Integrated power generation and compression train, and method

A method of operating an integrated power generation and load driving system, comprising:

• a gas turbine engine;
• an electric generator;
• a rotating load;
• a shaft line mechanically coupling the electric generator and the rotating load to the gas turbine engine;
• the method comprising the following steps:
• rotating the gas turbine engine and the electric generator at a rotation speed, having a speed variation limited by a frequency variation admitted by an electric power distribution grid, whereto the electric generator is electrically coupled;
• and
• controlling at least one operating parameter of the rotating load by means of a load control arrangement, to adapt the operating condition of the rotating load to process requirements from a process, whereof the rotating load forms part, without changing the rotation speed of the electric generator;
• wherein the gas turbine engine is a multiple-shaft gas turbine engine comprised of at least a first shaft, mechanically connecting an air compressor to a high-pressure turbine, and a power shaft drivingly connected to a low-pressure turbine, fluidly coupled to but mechanically separated from the high-pressure turbine, and receiving partly expanded combustion gas therefrom;
• wherein high-temperature combustion gas generated in a combustor, which receives compressed air from the air compressor and fuel, is partly expanded in the high-pressure turbine to produce mechanical power for driving the air compressor, and partly expanded in the low-pressure turbine to produce mechanical power available on the shaft line.