Plant operator problems with CEM’s - A common evaluation

ABSTRACT

In situations where continuous monitoring systems (CEM’s) are available which have been ‘proven’ by regular use, the Regulator will normally require their use for the monitoring of airborne pollutants emitted by large plant. Disputes which arise between operators who purchase CEM systems and the system suppliers over the level of performance achieved are often difficult to resolve. Since the payment or non-payment of a significant amount of money is integral to these disputes a third party such as AEA Technology Environment is often brought in to give an expert opinion.

The range of CEM’s problems and the types of plant on which such disputes can occur are illustrated by four case studies. In each case study the independent assessment of performance which was subsequently performed selected appropriate performance criteria to evaluate the installed system from a small set of performance standards with national or international recognition.

A different result emerged from each of the four case studies illustrating the complexity of the reasons for poor CEM’s performance.

In all cases the causes for inadequate or poor performance were identified. The success of such assessments relies critically on selecting the right approach, on the relevance and quality of the reference measurements performed and on the quality of staff, equipment and procedures.