Methods for quantification of mass emissions from leaking process equipment when using optical imaging for leak detection

✍ Scribed by Lev-On, Miriam ;Taback, Hal ;Epperson, David ;Siegell, Jeffrey ;Gilmer, Lee ;Ritter, Karin

• Publisher: American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• Year: 2006
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 102 KB
• Volume: 25
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0278-4491
• DOI: 10.1002/ep.10102

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

A cost‐effective fugitive emission reduction program should focus on locating and repairing the very high leakers. Although these components (such as valves, pumps, compressors, flanges, etc.) represent <1% of the total component count, they are the major contributor to overall mass emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Optical imaging technologies allow greater efficiencies in simultaneously monitoring large numbers of process piping components. Therefore, locating very high leakers can be done more frequently at reasonable costs and quicker repair of these very high leakers will result in lower overall emissions.

This new approach to leak detection and repair (LDAR), called “Smart‐LDAR,” will result in better emissions control when compared with current U.S. federal and state work practices. Under Smart LDAR, plants will have the flexibility to implement inspection and maintenance procedures that are based on combinations of leak definitions for repair, monitoring frequencies, and components included. With the adoption of a Smart LDAR emissions control strategy, new approaches for the quantification of fugitive emissions from process components are required. This paper discusses options for such mass emission quantification that could be used for reporting requirements. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2005