ProTorque’s Electric Hydraulic Power Unit (eHPU)
eHPU: A Practical Shift Toward Cleaner, More Efficient Rig Operations
When running casing, the traditional reliance on truck-powered hydraulic units often leads to elevated fuel usage, more frequent maintenance needs, and occasional downtime. ProTorque’s Electric Hydraulic Power Unit (eHPU) offers a cleaner, cost-effective alternative by drawing power directly from the rig, reducing reliance on diesel engines and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
About eHPUs
An eHPU replaces a conventional truck-based hydraulic system (commonly powered by a diesel engine’s power take-off) with a self-contained unit that uses electricity from the rig. By tapping into a resource that’s already available on-site, the eHPU lowers diesel consumption and eases the maintenance burden usually associated with truck engines. Its design integrates neatly with existing rig setups, simplifying both equipment arrangement and daily procedures.
Key Benefits of the eHPU
- Reduced Fuel Costs and Emissions
- Lower Diesel Usage: Instead of relying on a continuously running truck engine, the eHPU runs on electricity produced by the rig’s power system. This shift dramatically cuts diesel consumption and associated costs.
- Decreased Carbon Footprint: Burning less diesel equates to fewer emissions. For operators aiming to reduce greenhouse gases, the eHPU is a direct step toward more sustainable operations.
- Simplified Maintenance and Reliability
- Fewer Moving Parts: With no diesel engine to maintain, the overall system requires less upkeep. That translates into lower long-term expenses and fewer mechanical failures.
- Enhanced Uptime: When a truck-powered system fails, downtime can halt operations. The eHPU’s design provides a backup if the hydraulic lines from a truck have issues, helping crews stay on track even in unexpected conditions.
- Optimized Rig Integration
- Seamless Design: The eHPU slots into existing rig layouts with minimal structural changes, leveraging rig power instead of separate fuel tanks or complicated add-ons.
- Faster Setup and Teardown: Crews can spend less time preparing equipment and more time on the actual operation. The eHPU’s compact form factor reduces the extra hoses, cables, and warm-up times for diesel engines.
- Improved Crew Safety and Efficiency
- Less Engine Noise: With fewer diesel engines running, the rig floor is quieter, improving communication and overall working conditions.
- Stable Power Supply: With the eHPU tied into the rig’s electrical system, pressure and flow remain consistent, helping eliminate the fluctuations that can happen when relying on engine RPMs for power.
Practical Applications in the Field
ProTorque has deployed eHPUs on multiple rigs, notably in Canada, where environmental goals and operational costs highlight the benefits. Crews report a noticeable decrease in diesel expenses, and managers appreciate the system’s steady performance. When a rig is remote or faces challenging conditions, the eHPU’s simplified logistics contribute to smoother day-to-day operations, reducing the need for frequent fuel resupplies and lowering the risk of mechanical issues.
Why the eHPU Matters for Oil and Gas Operations
With margins under pressure and sustainability concerns growing, the eHPU stands out as a strategic upgrade for rig operators. By cutting fuel usage, minimizing emissions, and streamlining setup, the eHPU offers a more sustainable approach without sacrificing efficiency or reliability.
At ProTorque, we see the eHPU as part of our broader commitment to innovation: making rig work safer, cleaner, and more productive. As the industry continues to evolve, solutions like the eHPU help operators adapt while staying competitive and mindful of their environmental impact.
If you’d like to learn more about adding an eHPU to your operations or want details on our broader range of casing solutions, contact ProTorque today and discover how we’re redefining rig efficiency.
