FLASHBACK FLASHBACK

ARRESTER ARRESTER
A Presentation A Presentation
By By By By
Pramod Kulkarni Pramod Kulkarni
Flash back Arresters Flash back Arresters Flash back Arresters Flash back Arresters
What is Flashback Arrester ? What is Flashback Arrester ? What is Flashback Arrester ? What is Flashback Arrester ?
Flashback Arrester is a device that is Flashback Arrester is a device that is Flashback Arrester is a device that is Flashback Arrester is a device that is
installed on the Gas Welding or Cutting installed on the Gas Welding or Cutting
Torch. Torch.
It is also known as SAFETY SEAL It is also known as SAFETY SEAL
It arrests or prevents the PROPAGATION It arrests or prevents the PROPAGATION It arrests or prevents the PROPAGATION It arrests or prevents the PROPAGATION
OF THE FLAME UPSTREAM OF THE FLAME UPSTREAM
Its a sort of modification of Check Valve Its a sort of modification of Check Valve It s a sort of modification of Check Valve It s a sort of modification of Check Valve
which prevents the UNINTENTIONAL which prevents the UNINTENTIONAL
BACKFLOW of gases in the pipe BACKFLOW of gases in the pipe g pp g pp
What is Flash back ? What is Flash back ? What is Flash back ? What is Flash back ?
A "Flashback" is the combustion of a flammable mixture A "Flashback" is the combustion of a flammable mixture
within the equipments used for handling of flammable gases within the equipments used for handling of flammable gases
viz. Pipelines, Gas Regulators, Gas Mixing Devices, Cylinders, viz. Pipelines, Gas Regulators, Gas Mixing Devices, Cylinders,
etc. etc.
Backfire / Flashback is defined as a Retrogression of the Backfire / Flashback is defined as a Retrogression of the
Flame( either momentary or sustained) UPSTREAMof the Flame( either momentary or sustained) UPSTREAMof the Flame( either momentary or sustained), UPSTREAM of the Flame( either momentary or sustained), UPSTREAM of the
mixer i.e. at the tip of the torch or the hoses back into the mixer i.e. at the tip of the torch or the hoses back into the
system system
A "Flashback" is a root cause of backfire, which normally A "Flashback" is a root cause of backfire, which normally
appears in a mixing device. appears in a mixing device. pp g pp g
DETONATION DETONATION DETONATION DETONATION
A Flash propagation through an un burnt gas at A Flash propagation through an un burnt gas at as p opagat o t oug a u bu t gas at as p opagat o t oug a u bu t gas at
a rate that is above the speed of sound is called a rate that is above the speed of sound is called
Detonation. It has a power to Explode Pipelines, Detonation. It has a power to Explode Pipelines,
Cylinders Compressors &equipment Cylinders Compressors &equipment etc etc Cylinders, Compressors & equipment Cylinders, Compressors & equipment--etc. etc.
It is prevented by maintaining proper distance It is prevented by maintaining proper distance
between an Ignition source and a Flashback between an Ignition source and a Flashback between an Ignition source and a Flashback between an Ignition source and a Flashback
Arrestor, often termed as the Run Arrestor, often termed as the Run- -Up. Up.
At least at two locations, Flashback Arrestors are At least at two locations, Flashback Arrestors are
to be installed, viz. End to be installed, viz. End- -of of--line & In line & In- -line for a line for a
individual gas line to reduce the possibility of individual gas line to reduce the possibility of
Detonation Detonation Detonation. Detonation.
Causes of Flash back Causes of Flash back Causes of Flash back Causes of Flash back
The backfire occurs due to excessive heat and the The backfire occurs due to excessive heat and the
presence of fuel and oxidizer in the mixing device. presence of fuel and oxidizer in the mixing device.
The heat of compression at the point of use is sufficient The heat of compression at the point of use is sufficient The heat of compression at the point of use is sufficient The heat of compression at the point of use is sufficient
enough to cause a "Flashback" inside the mixing device. enough to cause a "Flashback" inside the mixing device.
The backfire can be considered as a very tiny or a micro The backfire can be considered as a very tiny or a micro
i f f l i i f f l i version for cause of an explosion. version for cause of an explosion.
In event of a backflow, the residual mixture is consumed In event of a backflow, the residual mixture is consumed
by the flame point in such a rapid speed that it might by the flame point in such a rapid speed that it might y p p p g y p p p g
create a condition of velocity of a shock wave, which is create a condition of velocity of a shock wave, which is
the probable cause of eruption of a "Flashback". the probable cause of eruption of a "Flashback".
Causes of Flash back Causes of Flash back Causes of Flash back Causes of Flash back
Presence of Insufficient Quantities of Presence of Insufficient Quantities of Presence of Insufficient Quantities of Presence of Insufficient Quantities of
Gases in Cylinders (Pressure Imbalance ) Gases in Cylinders (Pressure Imbalance )
Leaks in the Gas Handling Systems Leaks in the Gas Handling Systems Leaks in the Gas Handling Systems. Leaks in the Gas Handling Systems.
Failure to purge the Gas Systems. Failure to purge the Gas Systems.
Improper pressure setting of Gases. Improper pressure setting of Gases.
Clogged or Blocked Tip of Welding or Clogged or Blocked Tip of Welding or gg p g gg p g
Cutting Torch Cutting Torch
Mishandling of Gas Systems under use Mishandling of Gas Systems under use Mishandling of Gas Systems under use. Mishandling of Gas Systems under use.
Flashback Arrester vs NRV Flashback Arrester vs NRV Flashback Arrester vs. NRV Flashback Arrester vs. NRV
A Non Return Valve will stop the gas traveling A Non Return Valve will stop the gas traveling A Non Return Valve will stop the gas traveling A Non Return Valve will stop the gas traveling
back to the source, wherein the valve seat of back to the source, wherein the valve seat of
the Non Return Valve is fit enough to seal a the Non Return Valve is fit enough to seal a
pressure differential and it is sufficient as pressure differential and it is sufficient as
essential. essential.
However a Non Return Valve will not stop a However a Non Return Valve will not stop a
l hb k b d l hb k b d Flashback because it does not contain a very Flashback because it does not contain a very
basic element, which holds back the Flashes basic element, which holds back the Flashes
traveling back to the Source or Cylinder traveling back to the Source or Cylinder traveling back to the Source or Cylinder. traveling back to the Source or Cylinder.
Nature of Potential Hazard Nature of Potential Hazard Nature of Potential Hazard Nature of Potential Hazard
Gas FlowReversal generally happens Gas FlowReversal generally happens Gas Flow Reversal generally happens Gas Flow Reversal generally happens
when one cylinder gets empty, thus when one cylinder gets empty, thus
causing the Pressure Imbalance in the causing the Pressure Imbalance in the causing the Pressure Imbalance in the causing the Pressure Imbalance in the
system system
This condition results into the extremely This condition results into the extremely
d it ti it ti h f l d it ti it ti h f l dangerous situation situation when fuel dangerous situation situation when fuel
and oxygen gases get mixed in the hoses and oxygen gases get mixed in the hoses
Back fire is identified with putt sound at Back fire is identified with putt sound at Back fire is identified with putt sound at Back fire is identified with putt sound at
the tip of the torch and the flame gets the tip of the torch and the flame gets
extinguished extinguished extinguished extinguished
This can happen at very High Gas Exit This can happen at very High Gas Exit
Velocity at the tip of the nozzle Velocity at the tip of the nozzle Velocity at the tip of the nozzle Velocity at the tip of the nozzle
This can also happen when the tip of the This can also happen when the tip of the
t h i t l t th k i / j b t h i t l t th k i / j b torch is too close to the work piece / job torch is too close to the work piece / job
which is at a very high temperature which is at a very high temperature
The flame may get re The flame may get re- -ignited ignited
automatically or through the ignition agent automatically or through the ignition agent
Another points responsible to develop Another points responsible to develop
Flash Back : Flash Back : Flash Back : Flash Back :
Hot refractory Hot refractory
If the refractory lining a burner or furnace is hot If the refractory lining a burner or furnace is hot
enough to bring the hydrocarbon/air mixture to the
auto ignition temperature, rapid combustion will
start. Heat transfer from the hot surface depends
on gas velocity and turbulence, explaining why
" i l t b ft t bl th "swirl, type burners often seems more stable than
more linear types.
Flame Flame Flame Flame
Flames from pilot burners are the typical Flames from pilot burners are the typical
means of initiating combustion of a means of initiating combustion of a means of initiating combustion of a means of initiating combustion of a
hydrocarbon / air mixture. Nozzle mix hydrocarbon / air mixture. Nozzle mix
burners (where the fuel mixes with the burners (where the fuel mixes with the burners (where the fuel mixes with the burners (where the fuel mixes with the
combustion air within the furnace) have combustion air within the furnace) have
zones that are too lean or too rich for zones that are too lean or too rich for zones that are too lean or too rich for zones that are too lean or too rich for
combustion, so the pilot flame must be combustion, so the pilot flame must be
positioned to heat a volume of well mixed positioned to heat a volume of well mixed positioned to heat a volume of well mixed positioned to heat a volume of well mixed
gas. Large pilot flames can overcome poor gas. Large pilot flames can overcome poor
positioning of the pilot tip positioning of the pilot tip positioning of the pilot tip. positioning of the pilot tip.
Sparks Sparks Sparks Sparks
Sparks are used to ignite pilot burners and Sparks are used to ignite pilot burners and
also main burners in some cases also main burners in some cases also main burners in some cases. also main burners in some cases.
Occasionally small sparks (static Occasionally small sparks (static
electricity) are capable of initiating electricity) are capable of initiating electricity) are capable of initiating electricity) are capable of initiating
combustion, but the extra energy in a combustion, but the extra energy in a
large spark helps insure light off large spark helps insure light off large spark helps insure light off. large spark helps insure light off.
Undesired sparks, such as those resulting Undesired sparks, such as those resulting
fromdebris moving through steel ducting fromdebris moving through steel ducting from debris moving through steel ducting from debris moving through steel ducting
or fans, can initiate combustion and or fans, can initiate combustion and
require careful design to avoid require careful design to avoid require careful design to avoid. require careful design to avoid.
Dust Dust
Dust or very fine debris are generated Dust or very fine debris are generated Dust or very fine debris are generated Dust or very fine debris are generated
while welding or cutting and this dust while welding or cutting and this dust
when in contact with the nozzle causes a when in contact with the nozzle causes a when in contact with the nozzle causes a when in contact with the nozzle causes a
blockage resulting a loud sound putt and blockage resulting a loud sound putt and
the flame the flame -- due to the pressurization due to the pressurization -- the flame the flame -- due to the pressurization due to the pressurization --
results in the flame to fold back into the results in the flame to fold back into the
nozzle nozzle nozzle nozzle
Functioning of Flashback Functioning of Flashback
Arrester Arrester
Flashback arrestor is a simple devise, which Flashback arrestor is a simple devise, which
quenches the flame using the following methods quenches the flame using the following methods
a) a) By reducingthe flame velocity ( even lower By reducingthe flame velocity ( even lower a) a) By reducing the flame velocity ( even lower By reducing the flame velocity ( even lower
than the minimum flame velocity of the fuel than the minimum flame velocity of the fuel
gas ) gas )
b) b) Stops the flame propagation into or through a Stops the flame propagation into or through a b) b) Stops the flame propagation into or through a Stops the flame propagation into or through a
pipe pipe
c) By placing a flame arrestor at the end of the c) By placing a flame arrestor at the end of the
flammable mixture pipe feeding a flare or flammable mixture pipe feeding a flare or
burner, flame can be prevented from moving burner, flame can be prevented from moving
into the pipe regardless of the mixture into the pipe regardless of the mixture into the pipe regardless of the mixture into the pipe regardless of the mixture
velocity. velocity.
Functioning of Flashback Functioning of Flashback
Arrester Arrester
d) By passing a potentially flammable mixture d) By passing a potentially flammable mixture ) y p g p y ) y p g p y
through a water chamber or some sort of heat through a water chamber or some sort of heat
sink. This dissipates the heat and quenches sink. This dissipates the heat and quenches
th fl hb k th fl hb k the flashback. the flashback.
e) e) By blocking the fuel gas path, with a suitable By blocking the fuel gas path, with a suitable
thermal fuse plug, casing the flashback to die thermal fuse plug, casing the flashback to die thermal fuse plug, casing the flashback to die thermal fuse plug, casing the flashback to die
out. out.
f) f) By blocking the flow of fuel gas in the opposite By blocking the flow of fuel gas in the opposite
direction by acting like a non return valve. direction by acting like a non return valve.
Functions of Flashback Arrester Functions of Flashback Arrester Functions of Flashback Arrester Functions of Flashback Arrester
Torch mounted Flash back Arresters Torch mounted Flash back Arresters Torch mounted Flash back Arresters Torch mounted Flash back Arresters
have TWO FUNCTIONS : have TWO FUNCTIONS :
1. 1. Stopping the flame in a backfire with a Stopping the flame in a backfire with a 1. 1. Stopping the flame in a backfire with a Stopping the flame in a backfire with a
flame arrester flame arrester
2. 2. Preventing the Reverse Flowwith a built Preventing the Reverse Flowwith a built 2. 2. Preventing the Reverse Flow with a built Preventing the Reverse Flow with a built
in check valve in check valve
( The flame arrester is made of sintered ( The flame arrester is made of sintered ( The flame arrester is made of sintered ( The flame arrester is made of sintered
metal filter. The gas can flow in metal filter. The gas can flow in
smoothly but the flame is extinguished ) smoothly but the flame is extinguished ) y g ) y g )
Cross Sectional Viewof Check Valve Cross Sectional Viewof Check Valve Cross Sectional View of Check Valve Cross Sectional View of Check Valve
Cross Sectional Viewof FBA Cross Sectional Viewof FBA Cross Sectional View of FBA Cross Sectional View of FBA
Flash back Arrester Flash back Arrester Flash back Arrester Flash back Arrester
Flash back Arrester Flash back Arrester Flash back Arrester Flash back Arrester
It is always advisable to It is always advisable to yy
install a flash back install a flash back
f l li f l li arrestor on fuel line as arrestor on fuel line as
well as the oxygen line well as the oxygen line well as the oxygen line well as the oxygen line
Why on Oxygen line ? Why on Oxygen line ? Why on Oxygen line ? Why on Oxygen line ?
Flash back arrester on Oxygen Regulator Flash back arrester on Oxygen Regulator Flash back arrester on Oxygen Regulator Flash back arrester on Oxygen Regulator
can cut off the supply of Oxygen in case can cut off the supply of Oxygen in case
of flashback of flashback of flashback of flashback
This is important as additional Oxygen can This is important as additional Oxygen can
raise the combustion rate raise the combustion rate raise the combustion rate raise the combustion rate
AWORDOFCAUTION!! AWORDOFCAUTION!! A WORD OF CAUTION !! A WORD OF CAUTION !!
It is extremely important to note that when the It is extremely important to note that when the It is extremely important to note that when the It is extremely important to note that when the
Flashback Arrester is installed on the torch or a Flashback Arrester is installed on the torch or a
line, it creates a PRESSURE DROP causing the line, it creates a PRESSURE DROP causing the
reduction in FLOW CAPACITY. reduction in FLOW CAPACITY.
Ensure the Flow Demand of the system as per Ensure the Flow Demand of the system as per
its design and then install appropriate Flashback its design and then install appropriate Flashback
h h ll h d l h h ll h d l Arrester which will meet the required Flow Arrester which will meet the required Flow
Demand of the system Demand of the system
Necessity of Flashback Arrester Necessity of Flashback Arrester Necessity of Flashback Arrester Necessity of Flashback Arrester
The reasons for using a protective device such as a The reasons for using a protective device such as a g p g p
Flash Back Arrestor on a fuel gas line or even on a Flash Back Arrestor on a fuel gas line or even on a
cylinder are : cylinder are :
1. 1. Safety of Human Life and Property Safety of Human Life and Property
2. 2. Flashback occurs under various conditions. Flashback occurs under various conditions.
3. 3. The flashback occurs inside the pipeline or vessels. The flashback occurs inside the pipeline or vessels.
4. 4. The flame moves through a vessel or pipe. The flame moves through a vessel or pipe.
55 The flame velocity increases as it moves through these The flame velocity increases as it moves through these 5. 5. The flame velocity increases as it moves through these The flame velocity increases as it moves through these
pipe or vessels, and if the pipe is long enough the pipe or vessels, and if the pipe is long enough the
velocity can increase to detonation levels, which are velocity can increase to detonation levels, which are
supersonic supersonic supersonic supersonic
Flashback Arresters Flashback Arresters
Classification Classification
FBAs are classified depending upon the FBAs are classified depending upon the FBAs are classified depending upon the FBAs are classified depending upon the
method of INTERRUPTION method of INTERRUPTION
Broadly there are two classes of FBA : Broadly there are two classes of FBA : Broadly there are two classes of FBA : Broadly there are two classes of FBA :
Active Methods ( Require maintenance of Active Methods ( Require maintenance of
certain parameters like Liqd. Level or Gas certain parameters like Liqd. Level or Gas certain parameters like Liqd. Level or Gas certain parameters like Liqd. Level or Gas
Velocity ) Velocity )
Passive Type ( Require only routine maint. Passive Type ( Require only routine maint. Passive Type ( Require only routine maint. Passive Type ( Require only routine maint.
as no moving parts or instruments are as no moving parts or instruments are
involved involved
Active Type FBAs Active Type FBAs Active Type FBAs Active Type FBAs
1. 1. Venture Type Venture Type yp yp
Venture flashback arrestors simply create a restriction Venture flashback arrestors simply create a restriction
in the hydrocarbon/air mixture delivery pipe so that in the hydrocarbon/air mixture delivery pipe so that in the hydrocarbon/air mixture delivery pipe so that in the hydrocarbon/air mixture delivery pipe so that
the gas velocity is faster than the flame speed, the gas velocity is faster than the flame speed,
preventing progression of a flashback upstream preventing progression of a flashback upstream
Flashbacks in the direction of flow can still happen. Flashbacks in the direction of flow can still happen. pp pp
Even a partly closed valve can create a high velocity Even a partly closed valve can create a high velocity
for flashback prevention for flashback prevention
Venture shape creates much lower pressure drop. Venture shape creates much lower pressure drop. Venture shape creates much lower pressure drop. Venture shape creates much lower pressure drop.
If gas flow stops, the venture is no longer effective, so If gas flow stops, the venture is no longer effective, so
methods to measure flow and add make up gas methods to measure flow and add make up gas
(nitrogen, for instance) are often included. (nitrogen, for instance) are often included. ( t oge , o sta ce) a e o te cuded ( t oge , o sta ce) a e o te cuded
Passive Type FBAs Passive Type FBAs Passive Type FBAs Passive Type FBAs
On line On Flashback Arresters : On line On Flashback Arresters :
1. 1. Most commonly used Most commonly used
M h i l fl fill d i h l M h i l fl fill d i h l 2. 2. Mechanical flame arrestors are filled with metal Mechanical flame arrestors are filled with metal
or ceramic, which absorbs heat from a or ceramic, which absorbs heat from a
flashback, quenching it to a temperature below flashback, quenching it to a temperature below , q g p , q g p
what is needed for ignition. This stops the what is needed for ignition. This stops the
flame. flame.
33 With a lowenough hydrocarbon/air mixture With a lowenough hydrocarbon/air mixture 3. 3. With a low enough hydrocarbon/air mixture With a low enough hydrocarbon/air mixture
flow rate, if a flame travels to the face of the flow rate, if a flame travels to the face of the
arrestor, it can become stable at that point. arrestor, it can become stable at that point.
Heating of the arrestor body and internal parts Heating of the arrestor body and internal parts Heating of the arrestor body and internal parts Heating of the arrestor body and internal parts
Passive Type FBAs Passive Type FBAs Passive Type FBAs Passive Type FBAs
4. Once the arrestor temperatures increases 4. Once the arrestor temperatures increases 4. Once the arrestor temperatures increases 4. Once the arrestor temperatures increases
enough, ignition temperature can be reached enough, ignition temperature can be reached
on the upstream side of the arrestor and the on the upstream side of the arrestor and the
flashback can proceed. flashback can proceed.
( For this reason, a temperature switch is ( For this reason, a temperature switch is
often installed on theflame side of each often installed on theflame side of each
ddi " i " l ) ddi " i " l ) arrestor adding an "active" element). arrestor adding an "active" element).
Flashback Arresters Flashback Arresters -- Classification Classification Flashback Arresters Flashback Arresters Classification Classification
There are TWO main types : There are TWO main types : There are TWO main types : There are TWO main types :
Dry Dry
W t W t Wet Wet
Each type has its own advantages and Each type has its own advantages and
disadvantages. Most oxy disadvantages. Most oxy--fuel flashback fuel flashback
arrestors are the dry type. arrestors are the dry type.
DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs
Dry flashback arrestors typically use a Dry flashback arrestors typically use a Dry flashback arrestors typically use a Dry flashback arrestors typically use a
combination of methods to stop flashback combination of methods to stop flashback
Type that is typically found on most Type that is typically found on most Type that is typically found on most Type that is typically found on most
workshops, home or portable oxy workshops, home or portable oxy- -fuel kits fuel kits
They work just as effectively with any They work just as effectively with any They work just as effectively with any They work just as effectively with any
orientation orientation
Need very little maintenance Need very little maintenance Need very little maintenance Need very little maintenance
Often small and light enough to be Often small and light enough to be
installed between the torch and hoses. installed between the torch and hoses. installed between the torch and hoses. installed between the torch and hoses.
DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs
Flame Trap : To cool the flame front. They are designed Flame Trap : To cool the flame front. They are designed
t ll f fl f th h th b t t t k th t ll f fl f th h th b t t t k th to allow free flow of gas through them but to take the to allow free flow of gas through them but to take the
heat out of the flame front to get it below the ignition heat out of the flame front to get it below the ignition
temperature of the burning gas mixture. temperature of the burning gas mixture.
It is a device wherein the sealing is done by a sintered It is a device wherein the sealing is done by a sintered
metal or any other means other than employing a liquid metal or any other means other than employing a liquid
to arrest the Flashes to arrest the Flashes to arrest the Flashes. to arrest the Flashes.
The most common types are: The most common types are:
Sintered metal or ceramic. Sintered metal or ceramic.
Layers of mesh. Layers of mesh.
Ceramic beads. Ceramic beads.
DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs
Temperature Temperature--triggered valves to stop the gas flow triggered valves to stop the gas flow pp gg p g gg p g
completely. completely.
It relies on extracting heat from the flashback to stop it It relies on extracting heat from the flashback to stop it
continuing continuing continuing continuing
Most arrestors have a temperature Most arrestors have a temperature--controlled valve that controlled valve that
will cut off the gas flow when the unit reaches around will cut off the gas flow when the unit reaches around
90 90C until either C until either 90 90C, until either C, until either
The unit cools (if the unit is automatic) or The unit cools (if the unit is automatic) or
The reset button is pressed (if the unit is manual). The reset button is pressed (if the unit is manual). p ( ) p ( )
A check valve that closes due to the back pressure. A check valve that closes due to the back pressure.
DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs DRY TYPE FBAs
Dry type Flashback Arrestor is a most Dry type Flashback Arrestor is a most Dry type Flashback Arrestor is a most Dry type Flashback Arrestor is a most
widely used in major applications at major widely used in major applications at major
installations because of the inherent installations because of the inherent
design advantage. design advantage.
Leakage problems are minimized due to Leakage problems are minimized due to g p g p
absence of wet media. absence of wet media.
No reaction with source gas. No reaction with source gas. gg
Easy to install, handle & maintain Easy to install, handle & maintain
Maintenance is virtually nil. Maintenance is virtually nil. Maintenance is virtually nil. Maintenance is virtually nil.
WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs
Liquid seal flame arrestors are liquid barriers Liquid seal flame arrestors are liquid barriers Liquid seal flame arrestors are liquid barriers Liquid seal flame arrestors are liquid barriers
following the principle of a siphon where the following the principle of a siphon where the
liquid stops the entering deflagration and / or liquid stops the entering deflagration and / or
detonation and extinguishes the flame. detonation and extinguishes the flame.
On smaller units having a pressure release valve On smaller units having a pressure release valve
to prevent the unit from bursting under a severe to prevent the unit from bursting under a severe
flashback, the fluid level should be monitored to flashback, the fluid level should be monitored to
keep it always above the intake and not so high keep it always above the intake and not so high keep it always above the intake and not so high keep it always above the intake and not so high
that the liquid could splash or overflow into the that the liquid could splash or overflow into the
outlet outlet outlet. outlet.
WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs
Normally wet flashback arrestors work by Normally wet flashback arrestors work by Normally wet flashback arrestors work by Normally wet flashback arrestors work by
bubbling the gas through a non bubbling the gas through a non- -flammable and flammable and
ideally non ideally non--gas gas--absorbing liquid absorbing liquid
It is a device wherein the sealing is done by help It is a device wherein the sealing is done by help
of wet media, normally water used as media. of wet media, normally water used as media.
Sometimes a specialized non Sometimes a specialized non--flammable oil in flammable oil in
industrial uses is employed for the sealing . industrial uses is employed for the sealing .
They stop the flame by preventing it from They stop the flame by preventing it from
reaching the submerged intake. reaching the submerged intake.
WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs WET TYPE FBAs
These devices are normally very effective at These devices are normally very effective at These devices are normally very effective at These devices are normally very effective at
stopping flashbacks from reaching the manifolds stopping flashbacks from reaching the manifolds
or regulators or tanks. or regulators or tanks.
They have the disadvantages of only working in They have the disadvantages of only working in
one orientation and tend to be much larger than one orientation and tend to be much larger than
dry type arrestors. dry type arrestors.
The liquid level needs to be constantly checked The liquid level needs to be constantly checked
Above disadvantage makes them suitable Above disadvantage makes them suitable
mainly for large or fixed installations. mainly for large or fixed installations.
19 19
th th
Century Models of Dry and Wet Flashback Century Models of Dry and Wet Flashback
Arresters Arresters
FBAas Further Safety Device FBAas Further Safety Device FBA as Further Safety Device FBA as Further Safety Device
Besides preventing Reverse Gas Flow Besides preventing Reverse Gas Flow Besides preventing Reverse Gas Flow Besides preventing Reverse Gas Flow
with the help of Check Valve and with the help of Check Valve and
Extinguishing the flame after the Back Extinguishing the flame after the Back g g g g
flash with Flashback Arrester, it can flash with Flashback Arrester, it can
further CUT OFF Gas Supply which can be further CUT OFF Gas Supply which can be
t b th t t b th t reset by the operator reset by the operator
It is essential to find out the cause of It is essential to find out the cause of
back fire and set it right before resetting back fire and set it right before resetting
th G S l th G S l the Gas Supply the Gas Supply
FBAas Further Safety Device FBAas Further Safety Device FBA as Further Safety Device FBA as Further Safety Device
Prevention of Gas Supply from the Prevention of Gas Supply from the
Cylinder in case of back fire Cylinder in case of back fire Cylinder in case of back fire Cylinder in case of back fire
If this function is activated, then the FBA If this function is activated, then the FBA
cannot be Re set but requires replacement cannot be Re set but requires replacement
FBAas Further Safety Device FBAas Further Safety Device FBA as Further Safety Device FBA as Further Safety Device
Functioning of this FBA is as follows in the Functioning of this FBA is as follows in the Functioning of this FBA is as follows in the Functioning of this FBA is as follows in the
event of back fire: event of back fire:
Pressure sensitive cut Pressure sensitive cut off valve shuts off off valve shuts off Pressure sensitive cut Pressure sensitive cut off valve shuts off off valve shuts off
the gas supply after the back fire the gas supply after the back fire
Fl A t ti i h th fl Fl A t ti i h th fl Flame Arrester extinguishes the flame Flame Arrester extinguishes the flame
NRV restricts the Reverse Flow NRV restricts the Reverse Flow
Temperature sensing cut off device cuts of Temperature sensing cut off device cuts of
the heat supply the heat supply ppy ppy
Location for InstallingFBA Location for InstallingFBA Location for Installing FBA Location for Installing FBA
Selection for location of installation of FBA Selection for location of installation of FBA Selection for location of installation of FBA Selection for location of installation of FBA
depends upon advantages & disadvantages depends upon advantages & disadvantages
of each spot of each spot pp
Advantage of installing the FBA on Advantage of installing the FBA on Advantage of installing the FBA on Advantage of installing the FBA on
Regulator or outlet is the Far Greater Flow Regulator or outlet is the Far Greater Flow
Rate of Gas than the Rate achieved by Rate of Gas than the Rate achieved by yy
installing it on the Torch installing it on the Torch
Location for InstallingFBA Location for InstallingFBA Location for Installing FBA Location for Installing FBA
Disadvantage of Regulator or outlet installed Disadvantage of Regulator or outlet installed Disadvantage of Regulator or outlet installed Disadvantage of Regulator or outlet installed
FBA is that it cannot prevent the HOSE FBA is that it cannot prevent the HOSE
EXPLOSION which can be avoided by Torch EXPLOSION which can be avoided by Torch
mounted FBA mounted FBA
Maximum safety is therefore achieved by Maximum safety is therefore achieved by
installing FBAs both on Torch as well as installing FBAs both on Torch as well as
l hi i ibl l hi h l hi i ibl l hi h Regulator. This is possible unless high Regulator. This is possible unless high
flows are needed flows are needed
Location for InstallingFBA Location for InstallingFBA Location for Installing FBA Location for Installing FBA
Where High Flow Rates are necessary, Where High Flow Rates are necessary,
it i l d i bl t i t ll th it i l d i bl t i t ll th it is always advisable to install the it is always advisable to install the
Check Valves on the Torch and Check Valves on the Torch and
Flashback Arrester on the Regulators Flashback Arrester on the Regulators
FBA Installation On Regulator FBA Installation On Regulator FBA Installation On Regulator FBA Installation On Regulator
Routine Maintenance Routine Maintenance Routine Maintenance Routine Maintenance
A defective Flashback Arrestor should be A defective Flashback Arrestor should be
immediately removed formuse. immediately removed formuse. immediately removed form use. immediately removed form use.
A Flashback Arrestor should be serviced A Flashback Arrestor should be serviced
periodically to get a more trouble periodically to get a more trouble- -free life of it. free life of it. p y g p y g
All connections and joints should be checked All connections and joints should be checked
periodically from time to time. Leaky periodically from time to time. Leaky
connections and joints will lead to connections and joints will lead to
malfunctioning of a Flashback Arrestor. malfunctioning of a Flashback Arrestor.
Routine Maintenance Routine Maintenance Routine Maintenance Routine Maintenance
Gas should flow from the Outlet of a Flashback Gas should flow from the Outlet of a Flashback
Arrestor. If the gas flow path is blocked there Arrestor. If the gas flow path is blocked there
will be a drop in delivery pressure. will be a drop in delivery pressure. p y p p y p
Defect should be rectified in accordance with Defect should be rectified in accordance with
th f t ti th f t ti the manufacturers suggestions the manufacturers suggestions
To obtain a constant and smooth flowof gas To obtain a constant and smooth flowof gas To obtain a constant and smooth flow of gas, To obtain a constant and smooth flow of gas,
all Filters in a Flashback Arrestor should be all Filters in a Flashback Arrestor should be
cleaned from time to time. cleaned from time to time.
Shut Down Precautions Shut Down Precautions Shut Down Precautions Shut Down Precautions
It is advisable to follow the following procedures It is advisable to follow the following procedures
during a Shutdown, whether planned or during a Shutdown, whether planned or
l d l d unplanned. unplanned.
Close the Gas cylinder valve that supply the gas Close the Gas cylinder valve that supply the gas
to the systemwhere a Flashback Arrestor is to the systemwhere a Flashback Arrestor is to the system where a Flashback Arrestor is to the system where a Flashback Arrestor is
installed. installed.
Drain the residual gas in the Flashback Arrestor, Drain the residual gas in the Flashback Arrestor, Drain the residual gas in the Flashback Arrestor, Drain the residual gas in the Flashback Arrestor,
any equipment, device, instrument or fixture any equipment, device, instrument or fixture
connected any where in the line. connected any where in the line.
Shut Down Precautions Shut Down Precautions Shut Down Precautions Shut Down Precautions
Disconnect the Flashback Arrestor. Disconnect the Flashback Arrestor.
On intending for the reuse/restart of the On intending for the reuse/restart of the
application follow the FLASHBACK application follow the FLASHBACK
ARRESTOR INSTALLATION PROCEDURE ARRESTOR INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
as advised by the Manufacturers Guide . as advised by the Manufacturers Guide .
STANDARDSRelevant to FBAs STANDARDSRelevant to FBAs STANDARDS Relevant to FBAs STANDARDS Relevant to FBAs
IS :11006 IS :11006 - -1984 covers information on 1984 covers information on
Flashback Arrestor Flashback Arrestor Flashback Arrestor. Flashback Arrestor.
European Standard EN 730. European Standard EN 730.
European Standard DKSG91 / DKST 91. European Standard DKSG91 / DKST 91.
International Standard ISO 5175. International Standard ISO 5175.
British Standard BS 6158. British Standard BS 6158.
Some of the Indigenous Models Some of the Indigenous Models
Model FBA - NRV
These Flash Back Arrestors come in two
basic design flanged and threaded.
The Normal Sizes are:
Media Media
Maximum Working Maximum Working
Pressure Pressure
Thread Thread
ed ed
(R (R
H) H)
DN DN
11
55
DN DN
22
00
DN DN
22
55
DN DN
33
22
DN DN
44
00
Air / Oxygen Air / Oxygen 40.00 40.00 bar bar
LPG LPG 10.00 10.00 bar bar
Hydrogen Hydrogen 16.00 16.00 bar bar
H) H)
Flange Flange
DN DN
33
22
DN DN
44
00
DN DN
55
00
DN DN
66
55
DN DN
88
00
y g y g
Natural Gas Natural Gas 10.00 10.00 bar bar
Flange Flange
d d
DN DN
11
00
00
DN DN
11
22
55
DN DN
11
55
00
DN DN
22
00
00
DN DN
22
55
00
Some of the Indigenous Models Some of the Indigenous Models
Model FBA WT
The water and the disk, works like a flame
arrestors quench the flash back arrestors, quench the flash back.
Two Non return valves in series- one in the
incoming line and the other at the bottom of the
FBAc ts off s ppl in the e ent of an flash FBA cuts off supply in the event of any flash
back in the down stream equipment. Further
relief valve provided at the top releases vapour
and hot gases and prevent damage to the
equipment.
Working Pressure: Working Pressure: Size: Size:
Media Media
Maximum Working Maximum Working
Pressure Pressure
Inlet / Outlet Inlet / Outlet
Acetylene Acetylene 1.5 1.5 bar bar 1/4" 1/4"
LPG LPG 5 5 bar bar 1/2" 1/2"
Hydrogen Hydrogen 5 5 bar bar 3/4" 3/4"
Natural Gas Natural Gas 5 5 bar bar 1" 1"
Some of the Indigenous Models Some of the Indigenous Models gg
Model FBA Model FBA - - HP HP
Hose Size (mm) Hose Size (mm) Thread Size BSP Thread Size BSP
INLET / OUTLET INLET / OUTLET OUTLET OUTLET
5.0 5.0 1/4 1/4 LH/RH LH/RH
Media Media
Max. Max.
Working Working
Pressure Pressure
6.0 6.0 1/4 1/4 LH/RH LH/RH
Air Oxygen Air Oxygen 20.00 20.00 bar bar
LPG LPG 5.00 5.00 bar bar
8.0 8.0 3/8 3/8 LH/RH LH/RH
9.0 9.0 3/8 3/8 LH/RH LH/RH
Acetylene Acetylene 1.50 1.50 bar bar
Natural Gas Natural Gas 1.60 1.60 bar bar
10.0 10.0 3/8 3/8 LH/RH LH/RH
Some of the Indigenous Models Some of the Indigenous Models Some of the Indigenous Models Some of the Indigenous Models
Model FBA PM
The Flash Back arrestors are designed for fitting on the Pipeline /
Manifold to prevent flash back and protect your precocious equipment
and lives. The safety elements are (1) Contaminate Filter, (2) Non and lives. The safety elements are (1) Contaminate Filter, (2) Non
Return Valve, (3) Flame Block, (4) Flame Trap, (5) Temperature
Activated Flow cut off device.
Working Working
Pressure Pressure: : Size: Size:
Media Media
Maximum Maximum
Working Working
Pressure Pressure
RH RH --
BB FOR AIR / FOR AIR /
Pressure Pressure
SS
PP
OXYGE OXYGE
N N Acetylene Acetylene 22.0 22.0 bar bar
AIR/OXYGEN AIR/OXYGEN 40.0 40.0 bar bar
LPG LPG 5.0 5.0 bar bar LH LH --
BBBB
SS
PP
FOR FUEL FOR FUEL
GAS GAS
Hydrogen Hydrogen 5.0 5.0 bar bar
Natural Gas Natural Gas 5.0 5.0 bar bar
REFERENCES REFERENCES REFERENCES REFERENCES
Safety Bulletins No. 05 / 00 / E as Revised by 05 / Safety Bulletins No. 05 / 00 / E as Revised by 05 / Safety Bulletins No. 05 / 00 / E as Revised by 05 / Safety Bulletins No. 05 / 00 / E as Revised by 05 /
93 / E of EIGA ( European Industrial Gases 93 / E of EIGA ( European Industrial Gases
Association ) Association )
World Wide Web ( Internet ) World Wide Web ( Internet )
Document No.: FBA Document No.: FBA--0A1, Modification A of 0A1, Modification A of ,,
Paarth Industries, Vadodara, Gujrat Paarth Industries, Vadodara, Gujrat
IS :11006 IS :11006 - -1984 of B.I.S. 1984 of B.I.S.
Gases & Instrumentation Magazine, Article by Gases & Instrumentation Magazine, Article by
David Pryor, Sept / Oct. 2008 David Pryor, Sept / Oct. 2008