Greta Jimenez
Calculating pollutant load is a complex process that involves various factors and equations. The specific method used depends on the type of pollutant and the source. For example, the combustion of liquid fuels like diesel and jet fuel releases criteria pollutants and toxic air contaminants such as NOx, SOx, and CO. Emission factors, which are often derived from source test results and fuel analyses, play a crucial role in calculating annual emissions for these pollutants. On the other hand, emissions from fuel storage are calculated using equations that account for working and standing losses from storage tanks. The US EPA provides tools like the Pollutant Load Estimation Tool (PLET) to simplify the process of estimating pollutant loads and their reductions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pollution Load Estimation Tool (PLET) | Used to calculate annual nutrient loading based on runoff volume and pollutant concentrations in surface runoff. |
| Emission Factors | Used when source test data is unavailable; based on fuel type and unit size. |
| Fuel Usage Data | Emissions can be calculated using estimated hours of operation when fuel usage data is unavailable. |
| Fuel Storage | VOC emissions are calculated using EPA-established emission estimation equations, considering working and standing losses from storage tanks. |
| Fuel Transfer Operations | Include loading fuel into storage tanks, tanker trucks, aircraft, vehicles, and/or equipment. |
| Engine Literature | Rated bhp can be obtained from engine literature or manufacturer for emission factor calculations. |
| Stack Testing | Considered less reliable for metal emission estimations compared to mass balance techniques based on fuel analyses. |
| Bulk Fuel Storage and Dispensing Facilities | Process large volumes of gasoline vapor during transport vehicle loading, controlled by various devices like chillers and flares. |
| GI-07 Facility Emissions Summary | A spreadsheet used to compile emissions from each source and emission totals at a facility. |
| BMP Calculator | A tool with an improved user interface and the ability to directly import efficiencies into selected scenarios. |
| Applicant Calculation Requirements | Applicants must use the most accurate and representative calculation method, providing relevant process parameters like fuel parameters, maximum pollutant content, and firing methods. |
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What You'll Learn
Calculating emissions from fuel storage tanks
To calculate emissions from fuel storage tanks, several steps must be followed. Firstly, it is essential to identify the relevant process parameters, including fuel parameters, maximum pollutant content of input materials, and the firing method for external combustion sources. This information is crucial for accurate calculations. Additionally, creating a detailed spreadsheet is recommended to organize and summarize the emissions data. The spreadsheet should include tabs for each emission source, following the format of the GI-07 Facility emissions summary spreadsheet or an equivalent. Each tab should list the pollutants emitted and provide the corresponding emission factor in pounds per unit of production or material usage.
For fixed roof tanks, the spreadsheet should include rows for emissions from standing loss, working loss, and total loss for each pollutant. Internal floating roof tanks require rows for rim seal loss, withdrawal loss, deck fitting loss, deck seam loss, and total loss. As for external floating roof tanks, rows should be created for rim seal loss, withdrawal loss, deck fitting loss, and total loss. The potential uncontrolled emissions in pounds per year can then be calculated using the equations and algorithms from Chapter 7 of AP-42.
When calculating emissions from hot and heated storage tanks, the logic is that the tank's total losses equal the standing storage losses due to evaporation, plus any working losses from forced expelling during the filling process. The base equation for total losses (Lt) can be modified for hot and heated tanks by referencing the AP-42 Chapter 7 guidelines, particularly the section on working and breathing losses for these tank types.
It is important to note that emission factors can be used to calculate annual emissions when source test data is unavailable. These factors are presented in AP-42 for external combustion sources based on fuel type and unit size. Additionally, applicants should use the most recent emission factor available for each pollutant when using this calculation method.
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Estimating emissions when fuel usage data is unavailable
When fuel usage data is not available, emissions can be calculated using the following methods:
Estimating with Operation Hours
The actual emissions of criteria pollutants for specific equipment can be estimated by multiplying the estimated annual number of operational hours by their engine rating, equipment load factor, and respective emission factors. The load factor is the portion of available power at which the type of engine typically operates. This method can be used for off-road vehicles and equipment used at an installation, with engine rating and total operating time obtained from maintenance records or interviews with operating personnel.
Converting Fuel Usage to Power Output
Emissions can also be calculated by converting fuel usage into a power output, such as horsepower-hours. The annual power output is then multiplied by the applicable emission factors to determine the actual emissions of criteria pollutants for the specific equipment type.
Emission Factors
If source test data is unavailable, emission factors can be used to calculate annual emissions. Emission factors are presented based on fuel type and unit size, and they are available for both internal and external combustion sources. For example, emission factors for natural gas-fired boilers can be used to calculate carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.
Building Characteristics
For offices, energy use can be estimated based on the number of employees, with consumption rates adjusted for sectors and geographical locations. Energy consumption is often directly related to building size, which can be used as a benchmark for estimations.
Pollution Control Equipment
When applying for permits, it is essential to describe any pollution control equipment, including identification numbers and descriptions. If control equipment is not present, this should be indicated. Additionally, provide information on the maximum capacity, or the maximum number of units processed per hour, with the option to attach further details on rate-limiting steps.
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Calculating emissions from external combustion sources
Firstly, it is important to gather relevant data, including fuel parameters, maximum pollutant content of input materials, and the firing method for external combustion sources. This information is crucial for accurate calculations. Additionally, it is recommended to break down the combustion process into component operations, such as traffic and material movements, as this allows for more precise emission factor estimations.
When calculating emissions from fuel storage, the methodologies presented in EPA's AP-42, Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Sources, Section 7, are commonly used. The EPA-established emission estimation equations consider factors such as working and standing losses from storage tanks. Working losses refer to emissions produced during fuel reception, while standing losses are primarily due to temperature changes and fuel evaporation. These losses are then summed to determine the total emissions associated with a specific storage tank.
For external combustion sources, the AP-42 document also provides emission factors based on fuel type and unit size. For example, to calculate annual emissions from a natural gas-fired boiler, you can use the equation: AECO = (emission factor) x (fuel consumption) x (1 - losses/100). The emission factor can be obtained from the AP-42 tables for natural gas-fired boilers with specific heat ratings.
If you are calculating emissions for a diesel-powered internal combustion engine, the equation would be: AENOx = (emission factor) x (engine rating) x (hours of operation). The emission factor for NOx emissions, in this case, is typically provided in lb NOx/bhp-hr, and the engine rating is measured in bhp (brake horsepower).
It is worth noting that if fuel usage data is unavailable, emissions can be calculated using estimated hours of operation. This involves multiplying the estimated annual number of operational hours by the engine rating, load factor, and respective emission factors. The load factor represents the portion of available power at which the engine typically operates.
When applying for permits or providing emissions data, it is essential to use the most recent and accurate calculation methods and emission factors. Additionally, providing a detailed description of the equipment, maximum capacity, and operating limitations will help ensure compliance and effective emission management.
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Calculating emissions from diesel-fired internal combustion engines
When calculating emissions, it's crucial to consider fuel parameters, maximum pollutant content of input materials, and the firing method for external combustion sources. Additionally, emission factors for specific pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOC) and sulfur dioxide, should be included. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requires applicants to use the most accurate and representative calculation method, emphasising the use of the most recent emission factor for each pollutant.
For diesel-fired internal combustion engines, emission factors are available from AP-42 Section 3.3. If available, criteria pollutant emission factors in lb/bhp-hr provided by the manufacturer should be prioritised over general engine emission factors from AP-42. The rated brake horsepower (bhp) can be obtained from the manufacturer or the engine literature. With the bhp and annual hours of operation known, the following equation can be used to calculate annual emissions from internal combustion units:
AENOx = (0.031 lb NOx/bhp-hr) x 250 bhp x 2,080 hr/y
Alternatively, if fuel consumption data is provided, the annual amount of heat input (MMBtu) can be calculated using a separate equation. For example, for a diesel internal combustion engine with a maximum fuel usage of 18 gal/hr, the equation would consider the fuel usage, fuel density, annual operating hours, and efficiency:
Q = (18 gal fuel/hr) x (19,300 Btu/lb) x (7.5 lb fuel/gal fuel) x (8,760 hr/yr) x (1 MMBtu/10^6) x (1/80% eff.)
These calculations enable the determination of actual annual NOx emissions for diesel-fired internal combustion engines, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of their environmental impact.
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Calculating emissions from gasoline storage and dispensing operations
The calculations involve determining the working and standing losses from storage tanks. Working losses refer to the emissions generated when receiving fuel, while standing losses are primarily due to temperature changes and the evaporation of fuel from the storage tank. These vapors are often released through vents or other mechanisms.
When calculating emissions from gasoline storage, it is essential to consider the fuel transfer operations, which include loading fuel into storage tanks, tanker trucks, aircraft, vehicles, or other equipment. Gasoline vapor emissions can occur during bulk loading operations, especially at pressure release valves on tanker trucks. Bulk fuel storage and dispensing facilities can generate significant volumes of gasoline vapor, which are then processed by various control devices to recover fuel and reduce emissions.
To calculate emissions from gasoline dispensing operations, it is necessary to consider the vehicle category and other variables such as model year, mileage, speed, temperature, altitude, and fuel properties. Emission factors for motor vehicles are typically found in resources like the EPA's AP-42, Volume II Mobile Sources. Additionally, emission rates for gasoline vapor depend on the installation and performance of vapor recovery equipment, with Phase I and Phase II vapor recovery systems playing a crucial role in mitigating emissions.
When fuel usage data is unavailable, emissions can be calculated using estimated hours of operation or by converting fuel usage into power output (horsepower-hours). The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) also provides guidelines for calculating emissions, emphasizing the use of emission factors, equipment identification, maximum capacity, and operating limitations. Spreadsheets are commonly used to compile emissions data, with tabs for each source and emission totals, following formats like the GI-07 Facility emissions summary spreadsheet.
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Frequently asked questions
The simplest models for calculating pollutant load reductions are PLET, STEPL, and the Region 5 Model.
The annual nutrient loading is calculated based on the runoff volume and the pollutant concentrations in surface runoff as influenced by factors such as land use distribution and management practices.
Relevant process parameters are required, such as fuel parameters for each type of fuel used, maximum pollutant content of input materials, firing method for external combustion sources, etc.
