In petrochemical fire protection codes, how are the upwind and downwind directions determined?
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In fire protection codes, how is it determined where chemical plants should be located in the upwind and downwind areas, and how can this be explained?
To find out the prevailing wind direction in an area, one needs to consult the local meteorological data.
Determine the prevailing wind direction in the area using the local wind rose, and then identify the upwind and downwind directions based on that prevailing wind direction.
Why should devices containing flammable gases be located upwind of the area where such winds occur most frequently throughout the year, while air separation plants should be located downwind of that area?
How can one determine the upwind and downwind directions? Could you give an example? Thank you!
1. Devices that contain flammable gases should be located upwind of the direction with the lowest frequency of wind exposure throughout the year; the upwind direction of the lowest frequency is also the downwind direction of the highest frequency. By placing such devices in the downwind area, it is less likely that any leaked flammable gases will drift toward the factory complex. 2. Air separation units should be located downwind of the direction with the lowest frequency of wind exposure throughout the year; the downwind direction of the lowest frequency is the upwind direction of the highest frequency. Since air separation units use local air as raw material, being in the upwind area helps to reduce the infiltration of flammable gases and other substances, thereby minimizing the accumulation of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides and enhancing safety.