Emergency Relief Systems Redesign
Confidential Client | Woodburn, OR
Project Overview
Our client acquired a plant in Woodburn, Oregon which presented an opportunity to address critical safety concerns within the facility's chemical reactor process. The existing facility required enhancements to mitigate potential safety risks associated with unplanned process events.
The design solution provided an enclosed catch basin system capable of safely capturing and containing any unexpected releases, improving overall plant safety and operational resilience.
Complexity
The engineering challenge involved designing for two-phase flow (foam and liquid) in self-heating, exothermic reactions—a complex scenario where standard pressure relief design tools prove inadequate.
Solution
Harris Group's specialized engineers applied unique process knowledge in two-phase reacting flows, implementing Design Institute for Emergency Relief Systems (DIERS) principles to create a custom solution specifically engineered for:
- The plant's unique chemical processes
- Specific reaction volumes
- Containment of hazardous materials
Impact
The redesigned system provides:
- Environmental safeguards for all process scenarios
- Enhanced operational safety
- Reduced operational disruption during emergency events
- Peace of mind for plant operations team
The project exemplifies how specialized engineering expertise can solve complex safety and environmental challenges in aging industrial facilities.
