Vapor Recovery Compressor Package

A compressor package moves recovered vapor between the collection header, recovery process and receiving system. The compressor is selected as part of the complete VRU. Its suction conditions, discharge pressure, flow variation, vapor composition and safety requirements must match the rest of the package.

Oil storage tank vapor recovery field installation
Oil storage tank field conditions affect vapor collection, pressure balance and equipment sizing.

Compressor package scope

Item Project review
Compressor Type, capacity, suction pressure, discharge pressure, turndown and vapor compatibility.
Driver Motor or other driver, electrical supply, hazardous-area requirement and starting method.
Protection Suction knockout, filtration, high-temperature protection, vibration monitoring and shutdown logic.
Flow control Bypass, recycle, speed control or other method for minimum and peak operating cases.
Connections Inlet, discharge, drain, vent, instrument air, power and control-system interfaces.

Why gas data matters

Hydrocarbon composition, liquid carryover, water, pressure changes and temperature affect compressor selection. A package that is suitable for dry, stable vapor may not be suitable for a wet stream with heavy hydrocarbons. Knockout and protection equipment should be reviewed before the compressor is sized.

Typical applications

  • Tank farm and terminal vapor collection
  • Truck and marine loading systems
  • Condensation and adsorption recovery packages
  • Adsorption and absorption recovery packages
  • Return of recovered vapor to a process or approved fuel system

Information required for selection

Send minimum, normal and peak flow, suction and discharge pressure, inlet temperature, vapor composition, oxygen, liquid carryover, operating schedule, available power, hazardous-area classification and the receiving system requirements.

Compressor capacity and discharge pressure should be confirmed from the complete vapor-header balance. They should not be selected from a nominal flow value alone.

Specify a VRU compressor package

Share the compressor duty and vapor data. PollutionCtrl can review the package interfaces and protection requirements.

Request equipment review