Breather valve on the gas station vent pipe
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There is a breathing valve on the vent pipe of the gas station; during fuel unloading, the pressure inside the tank increases, and this valve helps to release that pressure – it’s quite easy to understand. But if the weather-induced thermal expansion and contraction, combined with a large amount of fuel added, create a vacuum inside the tank, causing air to be drawn in through the breather valve and resulting in a mixture of oil, gas, and air within the tank, isn’t that very dangerous? I would like to ask whether such a design is reasonable? Is it my understanding that is incorrect? I hope everyone can give me some guidance! ! !
That’s indeed the case; it’s very dangerous. Therefore, gas stations must prohibit all types of sparks, including static electricity.
Atmospheric pressure storage tanks must be equipped with breather valves and flame arresters. The latter ensures safety.
They are all equipped with flame arresters, so even if there is a space where oil and gas can mix inside the tank, it generally does not pose any risks. Larger storage tanks are the same
The flame arrester is installed on top of the vent, right? But it’s also necessary to prevent static electricity from forming at the bottom of the vent or elsewhere, as that could lead to accidents, right?
In fact, the flame arrester on the vent is simply a layer of copper wire mesh, whose function is to prevent outside sparks from entering the tank. There is no friction at the bottom of the vent or elsewhere, and the gas flow velocity is very low, so static electricity hazards generally do not occur
Mm-hmm, I see. Thank you for your explanation! ! !
In short, eliminate static electricity and prevent the presence of ignition sources. It’s fine even within the explosion range.
There is another question: do you know what the requirements are for the gaskets between the flanges of gas stations? Can asbestos pads be used? Is it still necessary to use a metal wound gasket? I checked the gas station design specifications – there are no regulations regarding this!