Papers

The Use of Comparative Quantitative Risk Analysis in Evaluating Proposed Hydrogen Fluoride Mitigation Systems

by John B. Cornwell, David W. Johnson, and Jeffrey D. Marx

 

Abstract

Comparative Quantitative Risk Analysis (CQRA) is a useful technique for evaluating the effectiveness of proposed risk reduction strategies, without relying on an absolute risk target. This type of study can often provide decision makers with the information they require to either approve or deny project modifications.

This paper describes a CQRA study of a hydrogen fluoride (HF) alkylation unit. The objective of the study was to compare the level of risk to the public posed by the current configuration to that which would be posed following process upgrades and the installation of hazard mitigation systems.

Four HF alkylation unit configurations were evaluated.

• System 1 - Current configuration.
• System 2 - Modification of settler/cooler to include rapid deinventory system.
• System 3 - System 2 with the addition of a water spray curtain.
• System 4 - System 3 with the addition of remotely controlled water monitors.

The risk reduction potential of each mitigation system was calculated for each release "size" (leaks, punctures, ruptures). In addition, the overall effectiveness of each proposed mitigation system was calculated, allowing the three proposed systems to be ranked by risk reduction potential.

This paper outlines the approach to the study, tools used, mitigation efficiencies employed, and results obtained.

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