Polarkonsult visualizes the feed gas compressor in the Snøhvit Future project with 3D animation.

Polarkonsult visualizes the feed gas compressor in the Snøhvit Future project with 3D animation

Published: November 19th 2025

Polarkonsult has produced a 3D animation for Equinor illustrating the operation of the feed gas compressor in the Snøhvit Future project. The film provides a clear visual explanation of how the compressor will help ensure continued operation of the LNG plant at Melkøya as reservoir pressure gradually declines.

The Snøhvit Future project is preparing the installations at Hammerfest LNG and the Snøhvit fields for the future. One of the most central elements of the project is the new feed gas compressor – a centrifugal compressor that increases the pressure of the gas from the pipeline to the level required in the LNG process. The compressor will be installed in a dedicated building at Melkøya and powered by electricity, in line with the other compressors at the plant. Aibel, the main contractor in the Snøhvit Future Project, is responsible for integrating the feed gas compressor with the existing facility.

“The goal was to create a visualization that is both technically accurate and easy to understand. The feed gas compressor has many moving parts, and it was important to show the interaction between components in a realistic way,” says Oddgeir Johansen, Senior Advisor at Polarkonsult.

Polarkonsult Strengthens Role in Technical Training with New 3D Compressor Animation

Gas compressors are complex machines, each custom-built for its specific purpose. To make the technology easier to understand, Polarkonsult has developed a 3D animation showing the compressor’s structure, function, and the supporting equipment required for safe operation. The film will be used in training new employees at Melkøya, helping increase understanding of the processes and equipment involved in LNG production.

The animation of the feed gas compressor is being produced as part of a system-wide training package delivered in connection with the Snøhvit Future project. Polarkonsult has previously produced training videos for Equinor as well, both for personnel at Hammerfest LNG and Johan Castberg. To ensure that the training videos maintain a high technical and visual standard, the project teams are composed of both engineers and 3D animators.

“3D animation is an effective tool for explaining complex systems, and it’s rewarding to see how visualizations like this can support the training of new personnel,” Johansen adds.

With this project, Polarkonsult further strengthens its position as a provider of technical visualizations and 3D animations for the Norwegian industrial and energy sectors.