Key Modeling Parameters and Process Safety Information for Effective Atmospheric Dispersion Modeling

Dispersion modeling is an important part of Quantitative risk assessment (QRA) documentation. Dispersion modeling can be performed using commercially available software. Variety of modeling parameters and Process Safety Information (PSI) data are needed for atmospheric dispersion modeling. Some of the parameters include weather, facility geographical location, flammability and toxicity data of the service fluid, radiation intensity, software tool, and model. Some PSI data needs include process and instrumentation diagrams (PIDs), Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), relief system evaluation documentation, Heat and Material Balance (H&MB), and equipment data sheets. This paper describes the key parameters and their selection for effective dispersion modeling.