Estimation and Reduction Methodologies for Fugitive Emissions from Equipment

Abstract

Environmental regulations have resulted in the need for industrial facilities to reduce fugitive emissions from equipment leaks to their lowest possible level. This paper presents and compares approved methods outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for estimating fugitive emissions from equipment leaks, as well as strategies to reduce fugitive emissions through leak detection and repair (LDAR) programs. Case studies are presented to illustrate the difference in computed emissions resulting from the different emission estimation methods, and to illustrate the effects of a LDAR program implemented to reduce emissions from equipment leaks. The fugitive emissions reduction benefits of implementing an ongoing LDAR program, and the expected reductions from using more rigorous field testing and emissions estimate techniques are clearly indicated.