Limo Experience Durham

What is a flame arrester and what is its primary function in industrial applications?

A flame arresters a safety device that is fitted to the opening of an enclosure, or to the connecting pipe work of a system of enclosures, and whose intended function is to allow flow but prevent the transmission of flame in the event an ignition takes place.

Flame arresters are typically used wherever there is the potential for an explosion arising from flammable gas or vapor being mixed with air. Accidental ignition of a flammable mixture will result in a flame that will travel through the unburnt mixture until the fuel is consumed by the reaction.

How does a flame arrester work to prevent the spread of flames?

Flame arrestors stop the flame propagation from entering through an opening. The device contains an assembly of perforated plates, slots, screens, etc. enclosed in a case or frame that will absorb the heat of a flame entering and thereby extinguish it before it can pass through.

What are the main components of a flame arrester and their functions?

The portion of a deflagration arrester or detonation arrester comprised of parallel spaced plates, packed ceramic or steel bed, stacked or rolled expanded metal or crimped metal windings. The element provides the heat sink and mechanical barrier to flame passage.

A flame arrester functions by absorbing the heat from a flame front thus dropping the burning gas/air mixture below its auto-ignition temperature; consequently, the flame cannot survive. The heat is absorbed through channels (passages) designed into an element.

What materials are typically used in the construction of flame arresters to ensure durability and effectiveness?

The arrestor is generally made of wound crimped metal ribbon. The metal absorbs the heat from the flame passing through it. This reduces the temperature of the flame to below its autoignition temperature at which point the flame goes out.

What are the common maintenance procedures for flame arresters to ensure they function correctly?

• Check the arrester is correctly installed. In accordance with the flame arrester’s operating conditions.
• Ensure that no modifications have been made to the arrester without the manufacturer’s written consent.
• Damaged flame arresters must be taken out of operation and repaired or replaced.
• Only the original manufacturer’s spares can be used in flame arresters. If obsolete (ie pre-ATEX), the whole unit will need to be replaced.
• Check flame arrester is secure within the pipework and not subject to undue strain.
• Any openings (drain ports) are securely sealed with gas-tight fittings.
• Tighten all fasteners to required torque.
• Make accurate records of work carried out.

How can flame arresters be tested to ensure they are working properly and within specifications?

Deflagration, Detonation and explosion tests for flame arresters are performed using propane. Some flame arresters pass detonation test but fails in deflagration test. If the process gas increases the rate of combustion, additional tests using the specific process gas are warranted.

What are the common failure modes of flame arresters and how can they be mitigated?

The failures of flame arrestors are typically in four areas: arrestors used under conditions that exceeded their test limitations, arrestors not subjected to any official testing (hence test limitations were not known and likely inadequate for the application), arrestors failing due to their channels being distorted by the flame front overpressure, and failures due to structural or design flaws that allowed a flame pathway through the element. A fifth failure mechanism would be foreign material fouling the arrestor flow channels. Arrestors do fail, so experience data was sought to quantify a failure on demand value.

What safety considerations should be taken into account when installing and operating flame arresters?

The flame arrestor is typically installed about 30 pipe diameters or 5 m upstream of the vent tip. Velocity flame arrestors must not be too far from the ignition source otherwise the flame that is traveling backward may accelerate such that its velocity is sufficient to pass through the arrestor.

Blockage of element with debris

Corrosion.

Mechanical damage.

Limo Experience Lincoln

What is a Venturi tube and what is its primary purpose in fluid measurement and control?

A Venturi tube is a short pipe with a narrow and restricted inner surface. It is typically used to calculate fluid flows and as a functional pump.

This principle states that within a specified flow field, a decrease in pressure occurs when there is an increase in velocity. The pressure difference described by the Venturi effect is utilized in many different devices. An apparatus known as a Venturi tube is the foundation for such device designs.

How does the Venturi effect work and how is it utilized in a Venturi tube?

The Venturi effect is named after the Italian physicist Giovanni Venturi. The Venturi effect occurs when a fluid, such as a gas or a liquid, flows through a constricted section of a pipe or a tube. When a fluid passes through a narrow section of the pipe, its speed increases, while the pressure decreases. This happens because the fluid molecules must squeeze through a smaller space, causing them to speed up. According to the principle of conservation of energy, the total energy of the fluid must remain constant. So, as the fluid’s speed increases, its pressure decreases to compensate for the energy change.

This change in fluid velocity and pressure has practical applications. One notable example is the Venturi tube, a device that utilizes the Venturi effect to measure the flow rate of a fluid.

What are the main components of a Venturi tube and their functions?

Components of Venturi Tube:

Converging Part: As water flows through the cone, its surface area diminishes. As a result, the pressure drops and the speed of the water’s flow increases.

Throat Diameter: Because the area of a throat diameter is constant while water flows through it, the speed and pressure are likewise constant.

Diverging Part: As water passes through the cone, the area expands, causing the speed and pressure to drop.

What materials are typically used in the construction of Venturi tubes to ensure durability and accuracy?

Venturi tubes and Venturi nozzles can be supplied in a wide range of material grades. Machined devices can be manufactured from barstock, or forgings. Standard materials include ASTM A182 F316 & F304 Stainless Steels, ASTM A182 F11 & F22 Chromium Steels and ASTM A105 Carbon Steel Standard materials for fabricated devices are ASTM A240 316/L Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel.

For applications requiring high accuracy flow measurement, Venturi tubes can be individually calibrated, using water, air or natural gas, to obtain accurate discharge coefficients for the device over a range of Reynolds numbers. There are other testing methods include dyepenetrant inspection, hydrostatic pressure testing, radiographic inspection, magnetic particle inspection and positive material identification. ASME IX welding procedures and qualifications in common and exotic materials are also available. Various heat treatments, including NACE MR 0175, can also be provided.

How does the design of a Venturi tube affect its pressure drop and flow measurement accuracy?

As the venturi’s volumetric flow rate is constant throughout, the fluid’s linear velocity as it passes through the throat, which has a smaller diameter, must increase for the conserving energy, among the conservation equations, to result in a decrease in pressure.

A Venturi tube is a kind of differential pressure flow meter that calculates fluid flow by determining the pressure difference between two points in a pipe. Constricting the pipe’s diameter results in an increase in flow velocity and a corresponding pressure drop, which is what produces this pressure difference. The flow rate can be calculated using these variations in the fluid flow.

Pressure vacuum relief valve is designed to protect your tank from damage created by overpressure or excessive vacuum.

Pressure / vacuum relief valves are used extensively on bulk storage tanks, including fixed roof tanks with floating covers, to minimize evaporation loss. The valves prevent the build-up of excessive pressure or vacuum which can unbalance the system or damage the storage vessel.

A Pressure Vacuum Relief Valve plays a fundamental role in controlling the pressure and vacuum levels in a storage tank, thereby preventing the catastrophic implications of a tank over-pressurization or vacuum collapse. Additionally, these valves prevent evaporation losses, minimise product contamination, and protect the environment from hazardous vapour emissions.

How does a pressure vacuum relief valve operate to maintain safe pressure levels and prevent damage to the system?

A Pressure Vacuum Relief Valve plays a fundamental role in controlling the pressure and vacuum levels in a storage tank, thereby preventing the catastrophic implications of a tank over-pressurization or vacuum collapse.

What are the main components of a pressure vacuum relief valve and their functions?

It’s essential to understand their components. These valves typically consist of elements such as the valve body, actuator, control element, and sensing mechanism.

• Breathing in: While the tank is being emptied, the PVRV breathes in to equalize the pressure inside and outside the tank, protecting it from a vacuum.
• Breathing out: When the tank is being filled, the PVRV allows air to escape to prevent excess pressure from causing the tank to swell.

How can pressure vacuum relief valves be tested to ensure they are working properly and within their specifications?

• Operate-in-place test: If the valve has never been tested before, lift the test lever. If the valve is stuck, remove the equipment from service until it can be repaired or replaced.
• Bench test: Shut down the facility’s system and remove all pressure relief valves. Then, transport the valves to a lab for testing and repairs.
• Set pressure test: After the set pressure test, perform a leak test by maintaining the test pressure at 90% of the set pressure. Then, count the number of bubbles produced per minute.
• Water heater test: Open the valve slightly with a bucket underneath to catch any dripping water. If you can see or hear water and gas escaping, the valve is working properly. Don’t force the valve open if you feel resistance.

What are the common failure modes of pressure vacuum relief valves and how can they be prevented?

• Contamination: Fluids can contain contaminants that can damage the valve’s internal components or sealing surfaces, or get lodged inside the valve. This can prevent the valve from closing, which can cause the system to lose pressure and functionality.
• Damage: Over time, the valve can become damaged or eroded by dirt and debris, preventing it from fully closing. This can cause the valve to chatter, which means it’s not fully open but is rapidly opening and closing.
• Leakage: Leakage can occur when debris or scale gets caught between the valve disc and seat’s sealing faces. It can also happen if the spring adjustment mechanism loosens during operation, causing the valve to continuously open.
• Wrong calibration: If the valve isn’t adjusted to the correct set pressure, it may cause early releases

To prevent failure, you can:

• Protect against contamination: Incorporate adequate protection against contamination upstream of the relief valve.
• Adjust the valve: Make sure the valve is adjusted to the correct set pressure. If the plant design changes, you may need to adjust the valve’s set pressure to align with the system’s new normal operating pressure.
• Inspect and maintain: Inspect and maintain the valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

What safety considerations should be taken into account when installing and operating pressure vacuum relief valves?

Lifting and carrying: If the valve has a handle or lever for manual operation, do not use it to lift or carry the valve. Testing: It is highly recommended to have a certified technician test a safety valve or pressure relief valve’s set pressure and seal tightness before installation.

Luxury Travel in Wilton

Chauffu: Hourly Limo Service

Understanding the Steam and Water Analysis System (SWAS) by Bliss Flow System

In the realm of industrial processes, maintaining the purity and quality of steam and water is crucial for ensuring operational efficiency and safety. One of the leading solutions in this field is the Steam and Water Analysis System (SWAS) by Bliss Flow System. Let’s delve into what makes this system a vital component in various industries.

The Importance of SWAS

Steam and water are integral to numerous industrial applications, including power generation, chemical processing, and manufacturing. Any impurities in these fluids can lead to corrosion, scaling, and ultimately, equipment failure. SWAS is designed to monitor and analyze the quality of steam and water, helping to prevent these issues and maintain optimal performance.

Key Features of Bliss Flow System’s SWAS

Bliss Flow System’s SWAS stands out due to its advanced features and reliability:

1. Precision Monitoring: The system offers precise monitoring of various parameters such as pH levels, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and silica content. This ensures that all critical aspects of steam and water quality are continuously assessed.
2. Robust Design: Built with durability in mind, the SWAS components are designed to withstand harsh industrial environments. The system is constructed from high-quality materials that resist corrosion and wear.
3. User-Friendly Interface: The SWAS by Bliss Flow System is equipped with an intuitive interface, making it easy for operators to navigate and understand real-time data. This user-friendly design helps in quick decision-making and troubleshooting.
4. Advanced Data Analytics: The system includes sophisticated data analytics tools that provide comprehensive reports and trends. These insights are invaluable for predictive maintenance and optimizing operational efficiency.
5. Compliance and Standards: Bliss Flow System ensures that their SWAS complies with international standards and regulations, guaranteeing that it meets the stringent quality requirements of various industries.

Applications of SWAS

Bliss Flow System’s SWAS finds applications across a broad spectrum of industries:

• Power Plants: In power generation, maintaining the purity of steam and water is essential to prevent turbine and boiler damage. SWAS ensures that power plants operate efficiently and safely.
• Chemical Industries: Chemical processes often require precise control of water quality to ensure product integrity and safety. SWAS helps in monitoring and maintaining the required standards.
• Manufacturing: Various manufacturing processes use steam and water, and any contamination can affect product quality. SWAS aids in maintaining the necessary purity levels to ensure high-quality outputs.

Benefits of Using Bliss Flow System’s SWAS

• Enhanced Equipment Lifespan: By preventing corrosion and scaling, SWAS helps in extending the lifespan of critical equipment.
• Operational Efficiency: Continuous monitoring and real-time data analysis lead to better operational decisions, reducing downtime and improving productivity.
• Cost Savings: Preventing equipment failure and optimizing maintenance schedules result in significant cost savings over time.

Conclusion

The Steam and Water Analysis System (SWAS) by Bliss Flow System is an indispensable tool for industries that rely on high-quality steam and water. Its precision, durability, and advanced features make it a reliable choice for ensuring operational efficiency and safety. By investing in SWAS, industries can protect their equipment, enhance productivity, and achieve significant cost savings.

THERMOCOUPLE:

Thermocouple, a sensor that is used for measuring temperature. This design of the sensor consists of two dissimilar metal wires which are joined together at one end, connected to an instrument that can accept a thermocouple input and measure the reading.

They sense the temperature, and the temperature is further measured by other instruments after sensing it. As they convert a non-electrical quantity (temperature) into voltage (electrical quantity) so they are transducers also. Since the do not require any external power source to operate, so they are active transducers.

The conventional thermocouple is used with an outer protecting tube or thermowell to protect it from aggressive and corrosive process conditions.

The thermocouple working principle is based on the Seeback Effect. This effect states that when a closed circuit is formed by jointing two dissimilar metals at two junctions, and junctions are maintained at different temperatures then an electromotive force (e.m.f.) is induced in this closed circuit. The amount of induced e.m.f. is different for different metal combinations and is proportional to the temperature difference of the junctions. This is the basic thermocouple working principle.

Advantages:

• They follow the temperature changes with a small time-lag. So, it can be used in applications where very rapid changes in temperature take place. It responds to those changes very quickly.
• These are very convenient for measuring the temperature at one point in any apparatus or setup.

RESISTANCE TEMPERATURE DETECTOR (RTD):

A Resistance Temperature Detector (also known as RTD) is an electronic device used to determine the temperature by measuring the resistance of an electrical wire. This wire is referred to as a temperature sensor. If we want to measure temperature with high accuracy, an RTD is the ideal solution, as it has good linear characteristics over a wide range of temperatures.

Advantages:

• High accuracy
• Low drift
• Wide operating range
• Suitability for precision applications.

RTDS VS THERMOCOUPLES

The two most common ways of measuring temperatures for industrial applications are with resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) and thermocouples. The choice between them is typically determined by four factors;

Temperature

If process temperatures are between −200 and 500 °C (−328.0 and 932.0 °F), an industrial RTD is the preferred option. Thermocouples have a range of −180 to 2,320 °C (−292.0 to 4,208.0 °F),[9] so for temperatures above 500 °C (932 °F) it is the contact temperature measurement device commonly found in physics laboratories.

Response time

If the process requires a very fast response to temperature changes (fractions of a second as opposed to seconds), then a thermocouple is the best choice. Time response is measured by immersing the sensor in water moving at 1 m/s (3.3 ft/s) with a 63.2% step change.

Size

A standard RTD sheath is 3.175 to 6.35 mm (0.1250 to 0.2500 in) in diameter; sheath diameters for thermocouples can be less than 1.6 mm (0.063 in).

Accuracy and stability requirements

If a tolerance of 2 °C is acceptable and the highest level of repeatability is not required, a thermocouple will serve. RTDs are capable of higher accuracy and can maintain stability for many years, while thermocouples can drift within the first few hours of use.

Visit Us- www.blissflowsystems.com/thermocouple-and-rtd/

Limo Experience Rockland