
Constructing Efficient Central Processing Facilities
September 6, 2014The US economy is continuing to ramp up thanks in large part to the continued oil and gas boom throughout the nation. This has created lower fuel and energy costs, helped alleviate reliance on foreign energy sources, and stimulated the economy by creating a host of new jobs throughout the industry and in support sectors. However, these positive effects would not be possible without efficient central processing facilities.
Central processing facilities, often known as CPFs, gather crude oil and natural gas from well heads and begin to filter out water, sands, drilling additives, and other unwanted substances. This allows the oil and gas to proceed to the plants and refineries where it can ultimately be converted into saleable fuel, feedstock, and products. Thus, it is imperative that the central processing facilities work efficiently and reliably to process the oil and gas. The key to an efficient central processing facility rests in large part in its construction. Let’s look at several key components to constructing efficient central processing facilities.
Careful Preliminary Assessment
No two construction projects are exactly the same and that is particularly true for central processing facilities. It is vital for the EPC firm leading the construction project to conduct a careful and thorough preliminary assessment. This should involve:- Conducting comprehensive risk assessment
- Mitigating risks
- Critically examining geographic and environmental challenges
- Considering the capacity and operational needs of the central processing facility
- Evaluating budgeting constraints
- Factoring in the required timeline
- Planning for proper logistics management
- Highlighting key obstacles for success
- Examining resources and opportunities
Comprehensive, Quality EPC
A thorough preliminary assessment sets the groundwork, but it takes a high quality, comprehensive EPC firm experienced in construction without the oil and gas industry to truly deliver the safest, most efficient central processing facilities. The EPC company should be experienced in each of the following developmental areas:- Site improvement and preparation
- Shoring and excavation
- Heavy haul roads
- Subgrade stabilization
- Deep foundations
- Concrete work