Is it necessary to consider the risk of explosion caused by hydrogen generation during the production and storage of concentrated sulfuric acid?
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This post was last edited by shineduke on 2016-8-5 08:02. In the production and storage of concentrated sulfuric acid, carbon steel equipment is inevitably used. When concentrated sulfuric acid comes into contact with water and becomes diluted, it reacts with carbon steel equipment and pipelines to produce hydrogen gas. In China, there have also been accidents involving explosions of concentrated sulfuric acid storage tanks during maintenance work. Therefore, in facilities involved in the handling of concentrated sulfuric acid or in places where such acid is stored, is it necessary to designate areas prone to hydrogen gas explosions and install hydrogen gas detectors?
Generally, it isn’t necessary; there are ventilation holes on the top. If it has been left unused for a long time with the top sealed, then it’s necessary to check the hydrogen content
I don’t think it’s necessary either, but I’m not sure; I’ll wait for the best answer
There is no need for an alarm device; there have been some incidents of hydrogen explosions related to sulfuric acid storage in China. It is sufficient to ensure proper ventilation and conduct inspections before carrying out any work that involves fire.
No installation is required. Only trace amounts of hydrogen are emitted with the exhaust gases during the production process. Under abnormal conditions, a large amount of hydrogen may be generated, reaching the explosive limit, and an explosion will occur upon the presence of an ignition source. Such as when water penetrates through a perforation in the acid cooler, with the water pressure being higher than the acid pressure. Special attention must be paid during disposal: cut off the circulating water as soon as possible, and concentrate and displace it with dilute acid. The vent pipe of the gas phase line is opened to prevent hydrogen accumulation. Conduct combustible gas analysis; replace with nitrogen if necessary.
No installation is required. The top of the concentrated sulfuric acid storage tank is equipped with ventilation holes; ensuring proper ventilation is sufficient. It is advisable to open the manhole at the top one day before maintenance in order to replace the air inside.