Test Methods: Three New Methods for Velocity and Volumetric Flow Rate Determination in Stacks or Ducts

SUMMARY: EPA is proposing three new optional test methods for measuring

velocity and volumetric flow rate of flue gas from fossil fuel-fired

boilers and turbines. These new methods can account for velocity drop-

off near the stack or duct wall and the yaw and pitch angles of flow.

Owners and operators of utility units subject to the Acid Rain Program

under title IV of the Clean Air Act and certain large electric

generating units and large non-electric generating units that may

become subject to the nitrogen oxides (NOX) state

implementation plan (SIP) call under Title I of the Clean Air Act must

use an approved test method to periodically calibrate the flow rate

monitors at these units. Flow rate data is used to determine the units'

sulfur dioxide (SO2) and NOX mass emissions and

heat inputs. The purpose of the Acid Rain Program and the

NOX SIP call is to significantly reduce emissions from

electric generating plants and other affected units in order to reduce

the adverse health and environmental effects of acid deposition or

ground level ozone resulting from these emissions.

DATES: Written comments must be received by June 14, 1999 unless a

hearing is held, in which case written comments must be received by

July 1, 1999.

Public Hearing: Anyone requesting a public hearing must submit a

written request, which must be received by EPA by no later than May 21,

1999. If a hearing is timely requested, it will be held on June 1,

1999, starting at 10:00 a.m.

ADDRESSES: Any written comments must be identified as comments on the

direct final rule and companion proposed rule, identified with Docket

No. A-99-14, and must be submitted in duplicate to: EPA Air Docket

(6102), Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street, SW, Washington,

DC 20460. The docket is available for public inspection and copying

between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the address

given above. EPA may charge a reasonable fee for copying.

Public Hearing: If a hearing is held, it will take place at the 4th

floor conference room at 501 3rd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Schakenbach, Acid Rain Division

(6204J), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street, SW,

Washington, DC 20460, (202) 564-9158; or Elliot Lieberman, Acid Rain

Division (6204J), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street,

SW, Washington, DC 20460, (202) 564-9136.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We are proposing to add three new optional

test methods for determination of velocity and volumetric flow rate in

stacks or ducts that account for yaw and pitch angles of stack or duct

gas flow and velocity drop-off near the stack or duct wall. We are

promulgating the new test methods as a direct final rule without prior

proposal because we view the rule as noncontroversial and anticipate no

adverse comment. We have explained our reasons for this action in the

preamble to the direct final rule. If we receive no timely adverse

comment, we will not take further action on this proposed rule. If we

receive timely adverse comment, we will withdraw the direct final rule

and it will not take effect.

We will address all public comments in a subsequent final rule

based on this proposed rule. We will not institute a second comment

period on this action. Any parties interested in commenting must do so

at this time. For further information, please see the information

provided in the direct final action that is located in the ``Rules and

Regulations'' section of this Federal Register publication.

Dated: May 5, 1999.

Carol M. Browner,

Administrator.

[FR Doc. 99-11797 Filed 5-13-99; 8:45 am]

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