Project Synopsis
Evaluate a new batch reactor system from a technical and safety standpoint and to provide recommendations for improved operation for the destruction of per-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) wastes for a hazardous waste management company.
Project Summary
Process Engineering Associates, LLC (PROCESS) was contracted by the client, a hazardous waste management company, to provide a technical analysis of the design and safety systems for a new batch reactor.
The client developed, purchased, and installed a new batch reactor unit for the destruction of per-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) wastes. PROCESS was tasked with evaluating the reactor system from a technical and safety standpoint and to provide recommendations for improved operation.
PROCESS traveled to the client site to witness the operation of the new batch reactor and to collect plant data and interview operations and engineering personnel to better understand the challenges of the new reactor system.
PROCESS began the project by developing a heat and material balance (HMB) to model the reactor system in CHEMCAD. Once a HMB was completed, a technical safety analysis was performed, and a number of process improvement recommendations were made.
PROCESS also performed an electrical area classification study to determine code requirements for the processing area. PROCESS referenced the applicable codes and standards (NFPA 30, NFPA 497, NFPA 70, and API 500) to determine the proper electrical classification.
Next, PROCESS performed an overpressure relief analysis for the reactor system. As part of this analysis, PROCESS verified the acceptability and sizing of current pressure safety valves (PSVs) and recommended new PSVs for unprotected equipment.
PROCESS also evaluated air permit requirements for a new similar process being considered a sister plant site. PROCESS provided a report that summarized the federal, state, and local air permitting requirements for the newly proposed plant.
Industry Type
Hazardous Waste Processing
Utilized Skills
- Process evaluation and improvement
- Process safety analysis and design
- Electrical area classification
- Air permitting support.