General Factsheet

Flare system assessment

Ensuring your flare system is fit for purpose.
The flare system is an essential part of the relief and depressurising mechanism associated with safe plant operations. It is vital that when called upon to operate, it functions as designed and does not introduce new hazards into the site at a time of emergency. Historically, flare systems tended to be designed and installed when the site was constructed with particular project hazard assumptions, flaring scenarios and process conditions in mind. During the intervening years, many modifications will have been made to the process plant connected to the flare system. A flare system by its nature is complex in detail and usually requires specialist analysis. It is therefore essential that the flare system is regularly reviewed to ensure that the system integrity and potential loads placed upon it still fit within the original design envelope. What we offer: ABB can provide a full understanding of a flare systems operational integrity in accordance with organisation practices and international standards. The assurance study includes the following elements: Pressure drop evaluation Flare capacity review Hydrate assessment Induced vibration predictions Relief stream evaluation Blowdown study To support the use of these software tools we have a wealth of experience dealing with all aspects of plant design and operations and can call upon functional specialist support when needed. We can also offer practical experience in all aspects of flare system design including Flare system scenario identification Flare system modelling Flare system process design and modification Flare stack and tip rating Mechanical integrity reviews To achieve this internally developed tools and specialist software packages such as Aspen Flare System Analyser (formally Aspen FLARENET TM ) and HYSYS are used. Results can be produced in a format and version that best suits the client.

The process follows ABBs proven 5 stage methodology:

Data Gathering and Validation

Model Development

Model Validation

ABB can offer the complete solution to ensure the flare system is fit for purpose by providing support and expertise to implement actions that arise from study.

Relief and Blowdown Scenario Generation

Production of Gap Analysis Report

Benefits: Independent, 3rd party assurance that the flare system is fit for purpose A rigorous model of the flare system in accordance with API 521 and 537 A tailored solution, developed in conjunction with the client to meet corporate procedures and international standards A risk based gap analysis report which identifies and prioritises improvement areas A model that will allow for the management of future adjustments to the flare system in a controlled and efficient way An upfront screening process to avoid unnecessary detailed and costly work Why use ABB: We are leading pressure relief experts, having developed and licensed a widely adopted methodology to pressure relief design and management. We run IChemE accredited pressure relief courses and have trained thousands of engineers in pressure relief design. Our consultants have operational heritage which allows them to offer pragmatic judgements and solutions. We gain a deep knowledge of customer requirements by building a close working relationship. We have a track record of flare and pressure relief studies, having carrying out a variety of studies for a number of oil and gas majors. Our previous work has been audited by a BP Subject Matter Expert for pressure relief. We can call upon a broad range of technical knowledge across our range of services.

For further information please contact: ABB Consulting Pavilion 9, Bylands Way Belasis Hall Business Park Billingham, Cleveland TS23 4EB Tel: +44 (0) 1642 372000 Fax: +44 (0) 1642 372111 E-Mail: contact@gb.abb.com www.abb.com/consulting ABB Consulting provides technical and engineering services to improve performance in the areas of compliance, operations and engineering to customers in the chemical, petrochemical, oil & gas, power, pharmaceuticals, metals and consumer industries worldwide.

Safety

ABB Limited 2011

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