Tall Stacks, Planning & Completing Stack Testing

TALL STACKS

-Planning & Completing Stack Testing

By: Jonathan Eckles, CHMM

This presentation discusses some of the basic steps for planning and completing a stack test, from simple testing to incinerator trial burn tests.  The target audience is professionals looking for tips on effective compliance strategies, including humorous examples of lessons learned during tests I’ve managed.  I’ll also discuss detection limits, chemical spiking, and the risks of running equipment “wide open.”

The presentation is outlined below and takes 25-30 minutes plus 10-15 minutes Q&A at the end (Q&A may go longer).  This is an updated version of the presentation presented for two AHMP chapters and the 2011 National Conference.

 OUTLINE

 I.      Know Your System

1. Regulatory requirements & permit limits
2. System capabilities & Desired operating range(s)
3. Key process variables
4. Need for pre-test data or design analysis

 II.      Determine Desired Test Conditions

1. Is spiking needed/required
2. Do you have resources for sustained testing

            i.      Waste/Process Materials

            ii.      Nitrogen, Steam, or Fuels

           iii.      Production Availability

1. Is real-time data possible or desired?

 III.      Select A Contractor

1. Capabilities/Expertise
2. Prior site experience(s) & Safety Record
3. Knowledge/Understanding your goals

 IV.      Verify, Then Verify Again

1. Required Notifications
2. Equipment preparation (maintenance & calibrations)
3. Production Scheduling
4. Field requirements (Power, Shelter, Scaffold, Meals)

 V.      Get It Done (The Fun Part!)

1. Coordinating the field work
2. Keeping it running
3. Helping the contractors (feed them well!)
4. Babysitting duties

 VI.      Wrap Up

1. Test results & Interpretation
2. Compliance determination
3. Report preparation & submittal