Encino Environmental Services

A true game-changer in environmental responsibility and operational efficiency, this breakthrough product is more than just a hatch; it’s a key to a cleaner future.”

E+E Leader Judge

Storage tanks at oil and gas production sites have been identified as a significant source of methane and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. One of the main contributors to these emissions is faulty or degraded thief hatches. A thief hatch is a closeable lid located at the top of low-pressure holding tanks used to store hydrocarbons such as condensate, oil, or oily water. These hatches are essential for allowing access for tank volume measurements and sampling. However, if they are left open or become weathered due to exposure to elements and use, they can allow hydrocarbon vapors to escape into the atmosphere, contributing to fugitive emissions.

Introducing Enviromech™

Encino's innovative product, Enviromech™, is a composite thief hatch system designed as a low-cost, high-impact solution for both new and existing tanks. This product offers several key advantages:

1. Material Advantages: Enviromech™ is made from composite material, which is significantly more resistant to corrosive and oxidative degradation compared to traditional materials used in thief hatches. This resistance is particularly beneficial in environments with ubiquitous chemicals and harsh weather conditions.
2. Performance: The product has undergone rigorous validation through accelerated pressure and corrosion testing. These tests have demonstrated Enviromech™’s superior performance compared to current market alternatives. The composite material ensures greater long-term integrity, reducing the likelihood of emissions from degraded or faulty thief hatches.
3. Emission Mitigation: By maintaining a better seal and resisting degradation, the Enviromech™ composite thief hatch helps mitigate emissions from liquid storage tanks. This not only supports environmental compliance but also enhances operational efficiency by reducing product loss.
4. Safety Advantages: By reducing the need for frequent maintenance and inspections, the Enviromech™ composite thief hatch minimizes the number of personnel visits required at oil and gas production facilities. This not only lowers the risk of workplace accidents and exposure to hazardous environments but also reduces operational disruptions, enhancing overall safety for workers.

Conclusion

Encino’s Enviromech™ composite thief hatch represents a significant advancement in the technology used for managing storage tank emissions. Its enhanced durability and superior performance ensure that it provides a reliable solution for mitigating fugitive emissions, thereby supporting both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency in the oil and gas industry.