Flame arrestor FLEX R

Producer: RSBP

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

Flameless explosion venting devices FLEX keep flames that are dangerous to people from escaping. At the same time, 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 the structures are not damaged.

Description
Technical features
Documentation
Installation

Description

Flameless explosion venting device FLEX R is a passive explosion protection device for releasing explosion energy in enclosed spaces. The explosion relief panel reduces the overpressure of the shock wave and prevents the destruction of structures due to its effects. The curved, mesh-like dispersion surface reduces the temperature of the explosion products and keeps open flames from escaping to the outside.

The smooth shape of the FLEX R makes it suitable for small or complex equipment. The flame arrester can be installed horizontally and vertically as well as at an angle.

Operation principle

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

Temperatures of up to 1500°C can be reached during a normal explosion pressure release. When exploding light metal powders, e.g. aluminum and magnesium, the temperature may be around 3000 °C.

The released explosion products pass through a system of grids in the dispersion surfaces, where they are cooled down and decelerated to safe levels.

Advantages

The FLEX R flameless venting device provides explosion protection in enclosed areas. In case of equipment failure, there is only a slight increase in ambient temperature and pressure, which is safe for people and technical structures.
Due to the curved surface, it is suitable for small or complex equipment.
Economical to operate. Flame arresters are designed for multiple applications. After an explosion, it is sufficient to replace the protective cover if it is used.
Resistant to dust and mechanical damage as well as process pressure fluctuations.
Integrates into existing equipment and automatic control system.

Technical features

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

Type	A (mm)	B (mm)	C (mm)	D (mm)	Weight (kg)	Size VMP
FLEX R1 PRO	390	710	635	410	40	630 x 310
FLEX R2 PRO	540	890	900	580	74	450 x 800
FLEX R3 PRO	666	1000	1130	735	109	586 x 920
FLEX R4 PRO	996	1198	1660	1070	215	915 x 1118

Optional accessories for FLEX flameless venting devices:

Spark-proof relay. Electrical device creates a boundary between hazardous and safe area by controlling the opening/closing of the explosion-proof panel. Available on request.
Flange seal. Used between flange of equipment to be protected and explosion vent 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 casing. Prevents contaminants from entering the scattering surface screens. Protective cover is used in heavily dusty areas or when installing flame arresters on outdoor units where water, snow is possible. In the event of an explosion, this accessory simply breaks off and does not hinder the operation of the flame arrestor. Subsequently, it is simply replaced.

Documentation

FLEX PRO user manual

FLEX HANGING ON TECHNOLOGY datasheet

FLEX R datasheet

Installation

The FLEX flameless venting device is used when installing the explosion vent 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 to:

Ensure that the unit is stored in accordance with the supplied 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 in 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 proper functioning of the FLEX. The minimum distance between the FLEX and a nearby machine 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 shipping bolts;
installation of a suitable flange seal – the components from the flame arrester manufacturer RSBP spol. s.r.o. are preferred;
Fastening or suspension of the device;
Tightening of the flange bolts according to the diagram in the instructions;
Grounding the unit.

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

The scope of delivery includes:

Operation manual (instructions);
Installation drawing of the flame detector;
Equipment maintenance and repair log.

Maintenance

The operator appoints the person responsible for the safe operation of FLEXs from among qualified employees who have no medical contraindications. Only this person has the right to carry out maintenance of the devices in accordance with the instructions.

Maintenance consists primarily in checking for mechanical damage and contamination, which reduce the performance of the flame arresters and lead to their failure to trigger an explosion. The FLEX R can be inspected through a special inspection opening. After inspection and cleaning of dirt it should be tightly closed 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 is 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.