Tank Vapor Recovery

Tank vapor recovery, abbreviated as TVR, system is a technology used in the oil and gas industry to capture and control the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that can be released into the atmosphere during the storage and handling of petroleum products in tanks.  These emissions can occur when tanks are filled or emptied, and when the temperature of the stored product changes, causing it to expand or contract.  The primary purpose of a tank vapor recovery system is to reduce air pollution and prevent the release of harmful chemicals into the environment.

By capturing and recovering these vapors, a tank vapor recovery system helps to reduce the release of VOCs and HAPs into the atmosphere, which can contribute to air pollution and pose health risks.  It also helps to prevent the loss of valuable hydrocarbons that may be present in the vapor stream.

Key Points about Tank Vapor Recovery

• Vapor Recovery Unit (VRU)  -  This is the central component of the system.  It uses a vacuum or compression process to capture and recover the vapors emitted from the storage tanks. These recovered vapors are then either returned to the storage tank or processed for other uses.
• Vapor Collection System  -  This includes pipes, hoses, and other equipment that collect the vapors emitted from the tanks and transport them to the VRU for recovery.
• Control and Monitoring System  -  This system is responsible for monitoring the tank conditions, controlling the operation of the VRU, and ensuring that the system functions efficiently and safely.
• Storage Tanks  -  The storage tanks themselves may be equipped with additional features, such as floating roofs or internal floating pistons, to help minimize vapor emissions.

Tank vapor recovery systems are commonly used in the oil and gas industry, particularly at refineries, terminals, and distribution centers where large quantities of petroleum products are stored and transferred.  They are an important component of efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the industry and comply with regulatory requirements related to air quality and emissions control.