Copeland Scroll compression technology has already gained acceptance in the air-conditioning and refrigeration industries and has now been adapted for use as a wellhead compression solution.

EPM said it had worked closely with industry producers and packagers in Western Canada in adapting the technology. EnCana, Conoco Phillips, Nexen, Husky Energy and Devon Energy participated in the trials, which began in 2003.

More than 200 compressors have been deployed, logging over a million hours of operation, with results showing the compressors have reduced maintenance, increased productivity and maximised reserve recovery, according to EPM.

Potential applications for the new compression technology include coalbed methane, oil well casing gas (production optimisation), conventional gas and vapour recovery.

The units are certified for explosion-proof operations in Class I, Division II locations.

Because the compression units were originally designed for use in air conditioning applications, the Copeland Scroll compressors run at low noise levels, allowing deployment in environmentally sensitive locations.

Copeland Scroll Oil and Gas Products business director Mark McCormick said the compressors’ technology benefits in refrigeration and air conditioning applications have translated well to the oil and gas industry.

“We believe this technology will play a key role in oil and gas production operations going forward,” said McCormick.

Each factory-built and tested module includes the compressor and motor, oil cooler/fan, full oil charge, two-stage oil separation and pressure and temperature shutdowns. A variable-speed drive can also be included.