New Waukesha units extend maintenance intervals,lower operating costs
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New Waukesha units extend maintenance intervals, lower operating costs Saga Resource Partners, LLC Black Warrior Basin, Alabama, US Comprehensive solution now available for Small HP applications GE's Distributed Power business has installed its first two Waukesha VGF F18SE high-speed gas engine validation units in facilities owned by Saga Resource Partners, LLC. The new offering provides a comprehensive solution for continuous duty 400-535 HP applications in gas compression, air compression, power generation, mechanical drive, and EPA mobile-certified applications. Packagers and end-users long have wanted a “one-stop shop” for the gas engine, controls and after-treatment systems. GE’s new Waukesha VGF-SE models meet that demand by providing a complete emissions solution that includes the three-way catalyst and air-fuel ratio (AFR) control systems. This combination of technologies has also led to the availability of EPA mobile and stationary certification on these models. Lower emissions, advanced controls for Saga Resource Partners’ gas-gathering applications Saga Resource Partners, an independent oil and gas exploration and production company, had two Waukesha VGF F18GL screw compression packages in separate facilities, both near Northport, AL. The engines were used for gas-gathering applications in Alabama's Black Warrior Basin, moving low pressure gas directly from the basin for processing and transport to consumers. In 2015, GE replaced those engines with two Waukesha VGF F18SEs. The new units offer a number of benefits, including extended life-cycle intervals, lower emissions, advanced controls, system upgrades, and emissions (NOx) reduction. GE also conducted cylinder head tests on two additional VGF F18GL engines, which has resulted in release of new GL cylinder head assemblies. These new GL assemblies offer a 50 % lifecycle extension, and push the top end overhaul to 24,000 hours.

The Waukesha VGF F18SE has one of the most advanced control platforms on the market, with broad protection, features, and capabilities. Advanced controls technology has improved overall engine performance control and stability, and added knock protection, fault logging, and more. In addition to the advanced controls, the new Waukesha VGF models offer improved oil filtration for a healthier engine and longer oil change intervals, as well as improved oil cooling capabilities, allowing the unit to operate in hotter ambient conditions without derate. Additional enhancements include extending...