The application of a 3500 HP variable frequency drive for pipeline pump control

AEC Pipelines has expanded the capacity of its bitumen blend Cold Lake pipeline from 130000 barrels/day (bpd) to 185000 bpd by the installation of a new midpoint booster pump station utilizing a 3500 HP adjustable speed drive. The unit is a variable frequency induction motor drive (VFD) utilizing gate turn-off thyristors (GTOs). It was the first of its type in Canada and was the largest induction motor variable frequency drive in a crude oil pipeline application in North America. The authors justify the use of the VFD, describe the equipment, and address application complications