harsh conditions without compromising their performance. Proper insulation, materials selection, and ventilation are essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of the skids in challenging environments.

Maintenance considerations are another important aspect of barrier gas control skid design. The skids should be designed for easy access to components for inspection, cleaning, and repair. Routine maintenance tasks such as filter replacement, sensor calibration, and seal face inspection should be straightforward and not require extensive downtime for the equipment.

Installation and Commissioning of Barrier Gas Control Skids

Proper installation and commissioning of barrier gas control skids are essential to ensure their functionality and performance. The skids should be installed according to the manufacturer's guidelines and in compliance with industry standards to prevent operational issues and safety hazards.

During installation, it is important to verify that the skids are properly aligned with the equipment and securely mounted to prevent vibration or misalignment. The connections for the barrier gas supply, control instruments, and monitoring sensors should be checked for leaks and proper functioning before commissioning the skids.

Commissioning activities should include testing the functionality of the skids under normal operating conditions and adjusting the control parameters as needed. The pressure, flow rate, and purity of the barrier gas should be verified to ensure that the skids are providing the required protection for the equipment.

Regular testing and maintenance of the barrier gas control skids are essential to detect any issues early and prevent costly failures. The skids should be included in the equipment's preventive maintenance program to ensure their continued performance and reliability over time.

Conclusion

Barrier gas control skids play a critical role in ensuring the effectiveness of dry gas seals in various industrial applications. By supplying a clean and dry barrier gas to the seal faces, these skids help to prevent gas leakage and maintain the integrity of the equipment. Proper design, installation, and maintenance of barrier gas control skids are essential to optimize their performance and longevity.

Overall, barrier gas control skids are essential components in the operation of equipment with dry gas seals, providing a reliable barrier against gas leakage and ensuring the safety and efficiency of industrial processes. By understanding the function, applications, design considerations, and installation requirements of barrier gas control skids, industries can benefit from improved equipment performance and reduced maintenance costs.