ANALYSIS OF THE DEPENDENCE OF FUEL GAS CONSUMPTION OF A GAS PUMPING UNIT ON AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE: A CASE STUDY OF GPA-16R «UFA»

This article investigates the impact of ambient air temperature on the fuel gas consumption of a gas pumping unit using the GPA-16R «Ufa» as a case study, which is actively operated by Gazprom Transgaz Ufa, LLC. The analysis is based on operational data from the unit during the period from 12.04.2024 to 03.05.2024. The results show that with stable power consumption by the centrifugal compressor of the gas pumping unit, an increase in the inlet air temperature to the low-pressure compressor leads to an increase in fuel gas consumption. It has been established that a decrease in ambient air temperature contributes to a reduction in natural gas consumption, which is confirmed by actual operational data. This study emphasizes the importance of exploring methods to reduce fuel gas consumption, particularly through cooling the air entering the gas-air duct of the gas pumping unit. In conditions where natural gas consumption accounts for up to 91 % of the total consumption of fuel and energy resources in Gazprom, PJSC, optimizing fuel consumption becomes especially relevant.During the analysis, groups of parameters reflecting the dependence of fuel gas con-sumption on the temperature at the compressor inlet at various gas pumping unit power levels were identified. The results indicate a linear relationship between these variables, suggesting the potential for increased energy efficiency of the units at lower air temperatures.Thus, the findings of the study highlight the necessity for developing technical solutions aimed at cooling the air entering the gas pumping unit, which could lead to significant fuel savings and improved overall efficiency of the gas transportation system. Future research plans include expanding the study to analyze the impact of other factors, such as humidity and pressure, on fuel gas consumption, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of the potential for enhancing the energy efficiency of gas pumping units. Additionally, the implementation of innovative energy-saving technologies, such as turboexpander installations, heat recovery systems, and vortex tubes, is also proposed, which could further contribute to reducing fuel costs and improving the environmental performance of the gas transportation system.