Refrigeration Compressor Driver Selection and Technology Qualification Enhances Value for the Wheatstone Project

Chevron Australia, as part of the Wheatstone Project, is constructing a two train liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility and domestic gas plant at the Ashburton North Strategic Industrial Area, 12 kilometres west of Onslow on the Pilbara coast of Western Australia. The initial two-train facility design capacity is 8.9 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). Eventually, the facility could expand to produce up to 25 MTPA of LNG. During the early stages of project development, a driver selection study was performed based on the ConocoPhillips Optimized Cascade natural gas liquefaction process. This driver study evaluated a variety of projectspecific parameters and resulted in the selection of a General Electric LM6000 PF aeroderivative gas turbine based on overall value to the shareholders considering production rates, production efficiency, fuel costs, greenhouse gas emissions, installed cost, operational and maintenance cost. The selection of the LM6000 gas turbine results in the first commercial use of the LM6000 engine in a mechanical drive application. The final decision to use the LM6000 engine was based on a detailed technology qualification. A collaborative qualification was performed with representatives from the EPC contractor, process licensor, end user/operator, and the equipment manufacturer. The technology qualification followed a systematic approach to identify the risks and novelties within the application. Risk items identified were analyzed with a combination of detailed studies, computer-based modelling and fullscale engine testing. Following the completion of the technology qualification, a detailed risk mitigation plan was developed. The plan was incorporated into the purchase order of the equipment and subsequently incorporated into the equipment manufacturer’s Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA) process. Finally, detailed analysis and testing requirements were selected to address all risks that were highlighted in the risk mitigation plan.