VaporSep VRU

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Jordan Technologies, working collaboratively with Membrane Technology & Research, Inc. (MTR), is pleased to introduce the VaporSep membrane vapor recovery system. Jordan’s years of project management and engineering services experience combined with MTR’s years of membrane development and research allows us to treat a wider range of chemicals and offer an option for recovery other than combustion for tank and truck loading facilities.
Jordan and MTR have significant experience in hydrocarbon recovery systems. More than fifty large units have been installed in petrochemical applications to recover butane, pentane, hexane, and other hydrocarbons. Hundreds more units have been installed for gasoline vapor recovery at truck loading and retail gasoline stations.
The VaporSep VRU is designed specifically to offer a more feasible way to treat vapors that are not compatible with a carbon based system. The membrane’s molecular sieve is custom designed for each application.
Jordan’s operating experience has revealed typical membrane life to be more than five (5) years. One of our earliest installations, a hydrocarbon recovery unit, is still operating with the original membrane modules installed over eight (8) years ago. If replacement is required, the cost is relatively low, and the procedure is very simple. Low maintenance cost and an extended life compared to competitor membrane systems are only a few of the reasons to explore a VaporSep membrane recovery unit and trust Jordan Technologies for your cutting edge vapor recovery solution.

Basic operation

The VaporSep VRU is a membrane-based system that combines compression, absorption, and membrane vapor separation to recover hydrocarbon vapors from truck loading operations. The VRU is designed to treat feed vapors coming from tank or truck loading operations. The unit uses available hydrocarbon liquid as the absorbent medium. Utilities required include only power and instrument air.
The feed stream is first compressed in a liquid ring compressor. The compressor outlet is sent to an absorber, where the gas flows upward and is contacted with downward flowing liquid absorbent. Hydrocarbons are absorbed from the vapor into the liquid. The recovered hydrocarbon liquid stream exits from the bottom of the column and is returned to storage.
The absorber overhead gas is sent to the VaporSep membrane, which separates the stream into a hydrocarbon-depleted residue gas and a hydrocarbon-enriched permeate stream. The residue gas (containing < 10 g/Nm3, or as required by the customer) is vented. The hydrocarbon-enriched permeate stream, at low pressure, is recycled via a vacuum pump to the compressor inlet.
Jordan Technologies’ vapor recovery unit is supplied as a complete skid mounted package (single skid for units up to ~ 500 Nm3/hr, multiple skids for larger units) including feed compressor, vacuum pump, membrane, and absorber.

Vaporsep features & benefits

VaporSep membranes separate gas mixtures on the basis of solubility. Large hydrocarbon molecules with greater solubility in the membrane permeate much faster than smaller, less soluble molecules such as nitrogen, hydrogen, or methane. By comparison, conventional membranes separate gases on the basis of size. Small molecules are selectively permeated because they diffuse through the membrane more rapidly than large molecules.
VaporSep membranes are manufactured as flat sheets and rolled into spiral-wound modules. The feed gas enters the module and flows between the membrane sheets. Spacers on the feed side and the permeate side of the membrane sheets create flow channels. The hydrocarbon vapor that passes preferentially through the membrane flows inward to a central permeate collection pipe. The light gas (nitrogen, hydrogen or methane) is rejected by the membrane and exits as the residue.

VaporSep VRUs provide many important features and benefits:

  • A better alternative for plants that handle petro-chemicals and chemicals
  • Compatible with a wider range of hydrocarbons and various crudes
  • Compact design; a smaller footprint compared to the equal sized carbon system
  • Steady state process for constant flow design applications
  • Fewer moving parts and control requirements compared to other technologies
  • Inlet compressor eliminates process pressure drop issues; inherently safe design
  • Skid mounted for easy installation, faster commissioning, lower installation costs and simpler transportation requirements
  • Low maintenance, operation and replacement cost
  • Proven technology with roughly 200 systems installed in the petrochemical, natural gas, and refining industry.
Low maintenance cost and an extended life compared to competitor membrane systems are only a few of the reasons to explore a VaporSep VRU and trust Jordan Technologies for your cutting edge vapor recovery solution.

Related products

Vapor Recovery

Jordan Technologies designs, manufactures and has actively serviced vapor recovery units (VRUs) since 1980. Jordan Technologies’ units recover a variety of VOCs in truck, rail, marine and tank breathing applications as well as crude, ethanol, and natural gases. As the largest service company for VRUs in the world market, Jordan provides service to the majority of the world’s operational VRUs, including other manufacturer’s equipment.
In 1995 Jordan Technologies expanded to not only servicing competitor’s equipment, but also to building a technologically advanced and reliable VRU. These systems include innovations and modifications based on our many years of service experience. A Jordan Technologies VRU is the most efficient, cost effective unit on the market.

Basic operation

The basic vapor recovery unit system is comprised of pressure swing absorption (PSA) process with two activated carbon bed vessels, alternating on a 15 minute time cycle. Regeneration of the carbon reactors is accomplished primarily by vessel evacuation with a vacuum pump to a pressure level of-27 Hg (3 Hg absolute) and secondly, with ambient air purge into the bed in a controlled manner during the last 25% of the regeneration cycle.

The VOCs (volatile organic compounds) desorbed from the carbon during reactor regeneration are effectively recovered in a single step process that is absorption in a packed tower, counter current flow, absorber. Supply tank absorbent is pumped on skid for use as lean oil in the absorber and as a heat exchange fluid for the vacuum pump.

All product recovered by the system is pumped back to the absorbent supply tank mentioned. Here the enriched recovered liquid product is allowed to disperse throughout the supply tank environment.
Jordan Technologies offers both the dry vacuum pump regeneration system as well as the liquid ring regeneration system.

VRU features

Based on many years of field service experience, Gordan Technologies have taken our knowledge and incorporated it into equipment and systems offering unique design and features that exceed industry needs.
Patented auto tuned vent and regeneration valves to protect vacuum pumps and carbon; increasing the life of the carbon

  • Patented return pump variable frequency drive level control to prevent gasoline spills
  • Self cleaning absorber tower with dished head bottom to eliminate confined space entry
  • Complete HMI control of all components and set points to allow for ease of operation
  • Remote web access for troubleshooting to reduce downtime
  • Historical trending of all VRU parameters and alarms
  • Skid mounted system; shipped and installed in four major parts
  • All components mounted and completely wired from the factory to skid mounted junction boxes
  • Skid and components designed for easy accessibility for maintenance and system checks
  • Reporting package specifically designed to meet Subpart BBBBBB regulations
  • Smallest industry footprint allows for reduced civil installation cost
  • Lowest industry energy consumption; reduces energy consumption on average 50% over competitive models
  • Typical return on investment less than 1 year; providing a quick payback and immediate profit increase
  • Robust design proven to pass HAZOP reviews by major oil companies globally
  • Every Jordan Technologies VRU meets local legislative requirements and is backed by Jordan’s unmatched worldwide service base. We have ten manufacturing sites located worldwide.

Vapor Recovery

Jordan Technologies designs, manufactures and has actively serviced vapor recovery units (VRUs) since 1980. Jordan Technologies’ units recover a variety of VOCs in truck, rail, marine and tank breathing applications as well as crude, ethanol, and natural gases. As the largest service company for VRUs in the world market, Jordan provides service to the majority of the world’s operational VRUs, including other manufacturer’s equipment.
In 1995 Jordan Technologies expanded to not only servicing competitor’s equipment, but also to building a technologically advanced and reliable VRU. These systems include innovations and modifications based on our many years of service experience. A Jordan Technologies VRU is the most efficient, cost effective unit on the market.

Basic operation

The basic vapor recovery unit system is comprised of pressure swing absorption (PSA) process with two activated carbon bed vessels, alternating on a 15 minute time cycle. Regeneration of the carbon reactors is accomplished primarily by vessel evacuation with a vacuum pump to a pressure level of-27 Hg (3 Hg absolute) and secondly, with ambient air purge into the bed in a controlled manner during the last 25% of the regeneration cycle.

The VOCs (volatile organic compounds) desorbed from the carbon during reactor regeneration are effectively recovered in a single step process that is absorption in a packed tower, counter current flow, absorber. Supply tank absorbent is pumped on skid for use as lean oil in the absorber and as a heat exchange fluid for the vacuum pump.

All product recovered by the system is pumped back to the absorbent supply tank mentioned. Here the enriched recovered liquid product is allowed to disperse throughout the supply tank environment.
Jordan Technologies offers both the dry vacuum pump regeneration system as well as the liquid ring regeneration system.

VRU features

Based on many years of field service experience, Gordan Technologies have taken our knowledge and incorporated it into equipment and systems offering unique design and features that exceed industry needs.
Patented auto tuned vent and regeneration valves to protect vacuum pumps and carbon; increasing the life of the carbon

  • Patented return pump variable frequency drive level control to prevent gasoline spills
  • Self cleaning absorber tower with dished head bottom to eliminate confined space entry
  • Complete HMI control of all components and set points to allow for ease of operation
  • Remote web access for troubleshooting to reduce downtime
  • Historical trending of all VRU parameters and alarms
  • Skid mounted system; shipped and installed in four major parts
  • All components mounted and completely wired from the factory to skid mounted junction boxes
  • Skid and components designed for easy accessibility for maintenance and system checks
  • Reporting package specifically designed to meet Subpart BBBBBB regulations
  • Smallest industry footprint allows for reduced civil installation cost
  • Lowest industry energy consumption; reduces energy consumption on average 50% over competitive models
  • Typical return on investment less than 1 year; providing a quick payback and immediate profit increase
  • Robust design proven to pass HAZOP reviews by major oil companies globally
  • Every Jordan Technologies VRU meets local legislative requirements and is backed by Jordan’s unmatched worldwide service base. We have ten manufacturing sites located worldwide.

Mechanical Vapor Recovery (MVR)

Jordan Technologies s’ mechanical vapor recovery unit (MVR) provides a reliable, low maintenance solution for condensate and liquid storage vapor recovery. The MVR unit is one of Jordan Energy Solutions’ answers to capturing natural gas emissions from oil field stock tanks.
The Jordan MVR unit is a customizable pre-engineered vapor recovery unit capable of moving .018 to 400 MCFD. The MVR unit may use rotary screw, piston or scroll compressors powered with either electric or EPA certified natural gas industrial power plants. Additionally the unit contains state-of-the-art PLC based regulation with an integrated gas blanketing system, not a rough on/off pressure switch and a pump.
Ideal for nonattainment areas where state and federal air quality regulatory requirements require vapor recovery or other emission controls, the MVR unit is an alternative to venting or flaring and will maintain storage tank pressure within safe limits and correct tank operating parameters automatically. This helps you recover every BTU and avoid releasing any vapor into the atmosphere.
High reliability, low maintenance, simple foundations, low operating costs, low initial costs, low consumed power at unloaded condition, and suitability for process fluctuation— such as gas composition and pressure— are some of the basic attributes of the rotary screw compressor MVR unit.
Jordan’s reliable MVR unit is designed using the Jordan Technologies’/Jordan Energy Solutions’ years of experience as a global technology leader in vapor recovery and is based on time-tested rotary screw gas compression technology.

MVR UNIT FEATURES

Based on many years of field service experience, we have taken our knowledge and incorporated it into equipment and systems offering unique design and features that always meet or exceed industry standards.

  • Fully automated, PLC based operation
  • Integrated gas blanketing system
  • Electric or EPA certified natural gas engine
  • Advanced, easy to use engine and compressor controls
  • Large capacity water and trash knock-out tank
  • Easy fill oil separator tank
  • V-belt or VFD drive for flexible pressure and volume matching
  • Gas engine oil reservoir with self leveling system
  • Automatic lubrication system for critical bearings
  • Rugged skid mounted containment system

Mechanical Vapor Recovery (MVR)

Jordan Technologies s’ mechanical vapor recovery unit (MVR) provides a reliable, low maintenance solution for condensate and liquid storage vapor recovery. The MVR unit is one of Jordan Energy Solutions’ answers to capturing natural gas emissions from oil field stock tanks.
The Jordan MVR unit is a customizable pre-engineered vapor recovery unit capable of moving .018 to 400 MCFD. The MVR unit may use rotary screw, piston or scroll compressors powered with either electric or EPA certified natural gas industrial power plants. Additionally the unit contains state-of-the-art PLC based regulation with an integrated gas blanketing system, not a rough on/off pressure switch and a pump.
Ideal for nonattainment areas where state and federal air quality regulatory requirements require vapor recovery or other emission controls, the MVR unit is an alternative to venting or flaring and will maintain storage tank pressure within safe limits and correct tank operating parameters automatically. This helps you recover every BTU and avoid releasing any vapor into the atmosphere.
High reliability, low maintenance, simple foundations, low operating costs, low initial costs, low consumed power at unloaded condition, and suitability for process fluctuation— such as gas composition and pressure— are some of the basic attributes of the rotary screw compressor MVR unit.
Jordan’s reliable MVR unit is designed using the Jordan Technologies’/Jordan Energy Solutions’ years of experience as a global technology leader in vapor recovery and is based on time-tested rotary screw gas compression technology.

MVR UNIT FEATURES

Based on many years of field service experience, we have taken our knowledge and incorporated it into equipment and systems offering unique design and features that always meet or exceed industry standards.

  • Fully automated, PLC based operation
  • Integrated gas blanketing system
  • Electric or EPA certified natural gas engine
  • Advanced, easy to use engine and compressor controls
  • Large capacity water and trash knock-out tank
  • Easy fill oil separator tank
  • V-belt or VFD drive for flexible pressure and volume matching
  • Gas engine oil reservoir with self leveling system
  • Automatic lubrication system for critical bearings
  • Rugged skid mounted containment system

Vapor Combustion

As an alternative to recovery, hydrocarbon vapors may be destroyed in a flare, combustor or a thermal oxidizer. For many applications, a device known as a combustor can be successfully used as a safe and economical method of controlling vapors from the handling, storage, or loading of volatile liquid hydrocarbons or ethanol when recovery of the vapors is not a viable option.

Jordan Technologies has experience manufacturing and servicing all types of vapor combustion units (VCUs) including units for special applications such as marine vapor control or non-motor fuel vapor control. Jordan’s VCUs are guaranteed to meet all safety regulations and currently mandated emissions limits. Custom vapor combustion devices are also available.

Vapor combustors are designed to safely burn vapor mixtures consisting of hydrocarbons. This mixture may, or may not, be within the flammable range of the vapors being destroyed. Vapor combustors can be configured as an open type, where the flame is elevated and visible; or as an enclosed type, where the flame is generally near grade level and enclosed in an insulated combustion chamber or stack.

The equipment provided for both systems is similar. The major equipment items included in a combustor system are the stack, anti-flash back burners with an ignition system, assists air blowers for smokeless burning, velocity control or staging valve(s) and deflagration arrestor(s).

Basic operation

The vapor mixture flows into the vapor collection system at the loading facility and through the vapor header that connects the loading facility with the VCU. The vapor mixture then flows through an in-line detonation arrestor that is equipped with a temperature switch on one face of the detonation arrestor element.

As the vapor mixture flow continues, the pressure will increase in the vapor piping. This increase in pressure is sensed by pressure controls located at the VCU. When the pressure reaches a predetermined level, the vapor-staging valve will open automatically allowing the vapor mixture to flow to the burner elements where the combustible vapors are ignited by the pilot and burned. The assist-air blower is provided to furnish some of the air required for combustion and to provide mixing of combustion air with the vapor mixture. This ensures that the combustion remains smokeless.

The temperature management system, if selected, controls the temperature within the combustion stack by controlling the amount of air that flows into the combustion zone, while also controlling the amount of supplemental fuel gas that is injected into the combustion zone. The temperature is managed automatically during operation by controlling the position of the adjustable air dampers and the assist gas flow. Finally, when the transfer operation is completed, the VCU will automatically turn off the assist air blower and pilot, and then await an automatic re-start when more loading is about to begin.

VCU features

The standard Jordan Technologies vapor combustion unit (VCU) is an enclosed combustion system and incorporates the following features:

  • Ceramic fiber refractory lined combustion chamber
  • Smokeless burner(s) specially designed to reduce the possibility of a flashback
  • PLC based control system with an automatic ignition system and safety monitoring
  • Automatic actuated vapor staging valve(s)
  • Combustion air blower for the anti flashback burners
  • Detonation arrestor with high temperature monitor in the main vapor piping
  • NEMA 4 control panel with all necessary instrumentation and controls for automatic and low maintenance operation
  • Advanced temperature control technology to reduce assist gas usage
  • Advanced pilot technology that reduces pilot fuel consumption up to 75% over competitor models
  • Easy to use touch panel operator interface
  • The standard Jordan Technologies VCU is a pre-packaged unit requiring only minor field assembly for easy installation and cost savings to our customers.

Vapor Combustion

As an alternative to recovery, hydrocarbon vapors may be destroyed in a flare, combustor or a thermal oxidizer. For many applications, a device known as a combustor can be successfully used as a safe and economical method of controlling vapors from the handling, storage, or loading of volatile liquid hydrocarbons or ethanol when recovery of the vapors is not a viable option.

Jordan Technologies has experience manufacturing and servicing all types of vapor combustion units (VCUs) including units for special applications such as marine vapor control or non-motor fuel vapor control. Jordan’s VCUs are guaranteed to meet all safety regulations and currently mandated emissions limits. Custom vapor combustion devices are also available.

Vapor combustors are designed to safely burn vapor mixtures consisting of hydrocarbons. This mixture may, or may not, be within the flammable range of the vapors being destroyed. Vapor combustors can be configured as an open type, where the flame is elevated and visible; or as an enclosed type, where the flame is generally near grade level and enclosed in an insulated combustion chamber or stack.

The equipment provided for both systems is similar. The major equipment items included in a combustor system are the stack, anti-flash back burners with an ignition system, assists air blowers for smokeless burning, velocity control or staging valve(s) and deflagration arrestor(s).

Basic operation

The vapor mixture flows into the vapor collection system at the loading facility and through the vapor header that connects the loading facility with the VCU. The vapor mixture then flows through an in-line detonation arrestor that is equipped with a temperature switch on one face of the detonation arrestor element.

As the vapor mixture flow continues, the pressure will increase in the vapor piping. This increase in pressure is sensed by pressure controls located at the VCU. When the pressure reaches a predetermined level, the vapor-staging valve will open automatically allowing the vapor mixture to flow to the burner elements where the combustible vapors are ignited by the pilot and burned. The assist-air blower is provided to furnish some of the air required for combustion and to provide mixing of combustion air with the vapor mixture. This ensures that the combustion remains smokeless.

The temperature management system, if selected, controls the temperature within the combustion stack by controlling the amount of air that flows into the combustion zone, while also controlling the amount of supplemental fuel gas that is injected into the combustion zone. The temperature is managed automatically during operation by controlling the position of the adjustable air dampers and the assist gas flow. Finally, when the transfer operation is completed, the VCU will automatically turn off the assist air blower and pilot, and then await an automatic re-start when more loading is about to begin.

VCU features

The standard Jordan Technologies vapor combustion unit (VCU) is an enclosed combustion system and incorporates the following features:

  • Ceramic fiber refractory lined combustion chamber
  • Smokeless burner(s) specially designed to reduce the possibility of a flashback
  • PLC based control system with an automatic ignition system and safety monitoring
  • Automatic actuated vapor staging valve(s)
  • Combustion air blower for the anti flashback burners
  • Detonation arrestor with high temperature monitor in the main vapor piping
  • NEMA 4 control panel with all necessary instrumentation and controls for automatic and low maintenance operation
  • Advanced temperature control technology to reduce assist gas usage
  • Advanced pilot technology that reduces pilot fuel consumption up to 75% over competitor models
  • Easy to use touch panel operator interface
  • The standard Jordan Technologies VCU is a pre-packaged unit requiring only minor field assembly for easy installation and cost savings to our customers.