What Is a Gas Production Unit?

A Gas Production Unit (GPU) is a skid-mounted system used in oil and gas operations to process natural gas as it comes out of a wellhead. It is primarily designed to separate and condition the gas by removing liquids (such as water and hydrocarbons) and regulating pressure before the gas is sent into a pipeline or further processing facility.

Main Components of a GPU:
1. Separator – Removes liquids (water, condensate, or oil) from the gas.
2. Gas Heater – Prevents freezing and hydrates from forming by heating the gas.
3. Regulator & Control Valves – Maintain steady pressure for safe transport.
4. Piping & Instrumentation – Includes gauges, safety valves, and control systems.

The control panel of a Gas Production Unit (GPU) is essential for monitoring, controlling, and automating the operation of the unit. It ensures the safe and efficient processing of natural gas by managing temperature, pressure, flow rates, and safety mechanisms.

Functions of a GPU Control Panel:

1. Monitoring & Display
• Tracks key parameters like pressure, temperature, and flow rate in real time.
• Displays system status, alarms, and historical data for operators.
2. Temperature & Pressure Control
• Regulates gas heater temperature to prevent hydrate formation.
• Maintains optimal pressure to protect equipment and ensure proper gas flow.
3. Valve & Flow Control
• Automates opening and closing of valves for gas flow regulation.
• Adjusts pressure-reducing valves to prevent overpressure conditions.
4. Safety & Emergency Shutoff (ESD)
• Detects hazardous conditions (high pressure, high temperature, gas leaks).
• Activates automatic shutdown to prevent damage or accidents.
5. Alarm & Notification System
• Alerts operators when parameters exceed safe limits.
• Can be integrated with remote monitoring systems for real-time alerts.
6. Data Logging & Communication
• Records operational data for troubleshooting, maintenance, and compliance.
• Interfaces with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems for remote monitoring.

How can Strata Help?

Strata Innovative Solutions specializes in designing, building, and installing GPU control panels throughout the Marcellus and Utica plays.

Design:

The team at Strata takes an agnostic approach when it comes to designing GPU control systems. Our team is experienced with a wide range of control products from various manufacturers. This approach allows our team to provide you with a custom solution to best fit your needs, while also allowing us to assist with your legacy systems.

Panel Builds:

Strata’s Northeast Region builds all control panels out of Lemont Furnace, PA, with the ability to do retrofits of existing panels, build single panels, or build multiple panels for your field .

Installation and Commissioning:

Strata’s experienced electrical services team can manage the installation. Their expertise encompasses installation, running cable and conduit, start-up support, and troubleshooting.