CASE STUDY

Air Dispersion Study for Satellite Flare Replacement Project at Safah

Overview

The Satellite Flare Replacement Project at Safah is a significant initiative aimed at improving environmental performance and operational efficiency in managing gaseous emissions. By replacing the existing flare system with an advanced low-pressure flare, this project incorporates cutting-edge technologies to ensure efficient combustion and substantial reductions in harmful emissions. As part of this upgrade, an Air Dispersion Study was conducted to assess the environmental impact of the new flare system on local air quality. This study analyzed predicted emissions and their dispersion patterns to ensure compliance with Oman’s regulatory standards.

Project Goals

The primary objective of the Air Dispersion Study was to:

  • Evaluate Emissions: Analyze emissions during both normal operations and potential emergency flare events.
  • Predict Dispersion Patterns: Model the ground-level concentrations (GLCs) of key pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC).
  • Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Verify that emissions remained within the ambient air quality standards defined by Oman’s Ministerial Decision (MD 41/2017).

Methodology

An image titled 'Methodology' displays four main steps: Meteorological Data Collection, Dispersion Modeling, Scenario Assessment, and Regulatory Comparison. Each step includes descriptions related to data collection, simulation techniques, operating scenarios, and compliance verification with air quality standards
Air Dispersion Study Methodology: A systematic approach to ensure emission compliance

The study followed a systematic approach to ensure accurate and reliable results:

  1. Meteorological Data Collection
    Meteorological data was sourced from the nearest weather station in Ibri, Oman. This data included information on wind patterns, temperature, and atmospheric stability.
  2. Dispersion Modeling
    Advanced simulation software was employed to model the dispersion of air pollutants. The model incorporated key meteorological and topographical factors such as turbulence, mixing height, and terrain influence.
  3. Scenario Assessment
    GLCs were predicted under multiple operating scenarios and timeframes, including 1-hour, 3-hour, 8-hour, and 24-hour averages.
  4. Regulatory Comparison
    Predicted results were compared against the thresholds specified in MD 41/2017 to ensure compliance with Oman’s ambient air quality standards.

Key Findings

The results of the Air Dispersion Study confirmed that emissions from the LP flare package at Safah remained well within the thresholds set by MD 41/2017. The findings include:

  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): GLCs remained significantly below permissible limits.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO): Emission concentrations complied with regulatory standards.
  • Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (NMHC): All predicted values met environmental safety guidelines.

The study’s outcome validates the efficacy of the advanced flare system in minimizing the environmental impact of emissions.

Key Benefits

  • Regulatory Compliance: Meets air quality standards, safeguarding local ecosystems and public health.
  • Operational Efficiency: Advanced flare technology ensures clean, efficient combustion.
  • Sustainability: Supports sustainable practices within the Oil and Gas industry.

Conclusion

The Air Dispersion Study for the Satellite Flare Replacement Project at Safah demonstrates full compliance with Oman’s MD 41/2017 air quality standards. By integrating advanced flare technology and rigorous environmental assessments, the project achieves:

  • Significant emission reductions
  • Enhanced operational efficiency
  • Improved environmental stewardship

This study serves as a benchmark for the Oil and Gas sector, showcasing the importance of proactive environmental management and innovative modernization strategies.