Air Pollution Monitoring: Techniques, Reporting Essentials, and PEMS nuances

Pollution analyzers

Whenever a factory runs, we have to report pollution data, and there are rules about how often. When the main pollution monitoring device doesn't work, we have a few options:

• There's another certified pollution-monitoring machine that works just like the main one.
• We can use a spare unit if we have one of the same kind.
• We might replace the main machine with another one, following certain rules.
• If it passes some tests, we can use data from an independent pollution monitoring service.
• We can estimate missing data if none of the above options work, but only up to a certain point.

Some pollution analyzers need specific tests before they can be used as replacements. If we can't do the exact tests specified, we do other tests to make sure the replacements work.  Like these:

• A backup unit is always working and tested like the main one, so we don't need to repeat certain quality tests.
• We have to follow certain rules when we use a spare machine or third-party monitoring, and we can only use them for a limited time.
• Until we're sure these replacement methods work, we have to mark data a certain way.
• We have to consider the data from these replacement methods unusable if they fail certain tests.

Basically, if the pollution monitoring setup isn't working, we can use backups, spares, replacements, or third-party services temporarily, but we have to be careful to make sure the surrogate data is accurate.

Keep your data clean by reporting it properly

Reports from RATA and CGA:

• Pollution tests have to be reported, even if they fail.
• A pollution test or survey must be notified to the authorities.
• All air pollution monitoring data has to be reported, including valid data, estimated missing data, and out of range data.
• Data from air pollution monitoring equipment before it's fully certified also needs to be reported.
• Reporting data electronically requires certain codes.
• Reports should clearly mark specific information, like incomplete data or when the factory isn't running.
• Pollution data can be reported dry or wet, and it needs to be consistent.

Data from temperature sensors:

• Hourly averages of temperature data need to be reported.
• Report the percent of time the pollution monitoring equipment works right.

Alternative biannual audit:

• Results from a specific pollution test need to be reported.

Invalid Data:

• You need to resubmit it if some data is wrong.
• Reports and information about pollution monitoring have to be made available for inspection by the authorities.

Basically, this section explains what data needs to be reported, how it should be reported, and the rules for sharing pollution monitoring information.

With authorization from the director

PEMS collect data from sensors, like fuel levels or temperatures, and use it to estimate pollution indirectly. If things change, the system might need updating.

Limitations on PEMS: They don't just use general emission rates, and they don't just calculate pollution based on a short measurement. Specific PEMS models aren't endorsed by the Director.

Here's how to use PEMS:

• To use PEMS, you need to give the Director a plan and all the data that went into creating the PEMS model.
• You can only use PEMS if the Director says it's okay. PEMS must be operated and maintained according to the Director's authorization and the CEMS Code.
• The PEMS model must have at least three parameters, be based on lots of good-quality data, and meet specific design requirements.

Testing PEMS models: Make sure they work by testing them. They might need to be changed if they don't pass the tests.

Plans: You'll need to submit a detailed plan about how you'll use PEMS, including how you'll handle different situations.  Submit your PEMS plan and data 90 days before you start using it.

When you use PEMS, you have to:

• Keep the data as you need it.
• Check your sensors.
• Make sure you report your data right.
• Test and maintain according to specific rules.

PEMS data can be used just like other monitoring data.  Your PEMS might need to be updated if things like fuel or process change.

PEMS Data Reporting:

• Report data as hourly averages using all valid measurements.
• Reporting Rules: Follow the reporting rules in Section 9.0.
• Use the codes in the CEMS User Manual to show that you're using PEMS data.

PEMS can be used if they meet pollution standards and are suitable for the job, which the Director decides. Make good PEMS models with these guidelines.