Thursday 4 December 2014

The Role Of Flame Arrestors

By Claudine Hodges


Arrestors are tools or a device that stops fuel combustion by extinguishing the flames. These devices are utilized to stop the spread of an open fire, helps to limit the spread of an explosive component, protects explosive mixtures from the ignition, it is also used to confine fire in a controlled or regulated location and used to stop the propagation of a flame traveling at sub sonic velocities.

They are commonly used within the fuel storage tank vents and safety areas where flammable components are present. Flame arrestors are also considered as deflagration arrester. It provides different functions by absorbing the heat from flames at a specific velocity. Hence, the flame may either survive or not. The heat is usually absorbed through the channels to a particular element.

Every channel is carefully selected and measured for certain installation processes. Most of the channels can be a regular one, just like the metal ribbons. Furthermore, deflagration arresters are used only in gas groups or conditions, after they have been tested. An arrester is usually made and designed for a particular condition.

The changes of temperature, pressure and composition of gases usually enters to the arrester and may cause spatial velocities of the flame to maximize and make it insufficient for the tool to stop the propagation. Most of the devices are inspected on a regular basis to ensure that they functions well and free from dirt and insects. Typically, unregulated and corroded tool may cause accidents and may damage the equipment.

Since an arrestor is a device used which allows gas to pass through it to stop explosion, there are certain situations where they are applied. Anyone involved in choosing a deflagration arrester should understand how these products work and limitations of their performance. Most of these devices are fitted on vent valves, open vent pipes or delivery pipe lines or in the piping system.

Actually, there are different procedures in the transportation of the explosive gases that passes through the pipes. The ignition is then measured to ensure that the event of ignition, m damage to plants and to the equipment can be minimized.

Basically, there are various importance for an industry to use this tool. Usually, it is created and designed for the protection of the vent tanks from explosion or propagation. The component can also dissipates the heat. Once the storage tanks are composed with liquid and has a point of lower than the pressure or temperature, then this tool is recommended.

These devices are considered as passive and created without moving parts. They are good in preventing the propagation of fire from the exposed side using the crimped metal ribbon. The gas group usually ignites to the system. Thus, the more explosive gases are required, the flame may also penetrate the heat efficiently and quickly.

The main point here is that, these devices are hazardous to individuals who lack knowledge and skills in using them. Thus, it is vital for everyone in the company to have the expertise. This is also to make sure that nothing will happen to the workers as well as to the operation of the company.




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