PTQ Q4 2023 Issue

Closed-loop sampling systems can lower fugitive emission levels

Becoming a net-zero facility is easier with the right grab sampling technology

Matt Dixon Swagelok Company

T he goal of most plant operators in today’s environ- ment is to operate net-zero facilities, but it is not an easy achievement. Accidental emissions, called fugitive emissions, may happen at any location throughout refineries or chemical plants. These emissions have come under scrutiny from regulators, which adds incentives for plant operators to reduce, if not eliminate, them. To achieve this goal, operators may need to rework the major process infrastructure significantly, but there are interim steps that can be taken to achieve more short-term goals. For example, think about how many grab sampling points exist throughout your facility. Each represents poten- tial leak points in the system, whether it happens through spillage from sample containers or because of poorly con- structed systems. Potential leaks may also arise when sub - standard components are used. It is important to examine every step along the way to determine where leaks may occur, whether it is the sam - pling procedure, the quality of the system design, or the operator’s skill level (see Figure 1 ). There are some simple, cost-effective methods for fixing leaks and reducing fugitive emissions at grab sampling locations.

Also known as closed-loop system sampling, grab sam - pling collects fluids in a pipeline, tank, or other industrial system and prepares them to be transferred to a labora- tory for testing (see Figure 2 ). It is used to validate process conditions, ensure product quality, and monitor for envi- ronmental emissions. The key to grab sampling is making sure all the elements of the sampling system are working together to achieve high-quality sampling practices. Targeting precision Closed-loop systems provide a fresh sample that is extracted and held under the same process conditions that existed at the time of the sample. The precision of your facility’s chemical products relies on the ability to collect accurate samples. Grab sampling is one way for your plant to reduce costs and diminish product waste. Eliminating emissions from any chemical or hydrocarbon process means preventing fluids from being released into the atmosphere. The problem can be solved with a properly designed and constructed closed-loop sampling system. In a closed-loop system, process fluid flows through the sampling point, and some of it is collected in either a cylin- der or bottle. After flowing through the sampler, the fluid

Figure 2 During grab sampling, operators collect fluids or gases in a suitable container and then transfer that container to a laboratory for testing to validate process conditions and ensure product quality

Figure 1 Be sure to examine every step along the path of a fluid system for grab sampling to determine where leaks may occur

PTQ Q4 2023