Alarm management
Alarm philosophy, rationalisation, performance benchmarking, and advanced alarm handling techniques.
Process Control
Gas Compression Control Upgrade
A changed production profile required a new gas compression control philosophy, delivered through HAZOP, supplier management, offshore commissioning, and controller tuning.
The Challenge
Compressor stability was at risk
At a North Sea offshore installation, gas flowrates had changed significantly from the original design assumptions and the asset had become gas deficient.
The existing gas compression control philosophy no longer matched the way the facility was operating. As a result, reliability of the gas compression train had reduced and the asset was experiencing several unplanned shutdowns.
A move from discharge pressure control to suction pressure control was needed to stabilise operation, better reflect the current production profile, and reduce the operational burden on the site team.
ICSS was engaged to provide the engineering and commissioning expertise required to redevelop the control philosophy and deliver the change safely on a live offshore asset.
Our Scope
A control philosophy fit for today
ICSS developed the process control and operating philosophy for the gas compression facilities, giving the project a clear technical basis for the change from discharge pressure control to suction pressure control.
Our team facilitated the HAZOP and provided the HAZOP chairperson, identifying and assessing the hazards and risks associated with the revised control philosophy before the modifications moved into execution.
We specified the control and graphic modifications required to implement the new philosophy, ensuring the ICSS changes were aligned with the process requirements and the intended operating approach.
ICSS also managed the ICSS and compressor system suppliers through project delivery, document review and approval, and FAT acceptance, maintaining technical control across the integrated scope.
To support safe offshore execution, we developed the commissioning strategy and associated procedures, defining suitable commissioning boundaries while minimising operational impact and production downtime. ICSS then acted as the offshore commissioning authority with overall responsibility for safe and effective delivery.
The Result
Stable start-up, stronger confidence
During a planned asset shutdown, the modifications required to change the gas compression train from discharge pressure control to suction pressure control were successfully installed and tested.
The compressors started first time, supported by clear communication and close teamwork between commissioning and operations personnel.
Following start-up, controller tuning was completed to optimise the gas compressor, gas lift, and gas export systems, ensuring the revised strategy performed effectively under real operating conditions.
The completed upgrade improved compressor reliability, reduced the risk of unstable operation, and gave the operations team a control philosophy aligned with the asset's current production conditions.
Process Control
Unlocking potential. Turning stability into value.
Our solutions are targeted, measurable, and impactful. Whether we are working on routine optimisation or resolving chronic control issues, we deliver tangible improvements to stability, operability, and bottom-line performance.
Tuning and optimisation
Control strategies, loop tuning, debottlenecking, stabilisation, and emission improvement programmes.
Start Here
Need help with process control performance or optimisation?
Tell us what you are trying to stabilise, tune, or optimise across greenfield projects, brownfield upgrades, or late-life assets. We will help shape the scope, de-risk the decision, and define a practical route to measurable performance improvement.