Types of Vapor Recovery Units

In the oil and gas world, capturing valuable hydrocarbon vapors isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s also key to boosting efficiency. Vapor recovery units (VRUs) play a critical role in this process. There are two primary types of VRUs used extensively in the industry: rotary screw and reciprocating compressors. Each of these units brings unique strengths to vapor recovery, depending on the specific needs of your operation.

Let's dive into these types and then explore the key applications of VRUs in the oil and gas industry.

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Why Are Vapor Recovery Units Important?

Rotary screw VRUs use twin interlocking screw rotors that compress vapor continuously. These units are known for their smooth, reliable operation and ability to handle a wide range of vapor volumes. Because they provide continuous compression, they’re well-suited for sites with dynamic vapor flash rates and high recovery demands.

1. Rotary Screw VRUs

Rotary screw VRUs use twin interlocking screw rotors that compress vapor continuously. These units are known for their smooth, reliable operation and ability to handle a wide range of vapor volumes. Because they provide continuous compression, they’re well-suited for sites with dynamic vapor flash rates and high recovery demands.

Key Features:

• Continuous vapor compression, ideal for rapidly changing vapor volumes
• Minimal maintenance due to the fewer moving parts
• Versatility in handling both low and high vapor pressures
• Excellent at maintaining tight pressure tolerances at the flash source

2. Reciprocating Screw VRUs

Reciprocating screw VRUs use pistons to compress vapors in stages. These units are ideal in environments where vapor volumes and pressures are stable and do not fluctuate. Thanks to their staged compression, they have the potential to recover gas from sources at different pressures. They are also efficient in regard to horsepower expenditure.

Key Features:

• Adaptable to multiple pressure sources
• Efficient in handling a broad range of fixed pressures with less energy expenditure
• Compact design, making them ideal for sites with space constraints
• Less ideal for applications with varying volume and pressures

Both rotary and reciprocating screw VRUs are widely used in the oil and gas industry because of their adaptability, efficiency, and reliability. Choosing between them depends on the specific conditions of your site, such as vapor flow consistency and available space.

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Key Applications of Vapor Recovery Units

While rotary screw and reciprocating VRUs represent the primary types of vapor recovery units, these systems are implemented in various applications tailored to the specific needs of oil and gas operations.

1. Conventional Vapor Recovery Units

Application: Conventional VRUs are commonly used in storage tanks for crude oil or natural gas. These units are designed to handle a wide range of vapor pressures and volumes, making them highly versatile across different site sizes and conditions.

How They Work:

• Vapor Collection: Captures vapors before they escape into the atmosphere.
• Compression & Cooling: Vapors are compressed and cooled, turning heavy hydrocarbons into liquids for collection, while the remaining gas is processed or sold.

2. Low Volume Vapor Recovery Units

Application: These smaller VRUs are ideal for small production sites like marginal wells or gas-gathering systems where vapor pressures are lower.

How They Work:

• Single-Stage Compression: A single stage of compression (rotary screw) is typically sufficient for handling low-pressure vapors, saving energy.
• Efficiency for Small Sites: Perfect for small, remote operations where vapor recovery is crucial for compliance.

3. High-Volume Vapor Recovery Units

Application: High-pressure VRUs are necessary for large gas processing facilities or production sites with significant vapor emissions.

How They Work:

• Environmental Impact: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by capturing flare gas.
• Separation: The system separates liquid hydrocarbons and processes the remaining gas for further use.

4. Flare Gas Vapor Recovery Units

Application: Flare gas VRUs are designed to recover gases that would otherwise be burned off during flaring, reducing emissions and maximizing resource use.

How They Work:

• Multi-Stage Compression: Several stages of compression (typically using multiple VRU’s with different flash sources) are used to manage large vapor volumes.
• Economic Value: Recovered gas can be sold or reused, turning waste into profit.

5. Portable Vapor Recovery Units

Application: These mobile units are perfect for temporary operations or remote sites with fluctuating vapor recovery needs.

How They Work:

• Mobility: Easily relocated between sites, offering a flexible vapor recovery solution.
• Cost-Effective: Provides an efficient, temporary recovery system without requiring a permanent installation.

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Choosing the Right VRU for Your Operation

Selecting the appropriate VRU depends on several factors, such as vapor pressure, volume, and operational scale:

• Vapor Pressure & Volume: Low-volume VRUs are perfect for marginal wells and small sites, while high-volume VRUs are ideal for large, high-emission operations.
• Operational Scale: Portable VRUs are best for temporary or small setups, whereas conventional and high-pressure VRUs are necessary for larger facilities.
• Environmental Compliance: Flare gas VRUs help reduce emissions in regions with strict environmental regulations, ensuring compliance.
• Cost Considerations: Operators need to balance the initial cost of the unit with the long-term benefits of emissions reduction and recovered hydrocarbons.

Why Choose Flogistix for Your Vapor Recovery Needs?

At Flogistix, we offer a range of vapor recovery units tailored to meet the specific needs of your oil and gas operation. Whether you require rotary screw VRUs for high-volume recovery or reciprocating screw VRUs for fluctuating vapor flows, we provide cutting-edge solutions that maximize recovery and efficiency.

• Comprehensive Solutions: From low-pressure to high-pressure VRUs, including portable units, we have systems that meet your site’s unique demands.
• Advanced Technology: Our VRUs use the latest technology to ensure compliance with environmental regulations while maximizing hydrocarbon recovery.
• Proven Results: Flogistix systems are designed to recover the highest possible volume of hydrocarbons, transforming emissions into profit.

Don’t let valuable hydrocarbons escape. Contact Flogistix today to learn how our vapor recovery solutions can help you reduce emissions, increase profitability, and meet regulatory requirements.