As fugitive emissions They are considered one of the most silent and dangerous sources of pollution atmospheric. These are almost imperceptible leaks of industrial gases that escape through Válvulas, connections and ducts, contributing significantly to global warming and the degradation of air quality.
The threat is twofold: environmental and economic. In addition to releasing greenhouse gases, such as methane, which is up to 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide, these leaks represent a loss of raw materials and risks to workers' health.
What are fugitive emissions?
Fugitive emissions are unintentional releases of gases or vapors into the atmosphere, originating mainly from industrial processes. They differ from controlled emissions, such as those from chimneys or fans, because they do not pass through direct monitoring systems.
Even when an industrial plant appears to be operating normally, small amounts of gas continuously escape, usually in concentrations measured in parts per million (ppm). Among the main compounds are methane, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide.
The causes are diverse and can arise from natural wear and tear of components, sealing failures, inadequate equipment design, or installation errors. Among the most common are:
- Equipment wear and tearSeals, gaskets, and connections deteriorate over time, causing leaks.
- Improper installation or maintenanceIncorrectly installed or improperly maintained components increase the risk of leaks.
- Pressure and temperature fluctuationsSudden changes can cause the material to expand or contract, resulting in cracks or loose connections.
- human errorOperational failures or insufficient training can generate emissions.
- Aging infrastructureOlder installations, lacking technological updates, are more prone to sealing problems.
Main sources of fugitive emissions
The main sources of fugitive emissions are linked to large-scale industrial sectors. In the oil and gas industry, leaks occur in valves, pumps, compressors, flanges, and storage tanks. This sector is one of the biggest contributors to methane leaks, especially in extraction and refining operations.
In the chemical and petrochemical industries, emissions can occur during the transport of raw materials and the handling of solvents and reagents. The mining sector also contributes, releasing gases during processing and transportation stages. In energy installations, especially thermal power plants and nuclear plants, fugitive emissions are related to sealing systems, connections, and high-pressure equipment.
Furthermore, the agricultural sector plays a significant role, mainly in activities related to waste management and enteric fermentation in animals, which release methane and ammonia. Sewage systems and landfills are also important sources, as they release gases resulting from the decomposition of organic matter.
What problems can arise from fugitive emissions?
The release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, as we saw earlier, is the most serious of the negative effects caused by fugitive emissions. The greenhouse effect contributes to rising temperatures, which leads to an extremely negative consequence that we all know: global warming.
Methane, the predominant component, is a potent greenhouse gas. Its global warming potential is more than 20 times greater than that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. This amplifies its impact on climate change.
Furthermore, fugitive emissions can contribute to the degradation of air quality, posing risks to human health and potential dangers to ecosystems. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems, heart disease, and other health issues. They can also harm wildlife and vegetation, leading to broader ecological imbalances.
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Fugitive emissions and legislation
Although there is still no specific federal regulation on fugitive emissions in Brazil, many companies follow international standards, such as API 624 and API 622, which guarantee lower emission levels and compliance with global sustainability policies.
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) adopts Method 21, which defines measurement criteria and limits of up to 100 ppm for valve leaks. In Europe, the ISO 15848 standard goes further, establishing rigorous sealing performance standards for valves for gases and vapors. This standard is crucial because it classifies valve performance in different operating cycles and temperatures, becoming the main benchmark for specifying Low Emission equipment.
These references are aligned with international commitments, such as the Paris Agreement, which reinforces the need to reduce methane emissions as part of global climate mitigation efforts.
From an industrial standpoint, controlling fugitive emissions is not only an environmental requirement but also an economic decision: gas leaks represent a direct loss of raw materials and energy.
Prevention
The main control strategy is the adoption of leak detection and repair (LDAR) programs, already mandatory in several countries. Infrared cameras, portable gas detectors, and drones with sensors are used to identify invisible leaks.
Other effective measures include:
- Use of high-integrity valves, flanges and high-performance gaskets;
- Preventive maintenance and use of certified materials;
- Installation of monitoring sensors on critical valves and tanks.
Companies that are unable to completely eliminate their emissions can resort to carbon offsetting, regulated in Brazil by Decree No. 11.075/2022, which establishes the basis for... carbon credit national.
The big solution: valves.
Most fugitive emissions originate from leaking valves. Studies indicate that more than half of these leaks can be eliminated with proper maintenance, upgrading, and replacement.
Organizations should identify the valves most susceptible to failure and replace them with models designed to reliably reduce emissions. This includes:
- Updating the sealing gaskets, the main vulnerable point for leaks;
- Installation of position and pressure monitoring sensors;
- Use of low-ventilation controllers;
- Evaluation of the feasibility of using electric actuators as a replacement for pneumatic ones, avoiding direct ventilation to the atmosphere.
Why invest in valves compatible with fugitive emissions?
- Environmental protection: reduces the release of harmful gases and protects nearby communities.
- Cost reduction: avoids wasting valuable resources such as natural gas and steam.
- Safety: reduces the risk of fires and explosions, increasing operational reliability.
Therefore, adopting fugitive emission control valves is essential to meet regulatory standards, protect the environment, increase safety, and strengthen the company's reputation.
How can Alutal help?
A Alutal offers reliable, innovative, and modern solutions for the detection and control of fugitive emissions leaks.With a strong commitment to environmental excellence, the company helps industries operate responsibly, safely, and efficiently, contributing to global efforts to reduce air pollution.
With cutting-edge tools and data-driven solutions, Alutal helps its clients accurately detect and control emissions, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and sustainability.
As the industrial market moves towards a more technological and sustainable future, Alutal remains essential in driving innovation, optimizing performance, and building a safer world for future generations.
