Visual Opacity
WHAT DO WE DO?
By observing the emissions from your source, be it stack, generator exhaust or a fugitive emission, the evaluator can determine if your equipment is running within the guidelines under Title 40 Part 60 of the Code Of Federal Regulations. If the source passed the test, you will receive the report, certified by a PE, if the source fails, you must have the equipment repaired and schedule a new test.
WHY A VISUAL OPACITY TEST?
Smoke Control Ordinances in the US date back to 1859 during the second phase of the Industrial Revolution. What started out as nuisance complaints, eventually became government agencies and regulations to protect our air quality. In 1974 the EPA established the Method 9 test method for determining the opacity of smoke through visual observations. In 1982, they developed the Method 22 test protocol, which determines the frequency of fugitive emissions and flares.
HOW DO WE DO IT?
During the test, the evaluator observes the plume emitting from the source and notates the percentage of visual opacity. Generally, notations are taken every 15 seconds for a total duration determined by the permit of the source. The evaluator works under the Method guidelines, including the correct viewing angle, wind speed, location of the sun and optimal background for viewing.
Contact us.
treadwaytesting88@gmail.com
845.455.1847
201 Sparkling Ridge Road
New Paltz, NY 12561