ESDM Case Study of an Imaging Facility

Background

A digital imaging facility, specializing in the production of high-performance digital imaging sensors and cameras, aimed to ensure compliance with Ontario’s Environmental Protection Act through an Emission Summary and Dispersion Modeling (ESDM) report. The facility is in an industrial zone in Ontario, several hundred meters from the nearest residential area and sensitive receptors.

Facility Operations

The facility assembles and tests sensors and cameras for various applications, including industrial inspection and aerospace. Its key operational areas include:

  • Laser Lab: Utilizes lasers for testing and verification of products, this process potentially emitting ozone and hydrogen fluoride.
  • Miller Lab: Conducts quality control tests, utilize with various equipment (i.e., vacuum oven, polishing and grinding, etc.), this process emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter.
  • Spin Lab: Uses soldering machines for component assembly, this process emitting tin, silver, and proprietary rosin/resin.

Emission Sources and Contaminants

The facility’s emissions primarily include VOCs, particulate matter, and ozone. Emission sources are categorized as either significant or negligible based on regulatory thresholds. Contaminants below site-specific emission thresholds are considered negligible, reducing the need for detailed dispersion modeling.

Emission Control Measures

The facility implemented several emission control strategies:

  1. Laser Lab Scrubbers: Dedicated scrubbers filter emissions from the laser lab to control ozone and hydrogen fluoride levels.
  2. Fume Hoods: Soldering activities in the Spin Lab utilize portable fume hoods with 98% efficiency to capture and filter particulates.
  3. HEPA Filters: Workstations across labs are equipped with HEPA filters to capture particulates at the source.

Regulatory Compliance and Results

The ESDM report confirmed compliance with all applicable regulatory limits under Ontario’s Environmental Protection Act, specifically:

  • In accordance with s.8 of O.Reg. 419/05, emission rate calculations and dispersion modelling does not have to be performed for emissions from negligible sources or for the emission of negligible contaminants from significant sources.
  • All contaminants met the regulatory standards set by Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP).

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates the facility’s proactive approach to managing and mitigating air emissions, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. Through regular monitoring, emission control systems, and adherence to regulatory guidelines, the facility maintains compliance with environmental standards while continuing to innovate in digital imaging technology.