Vapor Recovery at Saltwater Disposal Facilities (SWD): A Critical Component for Operational Success
Saltwater disposal (SWD) facilities play a critical role in the oil and gas industry by managing the safe disposal of produced water generated from production operations. Because three-phase separation of production stream (i.e., oil, natural gas, and water) is imperfect, produced water often contains hydrocarbons and other impurities, requiring proper handling to avoid environmental and operational hazards.
A significant challenge in SWD operations is the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and tank vapors. Complicating matters are the U.S. Environmental Production Agency’s (EPA) updates to Subpart W methodology (petroleum and natural gas emissions sources) of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP).
In this article, we cover the primary challenges of vapor management at SWD facilities, and how Platinum Control can help operators improve operational efficiency and emissions performance.
Sources of Emissions at SWD Facilities
When produced water sits in a tank for any length of time, the entrained VOCs, natural gas liquids, and even methane come out of solution and gather in the headspace. Accumulated tank vapors create a potential safety hazard and the potential for emissions from leaks, tank “breathing,” and venting.
These emissions can pose significant environmental and health hazards, including air pollution, respiratory issues, and increased fire risks (e.g., lightning strikes). Consequently, vapors from water storage tanks must be managed in the same manner as vapors from crude oil tanks.
Regulatory Landscape
To control emissions from SWD facilities, regulatory bodies have established stringent requirements. The new NSPS OOOOb and EG OOOOc regulations set forth by the EPA require storage tanks to achieve a 95% reduction in VOC emissions, including both crude oil and produced water storage tanks.
Additionally, EPA updated its Subpart W methodology of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP). In May 2024, revisions to Subpart W went into effect, which increased the number of emissions sources and segments that are subject to emissions reporting. Produced water tanks are among the new emissions sources now covered by Subpart W.
Of particular interest, the emissions reported under Subpart W are the basis for calculating the new Waste Emissions Charge (WEC) tax on facilities that emit 25,000 metric tons of CO2e per year. The WEC is paid for emissions that exceed a certain threshold, which varies from one facility to another. It starts at $900 per metric ton of methane in 2024, and escalates to $1,200 in 2025, and finally to $1,500 in 2026 and beyond.
Non-compliance with these standards can lead to severe penalties, legal actions, and reputational damage for SWD operators. Therefore, proactive emission management is crucial for long-term operational success.
The Role of Vapor Recovery Units (VRUs) in SWD Facilities
Vapor Recovery Units (VRUs) offer a practical solution to managing emissions from SWD facilities, improving safety, and potentially reducing exposure to taxes like the WEC. VRUs are designed to capture vapors from storage tanks and reintroduce them into the production stream or flare system. By capturing and flaring or better yet selling tank vapors, operators can significantly reduce emissions while improving operational performance.
Key benefits of vapor recovery include:
Regulatory Compliance: Helps meet air quality standards and avoid fines.
Environmental Impact Reduction: Minimizes air pollution and protects local ecosystems.
Worker Safety: Reduces exposure to harmful VOCs, ensuring a safer work environment.
Operational Integrity: Prevents pressure buildup in storage tanks, reducing explosion risks by removing a combustible substance that can be ignited by a lightning strike or welder’s torch.
Economic Benefits: Capturing valuable hydrocarbons can provide additional revenue streams.
READ MORE: Vapor Recovery Unit Q&A
Best Practices for Implementing Vapor Recovery
Implementing an effective vapor recovery system involves several critical steps:
Evaluating Vapor Recovery Needs: Assess the facility's emission profile and vapor generation rates.
Ensuring Equipment Compatibility: Verify that the selected system integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure.
System Sizing and Efficiency: Properly size the vapor recovery equipment to match the facility's vapor generation capacity.
Maintenance and Cost Considerations: Plan for routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and consider long-term cost benefits.
The Platinum Control VRU Advantage
Efficient vapor recovery is essential for the operational success of SWD facilities. It helps mitigate environmental impact, ensures regulatory compliance, enhances worker safety, and can provide economic benefits through hydrocarbon recovery.
In most cases, Platinum Control VRUs typically move 30% more gas than competing alternatives with the same horsepower rating.
Additionally, Platinum Control’s premier engineering team is experienced at designing, developing and operating solutions for maximizing the efficiency of vapor and natural gas recovery as well as emissions control. We start with our proven high-efficiency VRU designs and include custom upgrades to fit your specific application. We use only high-quality materials, and technology, including PULSE™ remote monitoring.
SWD operators should proactively explore vapor recovery solutions to safeguard their operations and reputation. For expert consultation or to learn more about implementing vapor recovery systems at your SWD facility, contact us today.
Contact
Chance Lauer
VP Sales & Service Platinum Control
Email: clauer@platinumcontrol.com
Phone: 800-994-0579
About Platinum Control
Our core competency in Facilities Optimization sets us apart by helping operators harness the full potential of their well sites and facilities. We work with operators in the most active oil and gas regions, from companies having only a handful of wells to supermajors. As a result, we leverage the experience gained with larger operators, build best practices into our products and services, and then disseminate that knowledge to our smaller customers.
A well site or facility with an optimized configuration will help you harness its full potential, maximizing its long-term economic value and environmental performance.