FINE PARTICLE EMISSIONS
INFORMATION SYSTEM
(FPEIS)
-------
FINE PARTICLE EMISSIONS
INFORMATION SYSTEM
(FPEIS)
Gary L. Johnson
Special Studies Staff
Inustrial Environmental Research Laboratory
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
October 1977
Review Notice
This report has been reviewed by IERL/RTP, and approved for distribution
within EPA. Approval does not signify that the contents necessarily
reflect the views and policies of the Agency, nor does the mention of
trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommenda-
tion for use.
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
FOREWORD ii
INTRODUCTION 1
STRUCTURE OF THE FPEIS DATA BASE 4
ORGANIZATION OF EMISSIONS TESTING DATA 9
Source and Test Series Related Information 9
Control Device Characteristics and Design Parameters . . 11
Test Characteristics and Control Device Operating
Parameters 11
Biological and Chemical Analysis Data 12
Particle Size Measurement Equipment and Data 13
STATUS OF THE FPEIS 15
REFERENCES 17
LIST OF TABLES
1. FPEIS STRUCTURE 5
2. ORGANIZATION OF FPEIS DATA 10
-------
I I
FOREWORD
The Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory at Research
Triangle Park, North Carolina, has developed a comprehensive computer-
ized information system on the results of fine particle measurements
collected from stationary sources, called the Fine Particle Emissions
Information System (FPEIS).
-------
INTRODUCTION
The Fine Particle Emissions Information System (FPEIS) is a com-
puterized information system containing data on primary fine particle
emissions to the atmosphere from stationary point sources and includes
data on applied control devices. The purpose of the system is to
provide a centralized source of comprehensive fine particle measurement
information for use by engineers and scientists engaged in fine particle
control technology development. In contrast to other EPA data systems
which pertain to the Agency's regulatory functions, the FPEIS is ori-
ented toward fine particle control technology RD&D and measurement
technology RDSO.
The FPEIS contains emissions test data from a variety of industrial
sources. It attempts to describe completely the particulate-laden gas
stream from the point of its generation to the point at which it leaves
the control device. General categories of information contained in the
FPEIS include source characteristics; control system descriptions; test
characteristics; particulate mass train results; physical, biological,
and chemical properties of the particulates; particulate size measure-
ment equipment/methods; and particulate size distribution data. Every
category of information includes a number of related data elements, each
••''
of which is a unique variable essential for the description of the
source tested.
These data and information items, are classified and arranged so as
to ensure some compatibility with other EPA data bases; i.e., NEDS (the
-------
-2-
Source Classification Codes) (1)*, and the SAROAD/SOTDAT cnemicai iden-
tification systems (2).
A uniform protocol for units and equipment terminology has been
developed along with standard input data forms and definition of each
data element in the system. These standards and definitions will allow
all data in the system to be stored and retrieved on a common basis.
The FPEIS has been implemented at the EPA National Computer Center
(NCC) at Research Triangle Park, on the UNIVAC 1110 computer using
SYSTEM 2000,** a flexible data base management system. Features of
SYSTEM 2000 include sorting, comparing, and retrieving information from
the FPEIS in a variety of arrangements.
A comprehensive set of user documentation has been prepared for the
FPEIS. The FPEIS REFERENCE MANUAL (3) presents: a detailed description
of the FPEIS data base, including definition of all data types and
elements; a list of available information request procedures; sample
data input forms; output format capabilities; and an index to the refer-
ences and literature sources used to compile the FPEIS data base, listed
in order of unique test series numbers. A companion document, the FPEIS
USER GUIDE (4), contains detailed instructions for submitting new data
to the FPEIS as well as procedures to be used for retrieving information
from the data base. As changes, additions, and expansions of the system
and the informational capabilities are made, the manuals will be up-
dated.
A
Numbers in parentheses refer to references listed at the end of
this document.
**
SYSTEM 2000 is the registered trademark of MRI Systems Corpora-
tion of Austin, Texas.
-------
-3-
The FPEIS presently contains data from more than 1,000 sampling
runs which have been aggregated into discrete, readily accessible data-
sets. Plans to implement expanded data sorting and retrieval features
are under way to enhance the usability and usefulness of the system.
Estimates indicate that there are approximately 4000 known sampling runs
in existence in the United States today. Data acquisition activities
now under way will enable the FPEIS to contain at least three-fourths of
the known data by the end of 1978.
-------
-4-
STRUCTURE OF THE FPEIS DATA BASE
The structure of the FPEIS data base is composed of discrete data
elements which provide information and data from source tests where fine
particle measurements were made. A data element is defined as a com-
puter variable corresponding to a particular source test data item. The
completeness of information for any given source test within the data
base is limited only by the availability of such information to the
encoder at the time the data were compiled.
The structure of the FPEIS is shown in Table 1. The input data to
the FPEIS have been derived from source test reports, published papers,
or FPEIS Data Input Forms. Each report or test result may have data on
one or more source/control device combinations. An uncontrolled source
is defined as a combination of a source and no control device. All the
data pertaining to a source/control device combination obtained during a
certain testing period are given a unique test series number which may
be used to identify the particular test activity. For example, all data
obtained on the Union Electric Meramec plant, Boiler Unit 1, as a part
of the "Refuse Firing Demonstration Study" conducted by Midwest Research
Institute were given five test series numbers. They are Test Series
Nos. 19, 28, 29, 30, and 31, which were tests conducted during December
1973, November 1974, March 1975, May 1975, and November 1975, respec-
tively. Each test series consists of a number of subsets or subseries,
which represent all the data pertaining to a given combination of source
and control device operating parameters, or to data taken at either the
inlet or outlet of the control device. The subseries ties different
-------
TABLE 1. FPEIS STRUCTURE
FPEIS
Test Series
Level
Test Series 1
Test Series 2
Subseries
Level
Subseries 1
Subseries 2
Subseries 3
Subseries 1
Subseries 2
Run
Level
Run 2
VJ«
I
-------
-6-
sampling activities together and gives a complete description of the gas
stream for the various operating conditions of the source and control
device. Subseries are numbered sequentially from 1, within a given
series.
The test run, which is the cornerstone of the FPEIS data base
structure, is defined as any measurement of fine particle emissions from
a source/control device combination for a specified length of time,
using a single particle size measuring system or method. For example,
one size distribution measurement using an impactor train constitutes a
run. Another size distribution measurement using an optical particle
counter made at about the same time, with the source and control device
operating parameters unchanged, constitutes another run. The mass train
results such as those using EPA Method 5 are not treated as a test run
since the focus is upon particle size, distribution data but are included
at the subseries level as additional information.
The test run as defined above has some advantages and disadvant-
ages. The disadvantages stem from the fact that the test run data being
obtained by a single particle size measuring system or method may not
cover the entire size spectrum of the particles; therefore, it may be
necessary to group several test runs representing data from different
instruments to obtain a complete size distribution. On the other hand,
this approach offers flexibility in that the data obtained by each
instrument can be evaluated separately which may be important in view of
the history of variations in sampling system performance. For example,
if six optical particle counter runs are made within the time of one
impactor run, all the optical particle counter runs can be averaged
-------
-7-
and compared with the impactor run, or the six runs of the optical
i
particle counter can be treated separately, getting a time resolution
for the optical data.
Groups of test runs are contained within the test subseries. A
test subseries, then, is defined formally as a group of test runs utili-
zing the same or different particle size measurement techniques at a
specified location and under the same source/collector operating char-
acteristics. Significant changes in source or collector operation as
part of the test protocol define a new subseries. Examples of different
subseries are: a planned change in the air-to-cloth ratio for a fabric
filter under test; a change in source feed material; and different parts
of the charging cycle, melting cycle, lancing step, and pouring step for
an arc furnace. Each defines a different subseries. Similarly, a
change in measurement location (e.g., inlet or outlet of a collector),
also defines a new subseries. Associated with each test subseries are
the relevant data for source operating characteristics, control device
operating parameters, sampling conditions, and any other data which
describe the situation existing during the period of the test subseries.
Supplemental information may be included where available, such as sub-
sequent chemical analysis or biological testing of the collected par-
ticulate on a total mass basis or as a function of particle size.
Additionally, provisions are made for narrative comments which can be
used to provide information not elsewhere classified. As stated earlier,
the test subseries are numbered sequentially within a test series by the
encoder when the data are compiled for entry into the FPEIS. This
arrangement allows for the grouping of simultaneous test runs into a
common data set.
-------
-8-
Finally, all subseries data for a source test program are contained
within the test series. Again, the test series is defined as all the
test runs and subseries for an identifiable testing program. Sampling
on the same source/collector combination at different periods will
result in different test series just as measurements at other sources
within a plant, or at separate plants, will also define different test
series. The specific definition of a test series depends upon the
nature of the testing program itself. Usually a test report or sampling
activity at some site will contain data for only one test series; how-
ever, it is possible to define several test series from the same activity
or report.
-------
-9-
ORGANIZATION OF EMISSIONS TESTING DATA
FPEIS data are grouped into five general categories of information.
These are: (a) general source description and related information; (b)
control device characteristics and design parameters; (c) source process
conditions and control device operating parameters; (d) biological and
chemical analysis results; and (e) particle size measurement equipment
and data. This organization relative to the FPEIS structure discussed
in the previous section is shown in Table 2. This table also lists the
discrete data elements which comprise the data base itself.
Source and Test Series Related Information
This group of data elements identifies the stationary source that
was tested, the source location, and literature reference of information
for the test series. To enable a general grouping of sources to be
made, each source test series has been described in terms of the NEDS
Source Classification Codes (1) that are applicable. The use of the
NEDS codes is by specification of the word description, not the associ-
ated numeric code. The source location is described by address as well
as by Universal Transverse Mercator zone and X-Y coordinates as defined
by the U.S. Geological Survey (5).
The name of the testing organization and the reference (report,
*~'
journal article, etc.) from which the data have been compiled are in-
cluded. Additionally, remarks on the test may be included which may be
pertinent to the test series, but for which a specific data type is not
available.
-------
TABLE 2. ORGANIZATION OF FPEIS DATA
Test Series Level
A. Source Characteristics
Source category (SCC I)
Type of operation (SCC II)
Feed material class (SCC III)
Operating mode class (SCC IV)
Site and source name
Source address (street,
city, state, zip code)
UTM zone location and coordinates
Test series start and finish dates
Tested by and reference
B. Test Series Remarks
C. Control Devlce(s) Characteristics
Generic device type
Device class and category
Device commercial name
Manufacturer
Description
Design parameter type and value
Subserles Level
D. Test Characteristics
Test date, start, and finish time
Source operating mode
Source operating rate
Percent design capacity
Feed material and Its composition
Sampling location and Its description
Volume flow rate, velocity,
temperature and pressure
Percent Isoklnetlc sampling
Orsat gas analysis and trace gas
Composition
E. Participate Mass Train Results
Front half and total mass concentration
Mass train comments
F. Participate Physical Properties
Density
Resistivity
Others
C. Bloassay Data
Bloassay test type
Test comments
H. Chemical Composition
Particle boundary diameters
Sizing Instrument calibrated or calculated
SAROAD chemical and analysis method ID
Concentration In filter/total
Concentration In Ranges I through 9
Run Level
I. Measurement Particulars
Measurement Instrument/method name
Size range lower and upper boundaries
Col lection surface
Dltut Ion factor
Measurement start time and period
Sample flow rate
Sample temperature, pressure,
and moisture content
Comments
J. Partlculate Size Distribution
Particle diameter basis (Classic
Aerodynamic, Aerodynamic Impactlon,
or Stokes)
Boundary diameter
Concentration basis (mass or number)
Concentration
O
i
-------
-11-
An important feature to note is that the FPEIS can protect confi-
dential or proprietary source data like site name and address. The
FPEIS will accept the entry "CONFIDENTIAL" for any source whose identity
cannot be disclosed by the encoding group. This enables the FPEIS to
store the important particle size data from sources which could not have
been accessed in the past. EPA will have no knowledge whatsoever of the
source identity.
Control Device Characteristics and Design Parameters
Definition and description of the control system tested (if any)
for the test series as well as pertinent design parameters are given
here. Standard nomenclature is used to characterize the device by
category, class, generic type, commercial name and manufacturer.
Additional device descriptive material is provided that may be necessary
for novel or hybrid control systems. The device descriptive elements
are arranged such that maximum flexibility exists for cases where multi-
ple devices are involved. Up to three control devices in series on a
given source may be reported.
Control device design parameters are indicated by type and value,
where known. Specification types are provided as standard nomenclature
for the four most common generic device types: Electrostatic Precipi-
tator, Cyclone, Wet Scrubber, and Fabric FM'ter. The units to be used
are also given. The FPEIS uses' metric units throughout the system.
Test Characteristics and Control Device Operating Parameters
Data contained in this group of data elements identify and define
the test subseries date and time, sampling location description and
-------
-12-
specific source operating parameters. Such items as source operating
rates, mode, feed material and composition, and stack gas conditions are
also included. Ancillary test results such as mass train, Orsat analysis
and physical measurement of the particulate (density, resistivity, etc.)
and trace gas analysis are reported. Additional remarks or data per-
tinent to the test subseries which may be of interest to the FPEIS users
are also given.
Control device(s) operating parameters are indicated by type and
value, and are described by standard nomenclature. Units to be used
are also given. As in the case of design parameters suggested operating
parameters are given for the four most common generic device types:
Electrostatic Precipitator, Cyclone, Wet Scrubber, and Fabric Filter.
The user may define and include additional parameters as required.
Biological and Chemical Analysis Data
Bioassay and chemical analyses which were performed on collected
particulate are included in this data group. Bioassay tests performed
are identified by using standard nomenclature. Comments or results from
these tests are reported.
The chemical analysis group utilizes the pollutant chemical coding
system for the SAROAD/SOTDAT (2) data base system as well as a codifi-
cation of analysis methods from the same system. The data are reported
in units of concentration as a function of particle size, where avail-
able,, with the boundary intervals specified for the particle size
measurement technique used. Indication is given as to whether the data
were based upon calibrated or calculated particle diameters. The data
-------
•13-
are also reported on a total mass concentration basis. Both elements
and compounds may be identified and recorded.
A maximum of nine size ranges, or stages, are available in addition
to the category of mass train filter or pooled stages. The mass train
filter chemical compositions are results of analyses performed on the
particulate collected by the mass sampling train. The pooled stages
chemical compositions are for analyses done by pooling collected par-
ticulate from several impactor stages when there was insufficient par-
ticulate on individual stages for proper analysis.
Particle Size Measurement Equipment and Data
This group of data elements identifies the measurement instrument
or method, specific run data, and sampling conditions. Measurement
instruments are defined in standard nomenclature by generic class and
type. Indication is given of the general size range covered by the
equipment and, for impactors, a description is given of the collection
substrate and its specifications. Comments on the measurement are
reported in text form, and details of equipment calibration methods or
protocol may also be included.
Particle size distribution data are entered as mass concentrations
or number concentrations. The class boundary diameters are given along
with whether the diameters are obtained from calibration or from calcu-
lations. Designation of Classic Aerodynamic, Aerodynamic Impaction, or
Stokes diameters is also provided. The data are given in terms of mass
concentrations per size interval (i.e., micrograms/dry normal cubic
meter) or number concentrations per size interval (i.e., number/cubic
-------
-14-
centimeter). By assuming the particles to be spherical and by using a
given gas dilution factor and particle density, output may be obtained
which includes calculation of mass and number size distributions.
-------
-15-
STATUS OF THE FPEIS
The FPEIS is currently operational on the UNIVAC 1110 computer at
EPA's National Computer Center (NCC) at Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina. Procedures have been established in the FPEIS USER GUIDE to
enable users to access the data base either directly through their own
data communications terminals or indirectly by way of a request to the
EPA/IERL-RTP Project Officer. At present, direct access is restricted
to users who have a working knowledge of the SYSTEM 2000 data base
management system natural language. Future plans include the devel-
opment of an interactive user interface which will permit users not
having SYSTEM 2000 experience to access the data base and retrieve
information.
The majority of data requests to date have been directed to the
IERL-RTP Project Officer. The FPEIS presently has two standard data
output programs which are being used to process data requests. These
output programs are the SUMMARY REPORT and SERIES REPORT. The SUMMARY
REPORT program produces a listing of the entire contents of the data
base in test series order. This program produces a voluminous quantity
of paper and is used rarely. The SERIES REPORT program lists the data
for one complete test series for which the user has supplied the unique
test series number as program input.
Work is now in progress to develop a program to calculate particu-
late control device collection efficiency as a function of particle size
using the data contained in the FPEIS data base. Since all FPEIS data
-------
-16-
are stored according to a uniform protocol, direct comparisons between
control devices may be made. More importantly, all data will be pre-
sented consistently.
The FPEIS currently contains data from over 1000 sampling measure-
ments (or runs), representing tests conducted on over AO source/col-
lector combinations. Data acquisition activities are now under way by
IERL-RTP contractors to identify, encode, and enclose more data on fine
particle sampling in the FPEIS. To date more than 1600 test runs have
been identified, and it is expected that the size of the data base will
increase by a factor of at least 3 by the end of 1978. Procedures have
been developed to provide for the gathering of emissions data from on-
going testing activities and for the routine updating of such data into
the data base.
Provision has been made to accommodate the expanding needs of the
user community for data reduction and analysis. As these needs change,
additional features can be developed and documented for the FPEIS to
ensure that the user's requirements are satisfied. Revisions to the
REFERENCE MANUAL and USER GUIDE will be made at appropriate intervals
and periodic reports assessing the contents and completeness of the data
base wi11 be issued.
The long-term success of the FPEIS will depend upon its usefulness
•.'••'
and usability to the user community. As interest continues to grow in
fine particle aerosols and their abatement from stationary sources, the
FPEIS can provide valuable information to the research scientist as well
as the control equipment manufacturer. IERL-RTP will pursue an active
dialogue with the FPEIS user community to ensure the satisfaction of the
user's requirements.
-------
-17-
REFERENCES
1. "Guide for Compiling a Comprehensive Emission Inventory," EPA No.
APTD-1135, NTIS No. PB212-231, March 1973-
2. "Source Test Data System (SOTDAT)," EPA No. 450/3-75-070, NTIS No.
PB 245-052, July 1975.
3. "Fine Particle Emissions Information System Reference Manual,"
EPA-600/2-76-173, June 1976.
4. "Fine Particle Emissions Information System User Guide," EPA-
600/2-76-172, June 1976.
5. "Universal Transverse Mercator Grid," U.S. Department of the
Army, Washington, DC, Publication No. TM5-241-8, July 1958.
------- |