Using Reliability Analysis Techniques to Determine Environmental Emissions from Refinery Process Units and Utilities

摘要

This paper outlines the use of reliability analysis techniques to assess the environmentalrnemissions created by refinery process units or utility systems. Recent examplesrndemonstrate how this analysis can quantify the expected frequency and volume ofrnenvironmental emissions. These results are used to predict the extent to which a unit orrnfacility can comply with environmental legislation, and estimate the possible financialrnpenalties for events where emissions limits are exceeded. This assessment goes beyondrntraditional reliability analysis, predicting more than just the production performance of arnunit or facility, to create a more complete picture for cost-benefit optimization of differentrndesign options or operational decisions.rnAn example of this methodology is shown for the calculation of CO, SO2, particulaternmatter and NOx emissions for an FCC unit. Assessment of the severity, frequency andrnduration of excess emissions events is used together with assessment of production lossesrnto quantify the benefit of unit modernization and probability of environmentalrncompliance.rnSimilar techniques can be used to optimize the performance of refinery environmentalrnunits, shown here for a new waste water treatment plant. The frequency and volume ofrnevents requiring untreated water to be dumped directly into the sea, or the refinery to bernshut down, are assessed. Maintenance and plant design are optimized with respect tornminimizing environmental penalties and production interruptions.