AIR PRODUCTS HELIUM INC - Industrial Gas Facility in Cahone, Colorado

AIR PRODUCTS HELIUM INC is an industrial gas facility located at 13090 CNTY RD 15, Cahone, Dolores County, Colorado, United States. The plant is operational and specializes in the production of helium, a critical gas used in medical, aerospace, and electronics industries. Its location in the Four Corners region provides access to natural gas fields that contain helium. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), with compliance to air quality and safety standards. As a helium production plant, it utilizes cryogenic separation technology to extract helium from natural gas. The plant's NAICS code 325120 indicates it falls under the industrial gas manufacturing sector. Helium is a non-renewable resource, and this facility plays a key role in the domestic helium supply chain. The plant's operations contribute to the local economy in Dolores County and support downstream industries reliant on helium for critical applications such as MRI machines, semiconductor manufacturing, and scientific research.

The facility is situated in a rural area of southwestern Colorado, near the San Juan National Forest. The region is characterized by semi-arid climate and geological formations that host natural gas reserves. Proximity to populated areas is low, reducing potential exposure risks. However, helium extraction involves processing natural gas, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions if not managed properly. The plant must adhere to EPA regulations for air emissions and waste management.