Vapor recovery, abbreviated as VR, is a process used to capture and control volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that are emitted as vapor during various industrial and commercial activities, particularly during the handling and storage of volatile liquids such as petroleum products, chemicals, and solvents. The primary goal of vapor recovery is to prevent the release of these harmful emissions into the atmosphere, which can contribute to air pollution and have adverse environmental and health effects.
Vapor recovery is particularly important in industries where VOCs and HAPs are common, such as the oil and gas industry, chemical manufacturing, and gasoline distribution. Implementing vapor recovery systems helps these industries reduce emissions, comply with environmental regulations, and minimize the impact of their operations on air quality and public health. Additionally, it can have economic benefits by recovering valuable compounds that would otherwise be lost as emissions.
How Vapor Recovery Typically Work
Compression - Once captured, the vapor is often compressed to increase its pressure, making it easier to handle and transport within the recovery system.
Processing - The collected vapor is then processed to remove any impurities or contaminants. This may involve cooling to condense the vapor into a liquid or using adsorption or absorption processes to remove specific chemicals.
Storage - The recovered vapor is typically stored in tanks or vessels until it can be properly managed or disposed of. In some cases, the recovered vapor may be returned to the process for reuse or sold as a valuable product.
Control and Monitoring - Vapor recovery systems are equipped with controls and monitoring devices to ensure they operate effectively and safely. These systems may include sensors to detect leaks or malfunctions and control mechanisms to adjust the flow of vapor as needed.
Vapor Recovery Types
Vapor recovery systems are used to capture and control volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that are released into the atmosphere during various industrial processes, particularly those involving the handling and storage of volatile liquids such as gasoline, crude oil, and chemicals. The choice of vapor recovery system depends on the specific application, the type and concentration of VOCs involved, environmental regulations, and economic considerations. Different industries and processes may require different combinations of these systems to effectively control emissions and reduce environmental impact. There are several types of vapor recovery systems, each designed for specific applications and industries. Here are some common types of vapor recovery systems:
- Carbon Adsorption Vapor Recovery (CAVR) - Carbon adsorption systems use activated carbon beds to adsorb VOCs from the vapor stream. Once saturated, the carbon can be regenerated or replaced.
- Condensation Vapor Recovery (CVR) - Condensation systems cool the vapor stream to condense the VOCs into a liquid, which can then be collected and properly disposed of or reused.
- Absorption Vapor Recovery (AVR) - Absorption systems use a liquid absorbent, such as oil or water, to absorb VOCs from the vapor stream. The absorbent is then processed to recover the VOCs.
- Membrane Vapor Recovery (MVR) - Membrane systems use selective permeable membranes to separate VOCs from the vapor stream. These systems can be used in both low- and high-pressure applications.
- Activated Sludge Vapor Recovery (ASVR) - ASVR systems utilize an activated sludge process, similar to wastewater treatment, to biologically break down VOCs in the vapor stream.
- Combustion Vapor Recovery (CVR) - Combustion systems burn VOCs in the vapor stream, converting them into less harmful byproducts like carbon dioxide and water vapor.
- Recycle Vapor Recovery (RVR) - In recycle systems, the captured VOCs are condensed and returned to the process for reuse, reducing emissions and saving valuable resources.
- Floating Roof Tank (FRT) - In the context of storage tanks, floating roof tanks feature a floating roof that rises and falls with the liquid level, minimizing the vapor space and reducing VOC emissions during storage.
- Stage I and Stage II Vapor Recovery Systems - These systems are commonly used at gasoline stations. Stage I systems capture vapors from the underground storage tanks, while Stage II systems capture vapors generated during the fuel dispensing process.
- Vapor Recovery Unit (VRU) - VRUs are comprehensive systems that can include various components such as compressors, condensers, and flare systems to capture, process, and control VOC emissions from various industrial processes.
