In Canada’s natural gas sector, compressors aid in gathering, processing, and transmission. As operators aim to improve efficiency and reduce emissions, some have considered retrofitting older compressors with sliding valve mechanisms. While common in some compressors, slide valves are not standard in all installations, raising the question: can they be retrofitted?
Natural gas compression systems often face widely varying pressures and flow rates. Sliding valve compressors are engineered to adapt with adjustable internal valves that modulate capacity in real time. This precise control allows them to maintain high efficiency even as operating conditions change.
Two of the most commonly used natural gas compressor types are sliding valve compressors and screw compressors. Sliding valve compressors offer precise capacity control and maintain efficiency under variable loads, while screw compressors are recognized for being simpler and highly reliable. This guide will provide an analysis of sliding valve technology and its applications in natural gas compression, with a concise comparison to screw compressors. By conveying the strengths and limitations of each system, we aim to help industry professionals make informed decisions for their unique operations.