Lessons Learned from Subpart Ja: Advances in Real-time Gas Sampling and Analysis to Deal with Difficult Molecules

The accurate analysis and reporting of online hydrogen sulfide concentrations in oil refinery flare streams is challenging due to the tendency of the compound to dissolve in water and to bind to steel surfaces. Success depends on both the sample system and the internal components of the analyzer being matched to the difficulties of the application. Sites must consider not only hydrogen sulfide, but the full composition of their flare gas streams, as well as the full set of regulations they are required to follow.

This discussion focuses on the configuration and use of mass spectrometers, gas chromatographs and total sulfur analyzers for 40 CFR 60 Subpart Ja compliance. We’ll discuss how these installations have been optimized over the years to improve safety and performance and show how lessons learned in this application led the adoption of best practices to revolutionize the analysis of similar challenging samples elsewhere.