Howell Hydrocarbons & Chemicals

Year Submitted: 2003

Process: Chemical Storage and Delivery

Industry: Petroleum Refining

Wastes Reduced: Emissions, Fugitive

Substance: VOC's

Equipment: Floating Roofs

Location: Channelview TX

No. of employees: 50

Contact: George Freda

Phone: (281) 457-2768

Description:

Howell produces many chemicals and stores them on site. A normal storage tank has the capability of releasing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions into the atmosphere. In order to reduce fugitive emission of VOCs from storage tanks, Howell installed floating roofs inside their two tanks.

P2 Application:

Floating roofs made of aluminum were designed and installed by Howell. These roofs act as pontoons that remain on top of the chemical in the storage tank. Howell has two storage tanks, the largest can hold 80,000 barrels and the smaller tank can hold up to 30,000 barrels of liquid. The floating roof has a rubber seal between the roof and the wall of the tank. These roofs are virtually maintenance free and are easy to install.

Environmental Benefits:

Floating roofs and the seals that surround them reduce the fugitive emissions that would otherwise escape into the atmosphere. The largest tank has reduced about 300,000 lbs of VOC emissions. This project also reduces employee exposure to the gases.

Details of Reductions

Additional Information :

The initial capital cost was around $100,000 with a relatively short payback period. Cost savings are due to reduced loss of reagents and with reduction of VOCs. Both of these reduce regulatory costs and paperwork.

Source: TCEQ