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What Are the Main Types of Flame Arresters
22/07/2025

Flame Arrester Banner

International safety standards identify two main types of flame arrester: detonation arresters and deflagration arresters. Deflagration arresters include in-line and end-of-line designs, each built for specific combustion risks and conditions. A flame arrester lets gases pass while stopping flames from spreading, helping prevent explosions. Compliance with EN lS0 16852:2016 ensures these devices meet global safety expectations. Choosing the right type protects equipment and people in hazardous environments.

End-of-Line flame arresters

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Definition

End-of-line flame arresters sit at the end of pipes or vents, usually where gases exit into the open air. Their main job is to stop flames from entering storage tanks or pipelines from outside sources, such as lightning or sparks in the atmosphere. These devices protect tanks, valves, and vent systems by blocking external ignition and preventing explosions.

Main features and advantages

  • Easy to install and maintain
  • No moving parts, so they work passively
  • Designed for high-pressure gas streams and can handle large gas flows
  • Often used on oilfield storage tanks, chemical storage vessels, and vent-to-atmosphere devices

End-of-line flame arresters remove heat from a flame as it passes through narrow metal passages. This cooling action drops the temperature below the ignition point, stopping the flame from spreading.

Application scenarios

  • Storage tanks
  • Tank vents
  • Valves
  • Marine and vapor recovery systems

Potential disadvantages

  1. Susceptible to Blockage and Fouling
  2. Limited to Atmospheric Venting
  3. Not Designed for Continuous Burning
  4. Temperature Sensitivity
  5. Performance Drops with Poor Maintenance
  6. Installation Limitations
  7. Risk of Overpressure

In-Line Deflagration flame arresters

In-Line Deflagration flame arresters Banner

Definition

In-line deflagration flame arresters are installed inside pipes or ducts. They stop flames that start within the system and prevent them from moving downstream. Deflagration means a flame travels through a gas mixture at a speed slower than sound. This type of flame is common in industrial settings.

Main features and advantages

  • Large surface area to mass ratio for better heat absorption
  • Suited for low-pressure applications and large gas flows
  • Must be installed in the correct orientation and location for best performance

Application scenarios

  • Oil and gas
  • Chemical processing
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Water treatment
  • Food and beverage

Potential disadvantages

  1. Limited to Low-Speed Flames (Deflagrations Only)
  2. Higher Pressure Drop
  3. Maintenance-Intensive
  4. Space and Installation Constraints
  5. Temperature Limitations
  6. Not for Continuous Burning
  7. Material Compatibility lssues
  8. Higher Cost Compared to End-of-Line Units

In-Line Detonation flame arresters

In-Line Detonation flame arresters Banner

Definition

In-line detonation flame arresters are built for the most severe conditions.Detonation is a type of explosion where the flame front moves faster than the speed of sound, creating a shock wave. This event causes much higher pressure and temperature than deflagration.

Main features and advantages

  • Heavy-duty construction to withstand high pressures and temperatures
  • Can be installed in pipelines with bends, rough surfaces, or obstructions
  • Suitable for vapor recovery units, storage, and combustion systems

Application scenarios

  • Vapor recovery systems
  • Storage tank protection
  • Combustion and flare systems
  • Marine and hazardous chemical processing

Potential disadvantages

  1. Higher Cost and Complexity
  2. Bulky and Heavy Design
  3. Pressure Drop Concerns
  4. Strict Installation Requirements
  5. Not Maintenance-Free
  6. Material Compatibility Risks
  7. Unsuitable for Continuous Burning Unless Rated
  8. Longer Lead Times for Custom Applications

How to choose the right one for your needs?

End-of-Line vs In-Line Deflagration vs In-Line Detonation

Type Main Function Typical Applications Distinguishing Features
End-of-Line Flame Arresters Stops external flames from entering systems Storage tanks, vents, valves Easy installation, high flow resistance
In-Line Deflagration Flame Arresters Stops flames traveling inside at subsonic speed Piping, process lines, reactors Large surface area, low-pressure applications
In-Line Detonation Flame Arresters Stops supersonic flames and shock waves Vapor recovery, storage, combustion Heavy-duty, withstands high pressure/temperature

How to choose?

The effectiveness of any flame arrester depends on proper selection installation, and regular maintenance. Always match the arrester type to the specific risk and system design.

Find the best Flame Arresters at ZhenChao

ZHENCHAO Overview Banner

ZHENCHAO offers a wide selection of flame arrester products for many industrial needs. Their product line covers end vent, anti-deflagration,storage tank, detonation, and threaded flame arresters. The company also provides breather valves with flame arresters and fire arresters with raincaps. Each product uses materials like stainless steel (304, 304L,316, 316L)carbon steel, or aluminum alloy. These materials help the products perform well in different temperature ranges and environments.

ZHENCHAO Flame Arrester Products

Product Type Materials Used Industrial Applications Key Features / Notes
End Vent Flame Arrestor Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Aluminum Chemical tanks, oil tanks, pipelines Explosion protection for vent pipes, flange end connection
Anti-Deflagration Flame Arrester Stainless Steel variants Petrochemical, chemical, light industry Multiple layers of corrugated plates for flame resistance
Storage Tank Flame Arrester Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel Storage tanks for petroleum products Protects tanks from flame propagation, suitable for low flash points
Detonation Flame Arrester Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel Pipelines needing detonation resistance High-performance, withstands detonation pressures
Breather Valve with Flame Arrester Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel Oil and gas recycling, storage tanks Combines breather valve and flame arresting functions
Fire Arrester with Rain Cap Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel Outdoor installations Rain cap prevents water ingress
Threaded Flame Arrester Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel Pipelines with threaded connections Easy installation for small pipelines
Carbon Steel Explosion-Proof Pipeline Flame Arrester Carbon Steel Explosion-proof pipeline systems Designed for high pressure and explosion-proof levels

ZhenChao advantages

ZHENCHAO products Reasons Banner

ZHENCHAO products Reasons Banner

  • Integration of breather valves with flame arresters to balance tank pressure and prevent explosions
  • Use of vapor heat transfer principles to prevent freezing of valve parts
  • Compatibility with many flammable media, including gasoline, kerosene.diesel, and petrochemicals
  • Compliance with SY/T0511.1-2010 and various flange standards (HG, JB,ANSI-B16.5, JIS)
  • 100% pressure testing for quality and safety
  • Over 20 years of manufacturing experience and competitive pricing
  • Strong after-sales service and fast response to feedback
  • Customization options, including OEM/ODM services

Conclusion

Flame arresters are a vital line of defense against fire and explosion hazards in industries dealing with flammable gases or vapors. Whether it’s an end-of-line or in-line detonation model, proper selection, installation, and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term safety and compliance. ZHENCHAO not only delivers high-performance flame arresters tailored to various industrial needs but also provides detailed installation and maintenance guidelines. These resources help customers maintain optimal performance, minimize risks, and extend product lifespan. By choosing ZHENCHAO, you’re investing in both safety and reliability for your facility.

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