Requirements for the layout of liquid CO2 systems
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What are the safety distance requirements for the equipment used to recover CO2 in chemical plants and convert it into liquid CO2? I’ve checked many standards and specifications, but none of them mention liquid CO2; let’s discuss this together.
I have seen a design for a CO membrane separation unit, based on conventional SH specification design. The poster’s question is: “Excessive accumulation of CO2 in localized areas can cause suffocation, which is why the need for safety distances was considered.” The only reason for this concentration is “leaks”. The HSE training on confined spaces states the following: \"Before entering an environment with high concentrations of toxic substances or poor ventilation where work or rescue operations are to be carried out, effective ventilation must be ensured, with the volume of air flow being at least three times that of the environment; a gas mask must be worn, and there must be someone to provide supervision.\"
But I know of a case where a leak in the CO2 vent pipeline from the low-temperature methanol wash unit led to asphyxiation and death of several people in a slightly lower-lying area within the plant. There are also open spaces between different units, and air flow can cause localized accumulation of CO2, which may harm people. However, there are no corresponding regulations or requirements in various standards and guidelines. Those who have experience in designing such projects, please share your insights so that similar accidents can be prevented in the future.
There are also anti-freezing requirements; in the event of a leak, vaporization occurs, which absorbs heat and leads to local freezing.