Document XRRqbgB33L2Na9pjG4kqzRGNy

f J. D. Olson Coewmuwlcarton From: Date: Subject: W. B. Genetti December 19, 1991 VCM TANK FARM COMPRESSOR UPGRADE NITROGEN PURGE TENT RUM REPORT A VKIA A test run was conducted on December 17, to test the feasibility of purging the VCM compressors with nitrogen. The nitrogen purge system worked as intended, but there are several issues that should be investigated. It is recommended that the nitrogen purge system become a separate project. This will allow the VCM Tank Farm Compressor project to be completed within a reasonable time frame A review meeting for the VCM Tank Farm Compressor Upgrade project will be held on llMMri'iiliTi ITlOMfllIF Iff i at Ra.ee in thei The results of the nitrogen purge test run will be discussed at this meeting. A nitrogen cylinder was hooked to the bottom packing of the compressor (see attached P&I D) . A line was run from the bottom packing to the top packing with a needle valve in the line to control flow. A line was run from the top packing to the emissions recovery system (ERS). The nitrogen purge system worked as intended. The average nitrogen flow rate was 1.53 SCFM. This is consistent with the Corken recommended flow rate of between 1 and 5 SCFM. The system could be modified to further reduce flow if less volume were determined adequate. Maintaining a constant pressure in the packing was a concern at the review meeting. The pressure in the lower packing was maintained at about 24 psig. A 20 psig minimum is recommended by Corken. The outlet stayed between 5 and 10 psig. Ideas that come out of discussion with those involved in the test run include: Rtr< P> VAB.0001128861 * VCM TANK FARM COMPRESSOR UPGRADE NITROGEN PURGE TEST RUM REPORT 12/19/91 Page 2 1. Installing a nitrogen purge system with a nitrogen sphere to store nitrogen. To store a months worth of nitrogen, at 1 SCFM per compressor, a 12 feet diameter sphere would be required at a maximum pressure of 2000 psi. The sphere would be constructed out of a high strength steel and with a thickness of about 2 inch (note that this calculation does not include stfress concentration factors for nozzles, supports, welds, etc). Even with a flow rate of only 0.5 SCFM per compressor, a largo storage tank would still be required. 2. One or both of the bullets could be used for nitrogen storage. 3. A nitrogen or ine^t gas generator could be purchased and installed. This seems more reasonable when o^her plant nitrogen users are considered (the Isonox storage, P-1, etc) . 4. Other types of non-leaking packing could be installed. 5. Tying the vent lines together and attaching a GC or connecting them to the ERS. Other options could also be available. This is clearly a good environmental, safety, and health project and deserves attention. It will be considered in a separate proj ect. If you have any questions please contact me at extension 2285. A f J NOTtC. VAB.0001128862 J,i i r* i AB.0001128863 * i J* f f 4f