Explosion prevention issues in atmospheric and vacuum heating furnaces
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The gas fractionation unit in my facility is located about 150 meters away from the atmospheric and vacuum distillation units. Previously, there was a failure in the seal of the liquefied gas pump, which led to the widespread dispersion of liquefied gas; however, emergency measures were taken and the accident was contained without any further escalation. I would like to ask forum users: if a large amount of liquefied gas is carried by the wind into the heating furnace area of a vacuum distillation unit, could a flash explosion occur? Can the explosion-proof design of the heating furnace itself ensure safety?
Yes, Tenglong Aromatics is an example
For the gas phase, it’s better to use a shielded pump, or a cascade seal
It is recommended to change the sealing type of the pump to a tandem seal; this way, in the event of a leak, it can be detected promptly through the pressure alarm of the tandem seal system, and the fluid will not leak into the surrounding environment when there is a leak in the pump.
Could there be a flash explosion inside the equipment? I generally understand this as an effect caused by a sudden increase in pressure in a confined space. Heating furnaces are equipped with explosion-proof doors, which allow pressure to be released in such cases; at most, this will cause the insulation panels inside the furnace to fall off. As for the liquefied gas spreading towards the furnace area, the worst that can happen is a deflagration. If this occurs, here’s a tip for you: activate the fire suppression SIS system. If such a system isn’t available, then congratulations, you can file a complaint with the safety authorities. Then stay away from the furnace area. If you want your supervisor to recognize your efforts, and if there are fixed fire cannons nearby, use them by adjusting the nozzles to produce a mist-like spray, and position them to cover the furnace area while you evacuate. If there are no fire cannons, steam tapes can also be used – simply open them and place them under the furnace (not inside it), fixing them in place. I’m sure your supervisor will praise you afterwards
Yes, because when liquefied gas reaches a certain concentration, it can explode upon contact with an open flame