Electric variable speed drives for gas storage

This publication describes the challenges and experience with the four electric variable speed drive systems, type LCI, rated at 15.5 MW, installed at RAG´s (Rohöl-Aufsuchungs Aktiengesellschaft) gas storage facility in Haidach, Austria. The project consists of two phases. At the time of implementation of phase one, the second phase was optional. In the first phase of the project, which started in 2005, two drive systems were installed to control the gas compressors at the underground gas storage facility. The project was expanded in 2010 with two additional identical drive systems. Special focus will be on the challenges of adding variable speed drives to an existing environment and the operational experience so far.