CFR 40, Part 63-ASTM D6522-00 Standards and Portable Analyzers

The new CFR 40, Part 63-ASTM D6522-00 standards say that "portable analyzers" are an acceptable alternative to EPA Method 3A and EPA Method 10 for CO, NO_X, and O₂ emissions.This confirms boiler/engine test companies that they can use portables to set up new systems and maintain and log older units. This was a long discussion and it was not clear for many years that the EPA genuinely did agree with the use of portable flue gas analyzers for these tests.

Now it is definite, CFR 40, Part 63-ASTM D6522-00 clearly states that portable analyzers may, indeed, be used for this purpose as compliance analyzers or full compliance service tools, when fitted with sensors for NO and NO₂.

This opens the way for the use of low-cost analysis equipment for these tests, simplifying compliance in these areas. The high cost of the analyzers needed was a serious problem in enforcing this rule up to now, but this will change in the future.

Example of a compliance analyzer in the form a of a handheld instrument. When fitted with a sensor for NO, this instrument will calculate NO_x with an accuracy acceptable for the EPA Methods.

The portable analyzer on the right can be fitted with NO and NO₂ sensors and is therefore ideal for use as a full compliance service tool.

National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional Boilers and Process Heaters; Final Rule

Both of these instruments are low-cost, affordable answers to the problem of EPA testing for compliance with all emission regulations. This is truly a great step, which was probably intended by the EPA from the start. The only problem was the interpretation of the legal texts, which is truly a major feat and a seriously daunting task for a layman.