Electric Motors Versus Gas Engines as Prime Movers in Producing Operations

Of the major problems in the design of oil production facilities is the selection of prime movers for power-driven equipment required in the production and transportation of crude oil. The economic reasons behind the trend in the more widespread use of electric motors from the historical use of gas engines for the large percentage of installations are summarized. Comparative characteristics of electric motors and gas engines are described, and the economic considerations which should be taken into consideration when making a study to select or change prime movers are outlined.