Vent gases, energy recovery from

Potential hydrocarbon losses from the overpressuring of operating vessels are controlled first by staged computer alerts and/or manual alarms to provide for correction of the condition. If the overpressure exceeds a second set point, pressure relief valves vent the vessel contents to a flare release system. The flare system provides a means of controlled burning of hydrocarbon vapors at a nonhazardous point to avoid fire or explosion risks. Smoke problems from flares are avoided by more efficient designs that use multiple nozzles and low pressure operation to promote clean combustion [57]. Greenhouse gas concerns should more frequently stimulate an interest in energy recovery options from flared hydrocarbons. 

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