This recommended practice is applicable to flares used in pressure relieving and vapor-depressuring systems used in general refinery and petrochemical services. The information provided is intended to aid in the design and selection of a flare system that is most appropriate for the risks and circumstances. Although this recommended practice is primarily intended for new flares and facilities, it may be used as a guideline in the evaluation of existing facilities together with appropriate cost and risk assessment considerations.
This recommended practice is intended to supplement the practices set forth in API Recommended Practice 521, Guide for Pressure Relieving and Depressuring Systems.
This recommended practice describes the mechanical design, operation and maintenance of three types of flares: Elevated Flares, Multi-burner Staged Flares, and Enclosed Flares.