CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project

Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

CSPC NANHAI PETROCHEMICALS PROJECT

SPECIFICATION FOR EQUIPMENT SPACING

PROJECT SPECIFICATION: SP-8230-0000-0003

Project Management Contractor (PMC)

NO DATE REVISION BY Confirmation of inclusion of CHKD APPR

PRC mandatory requirements
00 20/06/01 Revised and RAT - RAT RAT
Issued for ITB.
01 17/04/02 Revised and Re- IB - RAT RAT
issued for ITB
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

SPECIFICATION FOR EQUIPMENT LAYOUT

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
No.
1.0 SCOPE 3

2.0 PURPOSE 3

3.0 DEFINITIONS 3

3.1 Flash Point

3.2 Auto Ignition Temperature AIT

3.3 Sources of Ignition

3.4 Classification of Fire hazard for Flammable Material

4.0 RESPONSIBILITIES 5

5.0 INSTRUCTIONS 5

5.1 General Considerations

5.2 Spacing of Units and Areas

5.3 Onsite Spacing

5.4 Offsite Spacing

5.5 Tankage

6.0 REFERENCES 44

7.0 ATTACHMENTS 45

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

1.0 SCOPE.
This project specification covers the spacing requirements to be used for the
layout of plant and equipment on all Onsite and Offsite Units / Areas. The 0

specification applies to the Definition and Implementation Phases. 1

The specification is not applicable for Toxic Materials Handling facilities.

2.0 PURPOSE.
The purpose of the specification is to specify the requirements and practices for
the spacing of equipment and facilities on the CSPC Nanhai Petrochemical
Project. 0
1
The basis of this specification is the PRC Codes, International Standards, DEP
requirements and current industry practices. In the case of conflict, PRC
codes are to be consulted.

3.0 DEFINITIONS.
The following definitions are used throughout the specification.

3.1 Flash Point.

The flash point is the lowest temperature at which a product gives off
sufficient vapour to form a mixture with air that can be ignited by a flame
or spark.

3.2 Auto Ignition Temperature (AIT).

The auto-ignition temperature is the temperature at which a product will
burn without application of any other form of ignition.
The AIT of most petroleum product is between 250 0C and 5000C. In
general the AIT of petroleum hydrocarbons decrease with higher boiling
fractions whereas flash points increase.

3.3 Sources of Ignition.

Possible sources of ignition include the following:

3.3.1 Electrical.
Sparks or arcs may occur when current carrying contacts are separated
or through static electricity discharge.
3.3.2 Naked Lights.
E.g. fired heaters, fires, smoking, hot work, gas welding, etc.
3.3.3 Internal Combustion Engines (IC)
Spark-ignition systems and exhaust hot spots.
3.3.4 Spontaneous Combustion.
Pyrophoric materials and vapour leakage at temperatures above AIT.
3.3.5 Frictional Ignition.
Grit blasting, power tool grinding, mechanical failure of rotating
machinery.

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Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

3.3.6 High Temperature Surface.

Transfer lines, HP steam lines, and other hot surfaces.
3.3.7 Furnace / Boiler stack containing flying spark.
Waste gases may contain combustible material that may ignite.

3.4 Classification of Fire Hazard for Flammable Material (Source: PRC

National Standard GB50160-92, 1999 Edition).

3.4.1 The fire hazard of combustible gas shall be classified based on table
3.4.1.

Table 3.4.1 - Fire hazard classification of combustible gas (ref GB50160-

92, table 2.0.1). 0
1

Grade Low limit of explosion for mixture of combustible gas and

air
I <10%(volume)
II 10%(volume)
Note: Fire hazard classification grades for combustible gas are listed in
GB50160-92, Annex 2. 0
1

3.4.2 The fire hazard classification of liquefied hydrocarbon and combustible

liquid shall be in accordance with the following rules stated below:-
1) The fire hazard of liquefied hydrocarbon and combustible liquid shall
be classified based on table 3.4.2.
0
2) Grade II liquid at which the operating temperature is higher than its 1

flash point shall be regarded as grade Ib liquid.

3) Grade III liquid at which the operating temperature is higher than its
flash point shall be regarded as IIa grade liquid.

Table 3.4.2 - Fire hazard classification of liquefied hydrocarbon and

combustible liquid (ref GB50160-92, table 2.0.2). 0
1

Grade Service Characteristics

I a Liquefied Vapour pressure at
0
hydrocarbon. 15 C>0.1Mpa of hydrocarbon
liquid or other similar liquids.
b Combustible Flash point <280C except grade
liquid. 1a liquid.
II a 280C flash point 450C
b >450C flash point <600C
III a 600C flash point 1200C
b Flash point > 1200C
Note: Fire hazard classification grades for liquefied hydrocarbon and
combustible liquid are listed in GB50160-92, Annex 3. 0
1

4.0 RESPONSIBILITIES.
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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

4.1 The Plant Layout Engineer(s), reporting to the Engineering Manager, will
assume specific responsibility for developing the project plot plan(s).
4.2 The divisions of responsibilities for the development of the overall plot
plan and individual process unit plot plans shall be agreed by BSF. All 0
1
plot plans developed shall be the subject of formal plot plan reviews.

5.0 INSTRUCTIONS

5.1 General Considerations

5.1.1 The objective of the spacing recommendations is to ensure that maximum

economical use is made of available plot areas, compatible with the safety
of personnel and vulnerability of plant.

In achieving this end, consideration must be given to:

(a) Accessibility for normal operation and maintenance.
(b) Accessibility for fire fighting.
(c) Accessibility for emergency shutdown.
(d) Accessibility for evacuation of personnel.
(e) Segregation of high-risk facilities and sources of ignition.
(f) Protection of critical emergency facilities.
(g) Protection of adjacent facilities in event of fire.
(h) Security of installations from outside hazards.
(i) Minimising danger and inconvenience to personnel and property
beyond the boundary fence.
(j) Ergonomic Factors
(k) Escape access ways should be as straight and obstruction free as
possible.
(l) Hazardous area classification.
(m) Ensuring that flammable vapour generated from one facility will diffuse
to a concentration well below the lower explosive level (LEL) before it
reaches any other facility or area where a source of ignition may exist.
(n) Providing a reasonable degree of protection (distance) against heat
radiation.

5.1.2 Circumstances will arise where it will be difficult to adhere to the

recommended spacing requirements (e.g. where there are severe
limitations on plot space availability). Any reductions in the spacing
distance between equipment shall be discussed with the Design Safety
Engineer, who maybe able to justify the proposed reduction by
performing a Risk Assessment or Hazard Analysis. Any such spacing
reductions shall comply with the requirements of the PRC codes / 0
1

standards. Any deviations to this specification shall be approved by

PMC.

5.1.3 Other factors may require an equipment spacing greater than the
recommended. In this case consideration should be given to:
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Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

(a) Proximity of adjacent property and the consequential environmental

and public relations effects
(b) Special process hazards, which may necessitate increased spacing.
(c) Special plant maintenance or installation considerations.
(d) Future development plans both inside and outside the boundary
fence.
(e) Topographical features of site and direction of prevailing winds.
(f) Political security factors.
(g) Special hazard zoning plans for existing plant areas.

5.2 SPACING of UNITS and AREAS.

Fig.1 shows a “Typical Overall Site Plan”.

5.2.1 Process Unit.

A petrochemical complex consists of a combination of plants, each

carrying out a specific processing duty. These plants are defined as
PROCESS UNITS.
Equipment items within the process unit limits are referred to as on-site
equipment. The “On-site Spacing Chart” section 7, attachment 1 (Fig. 4),
gives the recommended spacing between items of equipment.
Equipment / Unit limits are determined by an imaginary line drawn around
the outermost edge of equipment contained within the Process Unit (see
section 5.2.2 re: the maximum size of a process unit).
A minimum distance of 200 metres from a chemical process unit (e.g.
containing hydrocarbon equipment) to a “service / administration building
area” shall be applied. Control Centres that are closer to the chemical
process units shall be explosion resistant (ref BOD section 4.7.1.2).
A minimum safety / maintenance distance of 15 metres shall be applied
from the edge of unrestricted roads surrounding the units and electrical
substations to process units containing hydrocarbons (ref BOD section
4.7.1.2). 0
1

Main access roads around the complex shall be classified as unrestricted

roads (e.g. 8.0 metres wide) and shall be located outside any hazardous
area. Roads within the process units for maintenance / fire-fighting
access shall be (e.g. 6.0 metres) restricted access roads (ref BOD
section 4.7.1.2).

5.2.2 Process Area.

Several process units may be combined to form a PROCESS AREA.

These units may be integrated (i.e. no additional spacing required
between units, other than basic equipment spacing), or may be laid out
as separate units with spacing between equipment limits based on fire
fighting access, process hazard or separate shut-down requirements;
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0
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

depending on overall complex philosophy.

The maximum size of process areas / units shall not exceed 10000m2 (ref
PRC Standard GB 50160-92, section 4.2.11), without the inclusion of an
additional fire fighting access road(s). The 10000m2 is defined as the
total area contained within the unit equipment profile limits. This is 0
1

achieved by profiling an imaginary line around the extremity of each

individual item of equipment, located on the unit (see fig. 2).

5.2.3 Process Block.

A number of process areas combined to form a PROCESS BLOCK.

Fig. 2 illustrates a typical example of a Process Block, showing the
arrangement of a Process Unit (integrated and separate) and Process 0
1
Areas within the block. The recommended spacing between units and
areas are given on Fig. 2.

5.2.4 Equipment Spacing / Classification Grades.

Fig 6 shows the comparison of equipment spacing distances with

reference to the combustible liquid classification grades (ref GB50160-92,
annex 3). These values are to be used in conjunction with Fig. 4 and 5
equipment spacing charts.

Fig 6. Equipment Spacing / Classification Grades.

(Ref GB50160-92 table 4.2.1)

Three (3) spacing values are shown on spacing chart.

22 Ia Classification
22 Grade.
15 Ib IIa
7.5 IIb IIIa

Single (1) spacing value shown on spacing chart. 0

1

7.5 All
Grades

Note: Spacing distance for equipment handling Grade IIIb combustible

liquids is not restricted.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
 CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Fig. 1. Typical “Overall Site Plan”.

GRADE
GRADE
CRUDE
CRUDE OIL
OIL PIPETRACK
TANKAGE PIPETRACK
TANKAGE

FIRE TRAINING

FUTURE
TANKAGE

TANKAGE
TANKAGE
BLOCK-
BLOCK-
PRODUCT
PRODUCT
STORAGE
STORAGE

FUTUR EFFLUENT STORM

UTILITY AREA TREATMENT. DRAIN
E
UTILIT INTER-
INTER-
Y MEDIATE
MEDIATE
AREA TANKS
TANKS

ELEVATED
ELEVATED PROCES
PIPERACK
PIPERACK S UNITS

LPG
LPG
SPHERES
SPHERES

ADMIN
BLDG.

FUTURE EXPANSION
FUTURE PROCESS UNITS

GATE REFINERY
REFINERY PROCESS
PROCESS
GATE
HOUSE BOUNDARY
BOUNDARY BLOCK
BLOCK
HOUSE
FENCE
FENCE LINE
LINE

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Fig. 2. Example of a Process Block

Fig 2 shows a process block divided into areas and a process area divided
into units. Also shown are the dimensions of the unit safety clearances
required.

0
1

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Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

5.2.5 Tankage Block.

Fig. 3 shows the basic spacing between bunded areas for a TANKAGE
BLOCK.

Fig. 3. Typical Tankage Block.

(2) Minimum 16m for tanks containing

containingtanks
liquefied hydrocarbon (without road).

(1) Minimum 7.0m for tanks containing

flammable liquid (without road).

ACCESS ACCESS ACCESS

ROAD ROAD ROAD

(1)30m

(1) Distances are from the outside of the bottom of the bund walls, for tanks
containing flammable liquid. 0
1

(2) Distances are from tank shell to tank shell, for tanks containing liquefied
hydrocarbon.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

(3) 5.3 ONSITE SITE SPACING.

Fig 4 - “On Site” Spacing Chart, refer to Section 7.0 - Attachment 1.

The recommended spacing for on-site equipment is indicated in “On-site

Spacing Chart” Fig. 4.

The values stated on the chart are supplemented by explanatory notes

contained Section 5.3.1 “On-Site Spacing Guide”. It is essential that
reference be made to explanatory notes, when using the “On-Site
Spacing Chart”.

Against each type of equipment a basic spacing dimension is quoted.

This basic spacing is the recommended distance in metres between an
equipment item and other general process equipment. The
recommended spacing between different equipment items is given at the
intersection of the horizontal line for one item and the vertical line from
another. In general, this shall be the greater of the basic spacing
dimensions for the two items.

The spacing between two similar items is given in the first box adjacent to
the item. Note that basic spacing is not required between items in the
same service.

5.3.1 On-Site Spacing Guide is to be used in association with the “On-site

Spacing Chart” - Fig.4. (nb for further clarification of equipment spacing 0
1

requirements, ref: GB50160-92, table 4.2.1).

5.3.2 Ref: RA1 Towers.

(Basic Spacing 1.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 1.5 metres provides access for operation and
maintenance. The distance between two towers is twice the basic
dimension. This provides some additional access for fire fighting and
clearance for non-coincidental access platforms.

5.3.3 Ref. RBI Reactors (Above AIT – externally insulated)

(Basic spacing 4.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 4.5 metres provides access for fire fighting and
minimises damage to other equipment. The external insulation protects
the reactor shell from fires on other equipment.

Reactors may be grouped together; in which case operational and

maintenance access of 1.5 metres between shells is satisfactory.

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Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Reactors operating below AIT may be regarded as drums (i.e. drum

spacing recommendations will apply, see Ref. RD1).

Spacing from Ref. RF1 is in excess of the greater basic dimension as the
Reactor is regarded as high-risk equipment.

Since the Reactor is operating above AIT, other sources of ignition are
not a spacing consideration and basic reactor spacing of 4.5 metres will
apply (e.g. items Ref. RJ1 and R01).

5.3.4 Ref. RC1 Reactors (Above AIT – internally refractory lined).

(Basic spacing 7.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 7.5 metres provides access for fire fighting,
minimises damage to other equipment in event of reactor fire, and
protects exposed shell.

N.B. Refractory lined reactor shells are more susceptible to fire

damage than unlined vessels. Reactors may be grouped
together; in which case operational and maintenance access of
1.5 metres between shells is satisfactory.

Reactors operating below AIT may be regarded as drums, i.e. drum

spacing recommendations will apply (see Ref. RD1).

Spacing from RF1 is in excess of the reactor after basic dimension as the
reactor is regarded as high-risk equipment.

Since the reactor is operating above AIT, other sources of ignition are not
a spacing consideration basic reactor spacing of 7.5 metres will apply
(e.g. items R01).

Spacing from Refs. RP1, RT1, RU1. These items are not regarded as fire
hazardous – the spacing of 4.5 metres will give these items protection in
the event of reactor fires.

5.3.5 Ref. RD1 Drums

(Basic Spacing 1.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 1.5 metres is for operation and maintenance

access. Spacing from RU1 is the basic drum spacing, as the piperack is
not considered a fire hazardous. Drums should not be located under
piperacks.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

5.3.6 Ref. RE1 On-site Pressure Storage Vessels - Grade Ia (ref table 3.4.2),
containing less than 100m3. 0
1
(Basic Spacing 9 metres)

The basic spacing of 9 metres minimises exposure of unit equipment to a

potential source of severe fire and blast damage, in the event of an
explosion.

Pressure storage in on-site locations should be avoided wherever

possible. It is sometimes necessary (e.g. solvent, propane, de-waxing
and de-asphalting units to provide pressure storage facilities on-site), in
such instances the inventory should be held to a minimum. For liquefied
hydrocarbon the maximum inventory shall be 100m3. The storage vessel
shall be located at the unit battery limit and as far as possible from fired
heaters and other source of ignition.

If the individual volume of a Grade Ia tank (ref table 3.4.2) is less than 0

50m3, it may be regarded as RD1. Drum. 1

For pressure storage vessels, in the same service provide a minimum of

one diameter between shells for operational and maintenance access.

Spacing from RU1 - piperacks are not considered as fire hazardous, a

spacing of 4.5 metres affords protection to these items in the event of
storage vessel fire.

5.3.7 Ref. RF1 – Blow-down and Disengaging Drums.

(Basic spacing 7.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 7.5 metres provides protection to the Drum in the
event of fire within the unit.

For high-risk equipment the spacing should be increased to 15 metres or

more. High risk equipment includes reactors, exchangers and pumps,
operating above AIT, fired heaters, gas compressors and expanders, and
their drivers, e.g. items Ref. RJ1, RL1, RN1, R01.

Spacing from Ref. RU1 – piperacks are not regarded as fire hazardous –
spacing of 4.5 metres affords protection to the pipe rack in the event of
blow-down drum fire.

5.3.8 Ref. RG1 Exchangers (Operating above AIT).

(Basic spacing 4.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 4.5 metres minimises damage to other equipment in

event of fire. Exchangers operating above AIT are high-risk items with
greater probability of fire than for exchangers operating below AIT.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
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Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Exchangers above AIT in the same service, i.e. connected by a common

process stream, may be spaced 1.0 metres apart; for other exchangers
basic spacing of 4.5 metres should apply.

Spacing from RN1-as the fluid in the exchangers is above its AIT, a gas
compressor and expanders are considered likely to be more critical than
other equipment. Therefore spacing greater than basic is applied to
minimise damage to the exchanger.

Spacing from ref. RP1 protects equipment from a high fire risk system.

5.3.9 Ref. RH1 Exchangers (Operating below AIT).

(Basic spacing 1.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 1.5 metres provides access for maintenance and
operation. There are no limitations on spacing exchangers from
piperacks – exchanger spacing applies.

5.3.10 Ref. RI1 Air Fin Coolers

(Basic spacing 3 metres)

Air fin coolers by virtue of their design and operations are particularly
vulnerable to fire hazard.

For this reason grade mounted exchangers, isolated from other

equipment are preferred. However, because of restrictions on area
availability, it is common practice to mount air fin coolers on top of the
piperack. In such cases consideration must be given to the following:

(a) Air fin coolers shall not be mounted over pumps, compressors, drums
or heat exchangers, containing flammable materials.
(b) There shall not be any flanges or valves in piping systems containing
0
hydrocarbons, on the piperack beneath an air fin cooler. 1

(c) Horizontal spacing requirements of “On-Site” spacing chart, Fig. 4,

shall be met (e.g. spacing distance shall be measured from the end of
the header box).
(d) Support legs for the air fin cooler shall be fireproofed in accordance
with GB50160-92 0
1

(e) Access shall be provided for tube bundle removal by mobile

equipment.

The basic spacing of 3.0 metres (horizontal) minimises exposure to fire

hazard – air fins are more vulnerable to fire damage than shell and tube
exchangers.

Ref. RU1 – the basic spacing of 3.0 metres is applicable to grade

mounted air fin coolers only.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
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Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

5.3.11 Ref. RJ1 Fired Heaters

(Basic spacing 15 metres)
A fired heater by its nature is a permanent source of ignition while
operating. A heater fire is likely to be of maximum severity. The basic
spacing of 15 metres separates equipment handling flammable vapours
from a permanent source of ignition and affords protection in the event of
a major heater fire. Heater location will sometimes be predetermined by
the requirement of grouping to a common stack with heaters from other
process units.
If a solid wall of non-combustible material is built between a fired heater
and liquefied hydrocarbon equipment in the open air, the spacing
between them may be less than 22.5 metres (e.g. ref GB50160-92 table
4.2.1), but shall not be less than 15 metres. In such instances, the height
of the wall shall not be lower than 3 metres, and the distance to the fired
heater shall not be more than 5 metres preventing ignition of flammable 0

gas. 1

If a walled building containing liquefied hydrocarbon equipment or

compressor installation for Grade ‘I’ gas is facing a fired heater, the
spacing between the fired heater and the building could be less than 22.5
metres (e.g. ref GB50160-92 table 4.2.2), but should not be less than 15
metres.

The distance between the outer shell of a fired heater and the edge of
maintenance access area should not be less than 3 metres.

The distance between a fired heater and its associated equipment, for
example fuel gas knock out drum or heat exchanger, should not be less
than 6 metres.

Where such restrictions are not applied, the heater location should be
selected on the downwind side of the minimum frequency wind direction
of equipment handling flammable gas, liquefied hydrocarbon, flammable
liquid Grade Ib (ref GB50160-92 section 4.2.14), close to the Unit limit
0
and as far as practicable from other equipment. Consideration shall also 1

be given to the proximity of plant and equipment outside the unit battery
limit.

When the heater has an individual stack, the top of the stack should be at
least 3 metres higher than equipment within a horizontal distance of 15
metres and at least 3.5 metres higher than any operating platform or the
top of building within a horizontal distance of 20 metres and 10 metres for
intermittent discharging stack.

Ref. RJ1 - If all heaters in a group shutdown together at plant turnaround,

spacing between shells should not be less than 3 metres.

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Refs. RB1, RC1, RG1, RL1 are items operating above their AIT and in
these cases the fired heater is not considered to be the primary source of
ignition, spacing is based on affording protection in the event of heater
fire.

Ref. RN1 – the compressor area is regarded as a special risk area in

view of the potential release of large vapour quantities. Spacing greater
than the basic dimension is recommended.

Ref. R01 – the compressor driver is not considered a source of ignition in

this case. The spacing of 7.5 metres minimises damage to the
compressor driver in the event of heater fire.

Ref. RP1 – a spacing of 4.5 metres minimises damage in the event of the
heater fire. For equipment higher than 3 metres, spacing should be
increased to 7.5 metres from heaters with liquid in their tubes. Reduced
spacing is permitted because there is no flammable material release in
the event of damage.

Ref. RU1 – because of the severity of the heater fire, spacing to

piperacks is greater than basic (n.b. This does not apply to heaters’ own
piperack).

5.3.12 Ref. RK1 Cooling Towers (for reference only)

PRC standards do not recognise spacing values for cooling towers
located within ‘Onsite’ areas. For cooling tower spacing values, refer to
‘Offsite’ Spacing Chart Fig. 5.

5.3.13 Ref. RL1 Pumps (Above AIT)

(Basic spacing 4.5 metres)

Pumps operating above AIT are a high fire risk. Basic spacing of 4.5
metres provides fire-fighting access and minimises damage to other
equipment.

Spacing between pump above AIT and pump handling liquefied

hydrocarbon shall not be less than 7.5 metres.

Ref. RF1 – because of the high fire risk, spacing greater than basic
should be provided from this item.

Ref. RJ1 – the fired heater is not considered a source of ignition in this
case. Spacing of 4.5 metres is provided between two high-risk items.

Ref. RL1 – pumps in the same service may be spaced at 1.5 metres min
distance.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
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Ref. R01 – the compressor driver is not considered a source of ignition in

this case.

Ref. RP1 – a spacing of 4.5 metres minimises damage in the event of a

pump fire.

Ref. RU1 – spacing is horizontal from the centreline of piperack to pump

stuffing box.

5.3.14 Ref. RM1 Pumps handling Flammable Materials.

(Basic spacing 3.0 metres)
The basic spacing provides for fire fighting and minimises damage in the
case of fire. Pumps in the same service may be spaced at 1.0 metre,
which provides access for operation and maintenance.

Ref. RU1 – spacing is horizontal from the centreline of piperack to pump

stuffing box.

5.3.15 Ref. RN1 Gas Compressor and Expanders handling Grade I Gas (ref 0

GB50160-92 table 4.2.1, note 2). 1

(Basic spacing 7.5 metres)

When there is more than one compressor on a process unit, it is usual to

locate these, together with their auxiliaries, in a designated area. Basic
spacing is not applied between the compressors or their auxiliaries,
access for operation and maintenance is provided.

Compressors are costly items. Therefore, the basic spacing is greater to

allow additional protection in the event of a fire.

Small compressors less than 150 KW may be treated as pumps handling

flammable materials for spacing purposes (ref GB50160-92 table 4.2.1, 0
1
note 2).

Ref. RF1 and RJ1 - spacing greater than basic is provided because of the
high-risk nature of these items.

Ref. RU1 is not a hazard-producing item. The basic spacing of 4.5

metres provides protection in the event of compressor fire.

5.3.16 Ref. R01 Compressor Drivers (Other than steam or motor)

(Basic spacing 10.5 metres)

Basic spacing is not applicable between Compressor and driver. Gas

turbine, gas engine or internal combustion engine drivers are sources of
ignition. Basic spacing of 10.5 metres affords safe spacing from a source
of ignition.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
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For items RB1, RC1, RG1, and RL1 that operate above AIT, the driver is
not considered to be the primary source of ignition. The basic spacing for
these items therefore applies.

Ref. RJ1 – spacing of 7.5 metres protects driver in event of heater fire.

Ref. RF1 – spacing greater than basic provides additional protection to

critical item.

Ref. RU1 – the piperack is not a hazard – piperack basic spacing applies.

5.3.17 Ref. RP1 Equipment Handling Non-Flammables

(Spacing provided for operational and maintenance access)
Ref. RB1, RC1, RG1, RJ1, RL1 – spacing of 4.5 metres provides
protection to equipment in the event of fire at likely sources of ignition.

5.3.18 Ref. RQ1 Central Control Building (ref GB50160-92, table 4.2.1 and DEP
43.17.10.30). 0
1

(Basic spacing 25 - 30 metres)

Basic spacing of 25 metres affords protection to personnel and critical

control equipment from plant fire or explosion hazard. However,
depending on size, pressure and contents of this equipment, the 0
1

minimum distance can be increased to 30metres. Consideration may be

given in special circumstances to blast-resistant design of building.
The building should be located downwind of the minimum frequency wind
direction.

Ref. RU1 – onsite piperacks should not generally be nearer than 30

metres to the Control Building. Provided piping systems are fully welded
with no valves or flanges, a piperack may be located 7.5 metres from one
side only of a Central Control Building.

5.3.19 Ref. RR1 Field Auxiliary Room (Unit Control House) - (ref GB50160-92, 0
table 4.2.1 and DEP 43.17.10.30) 1

(Basic spacing 15 metres)

The location of a FAR (Unit Control House) is less critical than a Central
Control Building. It should be located at the Unit (battery) limit adjacent to
a roadway. Basic spacing minimises risk to personnel and equipment in
the event of a Unit fire.

Ref. RU1 – piperack basic spacing applies provided piping systems are
fully welded without valves or flanges.

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5.3.20 Ref. RS1 Electrical Sub-Station (ref GB50160-92, table 4.2.1)

(Basic spacing 15 metres) 0
1

Electrical Sub-Stations are located close to the Unit (battery) limit and
near to a roadway. The basic spacing is fixed by Area Classification
considerations and provides protection to the electrical equipment in the
event of a Unit fire.

Ref. RU1 – piperacks do not present a major hazard. Basic piperack

spacing applies.

5.3.21 Ref. RT1 Main Equipment Structures

(Basic spacing – not applicable)

Sufficient spacing should be allowed from ignition sources of high-risk

RC1 items to prevent damage to structure in event of fire or explosion.
Items RB1, RC1, RE1, RG1, RJ1, RL1, RN1 are in this category. In most
other cases the equipment in the structure will govern its location with
respect to other equipment.

5.3.22 Ref. RU1 On-site Piperacks

(Basic spacing 4.5 metres)

Piperack basic spacing gives protection to the pipe rack in the event of
equipment fires within a process unit. Items Ref. RB1, RC1, RE1, RG1,
RN1 and R01 are located on this basis.

Item Ref. RJ1 – fired heater is a possible source of a major fire. Spacing
greater than basic is required in this case (n.b. This limitation does not
apply to the piperack serving the heater area).

The piperack in itself is not considered highly hazardous. In general

equipment that is not hazardous may be located on access and
operability considerations relative to the piperack. Items Ref. RA1, RD1,
RH1 and RI1 (grade mounted) are in this category.

In special cases where the hazard from the piperack must be minimised,
fittings and flanges that could be sources of leakage must be eliminated
from the piperack in the vicinity (e.g. piperacks under air fin exchangers
and piperacks in the vicinity of control houses - ref. items RI1, RQ1 and
RR1).

Pumps are also considered as a special case as, for layout purposes,
access and operability, it is usual to have pumps in close proximity to the
piperack, e.g. items Ref. RL1 and RM1 – spacing is horizontal distance
from pump stuffing box to centreline of piperack columns.

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5.3.23 Ref. RV1 Emergency Valves for Shut-off, Isolation, Snuffing, Unit
(battery) limit etc.
(Basic spacing 7.5 metres)

The basic spacing is the distance between the emergency valve and the
equipment it controls. The valve can be located adjacent to other
equipment (except for Unit limit valves).
0
1

Unit (battery) limit valves should be located at the edge of a Unit and on
the Unit limit side of the surrounding access roads.

Ref. RE1 and RJ1 are exceptionally hazardous items. The basic spacing
for these items applies.

5.2.24 Ref. RW1 ‘Onsite’ Combustible liquid Grade Ib / IIa (ref section 3.4.1 and
3.4.2) storage tanks and Combustible Gas Grade I storage tanks - total 0
1
inventory volume less than 1000m3.
(Basic spacing 9.0 metres)
If the volume of an individual tank is less than 100m3 for combustible
liquid and 200 m3 for combustible gas, it may be regarded as drums (see
Ref. RD1).

5.3.25 Ref. RX1 ‘Onsite’ Combustible liquid Grade IIb / IIIa (ref section 3.4.1 and 3.4.2)
storage tanks and Combustible Gas Grade II storage tanks - total tank 0
1

volume less than 1000m3.

(Basic Spacing 7.5 metres)

If the volume of an individual tank is less than 100m3 for combustible

liquid and 200 m3 for combustible gas, it may be regarded as drums (see
Ref. RD1)

5.3.26 Ref. RY1 Gas Compressors and Expanders handling Combustible Gas Grade II 0
(ref section 3.4.1). 1

(Basic Spacing 7.5 metres)

Small compressors less than 150 KW may be treated as pumps handling

flammable materials for spacing purposes only (ref GB50160-92 table 0
1

4.2.1, note 2).

5.3 OFFSITE SPACING.

Fig.5 - ‘Off site’ Spacing Chart, refer to Section 7.0 - Attachment 2.

Facilities outside the confines of a Process Block, e.g. boiler houses and
power stations, administration offices, workshops, effluent treatment, flare
stacks, jetty and rail loading, blending facilities etc., are referred to as “off-
site facilities”.

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It is customary to combine the utility type facilities, e.g. steam generation,

water treatment, plant air etc., within a utility area or block.

Effluent treatment, flare and similar high hazard off-site facilities are
generally located remote from process facilities, utility areas and
administration areas.

Spacing of flare stacks requires special consideration based on relief

loads and thermal radiation levels. Reference must be made to the
Process Engineer.

The recommended spacing for off-site equipment is indicated in “Off-site

Spacing Chart”, Fig. 5.

Explanatory notes contained in Section 5.4.1 “Off-site Spacing Guide”

supplement the information in this chart.

It is essential that reference is made to Section 5.4.1 when using “Off-site

Spacing Chart”, Fig. 5.

Against each item a basic spacing dimension is quoted. This basic

spacing is the recommended distance in metres between the item and
other equipment/facilities. The recommended spacing between different
items is given at the intersection of the horizontal line from one item and
the vertical line from another.

In general, this shall be the greater of the basic spacing dimensions for
the two items, otherwise explanatory notes can be found in Section 5.4.1.

The spacing between similar equipment / facilities is given in the first box
adjacent to the item.

5.4.1 Off-site Spacing Guide (Use with off-site spacing chart Fig. 5).

5.4.2 Ref. RA2 Boiler Houses and Power Stations

(Basic spacing 30 metres)

The basic spacing protects critical equipment from fire or explosion in

process equipment.

Ref. RB2 – buildings are not considered hazardous to boilers and

generating plant and vice versa. Therefore, spacing less than basic for
buildings is acceptable.

Ref. RK2 – spacing protects pipe track from possible fire in boiler house.

Ref. RO2 – railway main lines are not at risk from facilities and do not
present a risk to facilities. Boiler basic spacing applies.

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Ref. RP2 – rail sidings present a minimum risk to facilities. Siding basic
spacing applies.

5.4.3 Ref. RB2 Buildings, Main Office, Workshops, Laboratories etc.

(Basic spacing 30 metres)

The basic spacing protects personnel from fires and explosions in

process equipment.

For high hazard process equipment, spacing in excess of basic is

applied.

Items Ref. RD2, RL2 fall into this category.

Items Ref. RA2, RC2, RK2, RO2, RP2 are not considered high-risk items.
Spacing less than basic building space is applied.

5.4.4 Ref. RC2 Cooling Towers

(Basic spacing 15 metres and 30 metres)

Two basic spacing values are given for Cooling Towers.

The lower basic spacing is for equipment that is lower than the cooling
tower.

The higher basic spacing is for equipment that is taller than the cooling
tower and where it is necessary to minimise the corrosion, visibility and
ice formation problems, resulting from the impingement of the cooling
tower exhaust plume.

A cooling tower can become a source of hazard due to release at

atmosphere of flammable vapours, caused by tube failure in water cooled
exchangers. The higher basic spacing distance is considered adequate
for dispersal of these vapours.

Spacing greater than cooling tower basic is applied from highly

hazardous sources, e.g. items Ref. RD2, RH2, RQ2, RS2 and RT2.

Items Ref. RF2, RP2, RU2, RG2 and RO2 do not present a hazard to
these cooling towers. Cooling tower basic spacing is therefore applied.

Items Ref. RJ2, RL2, RS2 and RV2 are possible sources of fire. Higher
cooling tower basic spacing is applied to these items.

Items Ref. RM2 and RO2 do not present a hazard to the cooling tower.
Cooling tower higher basic spacing is applied for environmental
considerations.

Item Ref. RK2 – the cooling tower is not considered to be at risk from the
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pipe track. Pipe track basic spacing is applied.

5.4.5 Ref. RD2 Jetties

(Loading arm manifold – basic spacing 60 metres)

The basic spacing protects facilities from fires at loading manifolds or on

tankers and vice versa.

Items Ref. RN2, RP2, RQ2 are not considered as sources of hazard.
Basic spacing for these items will apply.

5.4.6 Ref. RE2 Main Electrical Sub-stations

(Basic spacing 45 metres)

The basic spacing protects electrical equipment from explosion or fire in

process areas. By using blast resistant construction, this basic spacing
may be reduced.

Items Refs. RK2, RO2, RP2 are not considered as major sources of
hazard. Spacing less than basic is allowed.

5.4.7 Ref. RF2 Fire Station

(Basic spacing 45 metres)

The basic spacing provides protection to the fire station and equipment in
the event of fire in the process areas.

Items Ref. RA2, RC2, RK2, RO2 and RP2 are not considered as major
sources of hazard. Spacing less than basic is allowed.

Items Ref. RB2, RE2, RG2 and RM2 are not hazardous to the fire station.
Location is determined by access and maintenance considerations.

5.4.8 Ref. RG2 Main Fire Pumps

(Basic spacing 45 metres)

The basic spacing provides protection to prevent loss of pumps from fire
exposure.

Items Ref. RA2, RC2, RK2, RN2, RO2 and RP2 are not considered
sources of major hazard. Spacing less than basic is allowed.

Items Ref. RB2, RE2, RF2, RU2 and RM2 are not hazardous to fire
pumps. Location is determined by access and maintenance
considerations.

5.4.9 Ref. RH2 Fire Training Area

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(Basic spacing 45 metres)

The basic spacing protects vulnerable process equipment from a source

of ignition. Spacing also allows smoke dispersal.

5.4.10 Ref. RJ2 Road Loading Racks for Low Flash Point Products
(Basic spacing 30 metres)

The basic spacing is considered adequate for the dispersal of spillage or

vapour releases. During unloading it also protects the equipment in the
event of fires at process areas and vice versa.

In locating main loading racks, consideration must be given to access

from outside and to minimising the flow of traffic through process areas.

Spacing must be sufficient to allow the safe manoeuvring of road tankers.

Items Ref. RK2, RN2 and RU2 are not considered hazardous with
respect to the loading area. Spacing less than loading rack basic is
acceptable in these instances.

5.4.11 Ref. RK2 Major Off-site Pipe Tracks

(Basic spacing 4.5 metres)

The basic spacing of 4.5 metres minimises hazard to off-site piping in the
event of fires at major plant areas.

For items Ref. RC2, RG2, RF2, RL2, RM2, RN2, RP2, RQ2, RS2, RW2
and RR2, this criterion applies.

For items Ref. RA2, RB2, RE2, RH2, RJ2 and RO2 greater spacing is
applied for commodity criticality or personnel hazard requirement.

5.4.12 Ref. RL2 Process Areas

(Basic spacing 35 metres)

The basic spacing minimises damage to other areas or equipment in the

event of fire or explosion in the process area and vice versa.

Items Ref. RC2, RK2, RN2, RO2 and RP2 are not considered at high
hazard from process areas. The basic spacing for these items is
therefore applied.

For process to process spacing, refer to Fig.5 detail ‘Z ‘.

Where several process units are integrated, the internal spacing should
be based on maintenance, operational and fire fighting access.

The separation between process area Class A & B process equipment or

0
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Specification for Equipment Spacing.

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facilities and residential area shall not be less than 100 metres. For
adjacent factory with enclosed wall the separation shall not be less than
50 metres (ref: GB50160-92 Table 3.1.7).

5.4.13 Ref. RM2 Boundary Fence

(Basic spacing 45 metres)

The basic spacing provides protection to personnel and property outside

the boundary fence in the event of explosion or fire. It also protects the
facilities inside the fence from external hazard.

Item refs. RC2 and RK2 are reduced hazard items. Spacing less than the
basic boundary spacing is acceptable in these instances.

Item refs. RB2, RE2, RF2 and RG2 are not hazardous. Spacing from
boundary fence is based on access or environmental consideration.

5.4.14 Ref. RN2 Major Storage Pump Areas

(Basic spacing 20 metres)

The basic spacing affords protection to pump areas in the event of fire or
explosion in process facilities and allows access for fire fighting.

Pump areas, because of their low inventory, do not present a major

hazard to other equipment.

Spacing less than basic item spacing is therefore permitted from these
items, e.g. items Ref. RD2, RJ2, RL2, RO2, RQ2, RK2, RM2, RP2, RS2,
RU2 and RV2..

5.4.15 Ref. RO2 Railway Main Lines within Complex

(Basic spacing 30 metres)

The basic spacing protects personnel and railway property from fire or
explosion inside plant.

Items Ref. RA2, RC2, RJ2 and RN2 present a reduced hazard to railway
property. Spacing less than basic is permitted in these cases.

5.4.16 Ref. RP2 Rail Sidings Facilities

(Basic spacing 15 metres)

Rail sidings are railway lines in the complex for loading, unloading,
storage etc.

A rail siding can be considered as a source of ignition from a locomotive

engine. The basic spacing protects flammable equipment or sources of
vapour emission from this hazard.

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Items Ref. RC2, RD2, and RR2 fall in this category.

Non-hazardous items may be located at less than the basic spacing.

Items Ref. RB2, RE2, RF2, RG2, RK2, RO2 and RU2 fall in this category.

5.4.17 Ref. RQ2 Main Effluent Treatment

(Basic spacing 35 metres)

A basic spacing of 35 metres from process areas or other sources of

ignition allows for dispersal of vapours, which are likely to be emitted at a
separator.

The spacing(s) between effluent oil tank and other facilities should be
reduced by 25%, and between effluent oil pump (or pump house) and
other facilities should be reduced by 50%.

Items Ref. RA2, RB2, RC2, RE2, RF2, RG2 and RH2 fall in this category.

Lower risk facilities, not representing a source of ignition, may be located

not less than 20 metres from a separator. Item Ref. RN2 falls in this
category.

Item Ref. RK2, off-site pipe tracks, is a minimum risk item. Its basic
spacing applies.

5.4.18 Ref. RR2 Facilities for Heat Sensitive Materials.

(Basic spacing 30 metres).

Heat sensitive materials are liable to decomposition explosions on

prolonged exposure to heat. The basic spacing of 30 metres protects the
facilities from such exposure.
Items Ref. RK2 and RP2 are not sources of fire. Spacing less than basic
30 metres will be acceptable in these instances.

5.4.19 Ref. RS2 Rail Loading Racks for Low Flash Point Products.
(Basic spacing 35 metres).

The basic spacing is considered adequate for the disposal of spillage or

vapour releases. During unloading it also protects the equipment in the
event of a fire at a process area and vice versa.

Spacing must be sufficient to allow for safe manoeuvring where sidings

are present.

Items Ref. RK2, RN2 and RU2 are not considered hazardous with
respect to the loading area. Spacing less than loading rack basic spacing
is acceptable in these instances.

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5.4.20 Ref. RT2 Storage Area Internal and External

(Basic Spacing 35 metres)

The basic spacing provides protection to personnel as well as materials

contained within storage area.
This item can be used for the storage of flammable gas cylinders and
combustion supporting gas cylinders.
The spacing(s) for Grade II and III should be reduced by 25%. For Grade
III solids stored in a packing area, the spacing should be reduced by
50%.

5.4.21 Ref. RU2 Roads Transporting Products and Raw Materials

(Basic Spacing 15 metres)

Road for transporting raw material and products shall be located outside
areas considered as a major fire hazard.

5.4.22 Ref. RV2 Tanks Containing Flammable Gas 1000m3< Volume<50.000 m3

(Basic spacing 30 metres)

The basic spacing is considered adequate for the disposal of spillage.

If the individual volume is equal or less than 1000m3, these spacings
should be reduced by 25%. If it is greater than 50000m3 these spacings
should be increased by 25%.

5.4.23 Ref. RW2 Source of fire/ Ignition flying spark

(Basic Spacing 30 metres)

The basic spacing provides protection from hazardous areas where

disposal of spillage or vapour releases may occur.

5.5 TANKAGE.

This section gives basic guidance for the spacing and bund capacities of
storage tanks, storage spheres and cylinders.

For specific spacing direction, particularly for LPG and LNG duties,
refer to the relevant listed standard(s). P.R.C GB 50160-92, DEP
30.06.10.12 and 13-CSPC.

Bulk storage tank facilities shall also conform to DEP 34.18.51.10-CSPC

comprising minimum requirements for the construction and maintenance
of tank foundations, bund walls and drainage systems for small storage
installations incorporating PRC standards.

Other types of bulk storage, e.g. underground caverns, are not covered
by this standard.

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5.5.1 Flammable Liquids

Petroleum products by their nature are potentially hazardous, the degree
of hazard being directly related to their volatility and flash point.

For definition of Classification of Fire hazard for Flammable Material, refer

0
to section 3.4. 1

5.5.2 Types of Tankage.

The type of tank used to store a particular product is generally specified

by Client’s requirements. In the absence of such requirements, type
selection should be referred to the Process Design Co-ordinator.

5.5.2.1 Fixed or Cone Roof Tanks (CR) 0

1

For the storage of Grade II b and III products.

Other grades of product may be stored in this type of tank, provided that
the vapour pressure at storage temperature is less than atmospheric 0
pressure (e.g. refrig. atmosphere storage of LPG/LNG). 1

5.5.2.2 Internal and External Floating Roof Tanks (IFR) (EFR)

For the storage of Grade Ib and Grade IIa flammable products.

5.5.2.3 Spheres and Cylinders (SP and CYL) 0

For the storage of Grade Ia highly flammable products. e.g. pressurized 1

storage of LPG products.

If the boiling point of Grade Ib flammable liquid is below 450C, the liquid
shall be stored in a pressurized storage tank.

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5.5.2.4 Table 1

This table gives typical examples (For reference only).

Product Type of Tank Grade Comments
or Vessel
C3 CYL Ia Pressure Storage
C4 SP Ia Pressure Storage
C3 CR Ia Refrig. Atmos. Storage
C4 CR Ia Refrig. Atmos. Storage
LPG/LNG CR Ia Refrig. Atmos. Storage
Benzene FR Ib
Xylene FR Ib
Reformate FR Ib
Gasoline FR Ib
Naphtha FR Ib
Kerosene FR II a
Jet Fuel FR II a
Crude Oil FR Ib Boil/roll Over Tendencies
Gas Oil/Diesel FR III a
LFO CR III b
MFO CR III b
HFO CR III b
Heavy Oil/ Residue CR III a
Asphalt/Bitumen CR III b

Notes:
1. Certain produce classifications may change if operational
temperatures are increased.

2. For Grade Ib and Grade IIa flammable liquid in general should be

0
contained in internal floating roof tank. 1

5.5.3 Definitions

5.5.3.1 Bund or Firewall

A wall of pre-determined height constructed of concrete, earth, or any
other suitable material and designed to confine spillage of tank contents
(see section 5.5.5.2).

5.5.3.2 Bunded Area

An area bounded by bund walls to confine spillage.

5.5.3.3 Exposed Bunded Area

The nett effective area bounded by a bund wall after the deduction of
tank areas contained within the bunded area.

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5.5.3.4 Secondary or Intermediate Bunds

Secondary bunds for flammable liquids shall be 200 / 300 mm lower than
the height of the bund. For liquefied hydrocarbon Grade Ia pressurized 0
storage bunded area, the height of the secondary bund should not be 1

higher than 300mm.

5.5.3.5 Bund Capacity

The volume, in cubic metres, that can be contained within the exposed
bunded area.

5.5.3.6 Tank Group.

A number of tanks contained within a common bund.

5.5.4 Grouping and Spacing of Tanks.

5.5.4.1 It is desirable to group tanks for the storage of the same or similar
products in one group within a bund area, subject to the prescribed
limitations of the bunded capacity.

5.5.4.2 It is desirable that LPG or other liquefied flammable gases should be

stored remote from other products.

5.5.4.3 Intermediate and component tankage should be located in areas local to

their respective units where possible so that lines can be kept to a
minimum length.

5.5.4.4 Account should be taken of the possibility of storing more than one class
of material in certain tanks or of changing the tank service at some future
date. Where future changes of service of the storage tanks are
anticipated, the layout and spacing should be for the most stringent case.

5.5.4.5 Whenever possible storage tanks should not be located on high ground
overlooking the facilities. This prevents spillage of flammable liquid
flowing downhill and endangering the operating plant.

5.5.4.6 If the volume of an individual storage tank for Grade III b flammable liquid
is less than or equal to 1000m3, it is acceptable to have up to 4 rows of 0
1

tanks. Tanks in a tank group shall not be more than 2 rows.

5.5.4.7 Intermediate bunds may be provided to divide the tankage into groups of
a convenient size so as to contain small spillage and act as firebreaks.

5.5.4.8 Secondary bunds shall be provided according to the following

requirements: within the bunded area

If the individual tank volume is less than or equal to 5,000m 3, the total
tankage volume separated by the secondary bund shall not be more than
20,000m3.
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If the individual tank volume is from 5,000 to 20,000m 3, every four tanks
should be separated by a secondary bund.

If the individual tank volume is from 20,000 to 50,000m 3, every two tanks
should be separated by a secondary bund.

If the individual tank volume is more than 50,000m 3, each tank shall be
separated by a secondary bund.

The number of tanks separated by a secondary bund for the boil / rollover
liquid shall not be more than 2.

A secondary bund shall be provided between tanks for Ib, IIa liquid and
for other grades of flammable liquid.

A secondary bund shall be provided between tanks for water soluble and
for water insoluble flammable liquid.

A secondary bund shall be provided between tanks for flammable liquids

that will react when they are in contact with each other.

A secondary bund shall be provided between tanks for combustion-

supporting reagent, strong oxidant, corrosive fluid and for flammable
liquid.

5.5.5 Sizing of Bunds

5.5.5.1 Bund capacity shall comply with the requirements summarised below. 0
1

C.R. Tanks.
The bund capacity shall not be less than the volume of the largest
storage tank in the bund.

IFR/EFR Tanks.
The bund capacity shall not be less than 50% of the volume of the largest
storage tank in the bund.

CR/IFR and EFR Tanks.

Where flammable liquid storage tanks as above are located within the
same bunded area, the more stringent case is applicable.
Storage tank for liquefied ammonia at low temperature: 60% of volume of
the largest storage tank.
Storage tank for liquefied hydrocarbon. The effective volume for the bund
shall be 110% of the volume of the largest storage tank.

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5.5.5.2 The effective height of the bund used in calculating the capacity of the
enclosure shall be the constructed height less an amount sufficient to
allow for future consolidation, settlement and possible erosion of the fill.
This “freeboard allowance” shall be 200mm for flammable liquid vertical
storage tank. In general the height of bund shall be in the range of
1.0~2.2 m.
For horizontal storage tanks containing flammable liquid, the bund height
shall not be less than 500mm.

5.5.5.3 For liquefied hydrocarbon pressurized storage tank, the bund height
should not be higher than 600mm. Bund Walls shall generally be
constructed using earth embankments having a crest of 600mm minimum
width.

5.5.5.4 At least 2 bund personnel access / escape stairs shall be provided at

different orientations. These access / escape routes shall not be located
on the same section of bund wall. Secondary bund walls where provided
shall also require personnel stairs.

5.5.5.5 In the event that there is inadequate space for construction of earthen
bund walls due to restricted site dimensions, the use of reinforced
concrete retaining walls will be permitted.

5.5.5.6 Ethylene oxide tank shall be laid out separately form other tanks within
dedicated bund wall.

5.5.6 Impound Basins (Emergency Storage Ponds).

When an impound basin is used the enclosure shall be designed in

accordance with the requirements of IP Refining Safety Code – Model
Code of Practice Part 3, section 5.1.8 and the PRC requirements as 0
1

stipulated in GB50160-92, section 5.2.

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Example 1 Fixed Cone Roof Tanks (CR)

Tanks greater than 10 metres dia.

‘A’
CR ‘B’ CR

‘A ‘B’ ‘B’ ‘A’

CR ‘B’ CR
DIM ‘A’ INSIDE
BOTTOM OF
‘A’ BUND

‘E’ ‘C’

EQUIPMENT/FACILITY SEPARATION BETWEEN ADJACENT BUND WALLS

REFERENCE LINE. SEE TABLE 4 (OUTSIDE BOTTOM OF BUNDS)
DIM ‘C’ NOT LESS THAN 7.0 M

Maximum Total Tankage Capacity of Group:

60,000m3 shall not be exceeded (ref: IP Refining Safety Code – Model Code of Safe
Practice Part 3, Section 5.1.8).

Tankage Limitation.
When the individual tank capacity is greater or equal to 10,000m 3, the number of tanks in
one tank group shall not be more than 6. 0
1
When the individual tank capacity is less than 10,000m 3, the number of tanks in one tank
group shall not be more than 16.
When all the individual tank capacity is less than 1,000m 3, the number of tanks in one tank
group shall not be restricted.
The number of tanks for Grade III b flammable liquid shall not be restricted.

Spacing.
‘A’ to suit construction and operating conditions but not less than half tank shell height.
‘B’ Refer to Table 2.
‘C’ Not less than 7m
‘E’ See Table 4

Note:
The spacing between a horizontal tank and the inside bottom line of a bund wall shall not
be less than 3 metres.
SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 34 of 47
Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Example 2 Floating Roof Tanks ERF and IFR

‘A’
CR ‘B’ CR

‘A’

‘B’ ‘B’
‘A’

CR ‘B’ CR DIM ‘A’ INSIDE

BOTTOM OF BUND

‘A’

‘E’ ‘C’

SEPARATION BETWEEN ADJACENT BUND WALLS

EQUIPMENT/ FACILITY
(OUTSIDE BOTTOM OF BUNDS)
REFERENCE LINE. SEE TABLE 4. DIM ‘C’ NOT LESS THAN 7.0 METRES

Maximum Total Tankage Capacity of Group:

120,000m3 shall not be exceeded (ref: IP Refining Safety Code – Model Code of Safe
Practice Part 3, Section 5.1.8).

Tankage Limitation
When the individual tank capacity is greater or equal to 10,000m 3, the number of tanks in one
tank group shall not be more than 12.
When the individual tank capacity is less than 10,000m 3, the number of tanks in one tank
group shall not more than 16.
When all the individual tank capacity is less than 1,000m 3, the number of tank in one tank
group shall not be restricted.
The number of tanks for Grade III b flammable liquid shall not be restricted.

Spacing
‘A’ to suit construction and operating conditions but not less than half tank shell height.
‘B’ Refer to Table 2.
‘C’ Not less than 7m
‘E’ See Table 4

Note:
The spacing between a horizontal tank and the inside bottom line of a bund wall shall not be
less than 3 metres.

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 35 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Example 3 Cone Roof Tanks (CR) and Floating Roof IFR/EFR within a
Common Bund

‘A’

CR ‘B’ CR

‘B’ ‘B’
‘A’ ‘A’

FR ‘B’ FR
INSIDE BOTTOM OF
BUND
‘A’

‘E’ ‘C’

EQUIPMENT /FACILITY SEPARATION BETWEEN ADJACENT BUND WALLS

REFERENCE LINE SEE TABLE 4 (OUTSIDE BOTTOM OF BUNDS)

DIM’C’ NOT LESS THAN7.0M

Tankage Limitation
When the individual tank capacity is greater or equal to 10,000m 3, the number of tanks
in one tank group shall not be more than 12.
When the individual tank capacity is less than 10,000m3, the number of tanks in one
tank group shall not be more than 16.
When all the individual tank capacity is less than 1,000m 3, the number of tank in one
tank group shall not be restricted.
The number of tanks for Grade III b flammable liquid shall not be restricted.

Spacing

‘A’ distance shall not be less than half height of tank shell.
‘B’ Refer to Table 2
‘C’ Not less than 7.0m
‘E’ Refer to Table 4

Note:
The spacing between a horizontal tank and the inside bottom line of a bund wall shall
not be less than 3 metres.

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 36 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
 CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Table 2. - Dimension ‘B’.

(Ref: GB50160-92, table 5.2.7). 0
1

Spacing Type of Fixed roof tank Floating roof tank / Horizontal

g tank 1000m3 >1000m 3
internal floating tank
Grade of roof tank
liquid
0.6D (with fixed
fire fighting
cooling facilities)
I b, II 0.75D (with 0.6D 0.4D 0.8m
moving fire
fighting cooling
facilities)
III a 0.4D, but should not be _
greater than 15m
III b 2m 5m _

Notes:
1. D indicates the diameter of the greater volume of adjacent tanks. If the
individual volume is greater than 1000m3, the greater value shall be selected
between the height and diameter of the tank.
2. The greater value shall be selected from the table when adjacent tanks are
stored for different grades of flammable liquid or they are different types of
tanks.
3. The spacing for overhead tanks shall not be less than 0.6m.
4. The spacing between two rows of vertical tanks shall be in accordance with
Table 2, and shall not be less than 5.0m. The spacing between two rows of
horizontal tanks shall not be less than 3.0m.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Example 4.
Refrigerated Storage (LPG Products at low temperatures) Fixed
Roof Tanks (CR) should not more than 2 tanks in one compound.

‘A’
‘A’ CR ‘B’ CR ‘A’
A
INSIDE BOTTOM
OF BUND

‘A’

‘E’
SECONDARY BUND

EQUIPMENT / FACILITY REFERENCE LINE, SEE TABLE 2

Refrigerated LPG storage tank shall not be located within a bund enclosing any
other type of tank. Each refrigerated storage tank shall have an individual bund.

Spacing
‘A’ Dimension is the resultant value obtained by deducting the height of the
bund wall from the highest liquid level in the tank.
‘B’ Refer to Table 3
‘E’ See Table 4

Note:
Between the adjacent refrigerated storage area the spacing between the
adjacent tank shell shall not be less than 16m.

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 38 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Table 3 - Dimension ‘B’.

(ref: GB50160-92, table 5.3.3) 0
1

Spheric Full Horizontal Wet type Dry type

al tank refrigerated tank gas tank gas tank
Type of tank tank
Spacing

Grade
Liquefi of fluid
Full- Exhaust 0.5 D 1.0 D and
ed pressur to flare should not
hydroc ized be greater
arbon tank than 1.5m
Not 1.0 D
exhaust
to flare
Full refrigerated tank 0.5 D
Combustion-supporting gas 0.5 D 0.65 D and
should not
be greater
than 1.5m
Flammable Wet type gas 0.5 D
gas tank
Dry type gas 0.65 D
tank
Spherical tank 0.5 D

Notes:
1. D indicates the diameter of the greater volume of adjacent tanks.
2. The spacing between a spherical tank and a horizontal tank in one tank group
shall be selected from the greater value in the table.
3. The spacing for liquefied ammonia tanks shall be same as that for liquefied
hydrocarbon. The spacing for liquefied oxygen tanks shall be executed
complying with the relevant rules from “Code for design of building fire
protection” GBJ 16-87.
4. The spacing for a semi-refrigerated tank for liquefied hydrocarbon should be
same as the requirement of a fully-pressurized tank for liquefied hydrocarbon.
5. The spacing between two rows of adjacent horizontal tanks in one tank group
shall not be less than 3 metres.

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Example 5. Group of LPG pressure storage vessels (Class I a products)

Bullets and Spheres.
‘B’ ‘B’

‘D’
‘D’ ‘B’

‘D’
‘D’
BL BL BL

SP SP

Not less than 3 m ‘E’ EDGE OF

CATCHMENT AREA ‘E’ Not less
than 3m

EQUIPMENT / FACILITY REFERENCE LINES. SEE TABLE 4

Notes:
1. LPG tanks shall not be formed into groups of more than 12 tanks each.
Horizontal vessels used to store LPG should be oriented so that their
longitudinal axes do not point towards other containers, process
equipment, control rooms loading or unloading facilities, or flammable or
combustible liquid storage facilities located within the vicinity of the
horizontal vessel.

Spacing.
‘B’ Reference Table 3.
‘E’ See Table 4.

Table 4.
Maximum Tankage Spacing (Dimensions in metres - See tankage spacing
examples 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5).
Dimension ‘E’ is a dimension from facility / equipment reference line to
tank shell.
Refer to the listed Standards (IP Refinery Safety Code, Model Code of
Practice-Part 3, section 5.1.8 and PRC standard GB50169-92 section
5.2.17) for more detailed spacing requirements regarding spillage
catchment (impounding) areas and drainage. Spacing will need to be
considered for individual cases.

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 40 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
a
p
S
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

m
e
It
Table 4 Dimension ‘E’.
(ref; GB50160-92, table 3.2.11) 0
1

Flammable liquid tanks above ground Liquefied hydrocarbon tanks Note

Fixed roof tanks for Floating roof tanks or Full
grade I b, II fixed roof tanks for pressurized
grade III storage

V 500 m3 or horizontal tanks

V 500 m3 or horizontal tanks

Full
1000 m3< V 5000 m3 refrigerated

1000m3 < V 5000m3

storage.

500m3 < V 1000 m3

100m3< V 1000m3
500 m3< V 1000 m3

Greater than 5000m3

Greater than 5000m3

Greater than 1000m3

Less than 100m3

Process Area Class A 50 40 30 25 35 30 25 20 60 50 40 60

Class B 40 35 25 20 30 25 20 15 55 45 35 55

Class C 35 30 20 15 25 20 15 10 50 40 30 50

Important facilities serving for all 50 40 35 30 35 30 25 20 70 60 45 70 1

the complex

Source of fire/ignition flying 40 35 30 25 30 25 20 15 60 50 40 60

spark

For grade I a, Jetties 50 40 35 30 40 35 30 25 55 45 40 55

I b and II (loading arm
manifold) 2
Road loading 25 20 15 15 20 15 15 15 45 35 30 45
racks
Rail loading 25 20 15 10 20 15 12 10 50 40 35 50
racks
Tanks containing flammable gas 30 25 20 15 20 15 10 8 40 30 25 40
1000m3 <V ≤ 5000m3 3
Storage area internal or external 35 30 25 20 25 20 15 10 60 50 40 60 4
Major storage pump area for 20 15 12 10 15 12 10 8 35 30 25 35 5
grade I, II
Main effluent treatment 30 25 20 20 25 20 20 20 40 35 30 40 6
Main railway lines within 20 15 12 10 15 12 10 10 25 20 15 25 7
complex
Roads transporting products and 20 25 12 10 15 12 10 10 25 20 15 25
raw material
Boundary fence 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

(nb See page 41 for notes).

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 41 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

(Table 4) Notes:

The spacings are determined by the largest tank capacity adjacent to other
facilities or process area.
1. Important facilities include: central control house, boiler house and power
station, main electric substation, main office building, communication
station, air compression station fire fighting pump house, laboratories, etc.
In the event of fire within the complex, the above facilities could be
affected resulting in lost production coupled with a risk of personnel injury.

2. These spacings should be reduced by 25% for Class III flammable liquid.

3. If the individual volume is equal to or less than 1000m 3, these spacings

should be reduced by 25%. If it is greater than 50000m 3, they should be
increased by 25%.

4. These items can be used for the storage of flammable gas and
combustion supporting gas cylinders

The spacing for Class II and III should be reduced by 25%, and for Class
III flammable solids stored in packing area, the spacing should be reduced
by 50%.

5. The pumps specially used for tankage shall be located outside the tank
bund. The spacing is not less than 15m for Class I a, not less than 12m for
Class I b and II, not less than 10m for Class III and floating roof tanks, not
less than 8m for the tank with a volume equal or less than 500m3.

6. These spacings are used for oil separating basin.

The effluent oil tank spacing may be reduced by 25%. The effluent oil
pump (or pump house) spacing should be reduced by 50%.

7. Railway lines and roads shall be located outside the fire explosion area.

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 42 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Typical maximum thermal radiation flux values* for refrigerated storage of LPG are:

 The outer surfaces of adjacent refrigerated storage vessels

or surfaces thermally protected. =32 kW/m2 (30m)

 Outer surface of adjacent storage thermally protected tanks

containing flammable products =32 kW/m2 (30m)

 Unprotected metal surfaces of adjacent storage tanks,

pressure vessels and process facilities = 8 kW/m2 (50m)

 Protected work area, filling/discharge points = 8 kW/m2 (50m)

 Urban areas, work area = 5 kW/m2 (60m)

 Critical areas = 1.5 kW/m2 (90 m)

(* Reference IP LPG Volume 1. Model Code of Safe Practice, Part 9)

Typical maximum thermal radiation flux values  for pressure stored LPG are:

 The outer surfaces of adjacent pressure storage vessels or

surfaces thermally protected. =44 kW/m2 (25m)

 Outer surface of adjacent storage thermally protected tanks

containing flammable products =32 kW/m2 (30m)

 Unprotected metal surfaces of adjacent storage tanks,

pressure vessels and process facilities = 8 kW/m2 (50m)

 Protected work area, filling/discharge points = 8 kW/m2 (50m)

 Urban areas = 5 kW/m2 (60m)

 Critical areas = 1.5 kW/m2 (90m)

(+ Reference IP LPG Volume 1. Model Code of Safe Practice, Part 9)

Typical maximum thermal radiation flux values  for LNG storage are:

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 43 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

 Concrete outer surface of adjacent storage tanks or

surfaces behind thermal protection =32 kW/m2 (30m)

 Unprotected metal surfaces of adjacent storage tanks,

pressure vessels and process facilities =15 kW/m2 (45m)

 Control rooms, workshops, laboratories and warehouses = 8 kW/m2 (50m)

 Administration building, work area = 5 kW/m2 (60m)

 Urban areas = 3 kW/m2 (66m)

 Critical areas = 1.5 kW/m2

(100m)

( Reference EN 1473:1997 for LNG storage- distances based upon IP LPG

Volume 1. Model Code of Safe Practice, Part 9)

Where multiple groups are required, each group shall be separated from
unprotected adjacent groups by a minimum horizontal shell-to-shell distance of 50
metres for heights up to 10m (increase to 60m for unprotected items above 10m).

General:

Where space is limited in tank layout areas, the use of thermal protection screens,
etc. may be considered.

Special spacing is required between the listed items and oxygen and/or gaseous
hydrogen storage. Refer to the relevant standard or guide.

6.0 REFERENCES
PRC Engineering Standard / Specification Index.
GB 50160-92 Fire Prevention Code of Petrochemical Enterprise Design

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 44 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

GB 50187-93 Code for Design of General Plan of Industrial Enterprise

(Cooling Tower)
GBJ 16-87 Code for Design of Building Fire Protection
The compulsory provisions of engineering construction standards
(Petroleum and Chemical Engineering) (2000-10-18)
Reference EN 1473:1997 for LNG storage - distances based upon Institute
of Petroleum, Refining Safety Code Volume 1 and Model Code of Safe
Practice, Part 9.
Institute of Petroleum, Refining Safety Code and Model Code of Safe
Practice, Part 3.
Foster Wheeler Equipment Spacing Standard.

7.0 ATTACHMENTS.
Attachment 1.
SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 45 of 47
Specification for Equipment Spacing.
 CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

Fig 4, “On Site” Spacing Chart.

BASIC SPACING
ITEM Fig. 4 - 'On Site' Spacing Chart

REF. TOWERS 1.5

RA1 REACTORS ABOVE AIT EXTERNALLY INSULATED 4.5 This chart to be used with 'On-site spacing guide.

Note: All distances in metres

3 RB1 REACTORS ABOVE AIT INTERNALLY INSULATED 7.5
N.A. - Not applicable.
7.5 X - Provide spacing based on access for operation and maintenance.
4.5 1.5 RC1 DRUMS 1.5
X
Basic spacing is the recommended distance between a given facility and
9
ON-SITE PRESSURE STORAGE VESSEL
7.5 7.5 1.5 RD1 CLASS 1A VOLUME LESS THAN 100m³
9
other general processing equipment. This spacing is not required betwenn items
4.5 in same service, (i.e. pumps and spare etc.)
7.5 9
1.5 4.5 7.5 1.5 RE1 BLOWDOWN AND DISENGAGING 7.5
X 4.5 DRUMS
9 9
9 15 22.5 9 X RF1 EXCHANGERS OPERATING 4.5
See note in section 5.3.1: 'On-site' spacing guide.
7.5 7.5 ABOVE AIT
7.5 9 9 9
7.5 4.5 7.5 9 9 X RG1 EXCHANGERS OPERATING 1.5
X 4.5 7.5 7.5 BELOW AIT
22 Refer to Fig 6.
7.5 7.5 7.5 15 For evaluation of equipment spacing
4.5 4.5 7.5 4.5 15 4.5 1 RH1 AIR FIN COOLERS 3 7.5
X X X Valves comparison with flammable
7.5 9 9 7.5 Liquid classification characteristics.
1.5 4.5 7.5 1.5 9 7.5 4.5 1 RI1 FIRED HEATERS 15
X 4.5 7.5 X
7.5 9 9 7.5
3 4.5 7.5 3 9 7.5 4.5 X X RJ1 COOLING TOWERS HOLD
X 4.5 7.5 X
22.5 22.5 22.5 22.5 22.5
15 4.5 4.5 15 22.5 15 4.5 15 15 3 RK1 PUMPS ABOVE AIT 4.5
9 15 9 9 9

RL1 PUMPS HANDLING FLAMMABLE 3

MATERIALS
7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5
GAS COMPRESSORS AND EXPANDERS HANDLING
4.5 4.5 7.5 4.5 15 4.5 X 4.5 4.5 4.5 1.5 RM1 7.5
X X X X X FLAMMABLE MATERIALS. CLASS A
7.5 9 9 7.5 22.5 7.5
3 4.5 7.5 3 9 7.5 4.5 X X 15 4.5 1 RN1 COMPRESSOR DRIVERS (OTHER THAN STEAM
OR MOTOR)
10.5
X 4.5 7.5 X 9 X
9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9 15 9 9 9 9 22.5 9 9 X RO1 EQUIPMENT HANDLING X
7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 NON-FLAMMABLES

10.5 4.5 7.5 10.5 22.5 15 9 10.5 10.5 7.5 9 10.5 X X RP1 CENTRAL CONTROL HOUSE 30

X 4.5 4.5 X X X 4.5 X X 4.5 4.5 X X X X RQ1 FIELDAUXILIARY ROOM 15

30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 X X RR1 ELECTRICAL SUBSTATION 15

15 15 15 15 15 15
15 15 15 15 22.5 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 X 10 X RS1 MAIN EQUIPMENT STRUCTURES NA
9 9 9 9 9 9
15 15 15 15 15 15
15 15 15 15 22.5 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 X 10 X X RT1 ON SITE PIPE RACKS 4.5
9 9 9 9 9 9 EMERGENCY VALVES FOR SHUT-OFF
ISOLATING, SNUFFING, UNIT (BATTERY) LIMIT ETC
X 4.5 4.5 X 15 X 4.5 X X 15 4.5 3 7.5 X X 30 15 15 X RU1 7.5

ONSITE FLAM. LIQUID STORAGE TANKS CLASS 1B - 11A FLAM.

3 4.5 4.5 1.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 1.5 3 6 3 1.5 4.5 4.5 X 7.5 4.5 4.5 X X RV1 4.5
.GAS STORAGE TKS CLASS 'A' GRADE. VOL: LESS THAN 1000m³

ON SITE FLAM. LIQUID STORAGE TKS CLASS 11B - 111A FLAM

7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 22.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 N.A. 15 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 X X X N.A. 7.5 X X RW1 7.5
.GAS STORAGE TKS CLASS 'B' GRADE. VOL: LESS THAN 1000m³
9 9 9 9 9
GAS COMPRESSORS AND EXPANDERS, HANDLING
9 9 15 X X 9 9 9 9 15 9 9 9 9 X 25 15 15 X X X X RX1 7.5
7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 FLAMMABLE MATERIAL. CLASS 'B'
7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5
7.5 9 9 X X 7.5 9 7.5 7.5 9 9 7.5 7.5 7.5 X 25 9 9 X X X X X RY1
X X X X X
7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5
X 4.5 7.5 X 9 X 4.5 X X 9 4.5 X X X X 25 9 9 X X X X X X
X X X X X X

Attachment 2.
FIG 5, “Off Site” Spacing Chart.

SP-8230-0000-0003 Rev 01 Page 46 of 47

Specification for Equipment Spacing.
 CSCP Nanhai Petrochemicals Project
Bechtel – SEI – Foster Wheeler PMC

BASIC SPACING
FACILITY
Fig. 5 - 'Off Site' Spacing Chart
REF. BOILER HOUSES AND P OWER STATIONS 30

RA2 BUILDINGS, MAIN OFFICES, WORKSHOPS,

LABORATORIES, ETC. 30 This chart to be used with 'Off-site spac ing guide.

X RB2 COOLING TOWERS 15/30 Note: All distances in metres

N.A. - Not applicable.
X - Provide spacing based on access for operation and maintenance.
10 X RC2 JETTIES (LOADING ARM MANIFOLD) 60
Basic spacing is the recommended distance between a given facility and
25 25 X RD2 MAIN ELECTRICAL SUB-STATIONS 45 other general processing equipment. This spacing is not required betwenn items
in sam e service, (i.e. pumps and spare etc.)

40 40 40 N.A RE2 FIRE STATION 45

X X 40 40 X RF2 MAIN FIRE WATER PUMPS 45 See note in section 5.4: 'Off-site' spacing guide.

30 X 15 60 X N.A RG2 FIRE TRAINING AREA 45

10
8 Refer to Fig 6.
30 X 15 60 X X X RH2 ROAD LOADING RACKS FOR LOW FLASH
POINT PRODUCTS 30 6 For evaluation of equipment spacing
Valves comparison with flammable
45 45 45 60 45 45 45 N.A RJ2 MAJOR OFFSITE PIPE TRACKS 4.5 Liquid classification characteristics.

30 30 30 60 30 30 30 30 N.A RK2 PROCESS AREAS 35

CLASS 1
6 15 4.5 X 6 4.5 4.5 45 15 N.A RL2 BOUNDARY FENCE 45
RL2 CLASS 2
35 35 35 35 35 35 25
30 30 30 30 30 200 30 30 20 4.5 Z RM2 MAJOR STORAGE PUMP AREA 20
25 25 25 25 25 25 15 30 RL2 CLASS 3
10
X X 30 60 X X X 10 45 4.5 8 N.A RN2 MA IN RAILWAY LINES WITHIN COMPLEX 30
6 25 20 RL2
20
20 20 20 15 20 20 20 20 15 4.5 15 8 X RO2 RAIL SIDING FACILITIES 15
10 20 15 10
30 15
30 7.5 30 60 7.5 7.5 7.5 45 7.5 10 5.0 10 N.A RP2 MAIN EFFLUENT TREATMENT 35 DETAIL 'Z'
10
15 FACILITIES FOR HEAT SENSITIVE
15 7.5 15 15 7.5 7.5 7.5 45 10 4.5 10 5.0 10 N.A N.A RQ2 30 PROCESS AREAS
10 MATERIALS EG TEL & TML.
30
35 35 35 40 35 35 35 35 25 4.5 25 10 20 10 10 X RR2 RAIL LOADING RACKS FOR LOW FLASH
POINT PRODUCTS 35
20

30 45 30 60 45 45 45 45 45 4.5 45 45 30 60 15 30 N.A RS2 STORAGE AREA INTERNAL 35

OR EXTERNAL
30
35 35 35 25 35 35 35 35 15 4.5 25 8 12 15 15 30 35 X RT2 ROADS - TRANSPORTING PRODUCTS AND
RAW MA TERIALS 15
20
30 TANKS CONTAINING FLAMMABLE GAS VOLUME FROM
35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 25 X 25 10 20 10 10 30 35 30 20 RU2 30
20 1000m³ TO 50000m³ INCLUSIVE
15
N.A N.A 15 15 N.A N.A X N.A 15 X 10 N.A 15 X X 15 15 15 15 N.A RV2 SOURCE OF FIRE /IGNITION FLYING SPARK. 30
10
25 SECTION
30 30 30 25 30 30 30 30 15 N.A 20 10 15 10 10 25 30 20 20 10 RW2
15 5.5
30
N.A N.A N.A 35 25 N.A N.A N.A 25 4.5 25 N.A 15 N.A N.A 30 30 30 30 N.A 30 N.A
20

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Specification for Equipment Spacing.