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One of the primary sources of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions and other pollutants is power plants. To maintain compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Act, preventing corrosion in power plants using temporary humidity control is necessary, particularly during the application of protective surface coatings or while plants are shut down for maintenance. While most forms of corrosion are detrimental, certain types do more damage than others.

Power processing facilities experience billions of dollars of corrosion-related damage on metal and alloy materials each year. Allowing corrosion to persist can lead to operating failures, which can have fatal consequences. Power plant lay-ups are one of the methods that plant operators use to prevent corrosion. The protective measures are most effective when applied consistently and continuously.

The reasons for employing humidity control for power plants extend beyond corrosion prevention. It’s vital for protecting the plant’s most vital assets: its workers. Operations within a plant involve radiant heat sources, high humidity, strenuous activities and protective clothing that could cause serious heat-related illnesses (e.g., heat rash, cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke) or even death. While the ideal temperature for workers varies by individual, the acceptable range for ensuring employee health is narrow.

When left unchecked, humidity within a power plant can have disastrous consequences. Moisture in the air can cause severe worker discomfort, provides the perfect environment for dangerous corrosion, and can ultimately be responsible for premature equipment failure.

Hurricanes and tropical storms are unpredictable beasts. They can intensify and change directions without notice, making storm preparation vital for minimizing hurricane damage. Experts can only predict how many hurricanes will make landfall in the U.S. each year based on historical data and current weather patterns. Meteorologists use the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale to indicate a storm’s strength. They use data regarding air pressure, water temperatures, air temperatures, winds and other variables to predict where a storm might travel and how strong it could become. By understanding the hurricane category ratings, you can have a better idea about the impact that a storm could have on your commercial property.