Net-Zero
Reduce CH4 Emissions
Vapor Recovery Unit
The VRU is a recognized control device for affected facilities, capturing VOC and BTEX fugitive emissions by more than 95%. Not only does a VRU facilitate regulatory compliance, it produces a return on investment. The value of the captured vapor often exceeds the capital equipment, installation and operating costs, particularly when factoring in the higher Btu value. Numerous factors impact vapor production including crude oil API gravity, pressures, temperatures and gas molecular weight. Compression Consulting can design top notch VRU solutions.
Regulatory
In 2011 the first significant rule impacting air emissions for oil and gas facilities, called New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), 40 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) Part 60 Subpart OOOO was enacted. “Quad 0” specified emission limits and required monitoring, record keeping, reporting and notification. In 2014 the EPA developed a strategic plan, Next Generation Compliance. The plan had five components; more effective regulation, advanced monitoring, electronic reporting, transparency and innovative enforcement. In 2021 the US Department of State published an integrated U.S. climate strategy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Compressed Air
Pneumatic controllers can substitute natural gas with compressed air to help achieve zero emissions. Solutions vary greatly. At smaller production sites a 5 or 10 HP tank mounted reciprocating compressor with a deliquescent dryer and filter may do the job. Larger production facilities and processing plants generally require duplex rotary screws with a regenerative dyer and multiple filters. Instrument air must meet ISO 8573.1 air treatment levels otherwise it’s just a compressed air source. Three contaminant levels are specified, solid particles <100 1-to-5-micron, pressure dewpoint -40F, and oil <0.08 ppm w/w (parts per million water/weight).