40 C.F.R. §§ 63.163–63.174

12 sections in range

§63.163. Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

40 C.F.R. § 63.163

(a)

The provisions of this section apply to each pump that is in light liquid service.

(1)

The provisions are to be implemented on the dates specified in the specific subpart in 40 CFR part 63 that references this subpart in the phases specified below:

(i)

For each group of existing process units at existing sources subject to the provisions of subparts F or I of this part, the phases of the standard are:

(A)

Phase I, beginning on the compliance date;

(B)

Phase II, beginning no later than 1 year after the compliance date; and

(C)

Phase III, beginning no later than 2 1/2 years after the compliance date.

(ii)

For new sources subject to the provisions of subparts F or I of this part, the applicable phases of the standard are:

(A)

After initial start-up, comply with the Phase II requirements; and

(B)

Beginning no later than 1 year after initial start-up, comply with the Phase III requirements.

(iii)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for each pump in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, that is added to a CMPU, and for each pump in ethylene oxide service, that replaces a pump in ethylene oxide service, owners and operators must initially monitor for leaks within 5 days after initial startup of the equipment.

(2)

The owner or operator of a source subject to the provisions of subparts F or I of this part may elect to meet the requirements of a later phase during the time period specified for an earlier phase.

(3)

Sources subject to other subparts in 40 CFR part 63 that reference this subpart shall comply on the dates specified in the applicable subpart.

(b)

(1)

The owner or operator of a process unit subject to this subpart shall monitor each pump monthly to detect leaks by the method specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart and shall comply with the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart and paragraphs (e) through (j) of this section.

(2)

Except as specified in paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section, the instrument reading, as determined by the method as specified in § 63.180(b), that defines a leak in each phase of the standard is:

(i)

For Phase I, an instrument reading of 10,000 parts per million or greater.

(ii)

For Phase II, an instrument reading of 5,000 parts per million or greater.

(iii)

For Phase III, an instrument reading of—

(A)

5,000 parts per million or greater for pumps handling polymerizing monomers;

(B)

2,000 parts per million or greater for pumps in food/medical service; and

(C)

1,000 parts per million or greater for all other pumps.

(iv)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for pumps in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, the instrument reading that defines a leak for pumps is 500 parts per million or greater.

(3)

Each pump shall be checked by visual inspection each calendar week for indications of liquids dripping from the pump seal. If there are indications of liquids dripping from the pump seal, a leak is detected.

(c)

(1)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but not later than 15 calendar days after it is detected, except as provided in paragraph (c)(3) of this section or § 63.171 of this subpart.

(2)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after the leak is detected. First attempts at repair include, but are not limited to, the following practices where practicable:

(i)

Tightening of packing gland nuts.

(ii)

Ensuring that the seal flush is operating at design pressure and temperature.

(3)

Except as specified in paragraph (c)(4) of this section, for pumps in Phase III to which a 1,000 parts per million leak definition applies, repair is not required unless an instrument reading of 2,000 parts per million or greater is detected.

(4)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for pumps in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, paragraph (c)(3) of this section is not applicable.

(d)

(1)

The owner or operator shall decide no later than the first monitoring period whether to calculate percent leaking pumps on a process unit basis or on a source-wide basis. Once the owner or operator has decided, all subsequent percent calculations shall be made on the same basis.

(2)

If, in Phase III, calculated on a 6-month rolling average, the greater of either 10 percent of the pumps in a process unit or three pumps in a process unit leak, the owner or operator shall implement a quality improvement program for pumps that complies with the requirements of § 63.176 of this subpart.

(3)

The number of pumps at a process unit shall be the sum of all the pumps in organic HAP service, except that pumps found leaking in a continuous process unit within 1 month after start-up of the pump shall not count in the percent leaking pumps calculation for that one monitoring period only.

(4)

Percent leaking pumps shall be determined by the following equation:

(e)

Except as specified in paragraph (e)(7) of this section, each pump equipped with a dual mechanical seal system that includes a barrier fluid system is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section, provided the following requirements are met:

(1)

Each dual mechanical seal system is—

(i)

Operated with the barrier fluid at a pressure that is at all times greater than the pump stuffing box pressure; or

(ii)

Equipped with a barrier fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed-vent system to a control device that complies with the requirements of § 63.172 of this subpart; or

(iii)

Equipped with a closed-loop system that purges the barrier fluid into a process stream.

(2)

The barrier fluid is not in light liquid service.

(3)

Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both.

(4)

Each pump is checked by visual inspection each calendar week for indications of liquids dripping from the pump seal.

(i)

If there are indications of liquids dripping from the pump seal at the time of the weekly inspection, the pump shall be monitored as specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart to determine if there is a leak of organic HAP in the barrier fluid.

(ii)

If an instrument reading of 1,000 parts per million or greater is measured, a leak is detected.

(5)

Each sensor as described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section is observed daily or is equipped with an alarm unless the pump is located within the boundary of an unmanned plant site.

(6)

(i)

The owner or operator determines, based on design considerations and operating experience, criteria applicable to the presence and frequency of drips and to the sensor that indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both.

(ii)

If indications of liquids dripping from the pump seal exceed the criteria established in paragraph (e)(6)(i) of this section, or if, based on the criteria established in paragraph (e)(6)(i) of this section, the sensor indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both, a leak is detected.

(iii)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but not later than 15 calendar days after it is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart.

(iv)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after each leak is detected.

(7)

(f)

Any pump that is designed with no externally actuated shaft penetrating the pump housing is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section.

(g)

Any pump that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or equipped with a closed vent system capable of capturing and transporting leakage from the pump to a control device meeting the requirements of § 63.172 is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1)(iii), and (b) through (e) of this section.

(h)

Any pump that is located within the boundary of an unmanned plant site is exempt from the weekly visual inspection requirement of paragraphs (b)(3) and (e)(4) of this section, and the daily requirements of paragraph (e)(5) of this section, provided that each pump is visually inspected as often as practicable and at least monthly.

(i)

If more than 90 percent of the pumps at a process unit meet the criteria in either paragraph (e) or (f) of this section, the process unit is exempt from the requirements of paragraph (d) of this section.

(j)

Any pump that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(7)(i), as an unsafe-to-monitor pump is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1)(iii), and (b) through (e) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator of the pump determines that the pump is unsafe to monitor because monitoring personnel would be exposed to an immediate danger as a consequence of complying with paragraphs (a)(1)(iii), and (b) through (d) of this section; and

(2)

The owner or operator of the pump has a written plan that requires monitoring of the pump as frequently as practical during safe-to-monitor times, but not more frequently than the periodic monitoring schedule otherwise applicable.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48176, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31439, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2789, Jan. 17, 1997; 64 FR 20198, Apr. 26, 1999; 89 FR 43221, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48176, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31439, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2789, Jan. 17, 1997; 64 FR 20198, Apr. 26, 1999; 89 FR 43221, May 16, 2024]

§63.164. Standards: Compressors.

40 C.F.R. § 63.164

(a)

Each compressor shall be equipped with a seal system that includes a barrier fluid system and that prevents leakage of process fluid to the atmosphere, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart and paragraphs (h) and (i) of this section.

(b)

Each compressor seal system as required in paragraph (a) of this section shall be:

(1)

Operated with the barrier fluid at a pressure that is greater than the compressor stuffing box pressure; or

(2)

Equipped with a barrier fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed-vent system to a control device that complies with the requirements of § 63.172 of this subpart; or

(3)

Equipped with a closed-loop system that purges the barrier fluid directly into a process stream.

(c)

The barrier fluid shall not be in light liquid service.

(d)

Each barrier fluid system as described in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section shall be equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both.

(e)

(1)

Each sensor as required in paragraph (d) of this section shall be observed daily or shall be equipped with an alarm unless the compressor is located within the boundary of an unmanned plant site.

(2)

The owner or operator shall determine, based on design considerations and operating experience, a criterion that indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both.

(f)

If the sensor indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both based on the criterion determined under paragraph (e)(2) of this section, a leak is detected.

(g)

(1)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but not later than 15 calendar days after it is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart.

(2)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after each leak is detected.

(h)

A compressor is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (g) of this section if it is equipped with a system to capture and transport leakage from the compressor drive shaft seal to a process or a fuel gas system or to a closed vent system that captures and transports leakage from the compressor to a control device meeting the requirements of § 63.172 of this subpart.

(i)

Any compressor that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(2)(ii) of this subpart, to operate with an instrument reading of less than 500 parts per million above background, is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (h) of this section if the compressor:

(1)

Is demonstrated to be operating with an instrument reading of less than 500 parts per million above background, as measured by the method specified in § 63.180(c) of this subpart; and

(2)

Is tested for compliance with paragraph (i)(1) of this section initially upon designation, annually, and at other times requested by the Administrator.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48176, Sept. 20, 1994; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 64 FR 20198, Apr. 26, 1999; 89 FR 43221, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48176, Sept. 20, 1994; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 64 FR 20198, Apr. 26, 1999; 89 FR 43221, May 16, 2024]

§63.165. Standards: Pressure relief devices in gas/vapor service or light liquid service.

40 C.F.R. § 63.165

(a)

Except during pressure releases, each pressure relief device in gas/vapor service shall be operated with an instrument reading of less than 500 parts per million above background except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, as measured by the method specified in § 63.180(c). For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(10), this paragraph (a) no longer applies and instead the owner or operator must comply with paragraph (e) of this section.

(b)

Except as specified in paragraph (e) of this section, comply with paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section.

(1)

After each pressure release, the pressure relief device shall be returned to a condition indicated by an instrument reading of less than 500 parts per million above background, as soon as practicable, but no later than 5 calendar days after each pressure release, except as provided in § 63.171.

(2)

No later than 5 calendar days after the pressure release and being returned to organic HAP service, the pressure relief device shall be monitored to confirm the condition indicated by an instrument reading of less than 500 parts per million above background, as measured by the method specified in § 63.180(c).

(c)

Except as specified in paragraph (e) of this section, any pressure relief device that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or equipped with a closed-vent system capable of capturing and transporting leakage from the pressure relief device to a control device as described in § 63.172 is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section.

(d)

Except as specified in paragraph (e) of this section, comply with paragraphs (d)(1) and (d)(2) of this section.

(1)

Any pressure relief device that is equipped with a rupture disk upstream of the pressure relief device is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, provided the owner or operator complies with the requirements in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.

(2)

After each pressure release, a rupture disk shall be installed upstream of the pressure relief device as soon as practicable, but no later than 5 calendar days after each pressure release, except as provided in § 63.171.

(e)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(10), except as specified in paragraph (e)(4) of this section, owners and operators must comply with the requirements specified in paragraphs (e)(1) and (2) of this section for pressure relief devices, such as relief valves or rupture disks, in organic HAP gas or vapor service instead of the pressure relief device requirements of paragraph (a) through (d) of this section. Except as specified in paragraphs (e)(4) and (5) of this section, owners and operators must also comply with the requirements specified in paragraphs (e)(3), (6), (7), and (8) of this section for all pressure relief devices in organic HAP service.

(1)

Operating requirements. Except during a pressure release, operate each pressure relief device in organic HAP gas or vapor service with an instrument reading of less than 500 ppm above background as measured by the method in § 63.180(c).

(2)

Pressure release requirements. For pressure relief devices in organic HAP gas or vapor service, owners and operators must comply with the applicable requirements paragraphs (e)(2)(i) through (iii) of this section following a pressure release.

(i)

If the pressure relief device does not consist of or include a rupture disk, conduct instrument monitoring, as specified in § 63.180(c), no later than 5 calendar days after the pressure relief device returns to organic HAP gas or vapor service following a pressure release to verify that the pressure relief device is operating with an instrument reading of less than 500 ppm.

(ii)

If the pressure relief device includes a rupture disk, either comply with the requirements in paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this section (and do not replace the rupture disk) or install a replacement disk as soon as practicable after a pressure release, but no later than 5 calendar days after the pressure release.

(iii)

If the pressure relief device consists only of a rupture disk, install a replacement disk as soon as practicable after a pressure release, but no later than 5 calendar days after the pressure release. Owners and operators must not initiate startup of the equipment served by the rupture disk until the rupture disc is replaced.

(3)

Pressure release management. Except as specified in paragraphs (e)(4) and (5) of this section, owners and operators must comply with the requirements specified in paragraphs (e)(3)(i) through (v) of this section for all pressure relief devices in organic HAP service.

(i)

Owners and operators must equip each affected pressure relief device with a device(s) or use a monitoring system that is capable of:

(A)

Identifying the pressure release;

(B)

Recording the time and duration of each pressure release; and

(C)

Notifying operators immediately that a pressure release is occurring. The device or monitoring system must be either specific to the pressure relief device itself or must be associated with the process system or piping, sufficient to indicate a pressure release to the atmosphere. Examples of these types of devices and systems include, but are not limited to, a rupture disk indicator, magnetic sensor, motion detector on the pressure relief valve stem, flow monitor, or pressure monitor.

(ii)

Owners and operators must apply at least three redundant prevention measures to each affected pressure relief device and document these measures. Examples of prevention measures include:

(A)

Flow, temperature, liquid level and pressure indicators with deadman switches, monitors, or automatic actuators. Independent, non-duplicative systems within this category count as separate redundant prevention measures.

(B)

Documented routine inspection and maintenance programs and/or operator training (maintenance programs and operator training may count as only one redundant prevention measure).

(C)

Inherently safer designs or safety instrumentation systems.

(D)

Deluge systems.

(E)

Staged relief system where the initial pressure relief device (with lower set release pressure) discharges to a flare or other closed vent system and control device.

(iii)

If any affected pressure relief device releases to atmosphere as a result of a pressure release event, owners and operators must perform root cause analysis and corrective action analysis according to the requirement in paragraph (e)(6) of this section and implement corrective actions according to the requirements in paragraph (e)(7) of this section. Owners and operators must also calculate the quantity of organic HAP released during each pressure release event and report this quantity as required in § 63.182(d)(2)(xviii). Calculations may be based on data from the pressure relief device monitoring alone or in combination with process parameter monitoring data and process knowledge.

(iv)

Owners and operators must determine the total number of release events that occurred during the calendar year for each affected pressure relief device separately.

(v)

Except for pressure relief devices described in paragraphs (e)(4) and (5) of this section, the following release events from an affected pressure relief device are a violation of the pressure release management work practice standards.

(A)

Except as specified in paragraph (e)(3)(v)(D) of this section, any release event for which the root cause of the event was determined to be operator error or poor maintenance.

(B)

Except as specified in paragraph (e)(3)(v)(D) of this section, a second release event from a single pressure relief device in a 3 calendar year period for the same root cause for the same equipment.

(C)

Except as specified in paragraph (e)(3)(v)(D) of this section, a third release event from a single pressure relief device in a 3 calendar year period for any reason.

(D)

Paragraphs (e)(3)(v)(A) through (e)(3)(v)(C) of this section do not apply to pressure relief devices in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101; instead, any release event from an affected pressure relief device in ethylene oxide service is a violation of the pressure release management work practice standards.

(4)

Pressure relief devices routed to a control device, process, fuel gas system, or drain system.

(i)

If all releases and potential leaks from a pressure relief device are routed through a closed vent system to a control device, back into the process, to the fuel gas system, or to a drain system, then owners and operators are not required to comply with paragraph (e)(1), (2), or (3) of this section.

(ii)

Both the closed vent system and control device (if applicable) referenced in paragraph (e)(4)(i) of this section must meet the applicable requirements specified in § 63.172.

(iii)

The drain system (if applicable) referenced in paragraph (e)(4)(i) of this section must meet the applicable requirements specified in § 63.136(e).

(5)

Pressure relief devices exempted from pressure release management requirements. The following types of pressure relief devices are not subject to the pressure release management requirements in paragraph (e)(3) of this section.

(i)

Pressure relief devices in heavy liquid service, as defined in § 63.161.

(ii)

Thermal expansion relief valves.

(iii)

Pressure relief devices on mobile equipment.

(iv)

Pilot-operated pressure relief devices where the primary release valve is routed through a closed vent system to a control device or back into the process, to the fuel gas system, or to a drain system.

(v)

Balanced bellows pressure relief devices where the primary release valve is routed through a closed vent system to a control device or back into the process, to the fuel gas system, or to a drain system.

(6)

Root cause analysis and corrective action analysis. A root cause analysis and corrective action analysis must be completed as soon as possible, but no later than 45 days after a release event. Special circumstances affecting the number of root cause analyses and/or corrective action analyses are provided in paragraphs (e)(6)(i) through (iii) of this section.

(i)

Owners and operators may conduct a single root cause analysis and corrective action analysis for a single emergency event that causes two or more pressure relief devices installed on the same equipment to release.

(ii)

[Reserved]

(iii)

Except as provided in paragraph (e)(6)(i) of this section, if more than one pressure relief device has a release during the same time period, an initial root cause analysis must be conducted separately for each pressure relief device that had a release. If the initial root cause analysis indicates that the release events have the same root cause(s), the initially separate root cause analyses may be recorded as a single root cause analysis and a single corrective action analysis may be conducted.

(7)

Corrective action implementation. Owners and operators must conduct a root cause analysis and corrective action analysis as specified in paragraphs (e)(3)(iii) and (e)(6) of this section, and owners and operators must implement the corrective action(s) identified in the corrective action analysis in accordance with the applicable requirements in paragraphs (e)(7)(i) through (iii) of this section.

(i)

All corrective action(s) must be implemented within 45 days of the event for which the root cause and corrective action analyses were required or as soon thereafter as practicable. If the owner or operator concludes that no corrective action should be implemented, the owner or operator must record and explain the basis for that conclusion no later than 45 days following the event.

(ii)

For corrective actions that cannot be fully implemented within 45 days following the event for which the root cause and corrective action analyses were required, owners and operators must develop an implementation schedule to complete the corrective action(s) as soon as practicable.

(iii)

No later than 45 days following the event for which a root cause and corrective action analyses were required, owners and operators must record the corrective action(s) completed to date, and, for action(s) not already completed, a schedule for implementation, including proposed commencement and completion dates.

(8)

Flowing pilot-operated pressure relief devices. For affected sources that commenced construction or reconstruction on or before April 25, 2023, owners and operators are prohibited from installing a flowing pilot-operated pressure relief device or replacing any pressure relief device with a flowing pilot-operated pressure relief device after July 15, 2027. For affected sources that commenced construction or reconstruction after April 25, 2023, owners and operators are prohibited from installing and operating flowing pilot-operated pressure relief devices. For purpose of compliance with this paragraph, a flowing pilot-operated pressure relief device means the type of pilot-operated pressure relief device where the pilot discharge vent continuously releases emissions to the atmosphere when the pressure relief device is actuated.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[89 FR 43221, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[89 FR 43221, May 16, 2024]

§63.166. Standards: Sampling connection systems.

40 C.F.R. § 63.166

(a)

Each sampling connection system shall be equipped with a closed-purge, closed-loop, or closed-vent system, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart. Gases displaced during filling of the sample container are not required to be collected or captured.

(b)

Each closed-purge, closed-loop, or closed-vent system as required in paragraph (a) of this section shall:

(1)

Return the purged process fluid directly to the process line; or

(2)

Collect and recycle the purged process fluid to a process; or

(3)

Be designed and operated to capture and transport the purged process fluid to a control device that complies with the requirements of § 63.172 of this subpart; or

(4)

Collect, store, and transport the purged process fluid to a system or facility identified in paragraph (b)(4)(i), (ii), or (iii) of this section.

(i)

A waste management unit as defined in § 63.111 of subpart G of this part, if the waste management unit is subject to, and operated in compliance with the provisions of subpart G of this part applicable to group 1 wastewater streams. If the purged process fluid does not contain any organic HAP listed in Table 9 of subpart G of part 63, the waste management unit need not be subject to, and operated in compliance with the requirements of 40 CFR part 63, subpart G applicable to group 1 wastewater streams provided the facility has an NPDES permit or sends the wastewater to an NPDES permitted facility.

(ii)

A treatment, storage, or disposal facility subject to regulation under 40 CFR part 262, 264, 265, or 266; or

(iii)

A facility permitted, licensed, or registered by a State to manage municipal or industrial solid waste, if the process fluids are not hazardous waste as defined in 40 CFR part 261.

(c)

In-situ— sampling systems and sampling systems without purges are exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 31439, June 20, 1996]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 31439, June 20, 1996]

§63.167. Standards: Open-ended valves or lines.

40 C.F.R. § 63.167

(a)

(1)

Each open-ended valve or line shall be equipped with a cap, blind flange, plug, or a second valve, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart and paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section.

(2)

The cap, blind flange, plug, or second valve shall seal the open end at all times except during operations requiring process fluid flow through the open-ended valve or line, or during maintenance or repair.

(b)

Each open-ended valve or line equipped with a second valve shall be operated in a manner such that the valve on the process fluid end is closed before the second valve is closed.

(c)

When a double block and bleed system is being used, the bleed valve or line may remain open during operations that require venting the line between the block valves but shall comply with paragraph (a) of this section at all other times.

(d)

Open-ended valves or lines in an emergency shutdown system which are designed to open automatically in the event of a process upset are exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this section.

(e)

Open-ended valves or lines containing materials which would autocatalytically polymerize or, would present an explosion, serious overpressure, or other safety hazard if capped or equipped with a double block and bleed system as specified in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section are exempt from the requirements of paragraph (a) through (c) of this section.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996]

§63.168. Standards: Valves in gas/vapor service and in light liquid service.

40 C.F.R. § 63.168

(a)

The provisions of this section apply to valves that are either in gas service or in light liquid service.

(1)

The provisions are to be implemented on the dates set forth in the specific subpart in 40 CFR part 63 that references this subpart as specified in paragraph (a)(1)(i), (a)(1)(ii), or (a)(1)(iii) of this section.

(i)

For each group of existing process units at existing sources subject to the provisions of subpart F or I of this part, the phases of the standard are:

(A)

Phase I, beginning on the compliance date;

(B)

Phase II, beginning no later than 1 year after the compliance date; and

(C)

Phase III, beginning no later than 2 1/2 years after the compliance date.

(ii)

For new sources subject to the provisions of subpart F or I of this part, the applicable phases of the standard are:

(A)

After initial start-up, comply with the Phase II requirements; and

(B)

Beginning no later than 1 year after initial start-up, comply with the Phase III requirements.

(iii)

Sources subject to other subparts in 40 CFR part 63 that reference this subpart shall comply on the dates specified in the applicable subpart.

(2)

The owner or operator of a source subject to this subpart may elect to meet the requirements of a later phase during the time period specified for an earlier phase.

(3)

The use of monitoring data generated before April 22, 1994 to qualify for less frequent monitoring is governed by the provisions of § 63.180(b)(6) of this subpart.

(b)

The owner or operator of a source subject to this subpart shall monitor all valves, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart and paragraphs (h) and (i) of this section, at the intervals specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section and shall comply with all other provisions of this section, except as provided in § 63.171, § 63.177, § 63.178, and § 63.179 of this subpart.

(1)

The valves shall be monitored to detect leaks by the method specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart.

(2)

Except as specified in paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section, the instrument reading that defines a leak in each phase of the standard is:

(i)

For Phase I, an instrument reading of 10,000 parts per million or greater.

(ii)

For Phase II, an instrument reading of 500 parts per million or greater.

(iii)

For Phase III, an instrument reading of 500 parts per million or greater.

(iv)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for valves in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, that are either in gas service or in light liquid service the instrument reading that defines a leak is 100 parts per million or greater.

(c)

In Phases I and II, each valve shall be monitored quarterly.

(d)

Except as specified in paragraph (d)(5) of this section, in Phase III, the owner or

(1)

At process units with 2 percent or greater leaking valves, calculated according to paragraph (e) of this section, the owner or operator shall either:

(i)

Monitor each valve once per month; or

(ii)

Within the first year after the onset of Phase III, implement a quality improvement program for valves that complies with the requirements of § 63.175 (d) or (e) of this subpart and monitor quarterly.

(2)

At process units with less than 2 percent leaking valves, the owner or operator shall monitor each valve once each quarter, except as provided in paragraphs (d)(3) and (d)(4) of this section.

(3)

At process units with less than 1 percent leaking valves, the owner or operator may elect to monitor each valve once every 2 quarters.

(4)

At process units with less than 0.5 percent leaking valves, the owner or operator may elect to monitor each valve once every 4 quarters.

(5)

(e)

(1)

Percent leaking valves at a process unit shall be determined by the following equation:

(2)

For use in determining monitoring frequency, as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, the percent leaking valves shall be calculated as a rolling average of two consecutive monitoring periods for monthly, quarterly, or semiannual monitoring programs; and as an average of any three out of four consecutive monitoring periods for annual monitoring programs.

(3)

(i)

Nonrepairable valves shall be included in the calculation of percent leaking valves the first time the valve is identified as leaking and nonrepairable and as required to comply with paragraph (e)(3)(ii) of this section. Otherwise, a number of nonrepairable valves (identified and included in the percent leaking calculation in a previous period) up to a maximum of 1 percent of the total number of valves in organic HAP service at a process unit may be excluded from calculation of percent leaking valves for subsequent monitoring periods.

(ii)

If the number of nonrepairable valves exceeds 1 percent of the total number of valves in organic HAP service at a process unit, the number of nonrepairable valves exceeding 1 percent of the total number of valves in organic HAP service shall be included in the calculation of percent leaking valves.

(f)

(1)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but no later than 15 calendar days after the leak is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart.

(2)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after each leak is detected.

(3)

When a leak has been repaired, the valve shall be monitored at least once within the first 3 months after its repair.

(i)

The monitoring shall be conducted as specified in § 63.180 (b) and (c), as appropriate, to determine whether the valve has resumed leaking.

(ii)

Periodic monitoring required by paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section may be used to satisfy the requirements of this paragraph (f)(3), if the timing of the monitoring period coincides with the time specified in this paragraph (f)(3). Alternatively, other monitoring may be performed to satisfy the requirements of this paragraph (f)(3), regardless of whether the timing of the monitoring period for periodic monitoring coincides with the time specified in this paragraph (f)(3).

(iii)

If a leak is detected by monitoring that is conducted pursuant to paragraph (f)(3) of this section, the owner or operator shall follow the provisions of paragraphs (f)(3)(iii)(A) and (f)(3)(iii)(B) of this section, to determine whether that valve must be counted as a leaking valve for purposes of § 63.168(e) of this subpart.

(A)

If the owner or operator elected to use periodic monitoring required by paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section to satisfy the requirements of paragraph (f)(3) of this section, then the valve shall be counted as a leaking valve.

(B)

If the owner or operator elected to use other monitoring, prior to the periodic monitoring required by paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section, to satisfy the requirements of paragraph (f)(3) of this section, then the valve shall be counted as a leaking valve unless it is repaired and shown by periodic monitoring not to be leaking.

(g)

First attempts at repair include, but are not limited to, the following practices where practicable—

(1)

Tightening of bonnet bolts,

(2)

Replacement of bonnet bolts,

(3)

Tightening of packing gland nuts, and

(4)

Injection of lubricant into lubricated packing.

(h)

Any valve that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(7)(i) of this subpart, as an unsafe-to-monitor valve is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator of the valve determines that the valve is unsafe to monitor because monitoring personnel would be exposed to an immediate danger as a consequence of complying with paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section; and

(2)

The owner or operator of the valve has a written plan that requires monitoring of the valve as frequently as practicable during safe-to-monitor times, but not more frequently than the periodic monitoring schedule otherwise applicable.

(i)

Any valve that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(7)(ii) of this subpart, as a difficult-to-monitor valve is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator of the valve determines that the valve cannot be monitored without elevating the monitoring personnel more than 2 meters above a support surface or it is not accessible at anytime in a safe manner;

(2)

The process unit within which the valve is located is an existing source or the owner or operator designates less than 3 percent of the total number of valves in a new source as difficult-to-monitor; and

(3)

The owner or operator of the valve follows a written plan that requires monitoring of the valve at least once per calendar year.

(j)

Any equipment located at a plant site with fewer than 250 valves in organic HAP service is exempt from the requirements for monthly monitoring and a quality improvement program specified in paragraph (d)(1) of this section. Instead, the owner or operator shall monitor each valve in organic HAP service for leaks once each quarter, or comply with paragraph (d)(3) or (d)(4) of this section except as provided in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this section.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48176, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 89 FR 43223, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48176, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 89 FR 43223, May 16, 2024]

§63.169. Standards: Pumps, valves, connectors, and agitators in heavy liquid service; instrumentation systems; and pressure relief devices in liquid service.

40 C.F.R. § 63.169

(a)

Pumps, valves, connectors, and agitators in heavy liquid service, pressure relief devices in light liquid or heavy liquid service, and instrumentation systems shall be monitored within 5 calendar days by the method specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart if evidence of a potential leak to the atmosphere is found by visual, audible, olfactory, or any other detection method. If such a potential leak is repaired as required in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, it is not necessary to monitor the system for leaks by the method specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart.

(b)

If an instrument reading of 10,000 parts per million or greater for agitators, 5,000 parts per million or greater for pumps handling polymerizing monomers, 2,000 parts per million or greater for all other pumps (including pumps in food/medical service), or 500 parts per million or greater for valves, connectors, instrumentation systems, and pressure relief devices is measured, a leak is detected.

(c)

(1)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but not later than 15 calendar days after it is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart.

(2)

The first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after each leak is detected.

(3)

For equipment identified in paragraph (a) of this section that is not monitored by the method specified in § 63.180(b), repaired shall mean that the visual, audible, olfactory, or other indications of a leak to the atmosphere have been eliminated; that no bubbles are observed at potential leak sites during a leak check using soap solution; or that the system will hold a test pressure.

(d)

First attempts at repair include, but are not limited to, the practices described under §§ 63.163(c)(2) and 63.168(g) of this subpart, for pumps and valves, respectively.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 60 FR 18029, Apr. 10, 1995; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 65 FR 78285, Dec. 14, 2000]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 60 FR 18029, Apr. 10, 1995; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 65 FR 78285, Dec. 14, 2000]

§63.170. Standards: Surge control vessels and bottoms receivers.

40 C.F.R. § 63.170

(a)

Except as specified in paragraph (b) of this section, each surge control vessel or bottoms receiver that is not routed back to the process and that meets the conditions specified in table 2 or table 3 of this subpart shall be equipped with a closed-vent system that routes the organic vapors vented from the surge control vessel or bottoms receiver back to the process or to a control device that complies with the requirements in § 63.172, except as provided in § 63.162(b), or comply with the requirements of § 63.119(b) or (c).

(b)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(10), paragraph (a) of this section no longer applies. Instead, each surge control vessel and bottoms receiver that is not routed back to the process and emits greater than or equal to 1.0 lb/hr of total organic HAP must be equipped with a closed-vent system that routes the organic vapors vented from the surge control vessel or bottoms receiver back to the process or to a control device that complies with the requirements in § 63.172, except as provided in § 63.162(b), or comply with the requirements of § 63.113(a)(1) or (a)(2).

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

§63.171. Standards: Delay of repair.

40 C.F.R. § 63.171

(a)

Except as specified in paragraph (f) of this section, delay of repair of equipment for which leaks have been detected is allowed if repair within 15 days is technically infeasible without a process unit shutdown. Repair of this equipment shall occur by the end of the next process unit shutdown.

(b)

Delay of repair of equipment for which leaks have been detected is allowed for equipment that is isolated from the process and that does not remain in organic HAP service.

(c)

Except as specified in paragraph (f) of this section, delay of repair for valves, connectors, and agitators is also allowed if:

(1)

The owner or operator determines that emissions of purged material resulting from immediate repair would be greater than the fugitive emissions likely to result from delay of repair, and

(2)

When repair procedures are effected, the purged material is collected and destroyed or recovered in a control device complying with § 63.172 of this subpart.

(d)

Except as specified in paragraph (f) of this section, delay of repair for pumps is also allowed if—

(1)

Repair requires replacing the existing seal design with a new system that the owner or operator has determined under the provisions of § 63.176(d) of this subpart will provide better performance or:

(i)

A dual mechanical seal system that meets the requirements of § 63.163(e) of this subpart,

(ii)

A pump that meets the requirements of § 63.163(f) of this subpart, or

(iii)

A closed-vent system and control device that meets the requirements of § 63.163(g) of this subpart; and

(2)

Repair is completed as soon as practicable, but not later than 6 months after the leak was detected.

(e)

Except as specified in paragraph (f) of this section, delay of repair beyond a process unit shutdown will be allowed for a valve if valve assembly replacement is necessary during the process unit shutdown, valve assembly supplies have been depleted, and valve assembly supplies had been sufficiently stocked before the supplies were depleted. Delay of repair beyond the second process unit shutdown will not be allowed unless the third process unit shutdown occurs sooner than 6 months after the first process unit shutdown.

(f)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), delay of repair is not allowed for light liquid pumps in ethylene oxide service, gas/vapor and light liquid valves in ethylene oxide service, and connectors in ethylene oxide service.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 65 FR 78285, Dec. 14, 2000; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 65 FR 78285, Dec. 14, 2000; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

§63.172. Standards: Closed-vent systems and control devices.

40 C.F.R. § 63.172

(a)

Owners or operators of closed-vent systems and control devices used to comply with provisions of this subpart shall comply with the provisions of this section, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart.

(b)

Recovery or recapture devices (e.g., condensers and absorbers) shall be designed and operated to recover the organic hazardous air pollutant emissions or volatile organic compounds emissions vented to them with an efficiency of 95 percent or greater, or to an exit concentration of 20 parts per million by volume, whichever is less stringent. The 20 parts per million by volume performance standard is not applicable to the provisions of § 63.179.

(c)

Enclosed combustion devices shall be designed and operated to reduce the organic hazardous air pollutant emissions or volatile organic compounds emissions vented to them with an efficiency of 95 percent or greater, or to an exit concentration of 20 parts per million by volume, on a dry basis, corrected to 3 percent oxygen, whichever is less stringent, or to provide a minimum residence time of 0.50 seconds at a minimum temperature of 760 °C.

(d)

Except as specified in paragraph (a) of § 63.108, flares used to comply with this subpart shall comply with the requirements of § 63.11(b).

(e)

Owners or operators of control devices that are used to comply with the provisions of this subpart shall monitor these control devices to ensure that they are operated and maintained in conformance with their design.

(f)

Except as provided in paragraphs (k) and (l) of this section, each closed-vent system shall be inspected according to the procedures and schedule specified in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this section.

(1)

If the closed-vent system is constructed of hard-piping, the owner or operator shall:

(i)

Conduct an initial inspection according to the procedures in paragraph (g) of this section, and

(ii)

Conduct annual visual inspections for visible, audible, or olfactory indications of leaks.

(2)

If the vapor collection system or closed-vent system is constructed of duct work, the owner or operator shall:

(i)

Conduct an initial inspection according to the procedures in paragraph (g) of this section, and

(ii)

Conduct annual inspections according to the procedures in paragraph (g) of this section.

(g)

Each closed-vent system shall be inspected according to the procedures in § 63.180(b) of this subpart.

(h)

Leaks, as indicated by an instrument reading greater than 500 parts per million above background or by visual inspections, shall be repaired as soon as practicable, except as provided in paragraph (i) of this section.

(1)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after the leak is detected.

(2)

Repair shall be completed no later than 15 calendar days after the leak is detected, except as provided in paragraph (i) of this section.

(i)

Delay of repair of a closed-vent system for which leaks have been detected is allowed if the repair is technically infeasible without a process unit shutdown or if the owner or operator determines that emissions resulting from immediate repair would be greater than the fugitive emissions likely to result from delay of repair. Repair of such equipment shall be complete by the end of the next process unit shutdown.

(j)

For each closed-vent system that contains bypass lines that could divert a vent stream away from the control device and to the atmosphere, the owner or operator shall comply with the provisions of either paragraphs (j)(1) or (j)(2), and (j)(4) of this section, except as provided in paragraph (j)(3) of this section.

(1)

Install, set or adjust, maintain, and operate a flow indicator that takes a reading at least once every 15 minutes. Records shall be generated as specified in § 63.118(a)(3) of subpart G of this part. The flow indicator shall be installed at the entrance to any bypass line; or

(2)

Secure the bypass line valve in the non-diverting position with a car-seal or a lock-and-key type configuration. A visual inspection of the seal or closure mechanism shall be performed at least once every month to ensure the valve is maintained in the non-diverting position and the vent stream is not diverted through the bypass line.

(3)

Except as specified in paragraph (j)(4) of this section, equipment such as low leg drains, high point bleeds, analyzer vents, open-ended valves or lines, and pressure relief valves needed for safety purposes are not subject to this paragraph.

(4)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(10):

(i)

The use of a bypass line at any time on a closed vent system (used to comply with the provisions of this subpart) to divert emissions to the atmosphere or to a control device not meeting the requirements specified in this subpart is an emissions standards violation.

(ii)

Paragraph (j)(3) of this section does not apply. Instead, the exemptions specified in paragraph (j)(4)(ii)(A) and (j)(4)(ii)(B) of this section apply.

(A)

Except for pressure relief devices subject to § 63.165(e)(4), equipment such as low leg drains and equipment subject to the requirements specified in subpart H of this part are not subject to this paragraph (j) of this section.

(B)

Open-ended valves or lines that use a cap, blind flange, plug, or second valve and follow the requirements specified in 40 CFR 60.482-6(a)(2), (b), and (c) or follow requirements codified in another regulation that are the same as 40 CFR 60.482-6(a)(2), (b), and (c) are not subject to this paragraph (j) of this section.

(k)

Any parts of the closed-vent system that are designated, as described in paragraph 63.181(b)(7)(i), as unsafe to inspect are exempt from the inspection requirements of paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator determines that the equipment is unsafe to inspect because inspecting personnel would be exposed to an imminent or potential danger as a consequence of complying with paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(2) of this section; and

(2)

The owner or operator has a written plan that requires inspection of the equipment as frequently as practicable during safe-to-inspect times, but not more frequently than annually.

(l)

Any parts of the closed-vent system that are designated, as described in § 63.181 (b)(7)(i) of this subpart, as difficult to inspect are exempt from the inspection requirements of paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator determines that the equipment cannot be inspected without elevating the inspecting personnel more than 2 meters above a support surface; and

(2)

The owner or operator has a written plan that requires inspection of the equipment at least once every 5 years.

(m)

Whenever organic HAP emissions are vented to a closed-vent system or control device used to comply with the provisions of this subpart, such system or control device shall be operating.

(n)

After the compliance dates specified in § 63.100 of subpart F of this part, the owner or operator of any control device subject to this subpart that is also subject to monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements in 40 CFR part 264, subpart BB, or is subject to monitoring and recordkeeping requirements in 40 CFR part 265, subpart BB, may elect to comply either with the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements of this subpart, or with the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements in 40 CFR parts 264 and/or 265, as described in this paragraph, which shall constitute compliance with the monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting requirements of this subpart. The owner or operator shall identify which option has been chosen, in the next periodic report required by § 63.182(d).

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2790, Jan. 17, 1997; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

§63.173. Standards: Agitators in gas/vapor service and in light liquid service.

40 C.F.R. § 63.173

(a)

(1)

Each agitator shall be monitored monthly to detect leaks by the methods specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart.

(2)

If an instrument reading of 10,000 parts per million or greater is measured, a leak is detected.

(b)

(1)

Each agitator shall be checked by visual inspection each calendar week for indications of liquids dripping from the agitator.

(2)

If there are indications of liquids dripping from the agitator, a leak is detected.

(c)

(1)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but not later than 15 calendar days after it is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart.

(2)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after each leak is detected.

(d)

Each agitator equipped with a dual mechanical seal system that includes a barrier fluid system is exempt from the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, provided the requirements specified in paragraphs (d)(1) through (d)(6) of this section are met:

(1)

Each dual mechanical seal system is—

(i)

Operated with the barrier fluid at a pressure that is at all times greater than the agitator stuffing box pressure; or

(ii)

(iii)

Equipped with a closed-loop system that purges the barrier fluid into a process stream.

(2)

The barrier fluid is not in light liquid organic HAP service.

(3)

Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both.

(4)

Each agitator is checked by visual inspection each calendar week for indications of liquids dripping from the agitator seal.

(i)

If there are indications of liquids dripping from the agitator seal at the time of the weekly inspection, the agitator shall be monitored as specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart to determine the presence of organic HAP in the barrier fluid.

(ii)

If an instrument reading of 10,000 parts per million or greater is measured, a leak is detected.

(5)

Each sensor as described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section is observed daily or is equipped with an alarm unless the agitator is located within the boundary of an unmanned plant site.

(6)

(i)

(ii)

If indications of liquids dripping from the agitator seal exceed the criteria established in paragraph (d)(6)(i) of this section, or if, based on the criteria established in paragraph (d)(6)(i) of this section, the sensor indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both, a leak is detected.

(iii)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but not later than 15 calendar days after it is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart.

(iv)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after each leak is detected.

(e)

Any agitator that is designed with no externally actuated shaft penetrating the agitator housing is exempt from paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section.

(f)

Any agitator if it is equipped with a system to capture and transport leakage from the agitator to a process or a fuel gas system or to a closed vent system that captures and transports leakage from the agitator to a control device meeting the requirements of § 63.172 is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (c) of the section.

(g)

Any agitator that is located within the boundary of an unmanned plant site is exempt from the weekly visual inspection requirement of paragraphs (b)(1) and (d)(4) of this section, and the daily requirements of paragraph (d)(5) of this section, provided that each agitator is visually inspected as often as practical and at least monthly.

(h)

Any agitator that is difficult-to-monitor is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator determines that the agitator cannot be monitored without elevating the monitoring personnel more than two meters above a support surface or it is not accessible at anytime in a safe manner;

(2)

The process unit within which the agitator is located is an existing source or the owner or operator designates less than three percent of the total number of agitators in a new source as difficult-to-monitor; and

(3)

The owner or operator follows a written plan that requires monitoring of the agitator at least once per calendar year.

(i)

Any agitator that is obstructed by equipment or piping that prevents access to the agitator by a monitor probe is exempt from the monitoring requirements of paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section.

(j)

Any agitator that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(7)(i) of this subpart, as an unsafe-to-monitor agitator is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator of the agitator determines that the agitator is unsafe to monitor because monitoring personnel would be exposed to an immediate danger as a consequence of complying with paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section; and

(2)

The owner or operator of the agitator has a written plan that requires monitoring of the agitator as frequently as practical during safe-to-monitor times, but not more frequently than the periodic monitoring schedule otherwise applicable.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2791, Jan. 17, 1997; 64 FR 20198, Apr. 26, 1999; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2791, Jan. 17, 1997; 64 FR 20198, Apr. 26, 1999; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

§63.174. Standards: Connectors in gas/vapor service and in light liquid service.

40 C.F.R. § 63.174

(a)

The owner or operator of a process unit subject to this subpart shall monitor all connectors in gas/vapor and light liquid service, except as provided in § 63.162(b) of this subpart, and in paragraphs (f) through (h) of this section, at the intervals specified in paragraph (b) of this section.

(1)

The connectors shall be monitored to detect leaks by the method specified in § 63.180(b) of this subpart.

(2)

Except as specified in paragraph (a)(3) of this section, if an instrument reading greater than or equal to 500 parts per million is measured, a leak is detected.

(3)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for connectors in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, the instrument reading that defines a leak for connectors is 100 parts per million or greater.

(b)

The owner or operator shall monitor for leaks at the intervals specified in either paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section and in paragraphs (b)(3) through (b)(5) of this section.

(1)

For each group of existing process units within an existing source, by no later than 12 months after the compliance date, the owner or operator shall monitor all connectors, except as provided in paragraphs (f) through (h) of this section.

(2)

For new sources, within the first 12 months after initial start-up or by no later than 12 months after the date of promulgation of a specific subpart that references this subpart, whichever is later, the owner or operator shall monitor all connectors, except as provided in paragraphs (f) through (h) of this section.

(3)

After conducting the initial survey required in paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section, the owner or operator shall perform all subsequent monitoring of connectors at the frequencies specified in paragraphs (b)(3)(i) through (b)(3)(v) of this section, except as provided in paragraphs (b)(3)(vi) and (c)(2) of this section:

(i)

Once per year (i.e., 12-month period), if the percent leaking connectors in the process unit was 0.5 percent or greater during the last required annual or biennial monitoring period.

(ii)

Once every 2 years, if the percent leaking connectors was less than 0.5 percent during the last required monitoring period. An owner or operator may comply with this paragraph by monitoring at least 40 percent of the connectors in the first year and the remainder of the connectors in the second year. The percent leaking connectors will be calculated for the total of all monitoring performed during the 2-year period.

(iii)

If the owner or operator of a process unit in a biennial leak detection and repair program calculates less than 0.5 percent leaking connectors from the 2-year monitoring period, the owner or operator may monitor the connectors one time every 4 years. An owner or operator may comply with the requirements of this paragraph by monitoring at least 20 percent of the connectors each year until all connectors have been monitored within 4 years.

(iv)

If a process unit complying with the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section using a 4-year monitoring interval program has greater than or equal to 0.5 percent but less than 1 percent leaking connectors, the owner or operator shall increase the monitoring frequency to one time every 2 years. An owner or operator may comply with the requirements of this paragraph by monitoring at least 40 percent of the connectors in the first year and the remainder of the connectors in the second year. The owner or operator may again elect to use the provisions of paragraph (b)(3)(iii) of this section when the percent leaking connectors decreases to less than 0.5 percent.

(v)

If a process unit complying with requirements of paragraph (b)(3)(iii) of this section using a 4-year monitoring interval program has 1 percent or greater leaking connectors, the owner or operator shall increase the monitoring frequency to one time per year. The owner or operator may again elect to use the provisions of paragraph (b)(3)(iii) of this section when the percent leaking connectors decreases to less than 0.5 percent.

(vi)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for connectors in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, the monitoring period is once every month and paragraph (c)(2) of this section is not applicable.

(4)

The use of monitoring data generated before April 22, 1994 to qualify for less frequent monitoring is governed by the provisions of § 63.180(b)(6).

(5)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for each connector in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, that is added to a CMPU, and for each connector in ethylene oxide service that replaces a connector in ethylene oxide service, owners and operators must initially monitor for leaks within 5 days after initial startup of the equipment.

(c)

(1)

(i)

Except as provided in paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section, each connector that has been opened or has otherwise had the seal broken shall be monitored for leaks when it is reconnected or within the first 3 months after being returned to organic hazardous air pollutants service. If the monitoring detects a leak, it shall be repaired according to the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section, unless it is determined to be nonrepairable, in which case it is counted as a nonrepairable connector for the purposes of paragraph (i)(2) of this section.

(ii)

As an alternative to the requirements in paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section, an owner or operator may choose not to monitor connectors that have been opened or otherwise had the seal broken. In this case, the owner or operator may not count nonrepairable connectors for the purposes of paragraph (i)(2) of this section. The owner or operator shall calculate the percent leaking connectors for the monitoring periods described in paragraph (b) of this section, by setting the nonrepairable component, CAN, in the equation in paragraph (i)(2) of this section to zero for all monitoring periods.

(iii)

An owner or operator may switch alternatives described in paragraphs (c)(1) (i) and (ii) of this section at the end of the current monitoring period he is in, provided that it is reported as required in § 63.182 of this subpart and begin the new alternative in annual monitoring. The initial monitoring in the new alternative shall be completed no later than 12 months after reporting the switch.

(2)

As an alternative to the requirements of paragraph (b)(3) of this section, each screwed connector 2 inches or less in nominal inside diameter installed in a process unit before the dates specified in paragraph (c)(2)(iii) or (c)(2)(iv) of this section may:

(i)

Comply with the requirements of § 63.169 of this subpart, and

(ii)

Be monitored for leaks within the first 3 months after being returned to organic hazardous air pollutants service after having been opened or otherwise had the seal broken. If that monitoring detects a leak, it shall be repaired according to the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section.

(iii)

For sources subject to subparts F and I of this part, the provisions of paragraph (c)(2) of this section apply to screwed connectors installed before December 31, 1992.

(iv)

For sources not identified in paragraph (c)(2)(iii) of this section, the provisions of paragraph (c)(2) of this section apply to screwed connectors installed before the date of proposal of the applicable subpart of this part that references this subpart.

(d)

When a leak is detected, it shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but no later than 15 calendar days after the leak is detected, except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section and in § 63.171 of this subpart. A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after the leak is detected.

(e)

[Reserved]

(f)

Any connector that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(7)(i) of this subpart, as an unsafe-to-monitor connector is exempt from the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator determines that the connector is unsafe to monitor because personnel would be exposed to an immediate danger as a result of complying with paragraphs (a) through (e) of this section; and

(2)

The owner or operator has a written plan that requires monitoring of the connector as frequently as practicable during safe to monitor periods, but not more frequently than the periodic schedule otherwise applicable.

(g)

Except as specified in paragraph (g)(3) of this section, any connector that is designated, as described in § 63.181(b)(7)(iii), as an unsafe-to-repair connector is exempt from the requirements of paragraphs (a), (d), and (e) of this section if:

(1)

The owner or operator determines that repair personnel would be exposed to an immediate danger as a consequence of complying with paragraph (d) of this section; and

(2)

The connector will be repaired before the end of the next scheduled process unit shutdown.

(3)

For each source as defined in § 63.101, and for each source as defined in § 63.191, beginning no later than the compliance dates specified in § 63.100(k)(11), for connectors in ethylene oxide service, as defined in § 63.101, paragraph (g) of this section is no longer applicable.

(h)

(1)

Any connector that is inaccessible or is ceramic or ceramic-lined (e.g., porcelain, glass, or glass-lined), is exempt from the monitoring requirements of paragraphs (a) and (c) of this section and from the recordkeeping and reporting requirements of § 63.181 and § 63.182 of this subpart. An inaccessible connector is one that is:

(i)

Buried;

(ii)

Insulated in a manner that prevents access to the connector by a monitor probe;

(iii)

Obstructed by equipment or piping that prevents access to the connector by a monitor probe;

(iv)

Unable to be reached from a wheeled scissor-lift or hydraulic-type scaffold which would allow access to connectors up to 7.6 meters (25 feet) above the ground;

(v)

Inaccessible because it would require elevating the monitoring personnel more than 2 meters above a permanent support surface or would require the erection of scaffold; or

(vi)

Not able to be accessed at any time in a safe manner to perform monitoring. Unsafe access includes, but is not limited to, the use of a wheeled scissor-lift on unstable or uneven terrain, the use of a motorized man-lift basket in areas where an ignition potential exists, or access would require near proximity to hazards such as electrical lines, or would risk damage to equipment.

(2)

If any inaccessible or ceramic or ceramic-lined connector is observed by visual, audible, olfactory, or other means to be leaking, the leak shall be repaired as soon as practicable, but no later than 15 calendar days after the leak is detected, except as provided in § 63.171 of this subpart and paragraph (g) of this section.

(3)

A first attempt at repair shall be made no later than 5 calendar days after the leak is detected.

(i)

For use in determining the monitoring frequency, as specified in paragraph (b) of this section, the percent leaking connectors shall be calculated as specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this section.

(1)

For the first monitoring period, use the following equation—

(2)

For subsequent monitoring periods, use the following equation—

(j)

Optional credit for removed connectors. If an owner or operator eliminates a connector subject to monitoring under paragraph (b) of this section, the owner or operator may receive credit for elimination of the connector, as described in paragraph (i) of this section, provided the requirements in paragraphs (j)(1) through (j)(4) are met.

(1)

The connector was welded after the date of proposal of the specific subpart that references this subpart.

(2)

The integrity of the weld is demonstrated by monitoring it according to the procedures in § 63.180(b) of this subpart or by testing using X-ray, acoustic monitoring, hydrotesting, or other applicable method.

(3)

Welds created after the date of proposal but before the date of promulgation of a specific subpart that references this subpart are monitored or tested by 3 months after the compliance date specified in the applicable subpart.

(4)

Welds created after promulgation of the subpart that references this subpart are monitored or tested within 3 months after being welded.

(5)

If an inadequate weld is found or the connector is not welded completely around the circumference, the connector is not considered a welded connector and is therefore not exempt from the provisions of this subpart.

Notes, amendments, and revision history

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2791, Jan. 17, 1997; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]

Source

Source: 59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, unless otherwise noted.

Authority

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Source

Source: 57 FR 61992, Dec. 29, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Amendments

[59 FR 19568, Apr. 22, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 48177, Sept. 20, 1994; 61 FR 31440, June 20, 1996; 62 FR 2791, Jan. 17, 1997; 89 FR 43224, May 16, 2024]