Improves Performance Of Gathering Systems By Gary Bourn and Mike Sutton DENVER-Rapid compression capacity expansions in gas gathering systems in unconventional resource plays, followed by the commodity price downturn, have driven the need to increase efficiency and reduce operating costs. This challenge is compounded by the effects that highly dynamic upstream field conditions have on gathering compressors, especially when fed by multiple wells in large-scale field developments. Given variable well conditions and the design parameters of the types of compressors used in gathering-relatively small-capacity, multistage units with minimal automation to allow for portability from one location to another-average throughput utilization of gathering compressor fleets can be poor unless the units are adjusted continuously. Anadarko initiated a compressor optimization program last year to safely increase utilization and gathering system performance through advanced monitoring and active operator engagement. The program was implemented in the company's Greater Wattenberg Area in the Denver-Julesburg Basin, achieving an overall 10-15 percent increase in station throughput. The greater capacity has enabled increased base production despite a decrease in drilling and completion activity. The program now is being deployed in all Anadarko gathering assets. OCTOBER 2016 71