Directive 056: Frequently Asked Questions - Facilities Technical

POP TANK EXEMPTIONS
Question:	Question: Can an applicant file a routine application if it does not intend to install a pop tank at a new oil facility where the H2S content is less than 10 mol/kmol?
Answer:	Yes, an applicant can file a routine application if it indicates with the application that  the pressure setting of the relieving device on the process vessel will not exceed the vessel-rated maximum operating pressure;  the process vessel will be equipped with high-pressure and high-level sensors and controls. These sensors and controls must be connected to an ESD valve on the inlet of the vessel to allow a flow of fluids into the vessel to be shut off if there is high-pressure and/or a high-level occurrence;  high-pressure sensor or control settings will not exceed 90 per cent of the pressure setting on the process vessel’s relieving device;  an isolation valve will be installed between the high-pressure sensor and the process vessel to facilitate the testing of the high pressure sensor;  high-pressure and high-level sensors and controls will be tested at least every three months to ensure that they are working properly. If any sensor or control is found to be defective, it must be replaced or repaired immediately. Licensees must be able to demonstrate to the ERCB, on request, that sensors and controls are being tested as required by tagging it to indicate the last date that it was tested and by maintaining a log of these dates; and  the high-pressure and high-level sensors and controls will be calibrated at least every 12 months. Licensees must be able to demonstrate to the ERCB, on request, that the sensors and controls are being calibrated as required by tagging it to indicate the last date that it was calibrated and by maintaining a log of these dates. Applicants must attach a cover letter and a piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) to the application confirming that all of these items will be met. If an applicant is unable to meet the above items, it must obtain a wavier from the ERCB Production Operations Group authorizing operation outside of the items noted above. Applicants must obtain this waiver prior to submitting the application as non routine. For facilities with greater than 10 mol/kmol H 2 S, see Section 7.060 of the Oil and Gas Conservation Regulations.