Flame Arrester is used to prevent the passage of a flame from outside of a storage tank or process vessel to the tank inside, or of a flame between pipe work system. It is applicable in different industries including petroleum and petrochemical, gas, marine and sewage treatment. Crimped ribbon element arresters are made of alternating layers of thin, corrugated metal ribbons and flat metal ribbons of the same width, which are wounded together on a mandrel to form a many layered cylinders of the desired diameter. The corrugated crimped ribbon element is designed for optimum increase in heat transfer. The net free area through flame arrester bank is three to four times the unit pipe size. This design reduces surface friction, optimizes flow capacity and minimizes pressure drop. The large surface area of the bank also improves the heat dissipation.
Explosion Protection: Prevents flame from traveling into storage tanks or piping systems, minimizing the risk of explosions.
Operational Safety: Protects people, equipment, and facilities in the event of external or internal ignition.
Compliance with Standards: Meets global safety regulations such as API 2000, NFPA 69 and ISO 16852.
Low Maintenance: Passive device with no moving parts; long service life and minimal upkeep.
Versatile Use: Suitable for both end-of-line and in-line applications.
Fail-Safe Design: Operates effectively even during power outages or emergencies.
Deflagration-type flame arresters are widely used in industries dealing with flammable vapors or combustible gases, including:
Petroleum storage tanks (breather vents, floating roof vents)
Chemical plants
Bioethanol and biodiesel facilities
Wastewater treatment plants
Gas venting systems
Hydrogen storage
Pharmaceutical manufacturing
Distillation and fermentation systems
Types:
End-of-line arresters: Installed at the end of a vent line to prevent external flame from entering.
In-line arresters: Installed in piping systems to stop flame traveling through flammable gas mixtures.
| Feature | Typical Specification |
|---|---|
| Standard Compliance | API 2000, ISO 16852, NFPA 69 |
| Explosion Group Ratings | IIA, IIB, IIB3, IIC (based on gas group) |
| Maximum Operating Temp. | Typically up to 60–100°C (varies by design) |
| Max Operating Pressure | Atmospheric to low pressure (<1.1 bar) |
| Flow Direction | Uni-directional (deflagration only) |
| Body Materials | Stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum |
| Flame Element | Corrugated stainless steel or crimped ribbon matrix |
| Sizes Available | 2″ to 24″ (DN 50 to DN 600) or larger |
| Mounting Orientation | Horizontal or vertical depending on type |
| Certification | ISO 9001 |
Install as close as possible to the potential ignition source for maximum protection.
Ensure the flow direction arrow matches process flow.
For end-of-line units, proper weather protection (e.g., rain caps) is essential.
Follow manufacturer spacing requirements for pipe bends, valves, and other fittings to prevent performance degradation.
Use appropriate gaskets and flange tightening procedures to prevent leaks.
Inspection Frequency: At least annually, or per operating environment risk.
Cleaning: Flame element may accumulate debris, especially in dusty or humid environments—must be cleaned gently to avoid deformation.
Corrosion Checks: Inspect housing and flame cell for corrosion, especially in aggressive atmospheres.
Functionality Testing: Flame arresters should be removed and bench-tested if contamination is suspected.
Fire and Explosion Prevention: Helps avoid environmental disasters resulting from fire or explosions in flammable gas systems.
Emissions Control Synergy: Works alongside vapor recovery units (VRUs), conservation vents, and other emission-reduction systems.
Passive Safety: No power required, reducing energy consumption.
Durability: Long-lasting materials (especially stainless steel) reduce waste and lifecycle costs.
Recyclable Metals: Most components (housing and flame cell) are made from recyclable stainless or carbon steel.
Low Waste Generation: Minimal consumables; maintenance typically involves cleaning, not replacement.
Improper Maintenance may lead to clogging or failure, increasing the risk of emissions or explosions.
End-of-Life units, if not properly recycled, can contribute to metal waste.
