I am confused about the ventilation and Gas Detection requirements for Natural Gas Compressor Buildings. I understand API RP500 is the final authority and section 6.3.2.4.2 makes the reference. I have searched the web for (1) a copy and (2) specific information in regard to that article, with basically no success at either. The best info by far came from this searching this site.
My questions are:
1) If a Compressor Building (>600 psi) is fully enclosed it must have Gas Detection, but what are the minimum requirements? ie: Sensors per sq. ft. for example.
2) Does the same Building require forced ventilation and if so, is the minimum requirement six exchanges per hour?
3) I understand some users only activate the fans when the LEL =/> 20%. Does that meet the requirements for ?forced ventilation?? If so, apparently forced ventilation is not "full time".
4) If forced ventilation is required, and the minimum is 6 ex/hr, then does that mean the control system must respond to a ventilation failure, and if so, with what response?
5) I understand RP500 makes reference to ?adequate and inadequate?, if a Building falls into the inadequate category what are the consequences?
6) Where can I find access to RP500?
Thanks
My questions are:
1) If a Compressor Building (>600 psi) is fully enclosed it must have Gas Detection, but what are the minimum requirements? ie: Sensors per sq. ft. for example.
2) Does the same Building require forced ventilation and if so, is the minimum requirement six exchanges per hour?
3) I understand some users only activate the fans when the LEL =/> 20%. Does that meet the requirements for ?forced ventilation?? If so, apparently forced ventilation is not "full time".
4) If forced ventilation is required, and the minimum is 6 ex/hr, then does that mean the control system must respond to a ventilation failure, and if so, with what response?
5) I understand RP500 makes reference to ?adequate and inadequate?, if a Building falls into the inadequate category what are the consequences?
6) Where can I find access to RP500?
Thanks