Source Emissions Testing
ERG is equipped to measure emissions from virtually any stationary or mobile
source. We have extensive experience using all types of sampling and analytical
systems, including manual methods, continuous instrumental methods, and optical/remote
sensing technologies.
Applications
- Compliance testing
- Performance testing
- Process optimization and troubleshooting
- Leak detection and repair (EPA Method 21)
- Methods development and validation (EPA Method 301)
- Particle sizing
- Air toxics screening
Pollutants
- Volatile and semivolatile organics
- Aldehydes and ketones
- Dioxins/furans
- Trace metals (EPA Reference Method 29)
- Particulate matter, including PM 2.5 and PM 10
- Hazardous air pollutants (HAPs)
- Isocyanates
Technologies
- Continuous emissions monitoring (CEMs)
- Optical spectroscopy (FTIR/UV-DOAS)
- Isokinetic manual sampling (EPA Method 5 and modifications)
- Proportional manual sampling (EPA VOST and modifications)
- Mobile laboratories
- Quad trains (EPA Method 301)
- Dynamic spiking
Sample Projects
PM 2.5 Characterization: ERG performed tests at
three industrial sources to characterize emissions of fine particulate matter
(PM 2.5). Sources included boilers, incinerators, and paper manufacturing. ERG
installed and operated a complex dilution sampling system during these tests.
Air Toxics Screening Using FTIR: Employing extractive FTIR spectroscopy, ERG
quantified hazardous air pollutant emissions from aluminum smelting. Real-time
analysis was provided for a range of toxic air pollutants, including hydrogen
chloride (HCl), benzene, toluene, and xylenes. HCl results were validated using
EPA Reference Method 320.
Methods Development and Validation: ERG evaluated
the applicability, precision, and accuracy of several EPA sampling and analytical
methods for measuring halogenated compounds. Dynamic spiking was used to determine
the capture efficiency of standard VOST and SemiVOST methods for these compounds.
Precision and accuracy were determined following EPA Method 301 procedures.
Control
Device Efficiency Testing: To evaluate the efficiency of thermal oxidizers for
controlling emissions of hazardous organic air pollutants from asphalt roofing
plants, ERG simultaneously collected samples at the inlet and outlet of the
control systems. Manual EPA reference methods were used to determine destruction
efficiency.
Guidance Documents and Training: ERG prepared guidance
documents for the training and certification of technicians in the use of EPA
Reference Method 21 for detection of leaking valves. As part of this program,
we designed, fabricated, and evaluated a testing manifold that simulates a leaking
valve at known concentrations and flow rates.
Mobil Source Test Planning: For EPA's Office of
Research and Development, ERG prepared a technical approach and
a sampling, analytical, and quality assurance plan for measuring
emissions from diesel locomotives. The plan included an innovative
approach for mounting and outfitting a sampling platform to allow
emissions from in-service locomotives to be monitored continuously.
Existing mobile-source sampling and analysis methods were adapted
to apply to the emission plumes from operating locomotives.
|
