Dear forum members, is it acceptable for the acidic gas flare and the chimney of the flue gas desulfurization tower to share the same steel structure?
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Discussion is welcome. Our factory’s design calls for the exhaust gas desulfurization tower (including the chimney) and the acidic gas flare to share the same steel structure, essentially being connected together. Is this design in compliance with the regulations?
They’re not in the same place, and their heights are different too – how can they be placed together? The flue gas desulfurization tower (including the chimney) is located within the plant. Don’t tell me that the acidic gas flare is also situated inside the plant? The safety range does not allow it.
1. This design does not meet SH3009 \"Design Code for Flammable Gas Emission Systems in Petrochemical Industries\"; acid gas torches can only be installed separately； 2. Acid gas torches can only be installed separately in a torch area outside the plant boundary, at a distance that meets safety requirements ； 3. The chimney of the exhaust gas desulfurization tower can only be installed within the facility, as sulfur-containing exhaust gases cannot be transported over long distances.
Additional note: The flare and the flue gas desulfurization tower are installed separately, but only a few meters apart, sharing the same tower structure. It is located in the northeast corner of the equipment area. Q: 1. What is the safe distance from the torch? 2. Is this area considered part of the plant area?
1. Article 4.2.12 of the Code for Fire Protection Design of Petrochemical Enterprises GB50160-2008 specifies that the distance between production units within a plant and elevated flares should be 90 meters. 2. The 90-meter radius is primarily determined by the combustion efficiency of acidic gases and their concentration at the ground level.
If the steel structure shared by the flue gas desulfurization tower (including the chimney) designed by your factory and the acidic gas flare has already been put into use, one issue that needs attention is corrosion. The desulfurized flue gas is highly corrosive to chimneys and towers; since its operation is not synchronized with that of the flare, it is necessary to strengthen inspections and maintenance. Sigh. Saves money on a tower, but introduces various safety and operational risks...
Mainly, there’s no space left; the area is too small.