Each EPA source testing method has an associated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) sheet. These sheets are highly valuable resources, so much so that we decided to create a general FAQ sheet covering common questions related to testing as a whole. We hope this guide helps! If your question isn’t included, please feel free to reach out.
It depends. At a minimum, a sampling plane should have two test ports installed, 90 degrees apart. As stack size increases, installing four ports (90 degrees apart) becomes highly beneficial – and sometimes necessary. For sources with multiple required test parameters, four ports are always recommended.
Absolutely! Different testing methods require different equipment. For example:
Not necessarily. We still need to check for cyclonic flow – a condition where exhaust gases do not flow parallel to the stack axis. If cyclonic flow is detected, an alternative sampling location may be required.
Blue Sky can include a manlift rental in our quotation and will coordinate the rental with a provider.
The number of circuits depends on the test program’s scope. Generally, we require:
Your facility should have an operating permit that outlines applicable emission limits and any associated operating conditions or restrictions. Some limits may be incorporated by reference to an applicable rule. Since permitting varies across air districts, we recommend contacting your permit issuer for clarification. Blue Sky may also assist with minor clarifications.
Any preliminary results available will be shared with a client representative before we leave. However, some tests require laboratory analysis, which typically takes about two weeks after the test date.
There are two possible approaches:
