Fuel Gas Protection

Pipeline gas contains condensed hydrocarbons from temperature drops, compressor lube oil carryover, pipe scale, and debris. Fuel systems need clean dry gas preventing burner fouling, control valve plugging, and combustion problems. KO drums provide final cleanup before fuel reaches equipment.

Drum Design

Vertical vessel with gas inlet, momentum breaker spreading flow, coalescing section removing liquid droplets, particulate filter capturing solids, mist eliminator polishing gas, and clean outlet to fuel header. Multiple stages handle diverse contaminants.

Operating Pressure

Matches fuel gas system pressure typically 50-300 psig after final regulation. Lower pressure than transmission allows lighter construction. Design accommodates pressure variations from demand changes.

Filtration Elements

Basket strainer catches large particles like scale. Cartridge filters remove smaller debris. Coalescing media separates liquid hydrocarbons and water. Combined stages achieve clean dry fuel meeting turbine manufacturer specifications.

Material Selection

Carbon steel for natural gas service. Stainless steel filter housings enable element replacement. Materials rated for operating pressure and temperature. Corrosion protection for trace contaminants in fuel gas.

Liquid Removal

Level switches activate automatic drains removing accumulated condensate and oil. High-level alarm prevents liquid carryover to fuel system. Drain frequency depends on gas quality and seasonal temperature variations.

Applications

Gas turbine fuel conditioning for power generation, industrial boiler fuel cleanup, process heater and furnace protection, reciprocating engine fuel treatment, and any combustion application requiring clean fuel. Serves facilities from 1-500 MW capacity.

Differential Pressure

DP monitoring across filter stages indicates element loading. High DP signals replacement needed. Gauge provides visual indication. Transmitter enables remote monitoring and predictive maintenance scheduling.

Performance Benefits

Protects expensive turbines and burners from contamination damage. Prevents unplanned shutdowns from fuel quality issues. Maintains combustion efficiency through consistent fuel cleanliness. Extends equipment life by eliminating abrasive particles.

Maintenance Access

Quick-opening covers enable element replacement without vessel removal. Cartridges change during planned outages. Simple maintenance suits power plant operations. Element life typically 6-12 months depending on gas quality.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME Section VIII for pressure service. Electrical systems for hazardous classification. Filter efficiency per turbine fuel specifications. Complete documentation with filtration performance data.

ERGIL NG fuel gas knockout drums deliver clean reliable fuel protecting combustion equipment and maintaining generating capacity.