Considerations When Specifying Multipoint Ground Flares

Paper from the AFRC 2015 conference titled Consideration When Specifying Multipoint Ground Flares

Multipoint Ground Flares (MPGF) have many advantages when compared to other flare technologies. These flares can have very large capacities and operate with very high destruction efficiency. Along with these advantages these flares also have unique design considerations. This paper details the additional considerations and information specified by the purchaser in packages when procuring new MPGF. Purchasers need to select the flare configuration, including 1st stage flare type. The specification includes details on the possible range of the flare gas operational envelope. The availability and type of flare gas enrichment must be noted. Required environmental benefits (efficiency) and community benefits (flame visibility, noise) are also specified. Flare mechanical details are detailed, including requested redundancy in pilots, pilot fuel, and flare protective and control system requirements. Lastly the purchaser may include engineering QC activities such as CFD modeling of flare performance and testing at the supplier's facility to confirm stability and smokeless performance. These additional details are in addition to the items historically included in low pressure flare specifications.