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Flash Back in Flame Arrestors PDF
Flash Back in Flame Arrestors PDF
EIGA
Check valves and flashback arrestors By using available safety devices the risk of flashback can in most cases be avoided. The most common safety devices are check valves and flashback arrestors. In some countries the use of check valve and/or flashback arrestors are mandatory, whereas in other countries there are only recommendations to this effect. Check valves are mounted on torches on both fuel gas and oxygen connections (see Figure 1). In many cases the torch is equipped with a check valve from the beginning. The check valve effectively prevents the reverse flow of gas. As already mentioned, reverse flow is a common cause of flashback. But check valves cannot stop flashbacks once they have occurred. If a check valve is to remain reliable, it is important to make functional test or replace it at regular intervals.
A flashback arrestor effectively prevents a flashback from invading the gas supply system or cylinder, thus causing a serious accident. Flashback arrestors can either be torchmounted or regulator-mounted. Torch-mounted flashback arrestors (Figure 2) have two functions: stopping the flame in a backfire with a flame arrestor, and preventing reverse flow with a built-in check valve. The flame arrestor consists of sintered metal filter. Gas can flow through the filter, but a flame is extinguished. When using torch-mounted flashback arrestors remember that the flame arrestor causes a pressure drop and thus reduces the flow capacity. Check first what flow the application demands.
(1) ISO 5175 - EN 730 : 1995. Equipment used in gas welding, cutting and allied processes. Safety devices for fuel gases and oxygen or compressed air. General specifications, requirements and test.
Regulator-mounted flashback arrestors are, as the name implies, mounted on the regulator or gas outlet (Figure 3).
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Figure 3. Regulator-mounted flashback arrestor
Further safety devices Besides preventing reverse flow with the help of check valves, and extinguishing the flame after a backfire with a flame arrestor, a flashback arrestor can have the following functions: Cutting off the gas supply in the event of a backfire. If this function is activated, the operator himself can reset the trigger. Of course, it is important that the cause of the flashback is found first. Preventing gas from blowing out of the cylinder in case of fire. If this function has been activated, the arrestor cannot be reset - it must be replaced. The principles of these functions are illustrated in Fig. 4. Where to place these safety devices The advantage of having a flashback arrestor mounted on the regulator or outlet is that it can have a far greater flow
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Pressure sensitive cut-off valve shuts off gas supply after a backfire. Flame arrestor extinguishes flame in the event of backfire. Non-return valve prevents reverse flow. Temperature-sensitive cut-off device cuts off heat supply in case of fire.
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