BHE Compression receives patent for methane emissions system

The CleanMachine eliminates raw and fugitive methane emissions associated with existing and future gas compressor packages. (Photo: BHE Compression Services)

BHE Compression Services has received a patent for the methane and emissions reduction system used on its gas compressor package, which meets or exceeds all current EPA methane emissions rules, the company said.

The system reduces combustion emissions and eliminates raw and fugitive methane emissions associated with existing and future gas compressor packages. BHE Compression Services markets its patented compressor packages under the CleanMachine brand.

The early CleanMachine units, which have been in field operation since late 2020, have achieved reductions of more than 17% in carbon dioxide equivalent, while methane intensity was reduced by 46%. The CleanMachine compressor is the first-ever midstream equipment certified by TrustWell for responsibly sourced gas, the company said.

BHE Compression Services has filed for international protection of its system and continuation applications in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to seek rights on additional aspects of its patented CleanMachine system.

Houston-based BHE Compression Services is the first large-horsepower fleet with the patented CleanMachine technology. The company employs a homogeneous fleet of large-horsepower drivers and Ariel compressor packages with the latest controls and technology to improve integrity, reliability and safety and reduce the impact of operations on the environment.