Proposed Changes to API 560: Mandatory Annex Q to Enhance Particulate and Liquid Aerosol Removal

To enhance operational efficiency and safety standards within the oil and gas industry, the American Petroleum Institute (API) has proposed to modify the API 560 standard to mandate the need for high performance particulate and liquid aerosol removal. In this blog, we explore what these changes mean and what impact they will have on the industry.

Used internationally throughout the industry, the API 560 governs and outlines essential criteria for the design, materials, fabrication, inspection, testing, and shipment of fired heaters used in refinery services. The recent shift to make high performance particulate and liquid removal mandatory would establish a performance requirement of 99.98% weight at >0.3 micrometers for fuel gas filtration and separation equipment for all fired heaters used within the refinery and petrochemical industries. This change seeks to enhance reliability and safety in the petroleum refining industry significantly.

This proactive approach not only enhances the operational reliability of the equipment but also contributes to its longevity, thereby promoting greater efficiency and reducing the likelihood of costly downtimes. Refineries can ensure a safer and more sustainable operational environment by adhering to these standardized practices.

The proposed changes have garnered support from the industry, emphasizing how the improved particulate and aerosol removal will result in significant benefits. These improvements will facilitate cleaner combustion processes, leading to a notable reduction in harmful emissions that can adversely affect air quality. Additionally, stakeholders anticipate that these changes will result in lower maintenance costs, as cleaner operations generally require less corrective action and fewer repairs over time. Furthermore, the expected reduction in downtime and operational disruptions due to these improvements should contribute to a more stable and efficient operation of refineries. Refining facilities can enhance their productivity and profitability by minimizing unplanned outages.

As the industry prepares to implement these changes, which are expected to take effect in mid-to-late 2025, refineries are strongly encouraged to review and align their current operational practices with the new enhanced requirements. The mandatory adoption of Annex Q represents a significant advancement in the methods used to maintain the integrity and performance of fired heaters. This shift is crucial in ensuring that the refining process becomes more efficient and safer for workers and the surrounding environment. Stakeholders are optimistic that these updates will play a pivotal role in the evolution of refinery operations, paving the way for more sustainable practices in the industry.