The Application of a Parametric Model to Track Methane Emissions from Flares – New Insights from a Global Deployment Programme

Abstract

Abstract Continuous tracking of methane emissions from flaring using a parametric model are presented in which measurement of flare volumes and composition are combined with flare design information and wind speeds to provide a continuous measure of how flare combustion efficiency (CE) and destruction efficiency (DRE) change under varying process conditions and wind speeds. The accuracy of the method is determined relative to empirical experimental data and extended into high wind scenarios using computational fluid dynamic models. Uncertainty of the method is assessed using both classical error propagation and Monte Carlo techniques. Results are presented from a global deployment of flares ranging in design and size, including both onshore and offshore applications. Under benign conditions, many flares burn with efficiency greater than the convention that uses a constant 98% DRE, but this can be compromised by low flow and low net heating values. This highlights the importance of accurate flare metering and tracking composition changes and the additional challenges that initiatives to drive down total flare volumes may place upon the installed global fleet of flares and flare meters. Where flares are exposed to high wind conditions, rapid changes in flare efficiency are observed, highlighting the importance of continuous tracking of DRE for improved accuracy in reporting and differentiating short-lived periods of lower DRE from systemic operational problems, resulting in persistently poor combustion and increased emissions. Improved accuracy of methane emissions reporting from flaring is shown to be constrained, but existing limitations in the standardization of how flares are tested, and their performance tracked. Rapid deployment using cloud computing reduces the need for in-field operations and shows how digital technology can help to enable the transition to lower emissions from oil and gas production.