The Role of Flame Arrestors in Vapor Recovery Systems

Flame arrestors (also known as flame arresters) are an essential safety feature for any industrial process involving flammable gases or liquids. They are typically installed in vapor recovery systems to prevent accidental ignition of gases or vapors that could lead to fires or explosions. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at flame arrestors and their function in vapor recovery systems.

What is a flame arrestor?

A flame arrestor is a device designed to extinguish flames or prevent the spread of flames within a pipe or vessel. It acts as a barrier between the flammable gases or vapors and the outside environment. Flame arrestors consist of a series of small openings or meshes that allow gas flow but restrict the passage of flames. This design helps to dissipate heat and lower the temperature of the flame, ultimately preventing it from escaping and becoming a potential hazard.

Why are flame arrestors necessary in vapor recovery systems?

Vapor recovery units (also called VRUs) are used to capture and process vapors released from storage tanks, piping, and other equipment. These vapors are often volatile and highly flammable, posing a significant safety risk. The use of flame arrestors on VRUs helps mitigate this risk by ensuring that potential flames are stopped before they can reach the atmosphere.

In addition to their safety benefits, flame arrestors also play a critical role in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of vapor recovery units. During the capture and processing of vapors, there is a potential for gas or vapor mixtures to form within the equipment. These mixtures can ignite and cause fires or explosions. By installing flame arrestors on the VRU, these mixtures can be safely vented without posing a threat to the environment.

In short, flame arrestors are a critical component of vapor recovery systems, serving as a vital safety feature and ensuring the efficient operation of these systems. They play an important role in preventing the accidental ignition of flammable gases or vapors and are a necessary addition to any industrial process that uses these materials.

 

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Cashco’s flame arrestors are engineered to stop the propagation of flames in gas piping systems, helping protect equipment, personnel, and facilities. For more information about Cashco's arrestors, view all models here .

Cashco is dedicated to ensuring you select the best solution for your tank protection needs. Need help choosing the right flame arrestor? Contact us and our experienced team will gladly assist you in finding the ideal product!