Problem: Oxy-Fuel cutting is currently the most commonly used method for large scale metal cutting and preparation operations, e.g. ship breaking. Such processes introduce considerable smoke and cause difficulty in meeting the 20 percent opacity requirement. While this method is both cost effective and efficient it also creates large quantities of visible emissions, metal fumes and debris. This has led to compliance issues with air pollution and clean water requirements. Known alternative methods available at this time are nowhere near as efficient. Current methods of controlling these emissions on large scale projects are logistically difficult and introduce additional problems. Current attempts to comply with the requirements of the regulations are resulting in increased project costs and longer schedule durations. If future regulatory changes increase requirements, the negative impacts would increase accordingly. Failure to comply with current or future regulatory requirements could also lead to fines and penalties.
The USS Enterprise is scheduled for breaking in about 2016. The Enterprise is 89,600 tons full load; 1101 feet long, has a flight deck 252 feet wide, and a 133 foot beam. It is so big it dwarfs the largest drydock in Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, which is the Navy’s only organic site for breaking ships. If current oxy-fuel cutting methods alone are used to break it, environmental issues are certain to prolong the breaking process
Proposed Hot Cutting Solution: Develop and implement process improvements to control emissions associated with current oxy-fuel cutting methods. Investigate and implement alternative cutting methods to reduce metal fume emissions. Proposed solution(s) will be evaluated for efficiency, effectiveness, hazardous waste by-products and safety and environmental concerns.
Proposed Cold Cutting Solution: Develop and implement cold cutting processes to control emissions associated with current oxy-fuel cutting methods. Investigate and implement alternative cold cutting methods to reduce metal fume emissions. Proposed solution(s) will be evaluated for efficiency, effectiveness, hazardous, safety and environmental concerns.
Project Team:
- Penn State University Advanced Research Laboratory
- Puget Sound Naval Shipyard
NCMS Project Manager: Dana Ellis (360)782-1370
