Understanding and Complying with Evolving Steam Boiler Emissions Regulations

This article was originally published in Process Heating’s July 2021 eMagazine.

Steam generation is necessary for industries across the United States to manufacture the products and services we interact with daily. To accomplish such outcomes, however, requires optimizing the steam generation equipment and processes. In addition to addressing cost-effectiveness, safety and reliability, meeting emissions standards is a major concern that organizations face when generating steam for their facilities. Not meeting these regulations — enacted to protect the environment for future generations — damages the environment and can have costly ramifications for the company.

In the United States, at the federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency develops programs to support and enforce the Clean Air Act and other environmental laws enacted by Congress. The 1990 amendments to the Clean Air Act require facilities to reduce the emissions of pollutants that harm the ozone layer, air quality and visibility. (Specifically, the 1990 amendments addressed acid rain, urban air pollution, toxic air emissions and stratospheric ozone depletion.) In addition to any federal requirements, regional and local ordinances and regulations also place emissions restrictions on manufacturers. For instance, in states like California and Oregon, stricter environmental regulations have been enacted.

Beyond a desire to acquire steam generation equipment that meets federal and local emissions standards, many organizations desire solutions that closely align with their sustainability-centered goals. Practicing sustainability throughout an organization, including the industrial process equipment, can increase positive customer perception and reputation.