CASE STUDY

Air Dispersion Study for AP Flare Package – Khamilah Water Handling Facilities

Overview

The Air dispersion study conducted for the Khamilah Water Handling Facilities Upgrade ensures that the project aligns with environmental regulations and contributes to maintaining air quality standards. The comprehensive modeling process allowed for the assessment of potential impacts on the surrounding community and environment, illustrating a commitment to sustainable development. This case study highlights how advanced modeling techniques accurately predict air quality impacts from facility upgrades, enabling informed decision-making for project execution and ensuring regulatory compliance.The upgrade of the Khamilah Water Handling Facilities aims to meet increased production demands. A detailed air quality assessment was essential to identify potential environmental impacts and maintain regulatory compliance

Objective

The Primary objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of emissions from the upgraded flare stack at Khamilah station on the local air quality. The assessment ensures that predicted emission concentrations comply with the Oman ambient air quality standards outlined in MD 41/2017.

Methodology

The image presents a methodology framework with four key components: Emission Source Identification, Meteorological Data Collection, Dispersion Modeling, and Assessment Scenarios. These components are displayed in blue circular sections and are connected to a central heading labeled Methodology at the top. The design uses a clean and organized layout with clear text for each step, illustrating the structured approach of the methodology process.
Methodology
  • Emission Source Identification:
    • The study identified and quantified emissions from the upgrade, including parameters such as release height, gas exit temperature, and emission rates of various pollutants (NOx, SO2, PM2.5, etc.).
  • Meteorological Data Collection:
    • Historical meteorological data for 10 years from the nearest meteorological station was processed to characterize atmospheric turbulence and other parameters impacting dispersion.
  • Dispersion Modeling:
    • A Simulation Software was used to handle hourly varying meteorological conditions and its suitability for predicting near-field ground-level concentrations. The model accounts for terrain influences, building downwash, and other local conditions affecting pollutant dispersion.
  • Assessment Scenarios:
    • Modeling was conducted for various operational scenarios to estimate the ground-level concentration (GLC) of pollutants over specified averaging periods (1-hour, 3-hour, 8-hour, and 24-hour).

Conclusions

The modeling outputs indicated the following maximum ground-level concentrations for specific pollutants under various operational stages indicate that the emissions from the upgraded facilities are expected to remain within the permissible limits set by Omani air quality standards. Thus, concluding that the findings from this air dispersion study confirm that the Khamilah Water Handling Facilities Upgrade is both environmentally compliant and sustainable. The proactive approach taken through comprehensive modeling and analysis underscores the commitment to responsible operations and its dedication to safeguarding the environment while meeting the growing energy needs of the region. This study serves as a model for similar future assessments, ensuring continued adherence to environmental standards in industrial expansion.