Flare Radiation And Dispersion Study

Flare stacks are the arrangement that are used to burn the combustible gases that are released out of the pressure relief valves and the over-pressurized equipment in industries such as petroleum, petrochemical and chemical industries. These gases can lead to hazardous effects on the environment if vented without complete combustion. Besides, the combustion of these vapors and gases  also generate  thermal radiation  With the increasing environmental responsibilities and societal concerns  and with increasing corporate responsibility to comply with the ever stringent environmental laws, it has become essential to perform the flare radiation and dispersion studies to assess  and minimize the release of toxic/hazardous gases into the environment.

Our experts perform the study in accordance with the applicable international standards such as EPA, OISD etc. and suggest the necessary changes for improvement in the flare system. Working in close coordination with client, we collect the data related to flare stack and execute the study considering the worst-case scenario of flaring.

The data required from the client

• Height of the flare tip from the ground level.
• Diameter of the flare tip
• Flow rate of the flared gas
• Composition of the flared gas
• Operating temperature of the flare
• Operating pressure of the flare
• Concentration of interest
• Wind speed and direction

Based on these inputs, we execute different case study by varying the flow rate, composition and operating conditions of the flared gas and environmental conditions  to identify all hazardous situations and suggest possible changes for improvement.

Software:

PHAST, FlareSim, AERMOD

Using these software, the analysis is performed and the results are reported to the client. Though the deliverables to the clients vary depending on the project scope, we have the expertise to deliver

Basic engineering design support

• Technical assistance
• Graphs and counters for LFL (lower flammability limit) cloud
• Graphs and contours for thermal radiation
• Graphs and contours for dispersion of toxic substances
• Output from the model:

Based on the chosen exposure limit (STEL, IDLH, ERPG etc.), LFL fraction the models provide the following results:

Heat radiation contours and graphs (Radiation level vs. Downwind distance for different wind conditions)

Toxic release contours and graphs (Cloud height vs. Distance downwind for different wind conditions) From the analysis of the downwind distance with respect to cloud height and radiation level, the existing location and height of the flare can be validated.