A new fully integrated power solution has been engineered by Caterpillar Oil & Gas to benefit hydraulic fracturing projects. Featuring the next-generation 3,600 hp Cat G3520 engine, the Caterpillar Gas Mechanical System (GMS) optimizes mechanical efficiency in pressure pumping operations.

Entirely powered by natural gas, the scalable system can be easily deployed with existing personnel skillset and has been designed to pair seamlessly with any SPM frac pump or existing high-horsepower pump for an optimized frac site solution. The system requires fewer trailers on-site, increases the power density per trailer and decreases fuel consumption compared to alternative frac operation methods. At 3,600 hp, the GMS’s increased power density allows oilfield operators to harness the full benefits of 100% natural gas within the confines of a standard pumping trailer footprint.

Source: Caterpillar Oil & Gas

Current field testing in the Permian Basin has shown the GMS achieving production rates up to 13 barrels per minute while sustaining over 20 pumping hours per day. The GMS will continue to be tested across major North American basins.