What does Fire-Safe mean when choosing a Gasket?

In the process of gasket material selection, many inquiries point to the term “fire-safe”. Lets briefly look at the two most commonly used gasket fire testing methods: API 6FA & API 607.

API 6FA: The American Petroleum Institute’s 6FA-re test is used to qualify valves for chemical process service.

The flange is assembled using proper bolt-up procedures and all parameters such as stress and torque are recorded. Thermocouples are mounted 1” away from the outside of the flange (Figure 1). The valve is enveloped in flame using four propane burners arranged symmetrically around the outside of the flange. The flame temperature should be 1400ºF to 1800ºF (average of the two thermocouples) for a burn period of 30 minutes from ignition. The temperature is maintained with no reading less than 1300ºF. An internal water pressure amounting to 75% of the flange rating is applied throughout the test and the leakage rate is continually measured. The test rig is then allowed to cool to 212°F in turbulent atmospheric air while continuing to measure leakage. The flange is disassembled and visual conditions such as material loss, sticking, and discoloration are noted.

Note : Klinger Top-Chem-2000 is a known PTFE based material that passes the API 6FA-re test. A PTFE material surviving 1472°F temperature for 30 minutes and 435-psig internal pressure with 0.0-ml/min leakage throughout the test makes this a valuable material for the chemical process industry.

API 607 Fourth Edition: This test is similar to the 6FA test, but with changes that reflect the conditions found in an oil refinery.

After the specified assembly procedure, the fixture is hydro-tested to 110% of the maximum flange rating e.g. 314 psi for ASTM 150#. Internal test pressure of this test is specified as 30 psi. The assembly is exposed to flames at a temperature of 1400ºF for a duration of 30 minutes. The assembly is then quenched with water and leakage is measured at 30, 50, 100, and 200 psig intervals. Maximum leakage rate is 100 ml/min throughout the test.

The extremely rapid heat-up/cool-down conditions cause distortions of the flange assembly, which the gasket material must compensate for.

Note : This test is best suited for composite gaskets. Klinger Quantum, Klingersil C-4433 and metal-reinforced Klingersil C-4439 are the three materials that have passed API 607 and are available in Canada through Robco.

Comments

Understanding Sizing of Semi-Metallic Gaskets When Replacing Soft Gaskets

Sizing Semi-Metallic Gaskets When Replacing Soft Gaskets When replacing soft gaskets with semi-metallic gaskets, it's important to understand the sizing differences and considerations. The following guidelines provide suggested dimensions based on experience to help you choose the appropriate non-metallic gasket size to replace a soft gasket. These sizings are not mandatory but serve as useful recommendations. 1. When Flange Dimensions Are Provided If the customer provides the dimensions of the flange, the following guidelines can be used to determine the appropriate gasket size: Gasket Inner Diameter (I.D.) : The inner diameter of the gasket should be the bore size of the flange plus a minimum of 1/8". Gasket Outer Diameter (O.D.) : The outer diameter can be up to the bolt hole circle diameter minus one bolt hole diameter. This applies when the proposed gasket width corresponds to the standard width of semi-metallic gaskets, which is typically 1/2", 3/4...

6 Reasons Why Removable Insulation Covers Are Essential in Hospitals

Why Removable Insulation Covers Are a Smart Investment for Hospitals In the complex environment of a hospital, efficiency, safety, and cost management are crucial. Every decision made must prioritize patient care, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. While often overlooked, insulation in hospitals plays a critical role in maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. One of the most effective and versatile solutions is the use of removable insulation covers, also known as removable insulation jackets. These covers are a smart investment for any healthcare facility, offering a range of benefits that directly impact the hospital’s bottom line and overall performance. 1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Hospitals operate 24/7, making energy consumption a significant cost factor. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, along with various mechanical equipment, consume vast amounts of energy. Uninsulated or poorly insulated equipment can lead...

6 raisons pour lesquelles vous avez besoin de couvertures chauffantes sur vos conteneurs de liquides industriels pendant l'hiver

Les avantages des couvertures chauffantes pour les liquides industriels pendant les hivers rigoureux du Canada Lorsqu'il s'agit de gérer des liquides industriels pendant les rudes hivers canadiens, maintenir la bonne température est essentiel pour garantir l'efficacité et la sécurité. Que vous stockiez ou transportiez des produits chimiques, des huiles, des adhésifs ou d'autres matériaux sensibles dans des fûts, seaux ou cuves, les conditions de gel peuvent gravement affecter leur viscosité, leur utilisabilité et même causer des dommages irréversibles. Une solution pratique à ce problème est l'utilisation de couvertures chauffantes. Voici pourquoi elles sont indispensables pour les applications industrielles. 1. Prévention du gel et maintien du flux Les hivers canadiens apportent souvent des températures sous zéro, ce qui peut entraîner le gel des liquides industriels ou les rendre trop visqueux pour être efficacement utilisés. Les couvertures chauffantes ...

Robco Expert

Search This Blog