Invensys has successfully applied simulation software in meeting upcoming the USA’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mobile Source Air Toxics (MSAT) requirements for benzene emissions.
The EPA classifies MSATs as hazardous air pollutants resulting from non-point sources. They contribute to ozone formation and possible addition of particulate matter to the environment. Targeted MSATs include benzene, 1,3-butadiene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, and naphthalene.
Of all MSATs, benzene, a known carcinogen linked to leukemia, is among the most notorious. In regulations issued recently, the EPA requires that all refiners limit the annual average benzene content of reformulated and conventional gasoline to .62 percent of volume by January 1, 2011.
“The new EPA regulations are prompting refiners to rethink their processes and in doing so, they are finding that advanced simulation and modelling software can help them comply with regulations cost-effectively, while improving also their operating efficiency. By offering powerful RATEFRAC column sizing functionality within our PRO/II simulation and modeling software, we provide an integrated solution that is not available from any other single supplier,” said Joseph McMullen, PRO/II product manager for Invensys.
This achievement is particularly significant in the Asia Pacific region, where petrochemical and refinery businesses play significant economic roles.