Optimization Model for the Compressor Location Problem in Gathering System Coupling Correlation Mechanism between Wellhead Pressure and Production Rate

To effectively manage the elevated pressure and flow rates encountered in the initial stages of shale gas extraction, throttling often is employed to modulate these parameters and mitigate bottom-well pressure losses. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model is proposed that synergistically integrates a correlation mechanism between wellhead pressure and production rate and throttling disturbance constraints with shale gas system pressurization optimization. The model, guided by a cost-minimization objective function, incorporates pipeline pressure, flow rate limitations, compressor specifications, and throttling disturbance constraints. Empirical validation, based on a 2-year timeline, indicated that the optimization strategies produced by the coupled throttling disturbance framework offer superior and more economically efficient solutions than conventional methods. Compared with the actual pressurization scenario, the optimized scheme operated with 245 kW less power, the daily volume of gas handled by the compressor was reduced by 370,000 m3, and the compressor unit cost was CNY 266×104 less, and it centralized pressurization locations. This work demonstrates that the integrated throttling disturbance and correlation mechanism between pressure and production rate serves as a robust tool for optimizing pressurization schemes in shale gas operations.