In order to reduce the risk of deflagration within a process tank, an inert gas must be injected in the correct quantity, location, and time of the product transfer. Understanding the tank dynamics of each application is critical to implementing the best engineering control for this process. Existing nitrogen blanketing systems frequently do not apply the gas at the correct quantities, location, or timing during the solids addition process. This results in elevated oxygen concentrations in the manway region of the tank which increases the likelihood of a deflagration near the chemical operator.
Our inerting systems provide an effective control to reduce and maintain oxygen concentrations during the solids charging process. The dual rate injection system is adjustable and can be integrated with an oxygen level sensor to provide a precise control system.
The two figures to the left illustrate how a properly designed inerting system can change the tank dynamics and reduce the risk of deflagration. The first figure demonstrates a common tank system that allows elevated oxygen levels near the manway region during the solids addition process. All three components of the fire triangle [oxygen, ignition source, and fuel] are established in this scenario. The entrained air delivers oxygen to the headspace of the tank and mixes with the dry dust and solvent vapors. Static charge can generate the energy to ignite this volatile mixture resulting in a dangerous deflagration event, injuring the chemical operator and causing significant equipment damage. The second figure to the left shows a tank where the inert gas is added at the proper quantity, location, and timing of a solids addition process. A properly located 02 sensor can provide accurate O2 concentrations to confirm a safe work environment.