Baker Hughes to deploy three NovaLT 16 turbines for Argentine Vaca Muerta pipeline project
Baker Hughes secured an order to supply three NovaLT 16 turbines with centrifugal compressors for a pipeline station near Allen, Río Negro, to transport Vaca Muerta gas to LNG vessels. It includes commissioning, spare parts and remote diagnostics services, marking the first South American deployment of NovaLT 16 platform.
1. Order Details
Baker Hughes secured an order from San Matias Pipeline to deliver three gas compression units, each comprising a NovaLT 16 gas turbine paired with a centrifugal compressor, for a new station near Allen in Río Negro. The equipment will facilitate transportation of natural gas from the Vaca Muerta field to two LNG vessels operated off the Gulf of San Matias.
2. Technical Features
The NovaLT 16 turbines offer over 37% efficiency in simple-cycle mode and up to 85% in cogeneration, with a 45-day installation period, 35,000-hour major maintenance intervals and 24-hour engine swap capability. These units emit nine ppm nitrogen oxides at 15% O₂ and produce 35% fewer greenhouse gases during production compared to earlier turbine models, plus include remote monitoring and diagnostics.
3. Strategic Significance
This contract marks the first deployment of NovaLT 16 turbines in South America, bolstering Baker Hughes’ presence in Latin America and supporting Argentina’s LNG export chain. A non-exclusive memorandum of understanding with Tecnimont further positions the company to pursue future modular LNG projects globally.