Document kad9ObO90eygKnB3OaKRkqpey
Yard Department Aberdeen Chemical Plant
Conoco Chemicals Aberdeen. MS
Issue Date: June 3,1983
VAB.0001032478
Interoffice Communication
Distribution
From Date Subject
J. C. Greene June 3, 1983 VCM TANK FARM OPERATING MANUAL
Attached is the operating manual for the VCM tank farm. This manual has been revised to incorporate new equipment and procedures in the VCM tank farm area.
J. C. Greene Process Engineer bis Attachments
c: JF, CRM, PEM, CRS, LDH (7), MLN, VEM, VLT, WSj DJMf RAF
VAB.0001032479
VCM UNLOADING OPERATING MANUAL ABERDEEN CHEMICAL PLANT ABERDEEN, MISSISSIPPI
JUNE 3, 1983
"Mr,
Revised By Greene
Process Engineer
Approved B
L. D. Honeycutt Yard Supervisor
Approved By: . Markey
Vinyl Operation Supt.
*.
VAB.0001032480
VCM UNLOADING OPERATING MANUAL
ABERDEEN PVC PLANT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Page No,
A. Operator Responsibilities ......................................................................................... 1
B. General Process Description. .................................................................................... 3
OPERATING PROCEDURES
A. Railcar Hookup......................................................................................................................... 10
B. Unloading Railcars ............................................................................................................ 17
*
d
C. Recovering Vapor From Railcars.................................................................................. 22
D. Unhooking Railcars .......................................................................................................... 24
E. Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous Operating Procedures
1. Liquid in the Compressor Suction................................................................ 29
2. High Pressure on the Sphere or Bullets (or Evacuation) ... 29
3. Evacuating a Compressor for Maintenance................................................. 30
4. Lack of Liquid Flow in Sight Glass...............................................................33
5. Tank Car Excess Flow Valve Closing...............................................................34
6. Evacuating the VCM Vapor Line Knockout Pot and Recycle Pump for Maintenance.................................................................................................35
EQUIPMENT INDEX.............................................................................................................................. 37
SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS.................................................................................................40
EQUIPMENT ENTRY PROCEDURES.................................................................................................44
APPENDIX
A. Valve Setup Checklist
B. Checklist for Testing Auto Valves
C. Empty Outbound VCM Tank Car Inspection Report
D. Plant Emergency Plan
E. Sample Railcar Placard
F. Photographs
G. P & I Diagram
VAB.0001032481
INTRODUCTION
VCM UNLOADING OPERATION MANUAL ABERDEEN PVC PLANT
A. Operator Responsibilities
The purpose of the VCM Tank Farm is to safely unload and store Vinyl
Chloride Monomer (VCM). VCM is brought into the plant in tankcars.
It is the main raw material used in making the plant's major product,
4
polyvinyl chloride (PVC). VCM is a colorless sweet-smelling gas at
atmospheric pressure that is stored and transferred as a liquid at moderate pressure (30-70 psig).
The yard department is responsible for the offloading of VCM tankcars
and the related transfer equipment. The yard operator helps fulfill
the tankfarm's purpose by making sure that the VCM is safely unloaded
without endangering his fellow workers or equipment. The operator is
able to attain his goals in safety, job performance and efficient
operation through a training period, on-the-job experience, and passing
m
written and field examinations. The operator fulfills his responsi
bilities by:
1. Demonstrating understanding of how his equipment functions.
2. Being able to explain what role each piece of equipment plays in the process.
3. Keeping a close and regular check on equipment.
4. Being able to demonstrate troubleshooting and corrective measures.
5. Keeping his area of responsibility safe and clean.
6. Keeping complete and accurate records.
7 Reporting equipment problems promptly and writing maintenance work orders as needed.
8. Operating the equipment in an environmentally sound manner and promptly taking corrective measures should process leaks occur.
9. Wearing the proper respiratory protection.
VAB.0001032482
(CM Unloading Operating Manual Age 2
. INTRODUCTION (Cont.) A. Operator Responsibllites (Cont.) This operating manual will cover the normal responsibilities and duties of the yard operator when unloading VCM railcars. Each phase of the unloading procedure will be covered. In addition to normal operating procedures it will also discuss operations under abnormal conditions. The operator must be prepared to meet these situations with temporary measures until the abnormal condition is corrected or ceases to exist.
The goal for VCM overexposure to employees is "ZERO". This is accom plished by operating the equipment as designed, prompt attention given to leaks per continuous monitor sensors and follow up work orders for maintenance. As we meet our goals for overexposure, all governmental guidelines will also be kept.
Safety takes second place to no plant activity. The safety of the
plant personnel and equipment is to be carefully considered before any
job is started. The Conoco safety slogan is MOur work is never so
important that we cannot take time
Safety
on the job must be our first and most important consideration. When
we do a good job of planning our work with safety in mind we are less
This allows our plant goal of employees going home unhurt.
VAB.0001032483
U Unloading Operating Manual ge 3
INTRODUCTION (Cont.) B. General Process Description
VCM tankcars are brought into the plant from various VCM plants through out the United States. Most of the VCM that comes into this plant comes from Conoco*s VCM Plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana. VCM also occa sionally comes from PPG in Lake Charles, B. F. Goodrich in Calvert City, Kentucky, Uniroyal in Geismar, Louisiana, or from Shell Norce Georgia Pacific, Plaquemlne. A VCM Tankcar typically holds 175,000 pounds of VCM (about 23,000 gallons of liquid). If for some reason an inbound VCM car's gross weight is less than 255,000 pounds, the car must be rewelghed and spotted on the west track until billing weights are verified. This insures we receive what has been billed to the Aberdeen Plant. The cars are shipped to Aberdeen and stored on the Monroe lead until they are brought into the plant. Only the Monroe lead or new VCM spur can be used to store VCM railcars. This is a safety precaution so that all the VCM cars are kept in one general area. The railroad crew is responsible for
*
bringing the VCM cars into the plant and "spotting" them at the VCM transfer stations that are on the platform at the VCM tank farm. This is usually done once per day except on weekends or holidays. A maximum of ten tankcars can presently be brought into the tank farm. The tank farm has eight transfer (unloading) spots. The platform is located between two sets of railroad tracks such that there are four transfer spots on each side. These are referred to by name as Spot No. 1, Spot No. 2, Spot No. 3, and Spot No. 4, from south to north (east side); and Spot No. 6, Spot No. 7, Spot No. 8, and Spot No. 9, from south to north (west side). Spot No. 5 (east side of platform) and Spot No. 10 (west side of plat form) are the two north locations for "spotting" tankcars, but there are no unloading facilities at these two spots. Once the railcars have been "spotted", it is the yard department's responsibility to unload the VCM
VAB.0001032484
CM Unloading Operating Manual age 4
INTRODUCTION (Cont.) B. General Process Description (Cont.) into T--601 which is commonly called the ''sphere". This is done using the five Corken compressors at the tank farm. They are commonly referred to as Compressor No. 1, Compressor No. 2, Compressor No.3, Compressor No. 4, and Compressor No. 5, from north to south, respectively. Compressors No. 3 and No. 5 combined have about the same capacity as either Compressor No. 1, No. 2, or No. 4. Thetankcars are connected to the compressor piping and the sphere piping with flexible hoses. The compressors pull
vapor from the top of the sphere and compress it into the tankcars,
r
forcing liquid out of the cars through a stand pipe, into the bottom of the sphere.
Each tankcar has three valved connections in the dome of the car (two liquid lines and one vapor line) The liquid lines are 2" lines and point toward each end of the tankcar. The vapor line is a IV* line and points toward the side of the car. Refer to the photograph in the Appendix. Only one liquid line is usually hooked up on a car because the car does not unload significantly faster with two lines and it takes longer to hook up the car. Both liquid lines have to be hooked up on some type of cars (ACFX and FPGX cars) because the excess flow valves are set to close at lower rates than our normal unloading rate of 65-95 gpm.
The operator can tell when all the liquid has been unloaded from a car by watching the sight glass in the liquid transfer line. When the tankcar has been emptied, the 4-way valves on the compressor are reversed such that the compressor evacuates vapor from the car and discharges it into the top of the sphere. When the specified amount of vapor is removed from the tankcar, the compressors are shut down and the transfer lines
VAB.0001032485
Unloading Operating Manual ge 5
l INTRODUCTION (Cont.)
|
;i
I General Process Description (Cont.)
are evacuated* This must be done because of EPA (Environmental Protec
tion Agency) regulations concerning the release of VCM vapor to the
atmosphere* Then the transfer line can be unhooked and the cars are sent
back to the respective VCM plant for reloading.
All outbound VCM cars are to be weighed. Cars containing a heel greater
than 600 pounds should be set aside for additional unloading* The plant
4
can lose considerable amounts of VCM on heavy outbound cars* which can
i
drastically Impact on our plant's cost effectiveness*
*
There is a big difference in winter and summer operation of the tank
farm. The primary reason is probably because the vessels are uninsulated
8^ the transfer lines are lengthy and are exposed to ambient tempera
tures along their entire run. The vapor pressure drops in the vessels
and the tankcars as the temperature drops* making it harder to unload in
cold weather because there is less VCM pressure to move the liquid
through the pipes* Thus* unloading conditions can also vary from day to
night and when rapid changes in weather occur*
t
During the summer* eight tankcars can be hooked up at one time and unloaded with four or five compressors. Also, the tankcars will usually start unloading as soon as the valves on the liquid lines are opened* During winter conditions (ambient temperature approximately 40F or less)* it is harder to start the VCM liquid unloading and only four tankcars can be unloaded at a time, with four or five compressors* If the weather gets extremely cold* it may take four compressors to unload only two or even one car* but this has not happened since the
VAB.0001032486
31 Unloading Operating Manual ige 6
INTRODUCTION (Cont.) B. General Process Description (Cont.) system has been revised and vapor from the sphere is used* The volume of VCM kept in the sphere is usually large enough that sufficient vapor is available for the compressors. When the bullets were used, there was not enough vapor available and the tankcars unloaded very, very slowly, if at all.
Other equipment at the tank farm Includes the bullets, T-201 (west) and
-
T-202 (east) These are not used for unloading VCM, even though each one
4
presently contains a small amount of liquid VCM. They are piped up to take inerts from the recovered vinyl receivers if the Incinerator should be down for an extended period of time.
The transfer pumps on the bullets (Conoco Nos. 72-211 & 72-218) and the sphere (Conoco Nos. 72-217 & 72-270) are the responsibility of the vinyl department. The sphere transfer pumps send liquid VCM through a 4" line to the old and new reactor modules where it is charged into reactors and made into PVC. The bullet transfer pumps are not used at the present time.
The emission recovery system knockout pot is also located at the tank farm, northwest of the compressor shed. The emission recovery system is located in the vinyl department old reactor module and is designed to collect and contain miscellaneous VCM emissions. It runs continuously.
*j
The knockout pot is connected to it via a 2" line that runs to the tank farm. A 15" Hg. vacuum should be maintained on this line at all times This line is used to evacuate the VCM vapors from prior to unhooking cars. The knockout pot is the responsibility of the
VAB.0001032487
31 Unloading Operating Manual ige 7
INTRODUCTION (Cont.)
B. General Process Description (Cont.)
j
*
vinyl department, but the yard operator should be familiar with the
purpose of it.
The knockout pot collects VCM vents from the following:
a. Double Mechanical Seals on the sphere and bullets transfer pumps-
Used by vinyl to bleed VCM from the seals when maintenance is
s
required on the pumps.
i
b. Corken Compressor Packings- The pot recovers vapor that leaks through
the compressor packing into the distance piece. The vapor goes
through a rotameter on each compressor into the pot. The valve above
the rotameter should always be open when the compressor is running.
The knockout pot must always have a slightly positive pressure on it
or oil can be sucked out of the bottom of the compressors through the
packing around the piston rods. This is the reason for the back
pressure control valve on the knockout pot.
c. Corken Compressor Relief Valve Discharges- The relief valve dis
charges are piped to the knockout pot through a locked open valve.
d. Corken Compressor Liquid Traps- Liquid caught in the traps is
drained to the knockout pot through the I,f Jamesbury valves on the
t
traps. Opening the I" valve should let the liquid flow into the
knockout 'pot and then it is recovered to the emission recovery system.
e. VCM Sphere and Bullet Recovery-- The vessels can be recovered through
the knockout pot. A procedure will be given for this in the opera
ting procedures section.
f. Sphere Liquid Lines Relief Valve Discharges- The three liquid lines
VAB.0001032488
M Unloading Operating Manual ge 8
I i
i INTRODUCTION (Cont.)
I .
B. General Process Description (Cont.) under the sphere have relief valves that discharge into a 1" line that goes to the knockout pot. The 1" valve on the line south of the compressor shed is locked open. The line runs into the header at the vest side of the knockout pot, where the main 2" valve is also locked open.
g. Compressor No. 1 Liquid Line Relief Valve Discharge- This relief valve is piped up to the compressor relief valve header through a locked open valve.
h. Vapor Line Knockout Pot Relief Valve Discharge-- This knockout pot is equipped with a relief valve whose discharge is piped through a locked open valve into the compressor relief valve header. The compressor relief valve header is connected to the emission recovery system knockout pot.
i. VCM Recycle Pump Relief Valve Discharge- The VCM recycle pump located below the liquid line knockout pot is equipped with a relief valve which is piped up to the compressor relief valve header.
A second knockout pot, called the vapor line knockout pot, is located just north of the emission recovery system knockout pot. The purpose of the vapor line knockout pot is to collect liquid VCM that may have collected in the main vapor line and prevent this liquid from slugging the compressors. A VCM recycle pump is located below this knockout pot
1
and is used to pump the contents of the pot to the sphere. The pump is started and stopped by two level switches in the pot.
VAB.0001032489
M Unloading Operating Manual ige 9
INTRODUCTION (Cont.) B. General Process Description (Cont.)
Complete and accurate records must be kept on VCM unloading. These are necessary for accounting purposes and for communication between shifts. A VCM Unloading Card must be filled out and turned in to the accounting group for each car unloaded. Records are also kept in the yard scale-house on which cars were unloaded, when they
*
P
started, when they were put on vapor, and when they were unhooked. A valve setup checklist also must be filled out by the yard opera tor when hooking up cars and starting unloading. Copies are to be kept on file by the yard supervisor. A copy of the checklist is included in the Appendix. Also included is a copy of the empty outbound VCM tank car inspection report.
The automatic valves under the sphere are tested every Wednesday morning. The checklist used to record the results of this testing is shown in the Appendix. Copies of this checklist are to be kept on file by the yard supervisor. This testing must be coordinated with the vinyl panel operators so that the valves are not closed during VCM transfer to the reactor units. This should be coordinated by using the radios.
VAB.0001032490
[ii.
CM Unloading Operating Manual |ige 10
H. OPERATING PROCEDURES A, Railcar Hookup After VCM cars are brought into the plants the yard operator "hooks up" each car by connecting transfer hoses to it. Vapor can then be trans ported into the car and the liquid VCM can be sent into the sphere. In the summer, two cars can be hooked up at each transfer station for unloading. During winter operation or when a rapid change in the
i*
j*
weather is anticipated during unloading, only one car can be unloaded from each transfer station.
Fresh air masks must be worn under the compressor shed, while opening or closing the railcar dome, or while connecting and disconnecting the transfer hoses. Gloves must be worn while handling the nipples and the transfer hoses. VCM cars are not to be hooked up during an electrical storm. Equipment Required 1. Fresh Air Mask 2. 1 1/2" Teflon Tape 3. 0-rings for Weco fittings (if needed) 4 Gloves Procedure 1. Get a fresh air mask and a roll of 1 1/2" Teflon tape, from the yard
scale house. Also get "0" rings that are needed to replace the ones at the tank farm. Inspect the "0" rings individually for cracks and nicks. Do Not Use Defective "0" Rings.
VAB.0001032491
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I I I
CM Unloading Operating Manual kge U
i.
1. OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
iiI
A. Railcar Hookup (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.)
2. Raise the blue metal flag located on the railroad track south of the
roadway* This flag states "Stop! Tankcar Connected.11 This
procedure is necessary to isolate the eight unloading stations and
notify railroad personnel that VCM unloading is taking place.
*r *
r
3. Engage the derailer located near the blue flag. This will prevent
railcars from entering the tank farm area when unloading is taking place.
4. Visually check the valves under the sphere to make sure they are set
up for unloading. The 4" valve on the vapor line and the 6" valve
under the sphere on the liquid line to the sphere must be open (both
valves are actuated valves).
5. Record the sphere level on the checklist (see checklist in Appen
dix). Turn the handle on the gauge to move the tape, then take the
t
reading. If the tape does not bounce, notify the yard supervisor.
The maximum allowable sphere level is 38 feet. To unload 4 tankcars
the level must be below 32 feet - 3 inches (27 feet - 0 inches for
8 tankcars)
6. Check the railcar chocks and handbrake and ground the railcar. Make
sure that the chocks are in good condition and are against the rail
car wheels. Manually check the handbrake to make sure it is tight.
Inspect the grounding cables to ensure that they are intact and in
good working condition. Bond each car to the ground rod by attach--
i
ing the grounding clamp to the north side of the vertical slderall
of the ladder. This prevents static accumulation during unloading
VAB.0001032492
I I I
i
i I
t* OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
A. Railcar Hookup (Cont.) Procedure (Cont.) 6. (Continued) and eliminates dangerous sparking which could ignite any VCM leaks. It also prevents loss of the ground clamp if it is left connected during switching. Should one of the grounding clamps or cables be damaged, use the backup cable located on the south liquid boom arms at each spot except Spots No. 4 and No. 9 which have no backup cables. 7. Drain the water from the breathing air filter if necessary. (The filter is located between the rail tracks). 8. Climb the stairs to the unloading platform. If the stairs are wet or icy, be especially careful. Always be sure to use the handrail. 9. Go to the station you want to unload from, loosen the locks on the walkramp, and use your foot to push the ramp onto the car dome. The ramp will not operate if it Is not in the middle of the platform opening. Adjust the height and length of the ramp and lock the ramp into place. Watch for pinch points when positioning
i
the ramp and do not put any unnecessary strain on your back. 10. Unlatch the vapor and liquid llne(s) and swing each line over the
railcar dome area. Be careful not to let the lines swing back and catch your arm or hands. (The vapor line is the 1V* line). 11. Remove the nipples from the holders and peel off the old Teflon tape. Inspect the threads and retape them with new tape up to 2" from the end of the threads. If the threads are worn, write a work
*
order to replace the old nipples with new ones.
VAB.0001032493
I
Unloading Operating Manual
Ck 13
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
A. Railcar Hookup (Cont.)
I
j
Procedure (Cont.)
12. Remove the pipewrench from the holder and fasten it on one nipple.
Then carry the pipewrench and nipples to the dome area of the car.
Be careful not to drop the nipple and damage the threads*
13. Put on the fresh air mask and tighten it* Test the face seal by
blocking the hose with one hand while trying to breathe in. If
it leaks, adjust the straps or facepiece. Make sure you have a
good face seal.
14. Purge the air line of any water that may be in the line. Connect
the fresh air mask to the fresh air hose that is on the transfer
line booms.
15. Break the domelld seal with the pipewrench and slide the latching
bar so that the lid can be raised* Open the domelld and push it
the way back so that It cannot close* Be careful to use proper
lifting procedures when raising the lid.
16. Visually check inside the dome area for leaks. Leaks will be
indicated by condensation or icing around the valves and fittings.
Check the plugs and caps and attached chains -- if any are missing,
note on the checklist.
17. Test the valves to make sure they are closed by pushing the valve
handles against the closed stop.
18. Select the correct size wrench to fit the railcar valve plugs and
remove the plugs* Be alert to the fact that the wrench could slip
and trap your hand or fingers against the dome. Also do not stand
in the direction of the valve opening in case a valve is leaking
and VCM spews out.
VAB.0001032494
linloading Operating Manual
Je 14
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
A. Railcar Hookup (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont >)
19. Push the port hole covers aside and screw the nipples into the
valve opening until they are hand tight. Then tighten the nipples
with the pipewrench. Be careful not to let the wrench slip. The
nipples must be very tight or they will leak. Double check them
after installing.
20. Close the vacuum breaking valves on the end of the transfer line
booms. Make sure they are fully closed so that VCM will not leak
to the atmosphere.
21. Unhook the flexlines and or Weco fittings from the holders on the
booms. Be careful to minimize bending and twisting the flexlines
during hookup. Excessive bending of the flexlines causes early
failure of the lines. Visually inspect the flexlines for small
holes or extremely worn areas of the armored weave. If a flexline
is punctured, badly twisted or damaged, or In your judgment has a
likely potential for failure during operation, contact maintenance
and have the hose replaced.
22. Inspect the "O'* rings individually and Install them in the slots.
The "0" ring must be evenly seated to prevent leaks.
r
with cuts or nicks should be discarded.
"0" rings
23. Press the Weco union attached to the flex hose against the nipple
inserted in the railcar. Check the alignment of the "0" rings to
T
make sure there is a good seal. "0" rings that are pinched or
crooked will cause leaks. Completely tighten the Weco hammerlock
to prevent leakage.
VAB.0001032495
Unloading Operating Manual 15
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) A. Railcar Hookup (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.) 24. Check to make sure that the valve on the transfer line closest to
the railcar dome is closed (it should be closed from the previous unhooking) Slowly pull the handle of each railcar valve up to open it. Opening the valves too fast can cause an undesirable surge of pressure. Check for leaks around each coupling and vacuum breaking valve as the railcar valves are opened. 25. Slowly open the liquid valve(s) on the end of the booms. Then open the vapor valve at the end of the boom. Make sure that the valves are fully opened or flow will be restricted. 26. Recheck the valves on each transfer line to make sure they are open. The railcar dome valve and both tranfer line valves must be open. The vacuum breaking valve must be closed. Initial the checklist to show that the valves are open. 27. Inspect the flex hose for leaks. Contact maintenance to replace any leaking flex hoses. (Note: The line must be disconnected using proper procedures prior to replacing. The procedure is on page 24 - "Unhooking Railcars") 28. Disconnect the fresh air mask and check the pressure gauges at the platform on the vapor and liquid lines and make sure that they are shoving pressure. Lack of pressure may indicate a leak, a plug or a closed valve. 29. Hookup additional railcars using steps 9-27.
VAB.0001032496
T
i:w Unloading Operating Manual 1115b 16
I * OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
B. Unloading Railcars
After the VCM cars at the tank farm are hooked up, the cars are unload-
ii
!;
fromi I !II i!i
ii
I;
i ! top of the sphere and compress it into the tank cars, forcing the
i i liquid in the cars to flow into the bottom of the sphere. It usually
i i
takes 4-6 hours to unload the liquid VCM from a tankcar.
It is very important for the valves on the compressors to be set up
compressor will dead-head
compressors
a dead-headed condition will raise the compressors' relief valves and
force VCM into the emission recovery knockout pot T-201. A pressure
pot reaches 70 psig.
down all compressors
Equipment Required 1. Fresh Air Mask
Procedure
down the stairs from
unloading platform, using the handrails. Check the valves that are
between the railroad tracks going to each unloading station, which
is to be used for unloading cars.
normally
be open. Initial the checklist if the valves are open. If any of
the valves are closed, do not startup any compressors going to that unloading station.
Go to the compressor shed and put on the fresh air mask
face seal, and connect it to the fresh air hose.
VAB.0001032497
Unloading Operating Manual 17
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
B. Unloading Railcars (Cont,)
Procedure (Cont.)
main
shed on the sphere liquid line (it should have been closed prior
to unhooking previous cars) Initial the checklist appropriately
after opening the valve.
4. Visually inspect each liquid unloading line from where they come
out of the ground on the east side of the compressor shed through
the valves near the ground, through the sight glasses, across the
compressor shed, and through the valves above the liquid header on
the west side of the shed. All valves must be onen from each snot
being unloaded from. During summer operations, flow may be
observed in the sight glass after opening the main liquid valve.
This is due to the vapor pressure in the car forcing liquid to
start unloading. Initial the checklist after making sure that the
valves are open (Checklist Item: Valves Under Sight Glasses, etc.)
5 Open the main vapor valve at the west side of the compressor shed on
the sphere vapor line (it should have been closed prior to unhook
ing previous cars). Initial the checklist appropriately after
opening the valve.
6 Open the vapor line knockout pot inlet and outlet valves to allow
vapor to flow through the knockout pot. These valves are located
main
Close the vapor header block valve
located between the knockout pot inlet and outlet valves.
7 Visually trace the vapor lines going from the sphere vapor line,
through the manual valves to the 4-way valve on each compressor.
The manual valve must be open for each compressor that will be run
VAB.0001032498
I
II
n OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
]l ' Jl I
B. Unloading Railcars (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.)
Initial the checklist after checking the vapor valve for each com pressor
8 Check the level of the VCM in the vapor line knockout pot by observing
the sight glass located on the east side of the pot. The level
*
should be below the pot's high level switch before unloading is starte
i;
!i
switches.
s automatically control
i
instruments malfunction
l supervisor the pot manually. Do this by placing the VCM recycle pump switch in
"hand" position. This switch is located on a panel on the south side
of the knockout pot. The recycle pump will pump the contents of the
pot to the sphere. When the level in the pot has lowered to the low
level switch, place the pump switch back in the "auto" position.
Turn
nanaie or eacn 4-way vaive so mat tne nanaie xs xn tne
vertical position. This sets up the compressor to pull from the
sphere and discharge into the tank cars. (NOTE: The handles can be
installed in the opposite direction.
maintenance works on a 4-way
valve, check the arrows on the valve and make sure the flow is from
*
the sphere to the tankcars when the valve handle is vertical. This must
be checked before signing off the work order.)
.10 compressor
same
may be full of liquid which closes the high level shutoff valve in the trap
and will not allow any flow to the compressor. The trap can be drained
L
I.
VAB.0001032499
II--III l
Unloading Operating Manual e 19
tl. OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
B. Unloading Railcars (Con.t)
Procedure (Cont.)
i
by opening the Jamesbury valve that goes to the emission recovery
knockout pot by the compressor shed. When the liquid is drained off,
the pressure will rise on the suction (as the shutoff valve opens). When this occurs, close the Jamesbury valve.
11. When the suction of each compressor is set up correctly, visually
trace the vapor discharge lines for each compressor. When all of the
compressors are to be run. Compressors No. 3 and No. 5 should dis
charge to the No. 3 transfer station. Compressor No. 2 should dis charge to No. 2 transfer station. Compressor No. 4 should discharge
to the No. 4 transfer station, and Compressor No. 1 should discharge
to the No. 1 transfer station. When one or more compressors are not
to be run, or if fewer than four railcars are to be unloaded, it is best to setup the compressors on common discharge by opening the four
valves on the No. 5 compressor header. This allows all the compres
sors to be set up on one common header. Check the valves on the line
from the No. 5 compressor to made sure they are set up correctly and
be sure to check the jumper lines that connect the lines going to the
four spots. Finally, check the four vapor valves near the ground
going to the four transfer stations. The valve to each transfer
station that is to be unloaded from must be open. Initial the
checklist after making sure the appropriate valves are open.
12. When all the lines have been traced for each compressor, push the
start buttons for the compressors to be run.
13.
j
Check the oil pressure on each compressor. 10-20 psig.
It must read between
VAB.0001032500
Unloading Operating Manual 20
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) B. Unloading Railcars (Cont,)
Procedure (Cont.) 14. Check the discharge pressure on each compressor. If it is under
100 psig, go to the sight glasses and watch for liquid flow. If the discharge pressure is above 110 psig, one of the valves between the compressor and the tank car is closed. Shut off the
r*" a p
compressor and retrace the piping until the valve is opened. 15. Check for liquid flow to the sphere in all the sight glasses. Lack
of flow may indicate a closed valve between the tank car and the sphere 16. Check to see that the Jamesbury valves on the compressor suction
*
liquid traps are closed. 17. Take off the fresh air mask, disconnect it, and roll up the hose. 18. Record the identification numbers of the railcars being unloaded
and log into log book.
i VAB.0001032501
Onloading Operating Manual
21
I. OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
C. Recovering Vapor from Railcars
When the liquid VCM has been unloaded from the VCM tank cars, the
compressors
remaining VCM
from the car. The compressor is set up to take vapor from the tank car
and send it back to the sphere. The railcars are pulled down to about
6--8 psig. If they are recovered to less than 6 psig it causes problems
** *
at the VCM plants, because the car may be below atmospheric pressure
and pull air into the car. If the cars are not recovered to less than
VCM I It normally takes 1-2 hours to recover vapor from
car.
Equipment Required
1. Fresh Air Mask.
Procedure
1. farm
ses to make sure the
blown
NOTE: If one of the cars
blows out before the others, hook up and put on the fresh air mask
and open the four valves from the No. 5 compressor header (this
sets up all the compressors on one common header) Then close the
valve near the ground on the vapor transfer line at the east side
of the compressor shed for the transfer station which has blown
out. This will cause the cars that have not blown out to empty
. After the cars have blown out, be sure to reopen any
valves on the vapor transfer lines that were closed. If there
2 cars hooked up on any of the transfer stations, both cars will
have to be checked to see if they have blown out. Use the follow
ing procedure: (Assume that railcar A and railcar B are hooked up
VAB.0001032502
Operating Manual
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) C. Recovering Vapor From Railcars (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.) on the same transfer station and that the sight glass for that transfer station shows vapor flow);. A. Go to the dome of railcar A and close the liquid valve(s). This
allows you to check the sight glass and see if the liquid has blown out of railcar B. B. Go to the sight glass and check for liquid blowing through the line.
If liquid flow shows in the sight glass, railcar B has not blown out. Finish unloading it by closing the vapor valve on railcar A. C. When the sight glass shows that railcar B has blown out, go back to the platform and open the liquid and vapor valve(s) on railcar A. D. Next, close the liquid valve(s) on railcar B to make sure that rail car A has blown out. E. Check the sight glass as in step B (Above) If liquid flow shows in the sight glass, railcar A was not blown out and must be unloaded. Close the vapor valve on railcar B. F. When the sight glass shows that railcar A has blown out, re-open the liquid and vapor valve(s) on railcar B. G. After all the cars have blown out, reopen any valve that you closed to check or unload the railcars. . Put on the fresh air mask, check for face seal, and connect it to the fresh air hose.
VAB.0001032503
V
Unloading Operating Manual :e 23i.i
. OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
from Railcars (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.)
Open the four valves on the No. 5 compressor header so that all the
compressors are on one comon header.
4. Reverse all the 4-way valves so that the handles
in the horizon
tal position.
5. Close all liquid line valves located beneath the sight glasses at
the ground level.
Check the compressor discharge
to make sure the compres
sors are not dead headed (pressure should be 70-100 psig).
Take off the fresh air mask, disconnect it and roll up the hose.
Record in the logbook the time that the cars were put on vapor.
Unhooking Railcars
When the VCM railcars at the tank farm have been unloaded and evacuated
to the specified pressure, the compressors will be automatically shut
off by the low pressure switches. Before the cars can be unhooked, the
amount of VCM vapor in the transfer hose must be reduced to 0.13 cubic
feet of VCM vapor (at 20 C and 29.92 in. Hg) to comply with EPA regula
tions. To meet this requirement, the lines must be evacuated to a
10" Hg vacuum. Then the lines can be unhooked and the cars can be sent
out of the plant.
Fresh air masks must be worn under the compressor shed and while con
necting the transfer hoses. Gloves must be worn while handling the
nipples and the transfer hoses. VCM cars are not to be unhooked during
an electrical storm.
Equipment Required
Fresh Air Mask Gloves
*Mfc
kNaauMriMMMbihwidMi
VAB.0001032504
JL
Unloading Operating Manual
24
I OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
ij
D. Unhooking Railcars (Cont*)
Procedure
1. Go to the tank farm and climb the platform stairs* Be especially
careful if the stairs are vet or icy and be sure to use the hand-*
rail.
2. Check the pressure on each transfer station according to the gauges
on the platform. Make sure that the car(s) at each transfer station
have been pulled dovn to 6-8 psig.
NOTE: If one of the transfer stations has reached the proper evacu
ation pressure before the others, close the valves at the platform
for that transfer station. Since the compressors are on one common
header, this will allow the other transfer station(s) to evacuate
When all the transfer stations have been properly evacu
ated, reopen the valves on the transfer lines which you closed.
3. Climb down from the platform (carefully). Go to the compressor
shed and put on the fresh air mask, check for face seal, and then
connect it to the fresh air hose.
4. Turn off the compressors.
5. Close the 4" main vapor valve from the sphere and the 6" main liquid
valve to the sphere that are on the west side of the compressor
shed.
6. Check the pressure gauge on the line to the emission recovery
system
southwest corner of compressor
It
must read at least 10" Hg vacuum. Open the four manual valves that
evacuate the transfer lines to the emission recovery system.
NOTE: If there is not at least 10" Hg vacuum on the line, notify
department
to maintain at least 10" Hg vacuum on the line.
VAB.0001032505
Operating Manual
\
PROCEDURES (Cont.)
I
Unhooking Railcars (Con.t)
procedure (Cont.)
7. Immediately after opening the four manual evacuation valves, care-
fully climb the stairs to the unloading platform, hook up and put on
ii
i
j
the fresh air mask, check for face seal, and connect it to the fresh
i
i. i,
|
i
!
air hose. Close the valves in the railcar dome on each car that
i
was unloaded (you will have to unhook and reconnect the fresh air
mask at each station)
.h
8 Open the actuated valves that evacuate the transfer lines to the
emission recovery system by opening the switch at each transfer station. (Write work orders for any valves that do not open or close
correctly.)
I
9. When the pressure gauge at the transfer station reads 10" Hg vacuum
or less, put on the fresh air mask and close the valve on the trans fer line that is closest to the railcar dome. The pressure gauges
should be maintained in good working condition or be replaced. The
stainless steel flex hose is now valved off at 10" Hg vacuum or
less, which complies with EPA regulations.
10. Open the
vacuum breaking valve at the end of the transfer
line boom.
11. Disconnect the Weco hammerlock coupling.
12. Inspect the "0" ring on the Weco coupling nipple. Discard it if it has any nicks or cracks on it. Close the vacuum breaking valve.
13. Connect the transfer line to the boom and swing it out of the way.
14. Unscrew the nipples from the railcar valve opening with the pipe-
wrench. Remove them from the dome and cover the portholes.
VAB.0001032506
loading Operating Manual
to
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) D. Unhooking Railcars (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.) Be careful not to let the pipevrench slip and trap your hands or fingers against the railcar.
15. Select the correct size wrench to fit the railcar valve plugs and screw them tightly into the valve opening. Once again, do not let
r* -
the wrench slip while tightening the plugs. All the plugs must be in place tight and have chain attached. 16. Put the nipples, pipewrench and wrench on the transfer station walk ramp and close the railcar dome lid. Be careful not to let the lid trap your hands or fingers. Slide the latching bar shut to hold the lid closed. Seal lid and record the lid seal number on the checklist 17. Unhook the fresh air mask and take the pipewrench, nipples, and wranch back to the main platform. Place them in the racks provided for them. Be careful not to drop the nipples or damage the threads. 18. Turn off the switch to dose the actuated valves that evacuate the transfer lines to the emission recovery system. 19. Latch the transfer line booms to the platform. Be careful not to let them pinch your arms or hands. Do not bend or twist the flexlines excessively. This can cause early failure of the flexlines. 20. Loosen the locks on the walk ramp and pull it away from the tank car. Lock it after raising it into the vertical position. 21. Repeat steps 9-20 to unhook the other railcars.
imMlllllliawWHWWMPnJ
MMMWtHM
iHHMSilHSinSUliHiiHHMimiiHmifrH .msmumnumm
HMHHMHWMWtM tmmHwMammMlis
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umdaaalftaiiiJ
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VAB.0001032507
iMMmMMMMiaMN
Unloading Operating Manual 27
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) D. Unhooking Railcars (Cont.)
Procedure (Cont.) 22. After unhooking all the railcars* climb down the steps from the
platform. Do Not leave the fresh air mask on the platform. Take it back to the yard scale house with you and place it in the proper receptacle for cleaning at the end of your shift. 23. Unhook the ground cable from the unloading station. 24. Turn the placards on the railcar over so that they read "Empty." These placards must be present on both sides and both ends of each car. The placards must be right side up and all must be in place before car leaves the plant. A sample of the railcar placards is attached in this manual. 25. Close the manual valves on the 1" lines from the VCM transfer lines to the emission recovery header (under northeast corner of compres sor shed) Also close the 2" emission recovery valve located over head at the southwest corner of the compressor shed. These must be manually blocked in to prevent air or VCM leaks into the emission recovery system and to prevent VCM leakage through the automatic valves during railcar unloading. 26. Lower the blue flag to show that tank cars are no longer connected. 27. Disengage the deraller located south of the roadway. 28. Go to the sphere and record the level. Record this level and other information about unhooking the car in the logbooks in the yard scalehouse
VAB.0001032508
ding Operating Manual
I
OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) I. Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous Operating Procedures
This section describes various problems that occasionally occur in con nection with the Corken compressors and unloading the VCM tank cars. The standard operating procedure for solving each problem is given after the problem description. Normal rules concerning the use of safety equipment apply in all of these situations. Fresh air masks must be worn under the compressor shed. 1. Liquid in the Compressor Suction
The symptoms of this problem and the solution are given in the operating procedures on unloading railcars, step No. 8. 2. High Pressure on the Sphere or Bullets (or Evacuation) Occasionally, the pressure on the bullets or the sphere needs to be reduced. This can be done by opening the appropriate valves and letting the emission recovery system pull on the vessel(s). A. To pull vapor from the sphere:
a. Close the five valves on the west side of the compressor shed that are on the sphere vapor line.
b. Open the main 411 valve on the sphere vapor line. c. Open the valve on the bullets vapor line that connects to
the sphere vapor line. d. Open the 2" valve on the line that connects the bullets
vapor line to the emission recovery knockout pot at the northwest corner of the compressor shed. This is the same line that the compressor relief valves discharge into. The knockout pot is set up to relieve any pressure over 3 psig to the emission recovery system.
VAB.0001032509
l I
!: i
Operating Manual
I: i
1ING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
trouble shoo ting and Miscellaneous erating Procedures (Cont
High
(Cont.)
To pull vapor from the bullets:
Open the valves at the bullets on the line that the sphere vapor line from the bullets. Follow step (d) in the procedure for pulling vapor from the sphere
To evacuate the sphere or bullets: Considerable planning and preparation must be done prior to I! attempting this procedure However, the following concept should be utilized.
Follow the above procedure priate vessel.
pulling vapor from the appro-
manual 2" valve on the line from the Corken corn-
I
recovery This will prevent the oil from
compressors when the knockout pot is pulled to below pheric pressure. Open
knockout
This
evacuated to be pulled below 3 psig using the ing piping.
Evacuatin
Compressor for Maintenance
(down
compressor down for maintenance,
w
sor must be isolated and the VCM
This
recovery system. When using the emission recovery system.
VAB.0001032510
ihu
t1
-i
I
I
Unloading Operating Manual
r OPERATING PROCEDURES (Cont.) Troubleshoot ins and Miscellaneous Operatins Procedures (Cont for Maintenance (Cont.) Compressor No. 5 must be evacuated by a different procedure than the other compressors. a* Using the emission recovery system NOTE; Not for Compressor No. 5.
(1) Close the 3" valve coming off the sphere vapor line for the
compressor to be evacuated. Operate" tag.
Tag the valve with a "Do Not
#
(2) Close and tag the 3" valves on the east side of the compres
sor shed that are on the transfer lines coming from the
compressor that is to be evacuated. The valves on the
transfer line and the valve from Compressor No. 5 must be
closed and tagged.
(3) Close and tag the valve on the compressor liquid trap and
the valve above the rotameter.
(4) Open the 1" manual valve that will evacuate the blocked off
lines to the emission recovery system.
(5) Open the actuated valve that evacuates the line to the
emission recovery system. On some of the valves this can be
done by overriding the valve and blocking off the air. On
the ones without overrides, block the air off on the valve
to the liquid line (to keep it closed) and open the vapor
valve by using the switch at the transfer stations (on the
platform).
VAB.0001032511
I
g Operating Manual
TING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
i!1
( Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous
erating Frocedres (Con
Evacuating a Compressor for Maintenance (Cont
(6) When the pressure reaches less than 0 psig on the compres
sor, close the actuated and manual 1" valves on the line
that goes to the emission recovery system. Be sure to open
*
the air valve for the actuated valve on the liquid line if
it was closed in step (5).,
(7) Close the air to the actuated valve on the vapor line
and tag it. The compressor should now be ready for
maintenance. (Make sure maintnenace blinds all the lines
when working on a compressor).
b. Using the emission recovery system for Compressor No. 5:
t
NOTE: One of the other compressors must also be evacuated
because the emission recovery system valves tie in only to
the four transfer lines dwonstream of the Compressor No. 5
block valve.
p
(1) Same as step (1) in (a) above.
(2) Close one of the 3" valves on the vapor station transfer
lines at the east side of the compressor shed. Open the
valve on that line from the Compressor No. 5. Leave the
Compressor No. 5 block valve open. Close the 3" valve
that comes off of the sphere vapor line on the west side
of the compressor shed that will isolate the compressor
that discharges to the transfer line which was blocked
off.
(3) Same as step (3) in (a) above.
VAB.0001032512
Operating Manual
TING PROCEDURES (Cent.) 1,;Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous Operating Procedures (Cont.)
(4) Same as step (4) In (a) above.
(5) Same as step (5) In (a) above.
(6) When the pressure reaches less than 0 pslg on Compressor
No. 5, block off the Compressor No. 5 block valve on the
*
east side of the compressor shed and tag It.
(7) Close the actuated valve that was opened In step (5) and
reopen any air that was blocked off.
(8) Open the blocked In 3" valves on the east and west side
of the compressor shed that were closed In step (2).
Compressor No. 5 should now be ready for maintenance.
4.................................. .....
*
~
Occasionally, there will be little or no liquid flow In one or
more of the liquid sight glasses after starting up the compres
sor, even though all the valves are open. This may be caused
by a lower pressure on one of the railcars, more pressure drop
In one of the lines due to length of pipe, or other reasons.
This problem only occurs occasionally and It usually happens In
only one of the transfer lines. If there Is not a closed or
partially closed valve In the line, the problem usually corrects
Itself after 5-10 minutes. To speed up this process, use the
following operating procedure.
a. First, trace all the lines and check the valves going to and
from the transfer station that Is giving the problem.
Make sure that all the valves are fully open and that the
compressor discharge pressure Is normal.
VAB.0001032513
*
I
PROCEDURES (CONT.) I, Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous Operating Procedures (Cont.)
4. Lack of Liquid Flov In Sight Glass (Cont. b. making
i i
are normal* open the valves on the No. 5 compressor header to put all compressors on a common header (If these were not already open) c. Close the vapor transfer valve on the lines of one or more of the cars which are flowing normally. This will put more flow to the transfer station that Is having trouble. d. After establishing normal flow in the sight glass that was giving problems (this usually takes only a minute or two)* reopen the vapor transfer valves to the other transfer
[1 !
l
i. 3i 1
stations. Normal flow will usually be reestablished In the other transfer lines when the valves are reopened, e. Close any valves that you opened on the No. 5 compressor header. Tank Car Excess Flow Valve Closing Occasionally* the excess flow valve on a tank car will close. This is caused when the flow in the line exceeds a set flow rate. This condition can be detected either when the liquid valves are opened and a pinging noise is heard at the dome of the car or when the compressors are started and there is no liquid flow in the sight glass and all valves are open. Usually there will be a pinging sound in the car dome when an excess flow valve shuts off. This situation can be overcome by hooking up the other liquid line at the transfer station. If it is already hooked up* use one or a
VAB.0001032514
Unloading Operating Manual e 34
L OPERATING PROCEDURE (Cont.)
E. Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous Operating Procedures (Cont.)
5* Tank Car Excess Flow Valve Closing (Cont.)
combination of the following procedures:
a. Partially close the liquid valves on the dome of the car. This
will slow down the flow and should reseat the valve. If this
reseats valve, reopen all partically closed valves.
b. Turn
period, then reopen all valves partially closed and restart the
compressors. This can usually be dona only in summer condi-
n
tions. NOTE: If the excess flow valves shut in a car that has
both liquid lines hooked up, this indicates that the valve is
probably faulty. The car number should be noted so that it can
be shopped after unloading. On ACFX and PPGX cars, the excess
flow rates are set at a lower flow rate than on most UTLX, RTMX,
and NATX cars. For the ACFX and PPGX cars, the liquid lines
should always be hooked up to each car.
.6 VCM
For Maintenance
Before taking the knockout pot and recyclye pump down for main-
nee; the pot, pump, and related p
VCM vapors removed (down to below
This
using the emission recovery system.
a. Close the 4" inlet and outlet valves to the knockout pot
Tag these valves with "Do Not Operate" tags.
pumps
culatlon valves.
VAB.0001032515
mi
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illlMMllllMiMriHHMHHiiyMMuwriHaaHaMu uhuMhmimmmmIm
IMNHHliMIlrilltaaaMWlHM
MMHu
MHiHMUM
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VAB.0001032516
ing Operating Manual
PHENT INDEX (Cont.)
Little Corken Compressors (Compressors No. 3 and No. 5)
Purpose
: Unloading and evacuation of VCM tankcars.
Description
: Corken Model D490, 2-cylinder 825 RPM vapor compressor.
Normal Operating
Conditions
:
Rated for 35.5 ICFM at 825 RPM, 295 maximum discharge pressure.
Relief Settings : North - No tag, 250 psi when purchased. South - 250 psi.
v
Sphere Transfer Pumps (North and South)
Purpose Description
: To transfer VCM liquid from the sphere to the old or new unit fresh VCM receiver.
: Centrifugal type, Duriron A50, 3 x lh - 10, 3500
RPM.
Normal Operating
Conditions
: Rated for 150 GPM at 252" of differential head.
Bullets Transfer Pumps (East and West)
Purpose
: To transfer VCM liquid. Presently not in use.
Description
: Centrifugal type, Duriron A50, 3 x 1^5 -- 10, 3500 RPM.
Normal Operating
Conditions
: Rated for 150 GPM at 252" of differential head.
Emission Recove
stem Knockout Pot
201) - Conoco No. 45-305.
Purpose
To collect miscellaneous VCM emissions.
Description
: Vertical-mounted, four-foot straight wall height, eight-foot overall height, four-foot diameter with an approximate capacity of 470 gallons.
Normal Operating
Conditions
: Ambient temperature and 3 psig.
Design Conditions: 150 psi at 366F.
Relief Settings
Rupture disc 150 psi @ 72F. Safety valve * 150 psi.
VAB.0001032517
ing Operating Manual
PHENT INDEX (Cont.)
Little Corken Compressors (Compressors No. 3 and No. 5)
Purpose
: Unloading and evacuation of VCM tankcars.
Description
: Corken Model D490, 2-cylinder 825 RPM vapor compressor.
Normal Operating
Conditions
:
Rated for 35.5 ICFM at 825 RPM, 295 maximum discharge pressure.
Relief Settings : North - No tag, 250 psi when purchased. South - 250 psi.
v
Sphere Transfer Pumps (North and South)
Purpose Description
: To transfer VCM liquid from the sphere to the old or new unit fresh VCM receiver.
: Centrifugal type, Duriron A50, 3 x lh - 10, 3500
RPM.
Normal Operating
Conditions
: Rated for 150 GPM at 252" of differential head.
Bullets Transfer Pumps (East and West)
Purpose
: To transfer VCM liquid. Presently not in use.
Description
: Centrifugal type, Duriron A50, 3 x 1^5 -- 10, 3500 RPM.
Normal Operating
Conditions
: Rated for 150 GPM at 252" of differential head.
Emission Recove
stem Knockout Pot
201) - Conoco No. 45-305.
Purpose
To collect miscellaneous VCM emissions.
Description
: Vertical-mounted, four-foot straight wall height, eight-foot overall height, four-foot diameter with an approximate capacity of 470 gallons.
Normal Operating
Conditions
: Ambient temperature and 3 psig.
Design Conditions: 150 psi at 366F.
Relief Settings
Rupture disc 150 psi @ 72F. Safety valve * 150 psi.
VAB.0001032518
I
g Operating Manual
TING PROCEDURES (Cont.)
i!1
( Troubleshooting and Miscellaneous
erating Frocedres (Con
Evacuating a Compressor for Maintenance (Cont
(6) When the pressure reaches less than 0 psig on the compres
sor, close the actuated and manual 1" valves on the line
that goes to the emission recovery system. Be sure to open
*
the air valve for the actuated valve on the liquid line if
it was closed in step (5).,
(7) Close the air to the actuated valve on the vapor line
and tag it. The compressor should now be ready for
maintenance. (Make sure maintnenace blinds all the lines
when working on a compressor).
b. Using the emission recovery system for Compressor No. 5:
t
NOTE: One of the other compressors must also be evacuated
because the emission recovery system valves tie in only to
the four transfer lines dwonstream of the Compressor No. 5
block valve. p (1) Same as step (1) in (a) above.
(2) Close one of the 3" valves on the vapor station transfer
lines at the east side of the compressor shed. Open the
valve on that line from the Compressor No. 5. Leave the
Compressor No. 5 block valve open. Close the 3" valve
that comes off of the sphere vapor line on the west side
of the compressor shed that will isolate the compressor
that discharges to the transfer line which was blocked
off.
(3) Same as step (3) in (a) above.
VAB.0001032519
.y i
Unloading Operating Manual 38
. EQUIPMENT INDEX (Cont.)
VCM Knockout Pot (T-202) - Conoco No. 45-061
Purpose
To remove liquid VCM from the vapor line and prevent liquid slugging of the compressors.
Description
Vertically mounted on supports 6 feet above grade, 5-foot straight wall height, 2.5 foot diameter. with capacity of 150 gallons.
Normal Operating Conditions
70F and 40 pslg
Design Conditions: 150 psig @ 200F
Relief Valve Setting
150 psi
VCM Rec
Pum
-250
Purpose Description
Removal of knockout pot contents to sphere.
CMP model #3 x 1% x 5, canned centrifugal pump,
3 HP driver.
Normal Operating Conditions
10 GPM @ 58
of differential head
Relief Valve Setting
: 170 psi
Compressor Low Pressure Switches
Purpose
To shut off compressors at the end of vapor recovery from railcars.
Description
Static-O-Ring diaphragm type.
Set Point
6 psig decreasing.
Vapor Line Knockout Pot Level Switches - High and Low
Purpose
: To start and stop VCM recycle pump as liquid VCM collects in the knockout pot.
Description
: Robertshaw switches.
VAB.0001032520
oading Operating Manual
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS
!
4j Continuous Flov Fresh Air System
i i
In order to provide personnel protection, a continuous flow fresh air system has been installed. This system consists of personnel fresh air masks and a constant flow breathing air supply. The supply lines are piped to various locations around the VCM tank farm. The indiviual hookup stations consist of quick connect/disconnect-type fittings.
The individual line to the area is designed to allow a minimum flow of 6 SCFM to each mask at approximately 10--15 pslg. An air pressure regu lator, shutoff valve, and an air filter are provided at the piping header to the area.
Fresh Air masks are required to be worn during the following tasks: 1. Opening railcar dome lids, hooking up or disconnecting VCM
tankcars 2. Any time you enter the tank farm compressor shed, whether the
compressors are running or not. 3. Whenever performing leak detection operations where the VCM con
centration is expected to exceed 10 ppm. 4. Entering any vessel that normally contains VCM. 5. Blanking or line breaking of any line or vessel which has
contained VCM. Clean fresh air masks are stored in the yard scalehouse. After using
j
the mask, it should be properly disposed of by placing it in the used
*
fresh air mask receptacle inside the yard scalehouse. Fresh air masks are not to be left on the transfer station platform at the tank farm.
VAB.0001032521
Operating Manual
n1 [ . _ L F . _ -- -- D -- . V
1 SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS (Cont.)
B. VCM Canister Masks
VCM Canister Masks may be used under the following conditions:
Working in a contaminated area of less than 10 ppm VCM for
up to 10 hours. NOTE: If the HNU monitor reads greater
than 10 ppm VCM, a fresh air mask must be used.
II
'E : Performing leak detection operations when Honeywell units are
i I indicating between 1 and 10 ppm VGM.
I! i!
I !; ! i i
I : Scott Air Pack.
VCM
Scott Air Packs
Scott Air Packs are self-contained breathing equipment and must be
worn when entering concentrations of VCM which are above 1000 nnm
in unknown concentrations. Scott Air packs are located south of the
sphere
the
switches and north of the compressor
shed. D. Firewater System
\
The firewater system consists of a deluge system on the bullets and
compressor shed, a 6" weir to the top of the sphere, and fire monitors
All firewater to the tank farm deluge systems and monitors is supplied
by the six diesel operated fire pumps from the flrepond and Number 5
waste water pond. Process water can be used in fire fighting by hook
ing hoses to the
hydrant south of the tankfarm in the MCC area
Fire Monitors
There are four
monitors located around the diked area at
the VCM tank farm. Three of these are kept pointed toward the
bottom of the sphere with the manual valve to them open. Water can
VAB.0001032522
4'l
iMiumy
Unloading Operating Manual
age 41
. SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS (Cont.) D. Fire Systems (Cont 1. Fire Monitors (Cont.) be sent to these monitors by opening the tank farm monitor switch on the module charge panel in the vinly control room. Opening this switch operates a pressure switch that automatically turns on the fire pumps. A manual backup switch is located south of the sphere
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at the tank farm. The monitors should be used to lower VCM concen trations in the area in the event of a VCM leak or to help put out fires. (A manual bottle back up system can also be used to open this fire monitor supply valve.) 2. 6" Weir To Top of Sphere Water can be sent to the top of the sphere by activating a switch on the old module charge panel in the vinyl control room. A manual backup switch is located south of the sphere at the tank farm* Thermal sensors under the sphere can also activate the system and send water through the weir. Water through the weir is rated at 3000 gpm. The primary purpose of the weir is to supply water for cooling the sphere in the event of a fire in the area. (A manual
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bottle backup system can also be used to open this weir supply
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valve.) 3. Deluge System
The deluge system supplies water through sprinklers to cover the bullets and the compressor shed* This system can be set off with a switch on the old module charge panel in the vinyl control room* The valve must be manually reset at the concrete basin north of the bullets. A manually activated trip is located at the basin.
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Unloading Operating Manual e 42
SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS (Cont.)
Firewater System (Cont.)
Deluge System (Cont,)
Thermal sensors under the compressor shed or on the bullets can also
set off the deluge system. The deluge system is designed to lower
VCM concentrations in the bullets and compressor shed area, to cool
the bullets in the event of fire in the area, and help put out
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fires. Because of the dikes around the sphere and bullets, fire
water should be used judiciously in the area. The dikes are
designed to contain any VCM spill from the vessesl. The VCM will
float on water, and if the dikes are overfilled liquid VCM will be
allowed to escape from the area, enlarging the hazard. The dikes
can be drained with post-indicator valves on the west side of the
dikes If a dike is drained, make sure that the drain is closed
after draining. The valves are to be checked dally. The person
draining the dike should stay in the area and close the valve when
draining is completed. The four actuated valves on the sphere
from the old module
the vinyl control room or from switches outside of the dike, south
of the sphere. (These are the valves that are tested every Wednes
day - See Appendix B for checklist)
Fixed Point VCM Monitor
fixed point VCM monitor is used to detect VCM and record the VCM
concentration at various locations at the VCM tank farm. The
recorder and alarm annunciator are located in the vinyl control
room. The vinyl panel operators will Inform the yard operator i
any high readings at the VCM tank farm.
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Unloading Operating Manual
43
EQUIPMENT ENTRY PROCEDURE
VCM emissions and OSHA
VCM
VCM
VCM. For this reason and to ensure safe working conditions at all times, the
ifr: <ir
c:S
:ti "Engineering and Work Practice Control Program for the Reduction of Employee
Exposure to Vinyl Chloride" manual
the VCM tank farm is opened for an
This manual
detailed procedures as well as safety precautions for equipment opening.
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SETUP CHECKLIST FOR UNLOADING VCM
t -it
THAT MUST BE CLOSED FOR UNLOADING
4 - 1" manual valves on evacuations lines, sor shed.
side of the compres-
Main 2" overhead manual valves on evacuation line, southwest corner of compressor shed.
THAT MUST BE OPENED FOR UNLOADING:
Main
Located Under Sphere H Main vapor valve from sphere
Check sphere level ______
Inches
Both valves on liquid and vapor lines hooked to car.
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Valves inside car dome for vapor and liquid.
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Vapor and liquid going to stations between railroad track.
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Vapor and liquid valves under sight
on each station
iE*1 being unloaded from.
*
Sphere liquid and vapor valve on main headers on west compressor shed.
4--way valves on each compressor being used must position (handle).
Vapor line knockout pot inlet and outlet valves compressor shed.
THAT MUST BE OPENED FOR RECOVERING VAPOR FROM RAILCAR
4-way horizontal position (handle).
TO CHECK FOR UNLOADING:
Pressure gauages on compressors:
a* Inlet Side -- 20 to 50 pounds. If 0, compressor is full of liquid, b* Outlet Side -- 60 to 110 pounds. If over 120, compressor is dead headed
Sight glasses on liquid lines (flow of liquid).
Jamesbury valves on knockout pots closed to evacuation system.
No valve mentioned above partially closed.
Liquid VCM avove the low level switch in the vapor line knockout pot.
NUMBERS BEING UNLOADED:
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B. CHECKLIST FOR TESTING AUTO-VALVE UNDER SPHERE
(Test) Closed
Open
(Test) Closed
Open
Open IRCULATION LINE VALVE
Open
(Test) Closed
(Test) Closed
Open Open
st must be done while no unloading of railcars is taking place and there is no
ransferring to reactor buildings. Switches for
are located on north side
if switchgear module at south end of VC tank farm. Tests are to be performed
fevery Wednesday.
OPERATOR lTE:
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C. EMPTY OUTBOUND VCM TANK CAR
INSPECTION REPORT
: This inspection report is to be completed by the yard operator responsi ble for unhooking car.
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iator's ii
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1 + E#
Name:
Car No.
a) Seal No.' '
Due Date
t:
:
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;
\ All unloading fittings removed
.
a
All product openings capped or plugged 1 tightly
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i All plugs and fittings equipped with j chains
YES
NO
Placards reversed and upright (4)
[ Chocks removed
1
i
i Blue flag put down
I
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i Derailer removed
! e
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1 1
b
Visual evidence of 1j
any
car
defects
1
|FY SUPERVISOR OF ANY ACTUAL OR SUSPECTED DEFECTS. KTIVE CARS ARE NOT TO LEAVE THE PLANT.
Note: All dome lids are to be sealed shut and corresponding seal numbers recorded.
knowledge these cars have no defects.
Operator's Signature
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