Many plant managers aren’t clear on why a skid-mounted system is better than a traditional compressor station, or they may believe that skid-mounted systems only work as a temporary solution. But skid-mounted systems have several powerful advantages that place them head and shoulders above traditional compressors, and they work very well as permanent equipment in a plant.

With their compact design and their greatly reduced cost, they’re perfect for most plants. They’re modular, so you can choose precisely the functionality you need. And because they’re designed to “plug in” where needed, they work well for both new plants and existing set-ups.

Modular Construction

One of the biggest benefits of skid-mounted systems is that they’re modular. You can choose the modules that match the needs of your processing facility, whether it’s temperature, regulation, filtration, moisture removal or anything else.

Skid-mounted systems offer you complete control over your equipment’s functionality. This gives you the power to customize your plant, its equipment and its layout however you desire.

Maximize A Plant’s Space

In most plants, ground space is at a premium. Large fuel compressors and other equipment take up valuable ground space, making it difficult to add (or move around) any new equipment.

But skid-mounted systems are typically far more space-efficient than their traditional counterparts, in part because their modular nature means they omit superfluous components that your plant won’t use. The end result is a plant with much more available floor space, which can hold more equipment and process more natural gas.

Reduced Costs

Modular systems, such as skid-mounted systems, are typically far less expensive than traditional compressor stations without sacrificing equipment quality. You pay only for the components you need, which greatly decreases the initial capital you put into the system. If you need to start a plant quickly and inexpensively, it’s far easier to do so with skid-mounted systems than it is to start with a plant full of traditional compressors.

Additionally, with compressor stations, the end user typically designs the entire system from start to finish. You research the parts, source them yourself and put them together on-site when they arrive. This is a tremendous expenditure of money and manhours. By contrast, most suppliers of modular skid-mounted systems are far quicker, simpler and less expensive to install.

And because most skid-mounted systems have all components sourced from one reputable provider, the system typically has a longer life and will require less maintenance and pricey repairs over time. Your plant’s overhead will be far lower than it would be otherwise.

Easy Integration

If you already have an operational plant, you may not be sure if skid-mounted systems can benefit you. But one of the strengths of skid-mounted systems is that they neatly “plug into” most existing set-ups. You can add just the modules you need, so you’ll save money on equipment. And because these modules are so compact, they’re easy to fit into your plant, and you won’t have to move around existing machinery to make room.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that fuel-conditioning skids are a temporary solution. Skid-mounted systems are extremely space-efficient, and their modular nature makes them versatile. They’re frequently every bit as powerful and efficient as their traditional counterparts, and they’re far less expensive, both in terms of up-front cost and overhead. And they integrate well into existing systems, so every plant—new or old—can benefit.