CNG compressors, also known as Natural Gas Compressors, play a vital role in the oil and gas industry.

These machines are designed to reduce the volume of natural gas by increasing its pressure.

In this article, we’ll delve into the various uses and distinctions of CNG compressors.

1. The Purpose of Natural Gas Compression:

Natural gas compression serves two primary purposes:

a. Gas Storage and Transport: One crucial function of CNG compressors is to reduce the volume of natural gas, allowing it to be stored in tanks or bottles efficiently. This compressed gas can then be transported to various locations.

b. Natural Gas Distribution: The pressurization of natural gas is essential for its distribution through pipelines. This process involves moving gas from the wellhead to the end-market, encompassing tasks like gas gathering, treating, and processing.

To facilitate gas distribution, Natural Gas Compressor Stations are employed.

These stations consist of CNG gas compressors and form an integral part of the pipeline network, ensuring the smooth movement of natural gas.

Components of a Natural Gas Compressor Station:

Several components make up a Natural Gas Compressor Station:

• Filters: These are essential to remove impurities like moisture and particulates from the natural gas before compression.
• Strainers: Strainers help eliminate dirt and solid byproducts from the gas, reducing potential wear and tear on the compressor’s internal surfaces.
• Natural Gas Compressor: Groups of compressor units, often computer-regulated, operate in parallel, providing the necessary additional pressure. A CNG booster compressor may also be included in the system.

2. Contrasting Air Compressors and Gas Compressors:

While both air compressors and natural gas compressors increase gas or air pressure by reducing volume, they serve different purposes:

• Air Compressors: These machines convert various energy sources, such as electricity, gasoline, diesel, or natural gas, into compressed air. They are primarily used to power pneumatic tools or fill air tanks and tires.
• Natural Gas Compressors: Conversely, CNG gas compressors are specifically designed to compress natural gas for storage or distribution, serving the energy industry.

Furthermore, the products generated by these compressors differ: air compressors produce a mixture of gases similar to atmospheric air, while natural gas compressors yield compressed natural gas.

3. Working Principles of Natural Gas Compressors:

Natural gas compressors operate on principles akin to air compressors. Two common types are employed in the oil and gas sector:

a. Natural Gas Reciprocating Compressor: This type employs pistons for positive displacement. The gas enters the manifold, flows into the compression cylinder, and exits at a higher pressure.

b. Screw Compressor: These compressors utilize two interlocking helical screws or rotors to compress the gas.

The gas enters the suction side, moves through the threads, and exits at higher pressure.

The choice of compressor type, size, and quantity depends on factors like gas volume and transportation distance.

Different types of CNG compressors are used for various processing steps, including Mother Station Compressors, Daughter Station Compressors, and Standard Station Compressors.

4. Can Air Compressors Substitute CNG Compressors?

In short, no. There are two critical distinctions between air compression and natural gas compression:

• Molecular Weight: The molecular weight of air is heavier than that of natural gas, resulting in different horsepower requirements for compression work.
• Safety: Natural gas is flammable, while air is not. This means natural gas compression requires better sealing to prevent gas leaks and potential explosions. Attempting to use an air compressor for CNG compression can be dangerous.

In conclusion, for safe and efficient natural gas compression, it is essential to choose a professional CNG compressor manufacturer like Sollant.

Using an air compressor as a substitute for CNG compression is not a viable option due to safety and performance concerns.

If you have any inquiries regarding natural gas compressors, feel free to contact Sollant, a reputable natural gas compressor manufacturer.