Installation
The FLEX flame arrester is used when installing the explosion detection panel inside the building where the equipment to be protected is located. Any damage to the device may cause it to malfunction, therefore it is important:
- Ensure that the device is stored in accordance with the enclosed instructions.
- Ensure that all components are intact before installation.
- Study the requirements of the enclosed instructions.
Outdoor installation is only permitted if the FLEX unit is protected from water, snow, ice and other particles entering the flame filter screen. In this case, a protective cover is used.
The distance between installed FLEX units and adjacent equipment or walls must be approved by the manufacturer. This distance is necessary to ensure the correct functioning of the FLEX. The minimum distance between the FLEX and the adjacent machinery or building wall must be 0.5 m.
The FLEX is delivered assembled. The explosion-proof panel is attached to the FLEX with sealant and bolts, which must be removed before installation.
Installation is carried out in stages according to the manufacturer’s instructions:
- Removal of the transport bolts;
- installation of a suitable flange seal – preference is given to components from the flame arresters manufacturer RSBP spol. s.r.o;
- fastening or suspension of the FLEX C3, C4, C5 type or any other type or size that has been selected due to the dimensions of the equipment to be protected;
- tightening the flange bolts according to the diagram in the instructions;
- grounding the unit.
Ignoring the factory requirements during installation may cause the FLEX flame-spreader to malfunction.
The scope of delivery includes:
- Operation manual (instruction manual);
- Installation drawing of the detector;
- Equipment maintenance and repair log.
Maintenance
The operator appoints a person responsible for the safe operation of the FLEX flame arresters from amongst qualified personnel who have no medical contraindications. Only this person is authorised to carry out the maintenance of the devices in accordance with the instructions.
Maintenance primarily consists of checking for mechanical damage and contamination, which reduces the performance of the flame arresters and leads to their failure to trigger an explosion. Rectangular FLEX R and F can be inspected through a special inspection opening. It must be sealed tightly with a shutter after inspection and cleaning of dirt.
The employee responsible for the maintenance and safe operation of the flame arrester must be trained at least once a year.
The operator determines the maintenance interval, taking into account the operating conditions of the unit. The greater the risk of soiling and damage, the more often maintenance must be carried out. The intervals recommended by the manufacturer:
- First maintenance service 2 weeks after commissioning;
- Second service interval 6 weeks;
- Third maintenance at 8 weeks;
- Afterwards, at least once a year, but once a month is recommended.
The maintenance intervals are specified in the operator’s manual, which is based on the manufacturer’s instructions. All maintenance activities are recorded in a special logbook. It is included in the delivery set.
FLEX flame arresters may only be serviced by the manufacturer or its authorized representative. Recommended intervals:
- First functional test – 3 weeks after commissioning.
- Second functional check – 6 weeks.
- Service – 6 months after commissioning.
- Service – 1 year.
In the event of failure-free operation, each subsequent service is performed once a year.
