Materials and constructions used in devices to prevent the spread of flames in pipelines and vessels

Abstract This paper surveys a selection of materials and constructions that are in current use and a selection that could potentially be used as the elements of flame arrester devices fitted to pipelines or vessels. Each material and construction type is discussed with reference to key performance criteria for successful flame arrester element application. The essential feature in any flame arrester element is a matrix of very small holes, apertures or cells. These cells allow the flow of flammable gases or vapours under conventional process conditions but are too small to allow the passage of flames, in the unfortunate situation of the gas or vapour igniting. For a practical flame arrester, the element's cell structure has to achieve an optimum combination of low gas flow resistance and adequate flame quenching at reasonable cost.