SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE
Newsletter |
Emagazine
Finnish marine solutions provider, Wärtsilä, has been awarded an Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2013 Spotlight on New Technology Award for its GasReformer technology.
Dual-fuel engine gas
The new technology enables gases produced during oil production, which by nature are rich in heavy hydrocarbons, to be converted into a methane rich product for utilisation in Wärtsilä dual-fuel engines operating at full performance levels.
A statement released by the company says that the GasReformer represents a new application of catalytic conversion under different conditions from the traditional process of hydrocarbon conversion to hydrogen.
Tore Lunde, Director Wärtsilä Oil & Gas Systems, said: “Wärtsilä has considerable experience in the treatment of gaseous fuels for fuel cells, and this patented product is a result of this development work. It is yet another example of the company’s ability to develop solutions that combine both economic and environmental benefits.
“The uniqueness of the GasReformer is in its ability to convert unwanted heavier fractions from the gas into methane. By turning otherwise waste gas into fuel, the system significantly lowers operating costs while notably enhancing environmental sustainability. In locations where flaring is prohibited, this is especially important.”
Gas flaring
The World Bank-led Global Gas Flaring Reduction Partnership estimates that around 150 billion cubic metres of waste gas from oil production are flared or vented every year, causing some 400 million tons of carbon dioxide in annual emissions; this is equivalent to 30 per cent of the European Union’s gas consumption.
The GasReformer will enable oil platforms and FPSOs, which demand high levels of power, to utilise an energy source that was previously not used.
The Spotlight on New Technology Award recognises innovative new products that provide significant impact for offshore exploration and production. The OTC 2013 will take place in Houston, Texas, from 6 to 9 May.