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Browse by Year / 1998 / March / Tuesday, March 24, 1998
[Federal Register: March 24, 1998 (Volume 63, Number 56)]
[Proposed Rules]               
[Page 14181-14248]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr24mr98-29]


[[Page 14181]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part II





Environmental Protection Agency





_______________________________________________________________________



40 CFR Part 63



National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants; Proposed 
Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants Emissions for the Portland 
Cement Manufacturing Industry; Proposed Rule


[[Page 14182]]



ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 63

[IL-64-2-5807; FRL-5978-2]
RIN 2060-AE78

 
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants; 
Proposed Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants Emissions for the 
Portland Cement Manufacturing Industry

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed rule and notice of public hearing.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This action proposes national emission standards for hazardous 
air pollutants (NESHAP) for new and existing sources in portland cement 
manufacturing plants. Exposure to the hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) 
in these emissions may be associated with a wide variety of effects, 
including carcinogenic, respiratory, nervous system, dermal, 
developmental, and/or reproductive health effects. Implementation of 
the proposed requirements would reduce emissions of several HAPs.
    The standards are proposed under the authority of section 112(d) of 
the Clean Air Act as amended (the Act) and are based on the 
Administrator's determination that portland cement manufacturing plants 
may reasonably be anticipated to emit several of the HAPs listed in 
section 112(b) of the Act from the various process operations found 
within the industry. The proposed NESHAP would provide protection to 
the public by requiring all portland cement plants which are major 
sources to meet emission standards reflecting the application of the 
maximum achievable control technology (MACT).

DATES: Comments. The EPA will accept comments on the proposed rule 
until May 26, 1998.
    Public Hearing. If anyone contacts the Agency requesting to speak 
at a public hearing, the hearing will be held at the Agency's Office of 
Administration Auditorium, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina on 
April 23, 1998 beginning at 10:00 a.m. Persons wishing to present oral 
testimony must contact the Agency by April 14, 1998.

ADDRESSES: Comments. Comments should be submitted (in duplicate) to: 
Air and Radiation Docket and Information Center (6102), Attention: 
Docket No. A-92-53, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street 
SW., Washington, DC 20460. The Agency requests that a separate copy 
also be sent to the contact person listed below (Mr. Joseph Wood). 
Comments and data may also be submitted electronically by following the 
instructions provided in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section. No 
confidential business information (CBI) should be submitted through 
electronic mail.
    Public Hearing. Persons wishing to present oral testimony or to 
inquire as to whether or not a hearing is to be held should notify Ms. 
Cathy Coats, Minerals and Inorganic Chemicals Group (MD-13), U.S. 
Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, 
telephone number (919) 541-5422. Additional information regarding the 
public hearing is given in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section.
    Docket. The official record for this rulemaking, as well as the 
public version, has been established under Docket No. A-92-53 
(including comments and data submitted electronically as described 
below). A public version of this record, including printed, paper 
versions of electronic comments and data, which does not include any 
information claimed as CBI, is available for inspection from 8 a.m. to 
4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The official 
rulemaking docket is located at the address in the ADDRESSES section 
above. Alternatively, a docket index, as well as individual items 
contained within the docket, may be obtained by calling (202) 260-7548. 
A reasonable fee may be charged for copying.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For information about this proposed 
rule, contact Mr. Joseph Wood, P.E., Minerals and Inorganic Chemicals 
Group, Emission Standards Division (MD-13), U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, telephone number 
(919) 541-5446; electronic mail address wood.joe@epamail.epa.gov. For 
information about the proposed test methods contact Ms. Rima 
Dishakjian, Emission Measurement Center, Emissions, Monitoring and 
Analysis Division (MD-19), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, telephone number (919) 541-0443.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Electronic filing. Electronic comments can 
be sent directly to the EPA at a-and-r-docket@epamail.epa.gov. 
Electronic comments and data must be submitted as an ASCII file 
avoiding the use of special characters and any form of encryption. 
Comments and data will also be accepted on disks in Wordperfect 5.1 or 
6.1 file format or ASCII file format. All comments and data in 
electronic form must be identified by the docket number A-92-53. 
Electronic comments may be filed online at many Federal Depository 
Libraries.
    Implementation of the proposed requirements would achieve an 
emission reduction from existing and projected new sources estimated at 
82 megagrams per year (Mg/yr) (90 tons per year [tpy]) of HAPs and 
4,900 Mg/yr (5,400 tpy) of other pollutants (volatile organic compounds 
[VOC] and particulate matter [PM]). The EPA is also proposing to 
require portland cement plants that are area sources to meet emission 
standards for dioxins and furans reflecting the application of MACT.
    The EPA is also proposing Methods 320, 321, and 322 with the 
standards for addition to 40 CFR part 63, appendix A. These methods may 
be used to assist in determining the applicability of the proposed 
emission limitations.
    Public Hearing. If a public hearing is requested and held, EPA will 
ask clarifying questions during the oral presentation but will not 
respond to the presentations or comments. Written statements and 
supporting information will be considered with equivalent weight as any 
oral statement and supporting information subsequently presented at a 
public hearing, if held.
    Confidential Business Information. Commenters wishing to submit 
proprietary information for consideration should clearly distinguish 
such information from other comments and clearly label it 
``Confidential Business Information.'' Submissions containing such 
proprietary information should be sent directly to the following 
address, and not to the public docket, to ensure that proprietary 
information is not inadvertently placed in the docket: Attention: Mr. 
Joseph Wood, c/o Ms. Melva Toomer, U.S. EPA Confidential Business 
Information Manager, OAQPS (MD-13); Research Triangle Park, NC 27711. 
Information covered by such claim of confidentiality will be disclosed 
by the EPA only to the extent allowed and by the procedures set forth 
in 40 CFR part 2. If no claim of confidentiality accompanies a 
submission when it is received by the EPA, the submission may be made 
available to the public without further notice to the commenter.
    Regulated entities. Entities potentially regulated by this action 
are those who have the potential to emit HAPs listed in section 112(b) 
of the Act in the regulated categories and entities shown in Table 1.

[[Page 14183]]

    This table is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a 
guide for readers regarding entities likely to be regulated by this 
action. This table lists the types of entities that the EPA is now 
aware could potentially be regulated by this action. Other types of 
entities not listed in this table could also be regulated. To determine 
whether your facility is regulated by this action, you should carefully 
examine the applicability criteria in Sec. 63.1340 of the proposed 
rule. If you have questions regarding the applicability of this action 
to a particular entity, consult the person listed in the preceding FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this preamble.

                      Table 1.--Regulated Entities                      
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Category                  Examples of regulated entities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Industry...............................  Owners or operators of portland
                                          cement manufacturing plants.  
State..................................  Owners or operators of portland
                                          cement manufacturing plants.  
Tribal associations....................  Owners or operators of portland
                                          cement manufacturing plants.  
Federal agencies.......................  None.                          
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Technology Transfer Network. The proposed regulatory text is also 
available on the Technology Transfer Network (TTN), one of EPA's 
electronic bulletin boards. The TTN provides information and technology 
exchange in various areas of air pollution control. The service is 
free, except for the cost of a phone call. Dial (919) 541-5742 for up 
to a 14,400 BPS modem. The TTN is also accessible through the Internet 
(world wide web) at http://www.epa.gov/ttn/. If more information on the 
TTN is needed, call the HELP line at (919) 541-5384. The help desk is 
staffed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; a voice menu is available at other 
times.
    Outline. The information in this preamble is organized as shown 
below.

I. Statutory Authority
II. Introduction
    A. Background
    B. NESHAP for Source Categories
    C. Health Effects of Pollutants
    D. Portland Cement Manufacturing Industry Profile
III. Summary of Proposed Standards
    A. Applicability
    B. Emission Limits and Requirements
    C. Performance Test and Compliance Provisions
    D. Monitoring Requirements
    E. Notification, Recordkeeping, and Reporting Requirements
IV. Impacts of Proposed Standards
    A. Applicability
    B. Air Quality Impacts
    C. Water Impacts
    D. Solid Waste Impacts
    E. Energy Impacts
    F. Nonair Health and Environmental Impacts
    G. Cost Impacts
    H. Economic Impacts
V. Selection of Proposed Standards
    A. Selection of Source Category
    B. Selection of Emission Sources
    1. Feed Preparation Processes (Grinding, Conveying)
    2. Feed Preparation Processes (Drying, Blending, Storage)
    3. Kiln
    4. Clinker Cooler
    5. Finish Grinding/Conversion of Clinker to Portland Cement
    C. Selection of Pollutants
    D. Selection of Proposed Standards for Existing and New Sources
    1. Background
    2. MACT Floor Technology, Emission Limits, and Format
    E. Selection of Testing and Monitoring Requirements
    1. Kiln and In-line Kiln Raw Mill PM Emissions
    2. Kiln D/F Emissions
    3. Kiln and Raw Material Dryer THC Emissions
    4. Clinker Cooler PM Emissions
    5. Raw and Finish Mill PM Emissions
    6. Raw Material Dryer and Materials Handling Processes PM 
Emissions
    7. General Monitoring Requirements
    F. Selection of Notification, Recordkeeping, and Reporting 
Requirements
VI. Public Participation
VII. Administrative Requirements
    A. Docket
    B. Public Hearing
    C. Executive Order 12866
    D. Enhancing the Intergovernmental Partnership Under Executive 
Order 12875
    E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    F. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    G. Paperwork Reduction Act
    H. Clean Air Act

I. Statutory Authority

    The statutory authority for this proposal is provided by sections 
101, 112, 114, 116, 183(f) and 301 of the Clean Air Act, as amended (42 
U.S.C. 7401, 7411, 7414, 7416, 7511(f) and 7601).

II. Introduction

A. Background

    Nationwide baseline HAP emissions from portland cement 
manufacturing plants are estimated to be 260 Mg/yr (290 tpy) at the 
current level of control. The HAPs released from kiln systems include 
acetaldehyde, arsenic, benzene, cadmium, chromium, chlorobenzene, 
dibenzofurans, formaldehyde, hexane, hydrogen chloride, lead, 
manganese, mercury, naphthalene, nickel, phenol, polycyclic organic 
matter, selenium, styrene, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, 
toluene, and xylenes. The HAPs released from raw material dryers should 
be similar to those from the kiln. The HAPs released from clinker 
coolers, raw mills, finish mills, storage bins, conveying system 
transfer points, bagging systems and bulk loading and unloading systems 
include arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury, nickel, 
and selenium. Implementing MACT-level controls is expected to decrease 
emissions of these HAPs from existing and projected new sources by 
approximately 82 Mg/yr (90 tpy). Plants can achieve this reduction by 
upgrading or installing fabric filters (FF), also known as baghouses, 
and electrostatic precipitators (ESP) to decrease HAP metals; limiting 
temperatures at the particulate matter control device (PMCD) inlet to 
decrease dioxin and furan (D/F) emissions; and selecting suitable feed 
materials to decrease organic HAP emissions.
    The overall effect of these standards would be to improve the 
control performance of the industry to the level achieved by the best 
performing plants. In addition to the health and environmental benefits 
associated with HAP emission reductions, benefits of this action 
include a decrease in site-specific emission levels of PM and VOC and 
lowered occupational exposure levels for employees.
    The nationwide capital and annualized costs of the proposed NESHAP, 
including emission controls and associated monitoring equipment, are 
estimated at $88 million and $27 million/yr, respectively. The economic 
impacts are predicted to increase prices of portland cement by an 
average of 1.1 percent.
    To minimize adverse impacts, the Agency has proposed controls at 
the MACT-floor level, tailored the requirements to allow less-costly 
testing and monitoring by using surrogates for HAP emissions and 
provided choice in methods of control. The proposed rule

[[Page 14184]]

is ``user friendly,'' with language that is easy to understand by all 
of the regulated community. The EPA also proposes to allow existing 
facilities up to 3 years to comply. And, as allowed under section 
112(i)(3)(B) of the Act, the Administrator or delegated regulatory 
authority also may grant 1 additional year if necessary for the 
installation of controls.

B. NESHAP for Source Categories

    Section 112 of the Act as amended specifically directs the EPA to 
develop a list of all categories of major sources and such area sources 
as appropriate that emit one or more of the HAPs listed in the Act. The 
EPA is further directed to develop NESHAP to control emissions of HAPs 
from both existing and new major sources, where a major source is 
defined as a source that emits or has the potential to emit 9.1 Mg/yr 
(10 tpy) or more of any one HAP or 22.7 Mg/yr (25 tpy) of any 
combination of HAPs. The statute requires the standards to reflect the 
maximum degree of reduction in HAP emissions that is achievable, taking 
into consideration the cost of achieving the emission reduction, any 
nonair quality health and environmental impacts, and energy 
requirements. This level of control is commonly referred to as MACT.
    The control of HAPs is achieved through the promulgation of 
technology-based emission standards under sections 112(d) and 112(f) 
and work practice standards under 112(h) for categories of sources that 
emit HAPs. Emission reductions may be accomplished through the 
application of measures, processes, methods, systems, or techniques 
including, but not limited to: (1) Reducing the volume of, or 
eliminating emissions of, such pollutants through process changes, 
substitution of materials, or other modifications; (2) enclosing 
systems or processes to eliminate emissions; (3) collecting, capturing, 
or treating such pollutants when released from a process, stack, 
storage or fugitive emissions point; (4) design, equipment, work 
practice, or operational standards (including requirements for operator 
training or certification) as provided in subsection (h); or (5) a 
combination of the above. [See section 112(d)(2) of the Act.] The EPA 
may promulgate more stringent regulations to address residual risk that 
remains after the imposition of controls at a later date.

C. Health Effects of Pollutants

    The Clean Air Act was created in part to protect and enhance the 
quality of the Nation's air resources so as to promote the public 
health and welfare and the productive capacity of its population. [See 
section 101(b)(1).] In the 1990 Amendments to the Clean Air Act, 
Congress specified that each standard for major sources must require 
the maximum reduction in emissions of HAPs that EPA determines is 
achievable considering cost, health and environmental impacts, and 
energy requirements. Title III of the Act establishes a control 
technology-based program to reduce stationary source emissions of HAPs. 
The goal of section 112(d) (in Title III) is to apply such control 
technology to reduce emissions and thereby reduce the hazard of HAPs 
emitted from stationary sources.
    Section 112(b) of the Act lists HAPs believed to cause adverse 
health or environmental effects. The EPA recognizes that the degree of 
adverse effects to health can range from mild to severe. The extent and 
degree to which the health effects may be experienced is dependent 
upon: (1) The ambient concentrations observed in the area (e.g., as 
influenced by emission rates, meteorological conditions, and terrain); 
(2) the frequency of and duration of exposures; (3) characteristics of 
exposed individuals (e.g., genetics, age, pre-existing health 
conditions, and lifestyle) which vary significantly with the 
population; and (4) pollutant-specific characteristics (e.g., toxicity, 
half-life in the environment, bioaccumulation, and persistence). In 
essence, these MACT standards would ensure that all major sources of 
air toxic emissions achieve the level of control already being achieved 
by the better controlled and lower emitting sources in each category. 
This approach provides assurance to citizens that each major source of 
toxic air pollution will be required to effectively control its 
emissions. At the same time, this approach provides a level economic 
playing field, ensuring that facilities that employ cleaner processes 
and good emissions controls are not disadvantaged relative to 
competitors with poorer controls.
    Available emission data, collected in conjunction with the 
development of this NESHAP, show that non-volatile HAP metals, mercury, 
organic HAPs and hydrogen chloride are the predominant HAPs emitted 
from portland cement manufacturing plants. These pollutants (except 
mercury and hydrogen chloride) have the potential to be reduced by 
implementation of the proposed emission limits. In addition to the 
HAPs, the portland cement manufacturing NESHAP would also control some 
of the pollutants whose emissions are controlled under the National 
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). These pollutants include PM, 
VOC, and lead. The following is a summary of the potential health 
effects associated with exposures, at some level, to pollutants that 
would be reduced by the standard.
    Almost all metals appearing on the section 112(b) list are emitted 
from portland cement manufacturing affected sources. There is a wide 
range of targets of toxicity for these metals. Effects include skin 
irritation, mucous membrane irritation (e.g., lung irritation), 
gastrointestinal effects, nervous system effects (including cognitive 
effects, tremor, and numbness), increased blood pressure, and 
reproductive and developmental effects. Additionally, several of the 
metals accumulate in the environment and in the human body. Cadmium, 
for example, is a cumulative pollutant which causes kidney effects 
after the cessation of exposure. Similarly, the onset of effects from 
beryllium exposure may be delayed by months to years. Many of the metal 
compounds are also known (arsenic, chromium (VI)) or probable (cadmium, 
nickel carbonyl, lead, and beryllium) human carcinogens.
    Organic compounds which will potentially be decreased by the 
proposed standard include but are not limited to acetaldehyde, benzene, 
chlorobenzene, formaldehyde, D/F, hexane, naphthalene, phenol, 
polycyclic organic matter, styrene, toluene, and xylenes. Each of these 
organic compounds has a range of potential health effects associated 
with exposure at some level. Some of the effects associated with short-
term inhalation exposure to these pollutants are similar and include 
irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract in humans; central 
nervous system effects (e.g., drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, 
depression, nausea, irregular heartbeat); reproductive and 
developmental effects; and, neurological effects. Exposure to benzene 
at extremely high concentrations may even lead to respiratory 
paralysis, coma, or death.
    Health effects associated with long-term inhalation exposure in 
humans to the organic compounds which will potentially be decreased by 
the proposed standard may include mild symptoms such as nausea, 
headache, weakness, insomnia, intestinal pain, and burning eyes; 
effects on the central nervous system; disorders of the blood; toxicity 
to the immune system; reproductive disorders in women (e.g., increased 
risk of spontaneous abortion); developmental effects; gastrointestinal 
irritation; liver injury; and muscular effects.

[[Page 14185]]

    In addition to the non-cancer effects described above, some of the 
organic HAPs that would be controlled under this proposed standard are 
either known (benzene) or probable (formaldehyde and D/F) human 
carcinogens.
    Hydrogen chloride (HCl) is highly corrosive to the eyes, skin, and 
mucous membranes. Short-term inhalation of HCl by humans may cause 
coughing, hoarseness, inflammation and ulceration of the respiratory 
tract, as well as chest pain and pulmonary edema. Long-term 
occupational exposure of humans to HCl has been reported to cause 
inflammation of the stomach, skin, and lungs, and photosensitization.
    The health effects of PM, lead, and VOC that would be reduced by 
this standard are described in EPA's Criteria Documents, which support 
the NAAQS. Briefly, PM emissions have been associated with aggravation 
of existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease and increased risk 
of premature death. Depending on the degree of exposure, lead can cause 
subtle effects on behavior and cognition, increased blood pressure, 
reproductive effects, seizures, and even death.
    Volatile organic compounds are precursors to the formation of ozone 
in the ambient air. At ambient levels, ozone has been shown in human 
laboratory and community studies to be responsible for the reduction of 
lung function, respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, chest pain, throat 
and nose irritation), increased hospital admissions for respiratory 
causes, and increased lung inflammation. Animal studies have shown 
increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and lung structure 
changes. Exposure to ozone has also been linked to harmful effects on 
agricultural crops and forests.

D. Portland Cement Manufacturing Industry Profile

    Portland cement is a fine powder, usually gray in color, that 
consists of a mixture of the minerals dicalcium silicate, tricalcium 
silicate, tricalcium aluminate, and tetracalcium aluminoferrite, to 
which one or more forms of calcium sulfate have been added (docket item 
II-I-43, p. 746). The primary end use of portland cement is as the key 
ingredient in portland cement concrete, which is used in almost all 
construction applications.
    In 1993, 44 companies operated 118 portland cement plants located 
in 37 states. The manufacture of portland cement is covered by SIC code 
3241 for hydraulic cements. According to U.S. Small Business 
Administration size standards, companies owning portland cement plants 
are categorized as small if the total number of employees at the 
company is less than 750. Otherwise the company is classified as large. 
A total of 7 companies are categorized as small, while the remaining 37 
companies are in the large category (docket item II-D-200).
    Few new plants are predicted to be constructed during the next 5 
years. The EPA estimates that two to four existing plants will undergo 
reconstruction in the next 5 years.
    All existing kilns and alkali bypasses have PM control devices. 
Some existing cement manufacturing plants are required to meet new 
source performance standards (NSPS) for PM (40 CFR part 60, subpart F). 
The affected facilities to which the NSPS apply are the kiln, kiln gas 
alkali bypass, clinker cooler, raw material dryer, and materials 
handling processes.

III. Summary of Proposed Standards

A. Applicability

    The proposed standards apply to each existing, reconstructed, and 
newly constructed portland cement manufacturing plant at any facility 
which is a major source or an area source, with the following 
exception. Some portland cement plants fire hazardous wastes in the 
kiln to provide part or all of the fuel requirement for clinker 
production. Portland cement kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills subject to 
the NESHAP for hazardous waste combustors <SUP>1</SUP> (HWC) are not 
subject to this standard; however other affected sources at portland 
cement plants where hazardous waste is burned in the kiln are subject 
to this standard.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The EPA proposed regulations for subpart EEE of 40 CFR part 
63 on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For portland cement plants with on-site non-metallic minerals 
processing facilities, the first affected source in the sequence of 
materials handling operations subject to this proposed NESHAP is the 
raw material storage, which is just prior to the raw mill. The primary 
and secondary crushers and any other equipment in the non-metallic 
minerals processing plant, which precede the raw material storage are 
not affected sources under the proposed NESHAP. Furthermore, the first 
conveyor system transfer point subject to the proposed NESHAP is the 
transfer point associated with the conveyor transferring material from 
the raw material storage to the raw mill. Conveyor system transfer 
points prior to this conveyor are not affected sources under this 
proposed NESHAP (docket item II-B-53).
    This regulation does not apply to the emissions from cement kiln 
dust (CKD) storage facilities (i.e., CKD piles or landfills). A 
separate rulemaking will be forthcoming from EPA's Office of Solid 
Waste (OSW) that will apply to air emissions associated with CKD 
management and disposal facilities.
    Except for hazardous waste burning (HW) cement kilns and HW in-line 
kiln/raw mills, EPA is proposing to apply these standards to all cement 
kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills regardless of the material being 
combusted in the kiln. This proposal, however, does not preclude EPA 
from determining that cement kilns combusting solid waste materials 
should be regulated under section 129 of the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 
7429, and to revise the applicability section of these regulations 
accordingly at the time section 129 regulations applicable to cement 
kilns are promulgated.
    The EPA believes that applying this regulation to all non-hazardous 
waste burning (NHW) cement kilns regardless of the material combusted 
in the kiln is necessary at this time due to the Court of Appeals for 
the District of Columbia's recent decision in Davis County Solid Waste 
Management District v. Environmental Protection Agency, 101 F.3d 1395 
(D.C. Cir. 1996) (petition to review municipal waste combustor 
(``MWC'') regulations promulgated on December 19, 1995 pursuant to 
section 129 of the Act, 60 FR 65387). In the applicability section of 
the MWC regulations, EPA applied the standards to all solid waste 
incineration units combusting more than 30-percent municipal solid 
waste. Two owners and operators of MWC units with capacity less than 
250 tons/day filed petitions for review on the grounds that EPA 
improperly had included their units in the large category. The Cement 
Kiln Recycling Coalition (``CKRC'') also filed a petition for review on 
the grounds that the standards should not apply to cement kilns. In its 
opinion dated December 6, 1996, the Court indicated its intent to 
vacate the standards in their entirety on the grounds raised by the two 
petitioners who own and operate MWC units; as a result, the Court did 
not reach the issue raised by CKRC. Accordingly, EPA believes that it 
is appropriate to apply these regulations as a gap-filling measure to 
control emissions from NHW cement kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills 
regardless of the material combusted in the kiln (except for hazardous 
waste) until EPA determines whether regulations applicable to cement 
kilns combusting solid waste materials should be re-promulgated under 
section 129. To

[[Page 14186]]

decide otherwise would have the potential effect of allowing cement 
kiln owners and operators to avoid regulation by adding some solid 
waste material to the cement kiln.
    As background, section 129(a)(1)(A) requires the Administrator to 
establish performance standards and other requirements pursuant to 
section 111 and section 129 of the Act for each category of solid waste 
incineration units [42 U.S.C. 7429(a)(1)(A)]. Whereas section 112(c) of 
the Act requires EPA to determine major and area sources of the 188 
hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) listed in section 112(b), Congress 
specifically listed in section 129 various categories of solid waste 
incineration units that EPA must regulate, including solid waste 
incineration units combusting municipal solid waste [sections 
129(a)(1)(B) and (C)], solid waste incineration units combusting 
hospital waste, medical waste, and infectious waste [section 
129(a)(1)(C)], solid waste incineration units combusting commercial or 
industrial waste [section 129(a)(1)(D)], and ``other categories of 
solid waste incineration units'' which are to be defined by EPA [42 
U.S.C. 7429(a)(1)].
    Section 129(g)(1) of the Act broadly defines a solid waste 
incineration unit (``SWIU'') as ``a distinct operating unit of any 
facility which combusts any solid waste material from commercial or 
industrial establishments or the general public * * *.'' 42 U.S.C. 
7429(g)(1) (emphasis added). Section 129(g)(1) expressly states that 
``incinerators or other units required to have a permit under section 
3005 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, 42 U.S.C. 6925'' shall not be 
considered a SWIU. That section also expressly excludes from the 
definition of SWIU the following units:

    (A) materials recovery facilities (including primary or 
secondary smelters) which combust waste for the primary purpose of 
recovering metals, (B) qualifying small power production facilities, 
as defined in section 769(17)(C) of Title 16, or qualifying 
cogeneration facilities as defined in section 796(18)(B) of Title 
16, which burn homogeneous waste (such as units which burn tires or 
used oil, but not including refuse-derived fuel) for the production 
of electric energy or in the case of qualifying cogeneration 
facilities which burn homogenous waste for the production of 
electric energy (such as heat) which are used for industrial, 
commercial, heating or cooling purposes, or (C) air curtain 
incinerators provided that such incinerators only burn wood wastes, 
yard wastes and clean lumber and that such air curtain incinerators 
comply with opacity limitations to be established by the 
Administrator by rule.

42 U.S.C. 7429(g)(1). Accordingly, with the exception of those solid 
waste incineration units that are expressly excluded from regulation by 
section 129(g)(1), Congress intended EPA to establish regulations for 
all SWIU's under section 129. This includes cement kilns that combust 
solid waste materials, including refuse-derived fuel.
    Section 129 is similar to section 112 of the Act in that both 
require EPA to establish performance standards that are based upon the 
performance of maximum achievable control technology (MACT). Section 
112(b), however, lists 188 hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) for 
potential regulation, and section 112(c)(6) requires EPA to establish 
performance standards under section 112(d) for categories of sources 
emitting seven specific pollutants, including the following HAPs 
emitted by cement kilns: mercury and dioxins/dibenzofurans [42 U.S.C. 
7412]. By comparison, section 129 expressly requires EPA to regulate 
emissions of the following criteria pollutants and HAPs--particulate 
matter, opacity (as appropriate), sulfur dioxide, hydrogen chloride, 
nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, lead, cadmium, mercury, and dioxins 
and dibenzofurans [42 U.S.C. 7429(a)(4)]. Section 129 also gives EPA 
the discretion to promulgate emission limitations or provide for the 
monitoring of postcombustion concentrations of surrogate substances or 
any other pollutant not expressly listed for regulation in section 
129(a)(4). [See 42 U.S.C. 7429(a)(4).] In addition, section 129 
contains other requirements not contained in section 112, such as 
operator training requirements. [See 42 U.S.C. 7429(d).]
    As stated previously, the regulations being proposed today are 
pursuant to section 112 of the Act and apply to all cement kilns except 
portland cement kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills that would be subject 
to the NESHAP for hazardous waste combustors. In today's notice, the 
EPA is proposing to establish emission limitations for particulate 
matter (as a surrogate for metals, except mercury), dioxins/furans, and 
total hydrocarbons (as a surrogate for organic HAPs) regardless of the 
material being combusted in the cement kiln. If EPA determines that 
additional regulations are required under section 129 for cement kilns 
that combust solid waste materials (e.g., cement kilns combusting 
materials containing more than 30-percent municipal solid waste or 
cement kilns combusting medical waste), then such regulations will be 
promulgated under section 129 and EPA will state clearly in the 
applicability section of those regulations when those standards apply 
and revise the applicability section of these regulations accordingly.
    At no time, will a cement kiln be expected to comply simultaneously 
with regulations promulgated pursuant to section 112 and regulations 
promulgated pursuant to section 129. Section 129(h)(1) expressly states 
that no solid waste incineration unit subject to performance standards 
under section 129 and section 111 shall be subject to standards under 
section 112(d) of the Act [42 U.S.C. 7429(h)(1)]. The EPA reads this 
provision to mean that for emissions potentially subject to section 
129, the Agency must elect whether to cover such emissions under that 
section, or under section 112. If EPA elects to cover emissions under 
section 129, those emissions must be excluded from regulation under 
section 112. For example, if a cement kiln combusts only fossil fuels, 
it would have to comply with the regulations being proposed today. If 
the kiln combusts a mixture of 50% coal and 50% non-hazardous solid 
waste, it would continue to comply with the regulations being proposed 
today until EPA promulgates regulations applicable to such kilns under 
section 129 of the Act. At that time, if the kiln is burning the 50% 
coal and 50% solid waste mixture, it would have to comply with the 
section 129 regulations as long as it continued to combust solid waste 
material. Thus, in the same way that installation of a particular type 
of combustion device determines which regulation is applicable, 
combustion of certain materials in that combustion device would 
determine whether the section 112 regulation or section 129 regulation 
is applicable.
    The EPA does not believe that this approach will subject cement 
kiln owners to duplicative regulations. As noted earlier, regulations 
under section 112 and section 129 are based on MACT. If EPA determines 
that additional regulations under section 129 are appropriate because 
cement kilns are combusting solid waste material, EPA would be required 
to promulgate additional MACT standards for the following pollutants 
pursuant to section 129(a)(4): opacity, sulfur dioxide, hydrogen 
chloride, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, lead, cadmium, and mercury. 
The EPA also would determine whether the standards for particulate 
matter, total hydrocarbon, and dioxins/furans should be revised for 
kilns combusting solid waste materials [42 U.S.C. 7429(a)(4)].

B. Emission Limits and Requirements

    The proposed NESHAP for portland cement manufacturing would apply 
to both major and area sources of HAPs.

[[Page 14187]]

The affected sources for which emission limits are proposed include the 
kiln, in-line kiln/raw mill, clinker cooler, raw material dryer, and 
materials handling processes that include the raw mill, finish mill, 
raw material storage, clinker storage, finished product storage, 
conveyor transfer points, bagging and bulk loading and unloading 
systems (hereafter referred to as materials handling processes).
    The proposed NESHAP would limit emissions of HAPs from non-
hazardous waste (NHW) portland cement kilns, NHW in-line kiln/raw 
mills, and NHW kiln alkali bypasses. Kiln emission limits would not 
apply to kilns or in-line kiln/raw mills that will be subject to the 
NESHAP for various hazardous waste combustor (HWC) types, including 
cement kilns which burn hazardous waste.<SUP>2</SUP>
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ The EPA proposed regulations for subpart EEE of 40 CFR part 
63 on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The kiln emission limits would apply to the kiln and in-line kiln/
raw mill gases and to kiln alkali bypass gases (which may or may not be 
discharged through a separate stack).
    The proposed rule would limit emissions of HAPs from raw material 
dryers, clinker coolers and materials handling processes, regardless of 
the type of fuel burned in the kiln. The proposed rule would limit PM 
(surrogate for non-volatile HAP metals) emissions from new and existing 
NHW kilns, NHW in-line kiln/raw mills, and clinker coolers at portland 
cement plants which are major sources. Particulate matter emitted from 
portland cement manufacturing contains quantities of metal HAPs such as 
compounds of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury, 
nickel, and selenium. Controlling PM emissions would also control 
emissions of HAP metals. A surrogate approach is used for particulate 
metal HAPs in the proposed NESHAP to allow easier and less expensive 
measurement, analysis, and monitoring requirements, and because the 
control techniques for non-volatile metal HAPs are the same as the 
control techniques for PM. Although trace amounts of mercury may be 
found in the particulate matter, it is generally considered a volatile 
metal, and appreciable reductions of mercury emissions are not expected 
through the use of PM controls. Opacity limits would also apply to NHW 
kilns, NHW in-line kiln/raw mills, clinker coolers, raw material 
dryers, and materials handling processes.
    The  proposed  rule  also  would  limit D/F emissions from new and 
existing NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/raw mills located at portland 
cement plants which are major or area sources of HAPs. In addition, the 
rule would limit total hydrocarbon (THC) as a surrogate for organic HAP 
emissions from new NHW kilns, new NHW in-line kiln/raw mills, and new 
raw material dryers at portland cement plants which are major sources. 
Kiln, in-line kiln/raw mill, and raw material dryer organic emissions 
contain various organic HAPs including, but not limited to, 
acetaldehyde, benzene, formaldehyde, hexane, naphthalene, styrene, 
toluene, and xylenes. Tables 2 and 3 present a summary of the proposed 
emission limits for new and existing portland cement affected sources.

 Table 2.--Summary of Proposed Emission Limits<SUP>a for Affected Sources at 
                         Portland Cement Plants                         
                             [Metric units]                             
------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Affected source and       Emission limit for    Emission limit for 
          pollutant             existing sources         new sources    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NHW kiln and NHW in-line      0.15 kg/Mg dry feed<SUP>d  0.15 kg/Mg dry feed<SUP>d
 kiln/raw mill <SUP>b PM.           and opacity level<SUP>b    and opacity level<SUP>b 
                               no greater than 20    no greater than 20 
                               percent.              percent.           
NHW kiln and NHW in-line      0.2 ng TEQ/dscm or    0.2 ng TEQ/dscm or  
 kiln/raw mill D/F <SUP>b, <SUP>c.       0.4 ng TEQ/dscm       0.4 ng TEQ/dscm    
                               with PM control       with PM control    
                               device operated at    device operated at 
                               <ls-thn-eq>204 deg.   <ls-thn-eq>204 deg.
                               C.                    C.                 
NHW kiln and NHW in-line      None................  50 ppmvd (as        
 kiln/raw mill THC.                                  propane).          
Clinker cooler PM...........  0.05 kg/Mg dry feed   0.05 kg/Mg dry feed 
                               and opacity level     and opacity level  
                               no greater than 10    no greater than 10 
                               percent.              percent.           
Raw material dryer and        10 percent opacity..  10 percent opacity. 
 materials handling                                                     
 processes (raw mill system,                                            
 finish mill system, raw                                                
 material storage, clinker                                              
 storage, finished product                                              
 storage, conveyor transfer                                             
 points, bagging, and bulk                                              
 loading and unloading                                                  
 systems) PM.                                                           
Raw material dryer THC......  None................  50 ppmvd (as        
                                                     propane).          
------------------------------------------------------------------------
<SUP>a All concentration limits at 7 percent oxygen.                         
<SUP>b Includes main and alkali bypass stacks.                               
<SUP>c Applies to both major and area source portland cement plants.         
<SUP>d If there is an alkali bypass stack associated with the kiln or in-line
  kiln/raw mill, the combined PM emission from the kiln or in-line kiln/
  raw mill and the alkali bypass must be less than 0.15 kg/Mg dry feed. 


 Table 3.--Summary of Proposed Emission Limits <SUP>a for Affected Sources at
                         Portland Cement Plants                         
                             [English Units]                            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Affected source and       Emission limit for    Emission limit for 
          pollutant             existing sources         new sources    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NHW kiln and NHW in-line      0.30 lb/ton dry feed  0.30 lb/ton dry feed
 kiln/raw mill <SUP>b PM.           <SUP>d and opacity level   <SUP>d and opacity level
                               <SUP>b no greater than     <SUP>b no greater than  
                               20 percent.           20 percent.        
NHW kiln and NHW in-line      8.7 x 10<SUP>-11 gr TEQ/   8.7 x 10<SUP>-11 gr TEQ/ 
 kiln/raw mill D/F <SUP>b, <SUP>c.       dscf or 1.7 x 10<SUP>-10   dscf or 1.7 x 10<SUP>-10
                               gr TEQ/dscf with PM   gr TEQ/dscf with PM
                               control device        control device     
                               operated at <ls-thn-  operated at <ls-thn-
                               eq>400  deg.F.        eq>400  deg.F.     
NHW kiln and NHW in-line      None................  50 ppmvd (as        
 kiln/raw mill THC.                                  propane).          
Clinker cooler PM...........  0.10 lb/ton dry feed  0.10 lb/ton dry feed
                               and opacity level     and opacity level  
                               no greater than 10    no greater than 10 
                               percent.              percent.           

[[Page 14188]]

                                                                        
Raw material dryer and        10 percent opacity..  10 percent opacity. 
 materials handling                                                     
 processes (raw mill system,                                            
 finish mill system, raw                                                
 material storage, clinker                                              
 storage, finished product                                              
 storage, conveyor transfer                                             
 points, bagging, and bulk                                              
 loading and unloading                                                  
 systems) PM.                                                           
Raw material dryer THC......  None................  50 ppmvd (as        
                                                     propane).          
------------------------------------------------------------------------
<SUP>a All concentration limits at 7 percent oxygen.                         
<SUP>b Includes main and alkali bypass stacks.                               
<SUP>c Applies to both major and area source portland cement plants.         
<SUP>d If there is an alkali bypass stack associated with the kiln or in-line
  kiln/raw mill, the combined PM emission from the kiln or in-line kiln/
  raw mill and the alkali bypass must be less than 0.30 lb/ton dry feed.

C. Performance Test and Compliance Provisions

    A performance test would be required to demonstrate initial 
compliance with each applicable numerical limit. Under the proposed 
standard, the owner or operator would use EPA Method 5, ``Determination 
of Particulate Emissions from Stationary Sources'' to measure PM 
emissions from kilns, in-line kiln/raw mills and clinker coolers. These 
tests would be repeated every 5 years. Kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills 
equipped with alkali bypasses would be required to meet the particulate 
standard based on combined emissions from the kiln exhaust and the 
alkali bypass. Owners or operators of in-line kiln/raw mills would be 
required to conduct a Method 5 performance test while the raw mill is 
operating and a separate Method 5 performance test while the raw mill 
is not operating. In conducting the Method 5 tests, a determination of 
the particulate matter collected in the impingers (``back half'') of 
the particulate sampling train would not be required.
    The opacity exhibited during the period of the initial Method 5 
performance test would be determined, if feasible, through the use of a 
continuous opacity monitor (COM). Where the control device exhausts 
through a monovent or where the use of a COM in accordance with the 
installation specifications of EPA Performance Specification (PS)-1 of 
appendix B to 40 CFR part 60, is not feasible, EPA Method 9, ``Visual 
Determination of the Opacity of Emissions from Stationary Sources'' 
would be used. Where the control device discharges through a FF with 
multiple stacks or an ESP with multiple stacks, the owner or operator 
would have the option of conducting an opacity test in accordance with 
Method 9, in lieu of installing a COM.
    Under the proposed standard, the owner or operator would use EPA 
Method 23, ``Determination of Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins and 
Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans from Stationary Sources'' to measure D/F 
emissions from kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills. These tests would be 
repeated every 5 years. The temperature at the inlet to the PMCD during 
the period of the Method 23 performance test would be continuously 
recorded. If carbon injection is used for D/F control the carbon 
injection rate during the period of the Method 23 performance test 
would be monitored. Owners or operators of in-line kiln/raw mills would 
be required to conduct a Method 23 performance test, and monitor the 
temperature at the inlet to the PMCD while the raw mill is operating, 
and a separate Method 23 performance test and inlet temperature 
monitoring while the raw mill is not operating. If applicable, the 
carbon injection rate would be monitored during both performance tests. 
Where applicable, the exhausts from both the kiln or in-line kiln/raw 
mill and the alkali bypass would be required to meet the D/F standard.
    Under the proposed standard, the owner or operator would use a THC 
continuous emission monitor (CEM) to continuously measure THC emissions 
from new or reconstructed kilns, new or reconstructed in-line kiln/raw 
mills, and new raw material dryers. Owners or operators of new or 
reconstructed in-line kiln/raw mills would be required to demonstrate 
initial compliance by measuring THC emissions while the raw mill is 
operating and while the raw mill is not operating. The proposed 
standard for THC does not apply to the exhaust from the alkali bypass 
of kilns or in-line kiln/raw mills. Each THC CEM would be required to 
be designed, installed, and operated in accordance with EPA Performance 
Specification (PS)-8A of 40 CFR part 60, appendix B. <SUP>3</SUP>
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ The EPA proposed amendments to appendix B of 40 CFR part 60 
on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Under the proposed standard, the owner or operator would use EPA 
Method 9, ``Visual Determination of the Opacity of Emissions from 
Stationary Sources'' to measure the opacity of gases discharged from 
raw mills, finish mills, raw material dryers and materials handling 
processes. These tests would be repeated every five years. A summary of 
proposed compliance and monitoring options is given in Table 4.

  Table 4.--Summary of Proposed Compliance Demonstration and Monitoring 
                              Requirements                              
------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Affected source and           Compliance            Monitoring     
          pollutant               demonstration          requirement    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
New and existing NHW kiln     EPA Method 5 <SUP>a......  COM if feasible <SUP>d, <SUP>e
 and NHW in-line kiln/raw                            or daily EPA Method
 mill <SUP>b, <SUP>c PM.                                       9 visual opacity   
                                                     readings.          
New and existing NHW kiln     EPA Method 23 <SUP>a.....  Monitor temperature 
 and NHW in-line kiln/raw                            at inlet to PM     
 mill <SUP>b, <SUP>c, <SUP>h, <SUP>i D/F.                                control device <SUP>f   
                                                     and minimum carbon 
                                                     injection rate if  
                                                     activated carbon   
                                                     injection is used. 

[[Page 14189]]

                                                                        
New NHW kiln and NHW in-line  THC CEM (EPA PS-8A)   THC CEM (EPA PS-8A) 
 kiln/raw mill THC.            <SUP>j.                    <SUP>j                  
New and existing clinker      EPA Method 5 <SUP>a......  COM <SUP>d, <SUP>g or daily   
 cooler PM.                                          EPA Method 9 visual
                                                     opacity readings.  
New and existing raw and      EPA Method 9 <SUP>a, <SUP>g...  Daily EPA Method 22 
 finish mill PM.                                     visual opacity     
                                                     readings or        
                                                     operation of bag   
                                                     break detectors.   
New and existing raw          EPA Method 9 <SUP>a, <SUP>g...  None.               
 material dryer and                                                     
 materials handling                                                     
 processes (raw mill system,                                            
 finish mill system, raw                                                
 material storage, clinker                                              
 storage, finished product                                              
 storage, conveyor transfer                                             
 points, bagging, and bulk                                              
 loading and unloading                                                  
 systems) PM.                                                           
New raw material dryer THC..  THC CEM (EPA PS-8A)   THC CEM (EPA PS-8A) 
                               <SUP>j.                    <SUP>j                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
<SUP>a Required initially and every 5 years thereafter.                      
<SUP>b Includes main exhaust and alkali bypass.                              
<SUP>c In-line kiln/raw mill to be tested with and without raw mill in       
  operation.                                                            
<SUP>d Must meet COM performance specification criteria. If the fabric filter
  or electrostatic precipitator has multiple stacks, daily EPA Method 9 
  visual opacity readings may be taken instead of using a COM.          
<SUP>e Opacity limit is 20 percent. Corrective action trigger is 15 percent. 
<SUP>f Site-specific temperature limit at APCD inlet is established during   
  successful D/F emissions testing.                                     
<SUP>g Opacity limit is 10 percent.                                          
<SUP>h Alkali bypass is tested with the raw mill on.                         
<SUP>i Temperature parameters determined separately with and without the raw 
  mill operating.                                                       
<SUP>j EPA Performance Specification (PS)-8A. Proposed on April 19, 1996 at  
  61 FR 17358.                                                          

D. Monitoring Requirements

    The proposed rule requires owners or operators to monitor the 
opacity of gases discharged from kilns, in-line kiln/raw mills, alkali 
bypasses and clinker coolers using a COM, if a COM can be feasibly 
installed in accordance with PS-1 of appendix B to 40 CFR part 60. 
Where it is not feasible to install a COM, e.g., where the control 
device discharges through a monovent, the owner or operator would be 
required to monitor emissions by conducting daily Method 9 tests. Where 
the control device discharges through an FF with multiple stacks or an 
ESP with multiple stacks, the owner or operator would have the option 
of conducting daily tests in accordance with Method 9, in lieu of 
installing a COM. The duration of the Method 9 tests would be 30 
minutes. Owners or operators would also be required to determine kiln 
or in-line kiln/raw mill feed rate.
    The opacity limit for kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills would be 20 
percent. Any 30-minute average opacity reading greater than 20 percent 
determined by the COM or daily Method 9 test would be a violation of 
the standard. Any ten consecutive 30-minute average COM readings 
exceeding 15 percent, or any single 30-minute average Method 9 reading 
exceeding 15 percent would trigger a site-specific operating and 
maintenance plan, incorporated within the owner or operator's part 70 
permit. The owner or operator would be required to initiate the site-
specific operating and maintenance plan within one hour. If the opacity 
exceeds 15 percent for five percent of the operating time as determined 
by 30-minute average COM readings, or if the 30-minute average readings 
exceed 15 percent during five percent of the daily Method 9 tests, 
during any 180 day reporting period, the owner or operator would be 
required to develop and implement a quality improvement plan (QIP) 
consistent with subpart D of the draft approach to compliance assurance 
monitoring.<SUP>4</SUP> The owner or operator would be required to 
implement the QIP as expeditiously as possible but in no case would the 
period for completing the implementation of the plan exceed 180 days. 
If the owner or operator determined that more than 180 days was 
required to complete the appropriate improvements, the owner or 
operator would be required to notify the permitting authority and 
obtain a site-specific resolution subject to the approval of the 
permitting authority.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ The EPA announced its intention to propose subpart D of 40 
CFR part 64 on August 13, 1996 at 61 FR 41991.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The opacity limit for clinker coolers would be 10 percent, based on 
any 30-minute average COM or Method 9 reading.
    The proposed rule requires the owner or operator to monitor D/F 
emissions from kilns and in-line kiln/raw mill systems and to maintain 
the temperature at the inlet to the PMCD at a level no greater than 
either: (1) the higher of 400  deg.F or the level established during 
the successful Method 23 performance test plus five percent (not to 
exceed 25  deg.F) of the temperature measured in  deg.F during the 
successful compliance test, if D/F emissions were determined to be no 
greater than 0.15 ng toxic equivalent (TEQ)/dscm (6.5  x  
10<SUP>-11</SUP> gr/dscf); (2) the higher of 400  deg.F or the level 
established during the successful Method 23 performance test, if D/F 
emissions were determined to be greater than 0.15 ng TEQ/dscm (6.5  x  
10<SUP>-11</SUP> gr/dscf) but less than 0.2 ng TEQ/dscm (8.7  x  
10<SUP>-11</SUP> gr/dscf); or (3) 400  deg.F if D/F emissions were 
greater than 0.2 ng TEQ/dscm (8.7  x  10<SUP>-11</SUP> gr/dscf) but 
less than or equal to 0.4 ng TEQ/dscm (1.7  x  10<SUP>-10</SUP> gr/
dscf).
    Owners or operators of in-line kiln/raw mills would be required to 
establish separate PMCD inlet temperatures applicable to periods when 
the raw mill is operating and periods when the raw mill is not 
operating. The appropriate ``raw mill operating status dependent'' PMCD 
inlet temperature could not be exceeded. Owners or operators of kilns 
or in-line kiln/raw mills equipped with alkali bypasses would be 
required to establish separate temperatures for the inlet to the kiln 
or in-line kiln raw mill exhaust PMCD and the kiln or in-line kiln 
alkali bypass PMCD.
    If carbon injection is used for D/F control, the carbon injection 
rate would be monitored, and maintained at a level equaling or 
exceeding the rate which existed during the successful Method 23 
performance test.
    The proposed rule requires the owner or operator to monitor THC 
emissions from the main exhaust of new and reconstructed kilns; the 
main exhaust of new and reconstructed in-line kiln/raw mills; and new 
and reconstructed raw

[[Page 14190]]

material dryers using a CEM installed in accordance with PS-8A in 40 
CFR part 60, appendix B.<SUP>5</SUP>
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ The EPA proposed amendments to appendix B of 40 CFR part 60 
on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The proposed rule requires the owner or operator to monitor the 
opacity from raw mills and finish mills either by conducting a daily 
six-minute test in accordance with Method 22, ``Visual Determination of 
Fugitive Emissions from Material Sources and Smoke Emissions from 
Flares'', or by installing, calibrating, operating and maintaining a 
bag break detection system. In the event that fugitive emissions are 
observed during the Method 22 test, the owner or operator would be 
required to conduct a 30-minute Method 9 test commencing within 24 
hours of the end of the Method 22 test. In addition, the owner or 
operator would be required to initiate, within one hour, a site-
specific operating and maintenance plan developed as part of the 
application for a part 70 permit.
    In the event that the bag break detection system alarm were 
triggered, the owner or operator would be required to initiate, within 
one hour, a site-specific operating and maintenance plan developed as 
part of the application for a part 70 permit.
    As required by the NESHAP general provisions (40 CFR part 63, 
subpart A), the owner or operator also must develop and implement a 
startup, shutdown, and malfunction plan.

E. Notification, Recordkeeping, and Reporting Requirements

    All notification, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements in the 
general provisions (40 CFR part 63, subpart A) would apply to portland 
cement manufacturing plants. These include: (1) Initial notification(s) 
of applicability, notification of performance test, and notification of 
compliance status; (2) a report of performance test results; (3) a 
startup, shutdown, and malfunction plan with semiannual reports of 
reportable events (if they occur); and (4) semiannual reports of excess 
emissions. If excess emissions are reported, the owner or operator 
would report quarterly until a request to return the reporting 
frequency to semiannual is approved.
    Owners and operators would also be required to prepare an operation 
and maintenance plan for kiln, in-line kiln/raw mill, raw mill and 
finish mill APCDs consistent with subpart D of the draft approach to 
compliance assurance monitoring (CAM).<SUP>6</SUP> The operation and 
maintenance plan would become part of their operating permit required 
by 40 CFR part 70.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ The EPA announced its intention to propose subpart D of 40 
CFR part 64 on August 13, 1996 at 61 FR 41991.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Under circumstances described in section III. D. of this preamble, 
kiln and in-line kiln/raw mill monitoring may trigger a requirement to 
prepare and implement a site-specific Quality Improvement Program 
(QIP), that will also be consistent with the draft CAM 
rule.<SUP>7</SUP> Owners or operators would be required to report if a 
QIP were required, and to notify the permitting authority if a required 
QIP would take more than 180 days to implement.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ The EPA announced its intention to propose subpart D of 40 
CFR 64 on August 13, 1996 at 61 FR 41991.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The NESHAP general provisions (40 CFR part 63, subpart A) require 
that records be maintained for at least 5 years from the date of each 
record. The owner or operator must retain the records onsite for at 
least 2 years but may retain the records offsite the remaining 3 years. 
The files may be retained on microfilm, microfiche, on a computer disk, 
or on magnetic tape. Reports may be made on paper or on a labeled 
computer disk using commonly available and compatible computer 
software.

IV. Impacts of Proposed Standards

A. Applicability

    The EPA estimates that there are currently 118 portland cement 
plants in the United States. All portland cement plants would be 
subject to the proposed standards. The following sources would be 
affected when located at a portland cement plant that is a major 
source:
    (1) New, reconstructed, and existing NHW kilns and NHW in-line 
kiln/raw mills including alkali bypasses that are not subject to the 
HWC NESHAP <SUP>8</SUP> would be subject to emission limits for PM, D/
F, and opacity;
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ The EPA proposed regulations for subpart EEE of 40 CFR part 
63 on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) New and reconstructed NHW kiln main exhausts and new and 
reconstructed NHW in-line kiln/raw mills main exhausts, that are not 
subject to the HWC NESHAP,<SUP>9</SUP> would be subject to an emission 
limit for THC;
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ The EPA proposed regulations for subpart EEE of 40 CFR part 
63 on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (3) New and reconstructed raw material dryers would be subject to 
an emission limit for THC;
    (4) New, reconstructed, and existing clinker coolers would be 
subject to emission limits for PM and opacity; and
    (5) New, reconstructed, and existing raw material dryers, raw and 
finish mills, and material handling processes would be subject to an 
opacity limit.
    The following sources would be affected when located at a portland 
cement plant that is an area source: new, reconstructed, and existing 
NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/raw mills, including alkali bypasses, 
that are not subject to the HWC NESHAP,<SUP>10</SUP> would be subject 
to emission limits for D/F.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ The EPA proposed regulations for subpart EEE of 40 CFR part 
63 on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

B. Air Quality Impacts

    Nationwide baseline HAP emissions from portland cement 
manufacturing plants are estimated to be 260 Mg/yr (290 tpy) at the 
current level of control. The proposed standards would reduce emissions 
of HAPs by 82 Mg/yr (90 tpy) from baseline levels. Estimates of annual 
emissions of HAPs and expected reductions from implementation of the 
proposed standards are given in metric and English units in Tables 5 
and 6 (docket item II-B-76, docket item II-B-77). The following text 
reviews the information provided in Tables 5 and 6.

  Table 5.--Nationwide Annual Emissions of HAPS and Other Pollutants From Portland Cement Manufacturing Plants  
                                                 [Metric units]                                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                  Baseline emissions (Mg/   Emission reduction  
               Source                         Pollutant                     yr)                   (Mg/yr)       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kilns, in-line kiln/raw mills, and   HAP Metals <SUP>a...............  150...................  35.                   
 alkali bypasses.                                                                                               
                                     PM <SUP>a.......................  14,000................  3,400.                
                                     D/F (TEQ) <SUP>b................  44 g/yr...............  16 g/yr.              
                                     Organic HAPs <SUP>c.............  120...................  47.                   
                                     THC <SUP>c......................  530...................  200.                  

[[Page 14191]]

                                                                                                                
Clinker coolers....................  HAP Metals <SUP>a...............  1.1...................  0.18.                 
                                     PM <SUP>a.......................  8,100.................  1,300.                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<SUP>a These numbers pertain to existing sources only.                                                               
<SUP>b These numbers pertain to both new and existing NHW kilns.                                                     
<SUP>c These numbers pertain to new NHW kilns only.                                                                  


  Table 6.--Nationwide Annual Emissions of HAPS and Other Pollutants From Portland Cement Manufacturing Plants  
                                                 [English units]                                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Baseline emissions      Emission reduction  
               Source                         Pollutant                    (tpy)                   (tpy)        
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kilns, in-line kiln/raw mills, and   HAP Metals<SUP>a................  160...................  38.                   
 alkali bypasses.                                                                                               
                                     PM<SUP>a........................  16,000................  3,800.                
                                     D/F (TEQ)<SUP>b.................  0.096 lbs/yr..........  0.035 lbs/yr.         
                                     Organic HAPs<SUP>c..............  130...................  52.                   
                                     THC<SUP>c.......................  580...................  220.                  
Clinker coolers....................  HAP Metals<SUP>a................  1.2...................  0.2.                  
                                     PM<SUP>a........................  8,800.................  1,400.                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<SUP>a These numbers pertain to existing sources only.                                                               
<SUP>b These numbers pertain to both new and existing NHW kilns.                                                     
<SUP>c These numbers pertain to new NHW kilns only.                                                                  

    The proposed MACT standards would reduce PM emissions from the 
existing NHW cement kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills by 3,400 Mg/yr 
(3,800 tpy) from the baseline level, a reduction of 24 percent. 
Emissions of HAP metals from the affected existing NHW cement kilns and 
in-line kiln/raw mills would be reduced by 35 Mg/yr (38 tpy), a 
reduction of 24 percent from the baseline level. Emissions of D/F TEQ 
would be reduced by 15 grams (g)/yr (0.033 lb/yr), a reduction of 36 
percent from the baseline level, at existing NHW cement kiln and in-
line kiln/raw mills.
    For new NHW cement kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills, the MACT 
standards are projected to reduce emissions of D/F TEQ by an average of 
0.6 g/yr (0.001 lb/yr) over the next 5 years (from major and area 
sources), a 36 percent reduction from projected baseline emissions. For 
new kilns, the proposed standards would also reduce projected emissions 
of THC by an average of 200 Mg/yr (220 tpy) and organic HAPs by an 
average of 47 Mg/yr (52 tpy) over the next 5 years, an emissions 
reduction for each of 39 percent from corresponding estimated 
nationwide baseline emissions (docket item II-B-76).
    The proposed MACT standards would reduce PM emissions from 35 
percent of the existing clinker coolers by 1,300 Mg/yr (1,400 tpy) from 
the baseline level, a reduction of 16 percent. Emissions of HAP metals 
from the affected existing clinker coolers would be decreased by 0.18 
Mg/yr (0.2 tpy), a reduction of 16 percent from the baseline level.
    Additional reductions of THC and organic HAPs will result from the 
MACT standards for new raw material dryers. However, information on THC 
emission rates from raw material dryers and the number of such affected 
sources is not currently available, so nationwide reductions cannot be 
estimated.
    The MACT standards would also reduce PM emissions from raw material 
dryers, and other material handling processes. However, no impacts were 
estimated for these affected sources because there is no available 
information on typical PM emissions from the affected sources that do 
not meet the NSPS, and no information on the number of sources 
potentially affected by this MACT standard.

C. Water Impacts

    Control of D/F emissions using water injection for temperature 
reduction would result in an estimated increased water consumption 
(evaporated into the kiln exhaust gas for cooling) of 190 million 
gallons per year for existing NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/raw mills 
of 8 million gallons per year for new NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/
raw mills (docket item II-B-77).

D. Solid Waste Impacts

    The amount of solid waste from existing NHW kilns, in-line kiln/raw 
mills, and clinker coolers (located at major sources) would increase by 
an estimated 4,700 Mg/yr (5,200 tpy) due to the proposed standard for 
PM control (docket item II-B-77).

E. Energy Impacts

    For existing NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/raw mills the proposed 
MACT standards for PM and D/F would increase energy consumption by an 
estimated 11 million kilowatt hours (KWh)/yr [38 billion British 
thermal units (Btu)/yr]. For new NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/raw 
mills the proposed MACT standards for D/F would increase energy 
consumption by an estimated (docket item II-B-77) 10,600 KWh/yr (36 
million Btu/yr).

F. Nonair Health and Environmental Impacts

    The reduction in HAP emissions would have a beneficial effect on 
nonair health and environment impacts. D/F and HAP metals have been 
found in the Great Lakes and have been listed as pollutants of concern 
due to their persistence in the environment, potential to 
bioaccumulate, and toxicity to humans and the environment (docket item 
II-A-31, pp. 18 to 21). Implementation of the proposed

[[Page 14192]]

NESHAP would aid in reducing aerial deposition of these emissions.
    Occupational exposure limits under 29 CFR part 1910 are in place 
for some of the regulated HAPs (and surrogates) except D/F. The 
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends an 
exposure level for D/F at the lowest feasible concentration (docket 
item II-I-45, p. 124). The proposed NESHAP would reduce emissions, and 
consequently, occupational exposure levels for plant employees.

G. Cost Impacts

    For existing NHW kilns, NHW in-line kilns/raw mills, clinker 
coolers, raw and finish mills, and materials handling facilities, the 
projected total capital costs (including estimated monitoring costs) of 
the proposed standard for controlling emissions of PM and D/F are $87 
million. The projected annual costs (including monitoring costs) for 
these controls are $27 million. For new NHW kilns and NHW in-line kiln/
raw mills, the projected total capital and annual costs of the MACT 
standard for D/F are $390,000 and $89,000, respectively. No capital and 
annual costs are projected for new and reconstructed NHW kilns, NHW in-
line kilns/raw mills, and clinker coolers as a result of the proposed 
standard for PM because these sources will be required to comply with 
the existing NSPS for portland cement plants (40 CFR part 60, subpart 
F). The proposed THC emissions limit for new NHW kilns and NHW in-line 
kiln/raw mills can be met by processing materials with typical levels 
of organic content, without installing and operating add-on pollution 
control systems that would be relatively costly. Feed materials that 
have sufficiently low levels of organic matter are widespread across 
the U.S., and the siting of new kilns is not expected to be 
significantly limited by the proposed emission limit. Information is 
not available to quantify the costs of excluding deposits of feed 
materials with the highest levels of organic constituents as the 
primary feed for new kilns. Owners/operators of the few existing cement 
plants that process feed materials containing relatively high levels of 
organic material, and who desire to expand production through the 
addition of a new kiln, would need to blend their existing feed 
materials with lower THC materials from offsite, or selectively process 
lower organic portions of the feed materials from the onsite mine or 
quarry in the new kiln. Regarding the costs of monitoring, for new NHW 
kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills, the projected fifth-year national 
capital and annual costs of monitoring THC with a continuous emission 
monitor at an estimated four new kilns are $576,000 and $340,000, 
respectively (docket item II-B-77).

H. Economic Impacts

    An economic analysis of the proposed NESHAP was conducted. The EPA 
estimates that regional market price increases would be between 0.6 and 
2.0 percent. The national average price increase is estimated to be 1.1 
percent. The related decreases in quantity demanded are estimated to 
range from 0.5 to 1.8 percent, with a national average of 0.9 percent. 
Domestic production is estimated to decrease more than consumption (1.7 
percent compared to 0.9 percent nationally because imports are 
estimated to increase by 6.3 percent). The decreases in domestic 
production may lead to the loss of approximately 230 jobs. No plants 
are expected to close; two kilns are expected to cease operating 
(docket item II-A-46).

V. Selection of Proposed Standards

A. Selection of Source Category

    Section 112(c) of the Act directs the Agency to list each category 
of major and area sources, as appropriate, that emits one or more of 
the HAPs listed in section 112(b) of the Act. The EPA published an 
initial list of source categories on July 16, 1992 (57 FR 31576), and 
revised the list on June 4, 1996 (61 FR 28197). ``Portland Cement 
Manufacturing'' is one of the 174 categories of sources on the initial 
list. As defined in the EPA report, ``Documentation for Developing the 
Initial Source Category List'' (docket item II-A-18), the Portland 
Cement Manufacturing source category includes any facility engaged in 
manufacturing portland cement by either the wet or dry process. The 
category as described for the listing includes but is not limited to 
the following process facilities: kiln, clinker cooler, raw mill 
system, finish mill system, raw material dryer, raw material storage, 
clinker storage, finished product storage, conveyor transfer points, 
bagging, and bulk loading and unloading systems.
    The term ``major source'' is defined under section 112(a)(1) of the 
Act and in the EPA general provisions (40 CFR 63.2) as:

    * * * any stationary source or group of stationary sources 
located within a contiguous area under common control that emits or 
has the potential to emit considering controls, in the aggregate, 10 
tons per year or more of any hazardous air pollutant or 25 tons per 
year or more of any combination of hazardous air pollutants * * *

This definition of major source has been upheld in a recent decision, 
National Mining Ass'n v. EPA, 59 F.3d 1351 (D.C. Cir. 1995). In this 
case, the Court also concluded that ``EPA may require the inclusion of 
fugitive emissions in a site's aggregate emissions without conducting 
any special rule making'' for the purpose of determining whether a 
source is major.
    The listing of the portland cement major source category was based 
on the Administrator's determination that some portland cement plants 
would be major sources of particulate HAPs, including but not limited 
to compounds of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, mercury, 
nickel, and selenium. Information and data have been compiled by the 
EPA characterizing the portland cement manufacturing process and its 
associated emission sources. There are three main steps to 
manufacturing portland cement: (1) kiln feed preparation (i.e., 
crushing and grinding), (2) firing the raw mix in a rotary kiln to 
produce clinker (including fuel handling), and (3) clinker grinding to 
produce cement. The responses received from the information collection 
request (ICR) that was sent to every company in the industry indicated 
that HAP emissions have been identified from all steps in the 
manufacturing process. The kiln feed preparation and clinker grinding 
operations all produce particulate emissions, a fraction of which are 
metal HAPs. The responses also showed that HAPs are emitted from the 
clinker production step; the kiln exhaust gases contain metal HAPs, 
organic HAPs, and HCl.
    All kiln exhaust gases are controlled at the existing plants by 
either FFs or ESPs to limit PM emissions. Based on currently available 
data, there are no plants that would be defined as major sources 
according to section 112(a) of the Act on the basis of the mass of 
metal HAPs emitted from kilns. That is, the reported emissions, 
considering controls, did not exceed 9.1 Mg/yr (10 tpy) of a single 
metal HAP or greater than 22.7 Mg/yr (25 tpy) of a combination of metal 
HAPs from a cement kiln. However, operators of portland cement plants 
must include HAP emissions from fugitive sources in determining whether 
their facility is a major source of HAP emissions. Fugitive sources may 
emit enough HAP metals to make a plant a major source (when fugitive 
emissions are combined with all other HAP emissions at the site).
    ICR responses for individual plants did show quantities of hydrogen 
chloride (HCl) and chlorine each being emitted in excess of 9.1 Mg/yr 
(10 tpy).

[[Page 14193]]

Most HCl emissions (reported in the ICR responses) were measured by EPA 
Method 26, a method that may underestimate HCl emissions by a factor of 
2 to 25 (docket item II-I-121). Results of Fourier Transform Infrared 
(FTIR) spectroscopy emissions tests suggest that most plants may be 
major sources of HCl. Hydrochloric acid concentrations of two wet 
process portland cement kiln exhaust gases (docket item II-A-20, docket 
item II-A-40) determined by FTIR spectroscopy ranged from 11 parts per 
million by volume (ppmv) to 110 ppmv (dry basis corrected to 7 percent 
oxygen). Assuming an average HCl emission of 50 ppmv (dry basis, 
corrected to 7 percent oxygen), a wet kiln producing 600,000 tpy of 
clinker would emit approximately 150 tpy of HCl.
    Some plants reported formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene emissions 
each to be in excess of 9.1 Mg/yr (10 tpy). One plant injects activated 
carbon into the kiln exhaust to reduce the plume opacity thought to be 
caused by hydrocarbons in the feed (docket item II-B-35). Various 
organic HAPs were detected in its kiln exhaust using FTIR spectroscopy 
(docket item II-A-41). Based on the kiln operating 330 d/yr, 24 hr/d, 
kiln emissions were estimated at 331 Mg/yr (365 tpy) of hexane, 29 Mg/
yr (32 tpy) of benzene, 27 Mg/yr (30 tpy) of toluene, 15 Mg/yr (16 tpy) 
of naphthalene, and 12 Mg/yr (13 tpy) chlorobenzene (docket item II-A-
41, docket item II-B-76).
    Based on ICR responses, acetaldehyde, acrylonitrile, arsenic 
compounds, lead compounds, manganese compounds, mercury compounds, 
naphthalene, phosphorus, styrene, and xylenes were emitted at rates of 
one tpy or greater from at least one portland cement kiln (docket item 
II-B-69). The analysis of HAP emissions data from portland cement 
manufacturing plants summarized above indicates that most if not all 
cement plants are major sources of HAP emissions.
    Consideration of subcategories or classes. Section 112(d)(1) of the 
Act provides that the Administrator may distinguish among classes, 
types and sizes of sources within a category or subcategory in 
establishing standards. The EPA reviewed the listed source category to 
determine if different classes were warranted. All portland cement is 
manufactured in direct-fired, rotating kilns. In 1993, 210 kilns at 118 
plants were in operation throughout the nation and Puerto Rico (docket 
item II-I-101).
    There are two main portland cement manufacturing processes 
differentiated on the basis of feed preparation: wet process and dry 
process. Approximately one-third of the kilns in operation use a wet 
process; the other two-thirds use a dry process. The trend in the 
industry for new kilns is toward the dry process because it is more 
energy efficient than the wet process. Within the dry process there are 
three variations: long kiln dry process, preheater process, and 
preheater/precalciner process. The wet process kilns and all variations 
of the dry process kilns use the same raw materials and use the same 
types of pollution controls for PM emissions (docket item II-C-94, 
attachment chapters 2 and 3). Based on ICR responses and test data the 
use of these pollution controls to meet the NSPS for PM is feasible for 
wet kilns and all types of dry kilns. Likewise test data show that 
lowering kiln exhaust gas temperature to 400 deg. F at the APCD inlet, 
MACT for reducing D/F concentrations, is feasible for wet and all types 
of dry kilns. In any event, if classes were defined based on process 
type, the MACT floor technology would be identical (docket item II-B-
73). For this reason, the EPA does not propose classes based on process 
type.
    The EPA OSW has recently proposed NESHAPs for various HWC types, 
including cement kilns which burn hazardous waste.<SUP>11</SUP> The 
proposal is consistent with the terms of the 1993 settlement agreement 
between the Agency and a number of groups that challenged EPA's final 
RCRA rule entitled ``Burning of Hazardous Waste in Boilers and 
Industrial Furnaces'' (56 FR 7134, February 21, 1991) and with the 
Agency's Hazardous Waste Minimization and Combustion Strategy that was 
first announced in May 1993. Hazardous waste burning cement kilns are 
included in the portland cement manufacturing source category, but are 
subject to different regulations than the NHW kilns. This proposed 
NESHAP for portland cement manufacturing covers only NHW kilns and NHW 
in-line kiln/raw mills. However, this proposed NESHAP does cover the 
other affected sources (including clinker coolers, raw material dryers, 
and materials handling processes) located at manufacturing plants 
regardless of whether the plant has hazardous waste-burning cement 
kilns.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ The EPA proposed regulations for subpart EEE of 40 CFR part 
63 on April 19, 1996 at 61 FR 17358.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Decision to regulate portland cement area sources. Section 
112(c)(6) of the Act states that by November 15, 2000, EPA must list 
and promulgate section 112(d)(2) or (d)(4) standards (i.e., standards 
reflecting MACT) for categories (and subcategories) of sources emitting 
seven specific pollutants, including the following HAPs emitted by 
cement kilns: mercury, 2,3,7-8 tetrachlorodibenzofuran, and 2,3,7-8 
tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. (Although other 112(c)(6) HAPs have been 
found in cement kiln exhaust, the majority of the emissions data and 
concern for NHW cement kiln 112(c)(6) HAPs is for mercury and dioxin/
furans.) The EPA must assure that source categories accounting for not 
less than 90 percent of the aggregated emissions of each enumerated 
pollutant are subject to MACT standards. Congress (docket item II-I-13, 
p. 155 to 156) singled out the HAPs enumerated in section 112(c)(6) as 
being of ``specific concern'' not just because of their toxicity but 
because of their propensity to cause substantial harm to human health 
and the environment via indirect exposure pathways (i.e., from the air 
through other media, such as water, soil, food uptake, etc.). 
Furthermore, these pollutants have exhibited special potential to 
bioaccumulate, causing pervasive environmental harm in biota (and, 
ultimately, human health risks).
    The EPA estimates that approximately five tons of mercury are 
emitted annually in aggregate from NHW cement kilns at portland cement 
plants in the U.S. (docket item II-B-65). Also, it is estimated that 
NHW kilns emit in aggregate approximately 22 lb of D/F (or about 0.10 
lb TEQ per year (docket item II-B-57, docket item II-B-76). To assure 
that these pollutants are subject to MACT, EPA is proposing to add the 
portland cement manufacturing area source category to the list of 
source categories and subcategories listed pursuant to section 
112(c)(6). [See 62 FR 33625, 33637-38; June 20, 1997.] The EPA is doing 
so because area and major source cement kilns emit these HAPs in 
roughly equal quantities, because the dioxins and furans emitted by 
area sources are equally toxic as those emitted by major sources (i.e., 
the distribution of dioxin and furan isomers is the same for both area 
and major sources), and because these are particularly toxic HAPs. In 
addition, EPA is already counting on control of these pollutants from 
cement kiln area sources through the MACT process in assuring that 
sources accounting for at least 90 percent of the emissions of these 
HAPs are subject to standards under section 112(c)(6). [See 62 FR at 
33635, 33636; June 20, 1997.]
    The EPA notes, however, as it did in the June 20th notice, that 
although the section 112(c)(6) listing process makes sources subject to 
standards under subsection (d)(2) or (d)(4), the language of section 
112(c)(6) does not specify

[[Page 14194]]

either a particular degree of emissions control or a reduction in these 
specific pollutants emissions to be achieved by such regulations. 
Rather, the specific control requirements will result from determining 
the appropriate level of control under MACT [section 112(d)(2), or 
section 112(d)(4)], and this interpretation will be made during the 
section 112(d) rulemakings affecting the particular source category, 
not as part of the section 112(c)(6) listing process. [See 62 FR at 
33631; June 20, 1997.]
    As noted above, EPA is interpreting section 112(c)(6) to require 
the Agency to establish standards under section 112(d)(2) or 112(d)(4) 
for all sources listed pursuant to section 112(c)(6), whether such 
sources are major or area sources. This interpretation reflects the 
express language of section 112(c)(6) that sources * * * of each such 
pollutant are subject to standards under subsection (d)(2) or (d)(4) 
and is in accord with the function of section 112(c)(6):

    To assure that sources emitting significant amounts of the most 
dangerous HAPs are subject to the rigorous MACT standard-setting 
process.

[See S. Rep. No. 228, 101st Cong. 1st Sess., pp. 155, 166.]
    The EPA has in fact already adopted this interpretation in the 
proposed rule for hazardous waste combustion sources.
[See 61 FR at 17365; April 19, 1996.]
    Under an alternative interpretation of section 112(c)(6), the 
Agency might also establish standards pursuant to section 112(d)(5)--
based on generally available control technology (GACT)--for area 
sources listed under section 112(c)(6). Section 112(d)(5) states that 
for categories and subcategories of area sources listed pursuant to 
subsection 112(c), the Administrator may establish standards pursuant 
to GACT rather than MACT. Although the reference to listing area 
sources may have been intended to refer to the area source listing 
process in section 112(c)(3), it arguably extends to listing under 
section 112(c)(6) as well. The Agency requests comment on the use of 
this alternative approach to standard-setting for area sources listed 
under section 112(c)(6).
    In addition, the EPA is interpreting section 112(c)(6) to require 
that, for sources listed under section 112(c)(6), MACT [or section 
112(d)(4)] controls apply only to the section 112(c)(6) HAPs emitted by 
the source. Thus, in this proposed rule, only mercury, D/F, and POM 
(using THC as a surrogate) emitted by cement kiln area sources would be 
subject to the MACT standards. The EPA is aware that it proposed a 
different interpretation in the hazardous waste combustion NESHAP (see 
61 FR at 17365-66), but now believes that section 112(c)(6) is better 
read to apply only to particular HAPs rather than to the entire source. 
(Since the language of section 112(c)(6) is ambiguous as to whether the 
entire source must comply with MACT, or just for the HAPs enumerated in 
section 112(c)(6), [see 61 FR at 17365 n. 12], either interpretation is 
legally permissible.) Applying the provision to the entire source could 
result in applying MACT to all HAPs emitted by area sources under 
circumstances where control would not otherwise be warranted.

B. Selection of Emission Sources

    The portland cement manufacturing process consists of the following 
unit operations:
    (1) Grinding the carefully proportioned raw materials to a high 
degree of fineness;
    (2) firing the raw mix in a rotary kiln to produce clinker;
    (3) grinding the resulting clinker to a fine powder and mixing with 
gypsum to produce cement; and
    (4) raw and finished materials handling.
    The following sections include descriptions of the affected sources 
in the portland cement manufacturing source category, the origin of 
emissions from these affected sources, and factors affecting the 
emissions. The affected sources for which MACT standards are being 
proposed include the kiln, in-line kiln/raw mills, clinker cooler, raw 
and finish mills, raw material dryer, and materials handling processes.
1. Feed Preparation Processes (Grinding, Conveying)
    Oxides of calcium, silicon, aluminum, and iron comprise the basic 
ingredients of cement. The calcareous raw materials include limestone, 
chalk, marl, sea shells, aragonite, and an impure limestone known in 
the industry as natural cement rock. The requisite silica and alumina 
may be derived from clay or shale from a limestone quarry. Such 
materials usually contain some of the required iron oxide, but many 
plants need to supplement the iron with mill scale, pyrite cinders, or 
iron ore. Silica is supplemented, if necessary by adding sand to the 
raw mix; alumina may be supplemented by adding bauxite or alumina-rich 
flint clays to the raw mix (docket item II-I-5, p. 180).
    Industrial by-products and wastes are becoming more widely used as 
feed materials for cement production, e.g., slags contain carbonate-
free lime, as well as substantial levels of silica and alumina. Fly ash 
from coal-fired boilers can often be a suitable feed component, since 
it is already finely dispersed and provides silica and alumina (docket 
item II-I-5, p. 180).
    Ball mills are used to grind the feed material to the required 
fineness for both the wet and dry processes. In the wet-kiln process, 
the raw materials are ground with water to produce a well-homogenized 
slurry. In the dry-kiln process, raw materials are ground in closed-
circuit ball mills with air separators.
    Emissions from the grinding and conveying operations are 
essentially particulate emissions (e.g., dust from limestone, clay, 
bauxite ore) which contain HAP metals. Particulate matter control 
devices (FFs and ESPs) serve as HAP control devices. The quantity of 
emissions of HAP metals from raw materials handling processes are site 
specific and depend on dust control practices and weather conditions.
2. Feed Preparation Processes (Drying, Blending, Storage)
    Drying of kiln feed materials can be carried out in separate units 
that are gas-or coal-fired. However, to improve the process energy 
efficiency, waste heat can be utilized directly in the mill by routing 
the kiln gases through the raw mill. The catch from the APCDs that 
follow the raw mill is returned to the process and therefore, the APCD 
is also part of the process (docket item II-I-109, chapter 11.6). Where 
kiln gases are routed through the raw mill, emissions from the combined 
in-line kiln/raw mills must be controlled for the same pollutants and 
to the same extent as kiln gases.
    The more energy efficient preheater and preheater/ precalciner 
kilns usually route the exhaust gas from the preheater to a raw mill to 
dry the material in suspension in the mill. The gas stream exits the 
raw mill heavily laden with kiln raw material and is exhausted to an 
APCD to recover the raw material and any material entrained from the 
kiln preheater system. The raw material is collected and fed to a 
blending system to provide the kiln with a homogenous raw feed. Dry 
process blending is usually accomplished in a silo with compressed air 
(docket item II-I-5, p. 183).
    If the raw material dryer uses heat from a separate combustion 
source (fuel-fired raw material dryer), exhaust gases may contain trace 
quantities of products of incomplete combustion (PICs), HCl, and metals 
from the fuel. In addition, if the feed materials contain organic 
matter, this material may volatilize in the raw material dryer 
(regardless of the

[[Page 14195]]

source of the heat) and the dryer exhaust may contain organic HAPs. 
Under the NSPS, emissions from the raw material dryer and the feed 
preparation materials handling processes (raw mill system, raw material 
storage, and conveyor transfer points) are currently subject to a limit 
of 10 percent opacity.
3. Kiln
    The high temperature processing required to produce portland cement 
takes place in the rotary kiln. The rotary kiln consists of a 
refractory-brick-lined cylindrical steel shell that is rotated by an 
electrical drive. It is a countercurrent heating device slightly 
inclined so that material fed into the cooler, upper end travels slowly 
by gravity to be discharged onto the clinker cooler from the hotter, 
lower discharge end. The burners at the firing end, i.e., the lower or 
discharge end, produce a current of hot gases that heats the clinker 
and the calcined and raw materials in succession as the gases pass 
toward the feed end. As has been mentioned, a kiln can be classified as 
wet (in which the kiln feed is a slurry) or dry. Dry process kilns 
include the older-style, long dry process kiln with a single firing 
point; the preheater/kiln system; and the preheater/precalciner kiln 
system. In the preheater/precalciner system, a second burner is used to 
carry out calcination in a separate vessel interposed between the 
preheater and the kiln. The precalciner uses preheated combustion air 
drawn from the clinker cooler and the kiln exit gases and is equipped 
with an oil or coal burner that burns 50 to 60 percent of the total 
kiln fuel input. The precalciner system permits the use of smaller 
kilns since only the actual clinkering process is carried out in the 
rotary kiln.
    The kiln exhaust contains a wide variety of HAPs and other air 
pollutants that originate from the fuel combustion and from the feed 
material. In 1991, about 87 percent of the total U.S. kiln capacity 
used coal, coke, or a combination of coal and coke as the primary fuel 
(docket item II-I-42, p. 20). Only 3.5 percent of the kiln capacity is 
fired with natural gas alone (not in combination with other fuels) and 
oil as a primary fuel represented an insignificant fraction of the 
total kiln capacity. Plants firing waste-derived fuels account for the 
balance of the total capacity. The most common waste fuels used in 
cement kilns are RCRA hazardous waste, tires and tire-derived fuel. To 
a lesser extent, MSW, medical waste, and used motor oil are fired.
    Feed materials are a source of gaseous organic HAP emissions. Some 
feed materials contain organic carbon such as petroleum or kerogens. 
The organic carbon can volatilize in the kiln and appear at the stack 
exit as a ``blue haze'' which may contain organic HAPs. During one EPA-
sponsored test at a cement kiln using feed material with a high organic 
matter content, significant levels of benzene (32 tpy) were detected in 
the kiln exhaust (docket item II-A-41, docket item II-B-76). Organic 
HAP emissions were found to vary with THC emissions during this test.
    Chlorine entering the kiln system (from raw materials and also from 
fuels) may react with the organic compounds present in the raw 
materials or with PICs, to form chlorinated hydrocarbons or D/F in the 
kiln stack exhaust. Approximately 20 percent of the HAPs listed in 
section 112 of the Act are chlorinated organic compounds.
    In the wet process and in the long kiln dry process, the emission 
point for the kiln gases is typically the APCD discharge stack. In the 
more complex preheater and precalciner process designs, the kiln gases 
are routed through other pieces of process equipment, such as the raw 
mill. In-line kiln/raw mills vent kiln gases through the raw mill. In 
these systems the gases discharged from the APCD on the raw mill, are 
in fact kiln exhaust gases.
    The kiln alkali bypass stack is an additional emission point for 
kiln gases which is sometimes found with preheater and precalciner 
processes. The alkali bypass gas streams are kiln gases that have not 
contacted the incoming feed material. The kiln gases that are drawn out 
of the kiln prior to contact with the precalciner and preheater 
sections pass through a separate APCD and may be discharged to the 
atmosphere through a separate stack. In other process arrangements, the 
treated alkali bypass gases are combined with the main kiln exhaust 
gases and are discharged through a common stack. It is expected that 
the same HAPs found in the main kiln stack are found in the alkali 
bypass stack.
    Kiln PM/HAP metals. All HAP metals have been identified in kiln 
exhaust PM at various levels. Based on analysis of emissions test 
reports, the total average HAP metal content of kiln exhaust PM is 
approximately one weight percent (docket item II-B-36). Mass emission 
rates of metal HAPs from the kiln depend on the concentration of metals 
in the PM and the emission rates of PM. Analyses of emissions data 
(docket item II-B-62) have shown that ESP-controlled PM emissions for 
six NHW kilns ranged from 0.009 to 0.20 gr/dscf (corrected to seven 
percent oxygen), with an average of 0.045 gr/dscf for 14 data points. 
Fabric filter-controlled PM emissions for five NHW kilns ranged from 
0.002 to 0.29 gr/dscf (corrected to seven percent oxygen), with an 
average of 0.014 gr/dscf for 10 data points. For a 600,000 ton of 
clinker/year kiln (this represents the capacity of a mid-sized kiln), 
the range of kiln PM emissions (0.002 gr/dscf to 0.29 gr/dscf) 
corresponds to 9 tpy to 1,360 tpy (docket item II-B-76). Based on an 
average kiln PM emission of 0.03 gr/dscf, and assuming HAP metal 
emissions are one percent by weight of PM emissions, HAP metal 
emissions are approximately 1.4 tpy for a 600,000 ton of clinker/year 
kiln (docket item II-B-76). Based on ICR responses, at least one plant 
reported kiln emissions of over one tpy for one or more of the 
following metal HAPs: chromium, lead, arsenic, mercury, antimony, and 
manganese. However, no plant reported kiln emissions of more than 10 
tpy of any single metal HAP (docket item II-B-69).
    Kiln mercury. Mercury may be emitted in the kiln exhaust as either 
a particulate or a gas. A summary was compiled of all currently 
available mercury emission data for HW and NHW kilns (docket item II-B-
65). There are 8 data points for 7 NHW kilns, and 19 data points from 
21 HW kilns (two sets of kilns shared a stack). The HW kiln data were 
adjusted to remove mercury in the HW fuel and any mercury spikes. By 
removing the portion of emissions attributed to test method spiking and 
HW fuel mercury inputs, corrected emission data that are comparable 
with data from NHW kilns were developed.
    For a 600,000 ton of clinker/year kiln, the range of the mercury 
emissions data [0.6 to 83 micrograms (<greek-m>g)/dscm at 7 percent 
oxygen] corresponds to 0.0012 tpy to 0.17 tpy (docket item II-B-76), 
while the average mercury emission (24 <greek-m>g/dscm) corresponds to 
approximately 0.05 tpy (docket item II-B-76). One plant responding to 
the ICR reported mercury emissions of over one ton per year.
    Kiln D/F. For the purposes of analysis of the data, concentrations 
of dioxin and furan congeners (specifically the tetra, hepta, hexa, and 
octa congeners) were converted to a concentration that was equivalent 
to the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. Determination 
of TEQ concentrations was performed according to the international 
method (docket item II-A-8).
    An analysis of all available D/F emission data from 15 NHW kilns 
showed that concentrations of D/F TEQ emitted in the kiln exhaust gas 
measured downstream of the PMCD

[[Page 14196]]

ranged from 0.001 ng TEQ/dscm to over 1.2 TEQ ng/dscm with an average 
of 0.20 ng TEQ/dscm (all concentrations at 7 percent oxygen)[D/F test 
data are shown in Table 8 in Section V.D.2]. For a 600,000 ton of 
clinker/year kiln, the range of the D/F TEQ concentrations (0.001 to 
1.2 ng/dscm) corresponds to 0.0018 g/yr to 2.2 g/yr (docket item II-B-
76), while the average concentration (0.20 ng TEQ/dscm) corresponds to 
an emission of 0.4 g TEQ/year (docket item II-B-76).
    The predominant factor affecting D/F emissions is the temperature 
of gases at the inlet to the PMCD (docket item II-I-81, docket item II-
I-82). Test data collected from both HW and NHW kilns show a trend of 
decreasing D/F gas stream concentrations with decreasing temperature at 
the inlet to the PMCD. In tests conducted on individual cement kilns 
where the gas stream temperature was varied in the range of 350 to 
500 deg.F, reductions in D/F TEQ concentrations by factors of 5 to 10 
were observed when gas temperatures entering the PMCD were lowered from 
the upper to lower end of the temperature range (docket item II-I-81, 
docket item II-I-82).
    Kiln THC/organic HAPs. The THC and organic HAP concentrations and 
emission levels from kilns vary widely, depending primarily on the feed 
materials (docket item II-I-66, docket item II-I-67, docket item II-I-
68). Some feed materials contain organic carbon such as petroleum or 
kerogens. One kiln operator has conducted an extensive study of the 
source of high THC and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from the kiln 
(docket item II-I-107). Higher than normal emissions from this kiln 
were attributed to the shale used in the raw materials. Replacing the 
shale with fire clay in the raw mix resulted in a dramatic reduction of 
THC and CO emissions.
    Another NHW kiln operator has determined that the raw materials are 
the source of the majority of the observed benzene emissions (docket 
item II-D-112). Kiln stack gas and preheater gas stream analyses before 
and after switching fuel from a combination of coal and petroleum coke 
to 100 percent natural gas showed little effect on benzene emissions. 
These test data suggest that benzene emissions derived from the raw 
materials (docket item II-I-41).
    Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to determine 
organic HAP emissions at a NHW kiln. Estimated organic HAP emissions 
(based on average concentrations measured in the kiln exhaust and 7,920 
hr/yr of operation) showed that the kiln was a major source based on 
organic HAP emissions. Organic HAP emission rates were estimated at 331 
Mg/yr (365 tpy) hexane, 27 Mg/yr (30 tpy) toluene, 29 Mg/yr (32 tpy) 
benzene, 14.5 Mg/yr (16 tpy) naphthalene, and 12 Mg/yr (13.2 tpy) 
chlorobenzene (docket item II-A-41, docket item II-B-76).
    In the ICR responses, many organic HAPs were reported as being 
emitted in the kiln exhaust gas. Organic HAPs for which there was at 
least one report of emissions of at least 0.91 Mg/yr (1.0 tpy) include 
benzene, naphthalene, toluene, formaldehyde, xylenes, styrene, and 
acetaldehyde. One facility reported more than 9.1 Mg/yr (10 tpy) each 
of benzene and toluene emissions (docket item II-B-69).
    Stack concentrations of THC were available for 16 NHW kilns (docket 
item II-B-75). The concentrations were expressed in ppmv as propane on 
a dry basis (ppmvd) at seven percent oxygen. For a 600,000 ton of 
clinker/year kiln, the range of kiln THC emissions (0.4 ppmvd to 224 
ppmvd as propane) corresponds to 1.5 tpy to 840 tpy (docket item II-B-
76), while the average kiln THC emissions (35 ppmvd as propane) 
corresponds to 131 tpy (docket item II-B-76). Organic HAP 
concentrations, as a percentage of THC for these data, ranged from 0 to 
98 percent (docket item II-B-75). With an average of 23 percent of the 
THC emissions being organic HAPs a 600,000 ton of clinker/year kiln 
would emit from 0.3 tpy to 190 tpy of organic HAPs, based on the range 
of THC stack concentrations.
    The emissions from kiln alkali bypasses are expected to be the 
result of incomplete combustion of fuel in the kiln, since this exhaust 
gas stream does not contact incoming kiln feed materials. Alkali bypass 
concentrations of THC were available for two kilns operating under NHW 
conditions. The concentrations were expressed as ppmvd (as propane) at 
seven percent oxygen, and averaged 3.4 ppmvd and 27 ppmvd, respectively 
(docket item II-B-75). For typical alkali bypass gas flow rates at a 
600,000 ton of clinker/year kiln, this range corresponds to 
approximately 2.4 tpy to 19 tpy of THC, while the average kiln bypass 
THC concentration (15 ppmvd) corresponds to 10.5 tpy of THC (docket 
item II-B-76). Assuming that 5 percent of the THC emissions from alkali 
bypasses are organic HAPs (docket item II-B-75), a 600,000 ton of 
clinker/year kiln would emit from 0.3 tpy to 6 tpy of organic HAPs, 
based on the range of THC alkali bypass stack concentrations.
    Kiln HCl. The currently available HCl emission data obtained from a 
total of 46 NHW and HW kilns range from 0.2 ppmvd to 157 ppmvd and the 
average is 27 ppmvd for 72 data points (docket item II-B-62). (All 
concentrations were corrected to seven percent oxygen.) For a 600,000 
ton of clinker/year kiln, the range of kiln HCl emissions corresponds 
to 0.6 tpy to 490 tpy, while the average HCl emission (27 ppmvd) 
corresponds to 84 tpy (docket item II-B-76). Based on analyses of test 
reports and ICR responses, HCl emissions range from less than 0.91 Mg/
yr (1 tpy) to over 272 Mg/yr (300 tpy). Ten plants responding to the 
ICR reported emissions of HCl greater than 9.1 Mg/yr (10 tpy) from each 
of 15 different kilns (docket item II-B-69).
    The EPA notes that with the exception of three kilns that were 
measured by FTIR, all of the HCl emission measurements included in the 
analysis were obtained using EPA Method 26. A recently completed study 
that compared the results of a draft test protocol using the gas filter 
correlation infrared (GFCIR) instrumental method (proposed EPA Method 
322) and EPA Method 26 found that HCl measured by GFCIR was typically 
much higher than that measured by Method 26 (docket item II-I-121). 
Concentrations of HCl measured by GFCIR ranged from 1.5 to 4.5 times 
the concentrations measured by Method 26 for wet kilns and up to 30 
times the concentrations measured by Method 26 for a dry kiln. 
Subsequent laboratory recovery efficiency analyses suggested that 
Method 26 is biased significantly low due to a scrubbing effect in the 
front half of the sampling train. Therefore, it is likely that 
currently available HCl emission data are understated.
4. Clinker Cooler
    It is desirable to cool the clinker rapidly as it leaves the 
burning zone of the kiln. Heat recovery, preheating of kiln combustion 
air, and fast clinker cooling are achieved by clinker coolers of the 
traveling-grate, planetary, rotary, or shaft type. Most commonly used 
are grate coolers where the clinker is conveyed along the grate and 
subjected to cooling by ambient air, which passes through the clinker 
bed in cross-current heat exchange.
    A portion of the clinker cooler exhaust serves as secondary 
combustion air in the kiln. The remainder of the clinker cooler exhaust 
is discharged to the atmosphere separately from the kiln exhaust gas 
through a PM emission control device. Clinker cooler gases are also 
sometimes routed through other pieces of process equipment, such as the 
coal or raw mill, as a source of warm,

[[Page 14197]]

dry air prior to being reused as combustion air.
    Since clinker coolers are not combustion devices, the only HAP 
expected to be emitted are the metal HAPs associated with the clinker 
cooler particulate, i.e., clinker dust. HAP metals that have been 
detected in clinker include chromium, lead, nickel, arsenic, beryllium, 
antimony, selenium, and mercury. In one study conducted by the Portland 
Cement Association (docket item II-I-44, p. 4), the average 
concentration of metal HAPs that has been detected in clinker is 555 
parts per million by weight (ppmw). In an earlier study, cited by EPA 
OSW the average HAP metal content in clinker was found to be 138 ppmw 
(docket item II-A-24, pp. 3-62 to 3-65). Under the existing NSPS, 
emissions of PM from clinker cooler gases are limited to 0.05 kg/Mg 
feed (dry basis) (0.10 lb/ton). A plant producing 600,000 tpy of 
clinker, emitting PM from the clinker cooler at the NSPS limit, would 
emit 6 kg (14 lb) of HAP metals per year, assuming a 140 ppmw HAP metal 
content in the PM (docket item II-B-76).
5. Finish Grinding/Conversion of Clinker to Portland Cement
    The cooled clinker is conveyed to clinker storage or mixed with 
gypsum and introduced directly into the finish mills. The finish mills 
are large, rotating steel cylinders containing a charge of steel balls. 
The clinker and gypsum are ground to a fine, homogeneous powder. Two 
different types of mill systems may be used. In open-circuit milling, 
the material passes directly through the mill without any separation of 
fine and coarse particles. In closed-circuit grinding, the mill product 
is carried to a cyclonic air separator in which the coarse particles 
are rejected from the product and returned to the mill for further 
grinding.
    The finished portland cement is conveyed to bulk storage silos from 
which it is dispensed for shipping. Portland cement is often loaded in 
bulk into hopper trucks or rail cars. It may also be packaged in ``tote 
bins'' or in 80 lb or 94 lb kraft paper bags. The bags are loaded onto 
pallets for handling, warehousing, and shipping.
    The only HAPs expected to be emitted from clinker/cement handling 
processes are the metal HAPs associated with clinker and cement dust. 
As was noted above, clinker dust is estimated to contain 555 ppmw of 
metal HAPs. The HAP metals that have been identified in portland cement 
include chromium, nickel, arsenic, lead, antimony, selenium, beryllium, 
cadmium, and mercury. In cement (as opposed to clinker), the 
concentrations of individual HAP metals range from an average of 0.014 
ppmw mercury to an average of 76 ppmw chromium. The total average 
concentration of metal HAPs in portland cement is 143 ppmw (docket item 
II-I-44).
    Total nationwide emissions of HAPs, PM, and VOCs from the above 
emission sources in portland cement plants are estimated at 23,300 Mg/
yr (25,700 tpy). Over 260 Mg/yr (290 tpy) of these emissions are HAPs. 
Emissions of PM and VOCs are estimated at 23,000 Mg/yr (25,400 tpy).
    Given that these processes release significant quantities of HAPs 
and the availability of emission control systems, the Agency selected 
to develop and propose NESHAP for the following emission sources: NHW 
kilns and NHW in-line kiln/raw mills; NHW kiln alkali bypasses; clinker 
coolers; raw material dryers; feed preparation and materials handling 
processes including raw mills, finish mills, storage bins (raw 
material, clinker, finished product), conveying system transfer points, 
bagging system, and bulk loading and unloading systems. Additional 
information on the operations in portland cement plants selected for 
regulation, and other operations, is included in the docket.

C. Selection of Pollutants

    The proposed standards would limit emissions of metal HAPs [almost 
all metals appearing in section 112(b) have been detected in portland 
cement plant emissions] and organic HAPs (including D/F) from portland 
cement manufacturing facilities. (Pollutant health effects were 
discussed in section II.C.) These HAPs are emitted in significant 
quantities from portland cement plant sources. The standards being 
proposed to address metal and organic HAP emissions establish limits 
for surrogate pollutants rather than for individual HAP compounds (a 
separate emission limit is established for D/F). The reasons for using 
surrogate pollutants are discussed below.
    Controlling PM emissions will control the emissions of non-volatile 
metal HAPs (and also the condensed organic HAPs including D/F which are 
adsorbed on particulates). The available technologies used in the 
cement manufacturing industry for the control of non-volatile HAP 
metals are the same technologies (FFs and ESPs) as the proposed MACT 
floor technologies for control of PM. Metal HAPs are estimated to 
constitute about 1 percent by weight of kiln PM emissions from portland 
cement manufacturing and about 0.06 percent by weight of clinker cooler 
PM emissions. In addition, the use of PM as a surrogate for non-
volatile metal HAP emissions reduces the costs associated with 
compliance testing and monitoring.
    The proposed standards establish an emission limit for THC as a 
surrogate for organic HAPs from new or reconstructed NHW kilns for the 
following reasons. Methods used in the cement manufacturing industry 
for the control of organic HAP emissions would be the same methods used 
to control THC emissions. These emission control methods include using 
feed materials with relatively low levels of organic matter and 
achieving good combustion (docket item II-B-47, docket item II-B-48). 
Standards limiting emissions of THC will also result in decreases in 
organic HAP emissions (with the additional benefit of decreasing VOC 
emissions).
    Establishing emission limits for specific organic HAPs (with the 
exception of D/F) would be impractical and costly. Total hydrocarbon, 
which is less expensive to test for and monitor, can be used as a 
surrogate for organic HAPs. Based on available data, organic HAPs range 
from 0 to 98 percent of THC and are estimated to account for 
approximately 23 percent on average of THC emissions from portland 
cement manufacturing (docket item II-B-75). The Agency recognizes that 
the level and distribution of organic HAPs associated with THC 
emissions from cement kilns will vary from kiln to kiln. Limiting THC 
as a surrogate for organic HAPs will eliminate costs associated with 
speciating numerous compounds.
    The proposed standards establish separate emission limits for D/F 
because of the high toxicity associated with even low masses of these 
compounds. In addition, data available to EPA establish the existence 
of a separate MACT floor technology for D/F control.
    The proposed regulation does not establish a limit for HCl 
emissions from cement kilns because no MACT floor technology has been 
identified. An HCl emission limit based on a beyond-the-floor control 
option was determined not to be justified as discussed in section V.D.2 
of this document.
    The proposed regulation does not establish limits for mercury 
emissions from cement kilns because no MACT floor control technology 
has been identified. A mercury emission limit based on a beyond-the-
floor control option was determined not to be justified as discussed in 
section V.D.2.

[[Page 14198]]

D. Selection of Proposed Standards for Existing and New Sources

1. Background
    After the EPA has identified the specific source categories or 
subcategories of sources to regulate under section 112, it must develop 
MACT standards for each category or subcategory. Section 112 
establishes a minimum baseline or ``floor'' for standards. For new 
sources, the standards for a source category or subcategory cannot be 
less stringent than the emission control that is achieved in practice 
by the best-controlled similar source. [See section 112(d)(3)]. The 
standards for existing sources may be less stringent than standards for 
new sources, but they cannot be less stringent than the average 
emission limitation achieved by the best-performing 12 percent of 
existing sources for categories and subcategories with 30 or more 
sources, or the average of the best-performing 5 sources for categories 
or subcategories with fewer than 30 sources.
    After the floor has been determined for a new or existing source in 
a source category or subcategory, the Administrator must set MACT 
standards that are technically achievable and no less stringent than 
the floor. Such standards must then be met by all sources within the 
category or subcategory. The regulatory alternatives selected for new 
and existing sources may be different because of different MACT floors, 
and separate emission limits may be established for new and existing 
sources.
    The EPA also may consider an alternative ``beyond the floor.'' 
Here, EPA considers the achievable reductions in emissions of HAPs (and 
possibly other pollutants that are co-controlled), cost and economic 
impacts, energy impacts, and other nonair environmental impacts. The 
objective is to achieve the maximum degree of emission reduction 
without unreasonable economic, energy or secondary environmental 
impacts.
2. MACT Floor Technology, Emission Limits, and Format
    The EPA conducted separate MACT determinations for PM (the 
surrogate for HAP metals), D/F, mercury, THC (the surrogate for organic 
HAPs), and HCl emissions from kilns and inline kiln/raw mills; for PM 
emissions from clinker coolers; for PM and THC emissions from raw 
material dryers; and for PM emissions from materials handling 
facilities. For each combination of pollutant and affected source, MACT 
floor technologies and beyond-the-floor control options were evaluated.
    Several formats are available for establishing the emission limits 
based on MACT. These include mass concentration (mass per unit volume), 
volume concentration (volume per unit volume), mass emission rate (mass 
per unit time), process emission rate (mass per unit of production or 
other process parameter), and percent reduction.
    For the portland cement manufacturing source category, EPA is 
proposing numerical emission standards expressed as a process emission 
rate and opacity limits for PM emissions from kilns; as mass per volume 
of exhaust gas for D/F emissions from kilns; as volume per volume of 
exhaust gas for THC emissions from kilns and raw material dryers; as a 
process emission rate and opacity limit for clinker cooler PM 
emissions; and as an opacity limit for materials handling facilities PM 
emissions.
    The following sections present a discussion of the rationale for 
selecting the MACT technologies, emission limits, and format of the 
standard for each affected source and associated pollutant.
    Kiln and in-line kiln/raw mill PM HAP emissions. Well-designed and 
properly operated FFs or ESPs are the PM control technologies presently 
in use by the best performing 12 percent of existing kilns and in-line 
kiln/raw mills. In the portland cement manufacturing industry, it is 
estimated that at least 30 percent (docket item II-A-4) of existing 
kilns are subject to the requirements of the NSPS for cement plants (40 
CFR part 60, subpart F).
    Table 7 lists the type of control device used with, and available 
PM emissions data from, kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills subject to the 
NSPS. The emission levels shown in Table 7 all meet the NSPS emission 
limit and were all achieved with FFs and ESPs designed to meet the 
NSPS. This represents the MACT floor technology for control of PM from 
kilns and in-line kiln/raw mills.

                                 Table 7.--Particulate Emissions From NSPS Kilns                                
                         [Docket Item II-A-4, Docket Item II-A-43, Docket Item II-B-62]                         
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                           PM (kg/Mg dry                        
             Kiln type                            AP