Reducing Gas Emission Mechanisms for Hydrocarbon Storage Tanks

Abstract

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) which are emitted from tank farms of petroleum refineries are considered to cause harmful impacts to the environment and people. This paper presents the methodology of assessing potential targets for reduction of emissions, as well as proposed control mechanisms and their reductions, for hydrocarbon storage tanks at Jebel Al Dhanna Terminal. Some of the emissions reduction opportunities which are covered include aluminum dome retrofits, seal integrity improvement and guide pole treatments. The objective is to find significant reduction opportunities (from between 50% to 90% of current tank configurations) using passive technologies which prevent or inhibit emissions without the use of additional operational energy or active systems that would otherwise require significant maintenance or operational expense.