Specification of flame arresting devices for manifolded low pressure storage tanks

Abstract

The current regulations and accepted recommended practices relating to the use of mechanical flame arresting devices on low pressure, flammable liquid storage tanks will be reviewed. The applicability of these recommendations to typical manifolded tank and closed piping vapor recovery systems, as opposed to the more common stand alone, venting to atmosphere storage tanks, will be examined with particular emphasis on the widely varying service conditions that mechanical flame arresting devices may encounter. The limitations placed on the use of commercially available Factory Mutual Approved and Underwriters Laboratories Listed flame arresters will be explained.