SJVAPCD Rules 4306 & 4320

New SJVAPCD Emissions Limits for Boilers

At the end of 2020 the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District confirmed amendments to rules 4306 and 4320 that regulate boiler emissions. The new rules will tighten the existing emission limits for particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

The changes to rule 4306 will require that, by December 31, 2020, all boilers operating in the San Joaquin Valley must meet the following emissions limits:

• PM: 10 milligrams per dry standard cubic meter (mg/dscm) or 0.4 pounds per million British thermal units of heat input (lb/MMBtu)
• SO2: 40 parts per million by volume dry (ppmvd) or 100 ppmw
• NOx: 200 parts per million by volume dry (ppmvd) or 400 ppmw

Importance of the New SJVAPCD Emissions Limits for Boilers

The new SJVAPCD emissions limits for boilers will help to improve air quality in the San Joaquin Valley by reducing the amount of PM, SO2 and NOx emitted into the atmosphere. These pollutants can contribute to a variety of health problems, including respiratory infections, asthma and heart disease. In addition, they can also contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain.

By reducing emissions from boilers, the new rules will help to protect public health and the environment in the San Joaquin Valley.

What are Boilers?

Boilers are devices that generate steam or hot water by heating water or other liquids. They are used in a variety of industries, including power generation, chemical manufacturing, food processing and papermaking.

There are two main types of boilers: fire-tube boilers and water-tube boilers. Fire-tube boilers have a shell that is surrounded by hot gases, while water-tube boilers have tubes that are heated by hot gases.

What Are the Existing Emission Limits for Boilers?

The existing emission limits for boiler PM, SO2 and NOx vary depending on the size of the boiler and the type of fuel that is being burned. For example, the limit for PM emissions from a small boiler (less than 10 million British thermal units per hour) burning natural gas is 0.015 pounds per million British thermal units of heat input (lb/MMBtu).

The existing emission limits for boilers can be found in rule 4306 of the SJVAPCD Regulations.

What Are the New Emission Limits for Boilers?

As mentioned above, the new emission limits for boilers will tighten the existing limits for PM, SO2 and NOx. The new limits are as follows:

• PM: 10 milligrams per dry standard cubic meter (mg/dscm) or 0.4 pounds per million British thermal units of heat input (lb/MMBtu)
• SO2: 40 parts per million by volume dry (ppmvd) or 100 ppmw
• NOx: 200 parts per million by volume dry (ppmvd) or 400 ppmw

These new limits will apply to all boilers operating in the San Joaquin Valley, regardless of size or fuel type.

What Are the Compliance Dates for the New Emission Limits?

The new emission limits for boilers will go into effect on December 31, 2020. Boilers that are already in compliance with the existing emission limits will have until December 31, 2025, to comply with the new limits.

How Can I Comply with the New Emission Limits?

There are a variety of ways that you can comply with the new emission limits for boilers. Some options include:

• Boiler replacement to accommodate a more efficient model
• Retrofitting your boiler with emissions-control equipment
• Switching to a cleaner-burning fuel

You can also consult with a qualified engineer or other expert to find the best way to comply with the new emission limits.

What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?

The penalties for non-compliance with the new emission limits for boilers will be the same as the penalties for non-compliance with the existing emission limits. These penalties can include fines of up to $10,000 per day and imprisonment for up to six months.

How Can I Get More Information?

If you have any questions about the new emission limits for boilers, please contact the SJVAPCD at (559) 230-6000 or (800) SMOG TIPS. You can also visit our website.

Answer the questions below to learn how the rules apply to your equipment.