Title: Refinery demonstration of optical technologies for measurement of fugitive emissions and for leak detection. Revision 1 Nov 2006
Abstract: Environment Canada has worked with industry over the past 4 years to promote the use of a laser-based technology to measure fugitive emissions associated with the upstream oil and gas industry. The application of Differential Absorption Light Detection and Ranging (DIAL) technology combined with Infra Red Imaging gas leak visualization technology can be used to effectively assess emissions trends and performance at refineries by providing more accurate direct measurements and inventory numbers. These new technologies solve some of the limitations in current inventory estimates that are based on emission factors with inherent uncertainty. This paper presented the results of a study that analyzed refinery plumes for volatile organic compounds, methane and benzene. The potential for emission reductions from Canadian refineries were identified in an effort to ultimately improve the emission estimates and reporting for selected key air pollutants and greenhouse gases released from refineries. The paper demonstrated that Infra Red Imaging camera technology is an effective method for locating leaks of hydrocarbon gases at refineries. Refinery fugitive emissions were quantified using DIAL technology. Emission losses were found to be significant and recommendations were presented to help refiners reduce emissions and improve tracking and location of leaks. It was concluded that efforts to reduce emissions should focus on the major sources of fugitive emissions, which included the coker area, the cooling towers, the crude feed tanks and the final product tanks. 10 refs., 9 tabs., 10 figs., 3 appendices.
Publication Year: 2006
Publication Date: 2006-03-31
Language: en
Type: article
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