October 27, 2021
TRACK I: 316(b) CT, ELG, FGD
I1.1 Beneficial Reuse of Flare Gas for Heavy Oil Produced Water Treatment
(8 am – 8:20 am PDT)
I1.1 Beneficial Reuse of Flare Gas for Heavy Oil Produced Water Treatment
Globally, a tremendous amount of natural gas is flared and wasted as part of oil production. Total US gas flared increased from 165,928 metal-to-metal charge transfer (MMct) in 2010 to 468,347 MMct in 2018. But what if that flare could be put to use as part of the produced water treatment process?
This presentation will review findings from a recent pilot in the Western United States where a novel thermal concentration technology successfully treated produced water on site at a heavy oil production well. The concentrator reduced the volume of produced water by 98% and thus enabled a drastic reduction in disposal costs for the operator. The final concentrate contained 48.3% solids by weight and almost 490,000 mg/L total dissolved solids (TDS) and all of the thermal energy for the treatment process was generated by flaring readily available wellhead gas. Additionally, the process was able to remove 100% of BTEX Compounds.
Co-Author: Ben Laurent, Heartland Water Technology
I1.2 State of the Art Precast Post-Tensioned Concrete for Water & Wastewater Tanks
(8:20 am – 8:40 am PDT)
I1.2 State of the Art Precast Post-Tensioned Concrete for Water & Wastewater Tanks
Precast Prestressed Concrete is becoming a widely utilized option, in lieu of cast-in-place, for all types of water, wastewater, and renewable energy projects. This presentation will focus on how precast tanks are designed, manufactured offsite, and installed at the project site. Case studies showing how this “green” tank construction methodology saved time and money, while providing increased durability, will be highlighted.
Co-Author: Michael O’Brien, Dutchland, Inc.
QUESTIONS
1. What is the life expectancy of precast post-tensioned tanks?
2. How do precast post-tensioned tanks normally compare to the cost of cast-in-place construction?
3. Are there size limitations to this type of construction?
I1.3 Power Up with Data Driven Marketing
(8:40 am – 9 am PDT)
I1.3 Power Up with Data Driven Marketing
Vendors in the EUEC-sphere offer pragmatic answers to challenging power industry challenges, both in fossil and renewable energy power generation.
The U.S. market for power generation and supply is dynamic, complex, and geographically distributed. The challenge is, how do you get your excellent solutions in front of the right prospects at the right time?
Power Up with Market intelligence.
FirmoGraphs supports smart industry leaders who are providing:
-More-accurate options for trace-metal contaminant removal from coal ash pond water
-Innovative soil compaction technologies for safer landfill construction
-More-effective monitoring and instrumentation on combustion sources
-New handling solutions for temporary onsite water management
FirmoGraphs helps organizations find their ideal customers (the needle) in the vast and complex U.S. power market (the haystack). In this presentation, David Cox, FirmoGraphs President will share several real-world, ‘nerd marketing’ examples of how organizations use Business Intelligence to identify and reach the right target accounts.
QUESTIONS
1. Where do you source your data?
2. What states are tracked?
3. How many hours are put into data collection and curation?
I1.4 ELG Update – What Now?
(9 am – 9:20 am PDT)
I1.4 ELG Update - What Now?
The revised draft of the Power Plant ELG rule was issued in November 2019. So, what now. We’ll look at what’s in the new rule and how compliance options have changed and what options offer promising results.
I1.5 Water and Ash Compliance: What is New this Year?
(9:20 am – 9:40 am PDT)
I1.5 Water and Ash Compliance: What is New this Year?
This presentation will outline the current state of the rules, including a summary of the proposed ELG rule changes from EPA, any additional CCR changes, and an update on state and/or federal CCR programs. It will also highlight CCR/ELG case studies from various regions of the country, challenges being faced in each location, new technologies being implemented for ash conversions, and answers to many of the questions currently being asked by utilities. What is the forecast for more regulatory change and what should we be doing in the interim? What actions must utilities take as they continue forward with CCR groundwater monitoring, corrective action, impoundment closures, discharge permit renewals, ash handling conversions, wastewater treatment projects, and other potential plant modifications?
I1.6 Managing Outage Wash Water Treatment with Existing Infrastructure
(9:40 am – 10 am PDT)
I1.6 Managing Outage Wash Water Treatment with Existing Infrastructure
Revised Effluent Limit Guidelines (ELG) and Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) regulations are requiring coal fired electric utilities to re-assess all of their wastewater management issues. An area often overlooked is treatment of outage wash water. Traditionally, these waters were simply directed to an ash pond for storage and treatment. With the CCR regulations requiring de-commissioning of these ponds, the outage washwater will be subject to NPDES or State mandated effluent limits prior to discharge. Existing bottom ash dewatering systems present a unique opportunity for utilities to conserve significant capital investment by temporarily repurposing these systems (with equipment and process augmentation) for treatment of outage wash waters. UCC has successfully demonstrated the implementation of BADW as outage wash water treatment systems at a large mid-western utility during its Fall, 2019 outage. UCC met NPDES effluent limits for TSS, iron, copper and pH while successfully managing the various flows generated by outage wash processes. By successfully executing this pilot, UCC has provided a technically sound alternative to investing in a large dedicated outage wash treatment system.
I2.1 Design and Operation of Temporary and Permanent Low Volume WWT Systems
(10:30 am – 10:50 am PDT)
I2.1 Design and Operation of Temporary and Permanent Low Volume WWT Systems
With the impending closure of ash ponds and redirection of FGD wastewater to segregated systems, the problem is to how to treat the remaining water flows from a coal fired power plant to effectively meet discharge limits. Commonly called Low Volume Wastewater (LVWW), these flows include coal pile run off, plant sumps, seal water. filter and demineralizer backwash, and various intermittent wash waters. In total, the flows can be quite high approaching 10,000 gpm. Additionally the water quality can be highly variable depending on rain events, process water cycles and cleaning events. Effective treatment requires consideration of these factors and design of a system that is robust and flexible in achieving desired performance across all variables. Additionally, the system must be compact so as to fit into the available space of an operating plant without disruption of power production. This presentation will describe the design of a LVWW for a large coal fired power plant, the provision of a temporary solution to meet required regulatory dead line, the start-up and commissioning and operation of both systems.
I2.2 Online Analysers for Mercury, Arsenic and Selenium: Exceeding the US
(10:50 am – 11:10 am PDT)
I2.2 Online Analysers for Mercury, Arsenic and Selenium: Exceeding the US
New online systems for wastewater discharge based on oxidative UV digestion and vapor generation coupled to AFS have been developed to meet the forthcoming EPA effluent discharge limits. Our latest analyzer for Hg (PSA10.226) offers a batch analysis approach with a syringe pump to introduce reagents and also a gold amalgamation step to significantly improve detection limits into the sub ppt range. With the success of the new Hg analyzer we have recently designed a new syringed based AFS system for selenium and arsenic (PSA10.256). Performance data from field and laboratory trials using FGD samples will be presented.
Co-Author: Shaun Lancaster, PS Analytical
I2.3 Measurement, Control & Regulatory Challenges in Wastewater Biocide
(11:10 am – 11:30 am PDT)
I2.3 Measurement, Control & Regulatory Challenges in Wastewater Biocide
Accurate online measurement of total residual oxidant (TRO) or biocide is essential for achieving wastewater treatment regulatory compliance. Traditional DPD colorimetric measurement has limitations, such as higher detection limit, larger error, interference from turbidity, color, and metal ions, drift due to discoloring reagent, and intermittent batch measurement. The newly developed TRO analyzer with ion-selective electrode (ISE) technology solves these issues with significantly improved detection limit and accuracy using the EPA-approved standard method 4500-Cl I. Additionally, the ISE based measurement is continuous, free of interference, sample turbidity and color, and works in a wider dynamic range with much-lowered detection limits.
Co-Authors: Andrew Xie and Gang Wang, Thermo Fisher Scientific
I4.2 Section 316(b) Optimization Study at Nearman Creek Power Station
(3:50 pm – 4:10 pm PDT)
I4.2 Section 316(b) Optimization Study at Nearman Creek Power Station
The Nearman Creek Power Station, operated by the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities (BPU), is a coal-fired, 256-megawatt (MW) gross generating station located in Kansas City, Kansas. The Final Rule 316(b) Rule at § 122.21(r)(6)(i) states that if a facility chooses to comply with § 125.94(c)(5), a 2-year, site-specific Impingement Technology Performance Optimization Study will need to be conducted. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate that the operation of the modified traveling screens has been optimized and is functioning properly to minimize impingement mortality of non-fragile species. Burns & McDonnell has prepared an Optimization Study Plan, designed the temporary sampling system to collect fish and shellfish impinged off of the new traveling screens, and is completing the study with BPU. This presentation will focus on the study design (sampling equipment setup and experimental design), impingement and latent mortality sampling methods, needed ancillary data (traveling screen operational, and station data, and ambient water quality and flow data) and discuss the associated challenges in designing the temporary sampling system.
I4.3 You’ve Got PFAS. How to Prepare, Dispose and Respond
(4:10 pm – 4:30 pm PDT)
I4.3 You've Got PFAS. How to Prepare, Dispose and Respond
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are emerging contaminants of concern in soil, groundwater and drinking water systems. PFAS releases have the potential to impact water supplies and are a challenge to capture and remove. Due to their chemical properties and widespread use, PFAS typically have multiple source areas and can be ubiquitous in most urban areas. For the utility industry, links and liability to the issue is through the training and use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) concentrates and laydown yards which store wires which are coated in the compound. Some coal fired power plants have used AFFF either in training or for fire suppression of their coal piles for the simple fact that AFFF is extremely effective. In addition, potential liability can be from the leaching of wires that have been coated in PFAS. This presentation will provide information on some tools and approaches from simple to complex on how a facility can identify what PFAS may be associated with their use and where it has migrated based on Barr’s nearly 20 years of PFAS investigation including case studies from refining and industrial sites. This presentation will discuss how to inventory current and legacy supply of AFFF containing PFAS and replacement and disposal options. Attendees will leave the short presentation with an understanding of the complexity of the chemistry as well as an idea for approaches to audit current PFAS risk and prepare in the event of a regulatory inquiry.
Co-Author: Ward Swanson, Barr Engineering Co.
AVAILABLE
(12:10 pm – 12:30 pm PDT)
B1.1 EPA Signs New Rule Affecting Stationary
In 2019, the DC Circuit dealt a major setback to EPA’s efforts to resolve and close-out interstate air quality issues under the 2008 ozone standard without further NOx reductions from power plants. In doing so, the court may have breathed new life into state petitions to EPA demanding more stringent NOx limits for plants in numerous states. This presentation will review these recent decisions, the state petitions seeking NOx reductions in downwind states, and discuss the potential implications for industry.
I3.1 Noxious Algae Strategic Management for Energy and Electric Utilities
(1 pm – 1:20 pm PDT)
I3.1 Noxious Algae Strategic Management for Energy and Electric Utilities
Noxious algae, which produce toxins and taste and odor compounds, can grow to densities that inhibit uses of critical water resources managed by energy and electric utilities. Un-managed algal issues can become a costly problem, health risk and source of public distrust. When faced with new or seasonal algal issues, targeted and site-specific management solutions are necessary and effective. This presentation identifies specific algal issues that impact the energy sector and outlines an approach for development of noxious algae management strategies. This approach can be adapted for different sites to restore the uses of cooling ponds, reservoirs, and lakes.
I3.2 New and Novel No Phosphorous Cooling Tower Treatment
(1:20 pm – 1:40 pm PDT)
I3.2 New and Novel No Phosphorous Cooling Water Treatment
Market and regulatory demands are requiring customers to look for non or low phosphorous alternates and solutions to open recirculating cooling water treatment. Phosphorous being a key nutrient for algae growth in the towers and receiving bodies of water. Under these challenging operating conditions, new techniques were evaluated in understanding the metal surface chemistry including XPS, ToF-SIMS and TEM surface analysis yielding insights into the engineering of passivation films in cooling water applications. STP and CHO inhibitors have a significant role in the construction of passivating films and can be combined in with metals salts such as Zn, Sn, and Al3+ in challenging corrosive conditions to provide corrosion and deposition control with control over the engineering film. Combined with saturation modeling analytics the cooling tower operator can effectively model and manage a no / low phosphorous cooling water treatment programs that meets the environmental regulations while maintaining industry standard corrosion results. One customer case history will be included in the paper.
Co-Authors: Jim Green and Paul Frail, SUEZ Water Technologies and Solutions
I3.3 Continuous Use of Non-Chemical Dechlorination – Membrane Performance at Coal-Fired Power Station
(1:40 pm – 2 pm PDT)
I3.3 Continuous Use of Non-Chemical Dechlorination - Membrane Performance at Coal-Fired Power Station
Plant Bowen installed the Hydro-Optic™ (HOD) UV water treatment technology in 2014 to improve the overall quality of reverse osmosis feed water. Since the installation Plant Bowen has been able to maintain the integrity of their feed water for the boiler and steam cycle, ensuring production and quality levels necessary for the facility to operate efficiently. This presentation will detail the long-term membrane performance with the continuous use of the HOD UV technology at Plant Bowen.
QUESTIONS
1. Where is the recommended location for the installation of the HOD UV technology in the process scheme?
2. What are the maintenance requirements of the HOD UV technology?
3. How does the CAPEX and OPEX costs of the HOD UV system compare to other UV technologies?
I3.4 316(b) Fish Return Trough Construction at Nearman Creek
(2 pm – 2:20 pm PDT)
I3.4 316(b) Fish Return Trough Construction at Nearman Creek
BPU enlisted Burns & McDonnell to conduct studies and develop the best alternative for 316(b) compliance at the Nearman Creek Power Station. We collaborated with the client and determined a modified traveling screen with fish return trough offered the optimal solution for the plant. In 2019, new screens were procured and installed, and the trough was constructed and put into operation. The fish return system that was implemented had few examples across the country for comparison and was one of the first put into operation in the region and on the Missouri River. This presentation will focus on how the team developed engineering solutions that met the industry standards for fish returns while also being highly customized for the plant. The presentation will also provide lessons learned from construction.
I4.1 The Realities of Installing EPA 316(b) Compliant Traveling Screens
(3:30 pm – 3:50 pm PDT)
I4.1 The Realities of Installing EPA 316(b) Compliant Traveling Screens
This Paper explores the Engineering challenges and lessons learned of implementing EPA 316(b) requirements from a utility and manufacturer prospective. New York State DEC maintained lead agency status and required the equivalent of 316(b) for Con Edison’s East River Station in 2009. Best Technology Available identified replacing its existing dual flow screens with Atlas-SSI Ristroph Screens. The project seemed simple but insuring proper design and operation presented multiple challenges. The journey addressed electrical infrastructure, CFD Modeling of intake flows and structural loading, equipment material selection, fine mesh panel requirements and testing, continuous vs intermittent screen operation and ultimate compliance testing.
Co-Author: Gary Thorn, Consolidated Edison
AVAILABLE
(2:40 pm – 3 pm PDT)
B1.1 EPA Signs New Rule Affecting Stationary
In 2019, the DC Circuit dealt a major setback to EPA’s efforts to resolve and close-out interstate air quality issues under the 2008 ozone standard without further NOx reductions from power plants. In doing so, the court may have breathed new life into state petitions to EPA demanding more stringent NOx limits for plants in numerous states. This presentation will review these recent decisions, the state petitions seeking NOx reductions in downwind states, and discuss the potential implications for industry.