Flameless explosion venting device FLEX F PRO

Flameless explosion venting device FLEX F PRO

Producer: RSBP

Explosion protection standards stipulate the use of flameless explosion venting devices when installing explosion relief systems (explosion detectors) in enclosed spaces. The idea is to prevent open flames from escaping into an enclosed space and causing a fire.

Flameless explosion venting devices FLEX prevent flames dangerous to people from escaping. However, they do not prevent the release of excess explosive pressure, which is the main cause of equipment destruction in an explosion. The pressure is reduced to safe values and no structural damage occurs.

Description
Technical data
Documentation
Installation and maintenance

Description

The FLEX F rectangular flameless explosion venting device is a passive explosion protection device for releasing explosion energy in enclosed spaces. The explosion vent reduces the overpressure of the shock wave and prevents structures from collapsing due to its effects. The mesh diffusion surface reduces the temperature of the explosion products and prevents open flames from escaping to the outside.

The rectangular flat shape of the FLEX F enables this device to be used on oversized equipment only. However, it is the most economical option for flameless explosion venting devices.

Principle of operation

When an explosion occurs, pressure builds up in the equipment. The alarm gives a command to open the VMP explosion diaphragm. Flames, burning dust, gases are discharged into the FLEX unit.

Temperatures of up to 1500°C can be reached in a normal explosion pressure release. In explosions of light metal powders, e.g. aluminium and magnesium, temperatures can be around 3000 °C.

The released explosion products pass through a system of grids in the dispersal surface where they are cooled and decelerated to safe levels.

Advantages

Provides explosion protection in enclosed areas. In the event of an accident in the equipment, there is only a slight increase in ambient temperature and pressure, which is safe for people and technical structures.
Due to its simple design, the FLEX F is the most inexpensive flameless explosion venting device.
It is economical in operation. Flameless explosion venting devices are designed for multiple use. After an explosion, it is sufficient to replace the cover, if used.
Resistant to dust and mechanical damage as well as process pressure fluctuations.
Integrates into existing equipment and automatic control system.

Technical data

All flameless explosion venting devices are supplied as standard from the factory with VMP explosion-proof panels of the sizes shown in the table.

Type	A (mm)	B (mm)	C (mm)	D (mm)	Weight (kg)	Size VMP
FLEX F1 PRO	225	675	265	465	24	150 x 600
FLEX F2 PRO	305	625	335	530	28	220 x 540
FLEX F3 PRO	390	710	420	620	35	630 x 310

Optional accessories for FLEX:

Intrinsically safe relay. An electrical device creates a boundary between a hazardous area and a safe area by controlling the opening/closing of an explosion-proof panel. Available on request.
Flange seal. Used between the flange of the equipment to be protected and the explosion protected panel. Always included from the manufacturer RSBP spol. s.r.o. If the customer decides to use his own flange seal, the supplier is not responsible for incorrect choice of material and design of the seal.
Protective cover. Prevents contaminant particles from entering the grids of the scattering surface. The protective cover is used in heavily dusty areas or when installing flame arresters on outdoor units where water or snow may enter. In the event of an explosion, this accessory simply breaks away and does not prevent the FLEX from functioning. It is then simply replaced.

Documentation

FLEX PRO user manual

FLEX HANGING ON TECHNOLOGY datasheet

FLEX F datasheet

Installation

The FLEX is used when installing the explosion detection panel inside the building in which the equipment to be protected is located. Any damage to the device may cause it to malfunction, so it is important:

Ensure that the appliance is stored in accordance with the enclosed instructions.
Make sure that all components are in perfect condition 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 blast plate 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 gasket – the components from FLEX manufacturer RSBP spol. s.r.o. are preferred;
Tighten the flange bolts according to the diagram in the instructions;
The grounding of the unit.

Ignoring the factory requirements during installation may cause the FLEX to malfunction.

The scope of delivery includes:

Operating manual (instruction manual);
Installation drawing of the signalling device;
Equipment maintenance and repair log.

Maintenance

The operator appoints a person responsible for the safe operation of the FLEX from amongst qualified personnel who have no medical contraindications. Only this person is authorised to carry out maintenance of the devices in accordance with the instructions.

The maintenance consists primarily in checking for mechanical damage and contamination, which reduces the performance of the flameless explosion venting devices and leads to their failure to trigger an explosion. The FLEX F can be inspected through a special inspection opening. Once it has been inspected and cleaned of dirt, it should be sealed tightly with a shutter.

An 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 is 2 weeks after commissioning;
The second maintenance check – 6 weeks;
The third maintenance service is 8 weeks;
Thereafter 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. This is included in the delivery.

FLEX flameless explosion venting devices may only be serviced by the manufacturer or its authorised representative. Recommended intervals:

First functionality test – 3 weeks after commissioning.
The second functionality test is 6 weeks.
Service – 6 months after commissioning.
Service – 1 year.

With trouble-free operation, each subsequent service is carried out once a year.

Advantages of working with ATEX.CENTER

The customer will have no problems with the supply of components and service. ATEX.CENTER is an official distributor of the leading European distributor of explosion protection equipment RSBP spol. s r.o. Our specialists periodically confirm their qualification in his commission of expertise.