Can a small desiccant container installed on top of the sulfuric acid tank serve as a vent valve?
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Seeking advice: In 98% concentrated sulfuric acid tanks, to prevent absorption of water from the air, the vent valve is removed and replaced with a small desiccant container; the top of this container is connected to the atmosphere. Can it still serve the same purpose of allowing exhaust gas to escape? Can a longer desiccant period prevent the emission and intake of gas, and does it require additional lines?
Yes, it can be designed in the form of a water seal, similar to the principle of hydraulic safety valves. Sulfuric acid is used inside, and the material can be steel lined with PVDF – it works very well
No, because if a desiccant tank is used as a breathing valve, the water vapor in the atmosphere will cause the desiccant to become ineffective very quickly
It doesn’t need to be too complicated. As is commonly mentioned during safety inspections, desiccants are required mainly to prevent moisture in the air from entering the upper part of the tank and causing corrosion; such desiccants can be made from PP or PVC and filled with industrial silica gel – simple and practical! Silicone can be dried regularly and reused, with no need to worry about corrosion!