What Are the Main Types of Flame Arresters

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.

Key Takeaways

• Flame arresters stop flames from spreading through pipes or vents while letting gases pass, protecting people and equipment from explosions.
• There are three main types: end-of-line arresters block flames from outside sources, in-line deflagration arresters stop slow-moving flames inside pipes,and in-line detonation arresters handle fast, high-pressure explosions.
• Choosing the right flame arrester depends on the type of gas, pressure, and explosion risk; using the wrong type can cause dangerous failures.
• Regular inspection and cleaning keep flame arresters working safely; monthly checks and cleaning every few months prevent blockages and damage.
• Industries like oil and gas, chemical plants, and renewable energy rely on flame arresters to meet safety standards and prevent costly accidents.

Flame Arrester Types

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.

Key features:

• 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.

Typical applications include:

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

In-Line Deflagration flame arresters

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.

How it works:

• The flame arrester uses metal elements with many small passages.
• As the flame passes through, the metal absorbs heat and cools the gases.
• This process quenches the flame, stopping it from spreading further.

Key features:

• 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

Common industries using in-line deflagration flame arresters:

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

丨Deflagration arresters protect equipment and people by stopping flames before they can cause damage or explosions in connected systems.

In-Line Detonation flame arresters

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.

How it works:

• The arrester contains strong metal elements, such as perforated plates or bundles of tubes.
• These elements absorb and dissipate the intense heat from the supersonic flame and shock wave.
• The design ensures the flame cannot pass, even under extreme pressure.

Key features:

• 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

Typical applications:

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

丨In-line detonation flame arresters provide the highest level of protection,stopping both deflagration and detonation events. Their robust design makes them essential in high-risk environments.

Summary Table:

Tip: 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.

Applications & Maintenance

Common Uses

Many industries rely on flame arresters to protect people, equipment, and the environment. These devices play a vital role wherever flammable gases,vapors, or liquids are present. Key industries include:

• Oil and gas refineries
• Chemical plants and petrochemical facilities
• Power plants
• Storage tanks and pipelines
• Paints and coatings manufacturing
• Coal mining (especially in Davy lamps)
• Pharmaceutical production
• Automotive and aerospace sectors
• Wastewater treatment plants
• Renewable energy sites, such as biogas and hydrogen production
• Marine and offshore drilling platforms

Flame arresters often appear in pipelines, vent lines, and storage tanks. They prevent flames from spreading during the transport or storage of hazardous materials. Many countries require these devices by law in high-risk industries to meet safety standards and protect workers.

Note: Regular use of flame arresters in these settings helps prevent explosions and ensures compliance with regulations such as OSHA,NFPA, and ATEX.

Inspection & Care

Proper maintenance keeps a flame arrester working safely and efficiently.Neglecting care can lead to dangerous failures, including fire or explosion.Companies should follow a strict maintenance schedule:

1. Inspect flame arresters visually every month for corrosion, damage, or loose connections.
2. Clean the internal elements every 3-6 months. Use brushes or compressed air to remove dust and debris.
3. Test performance once a year. Check for proper gas flow and pressure
4. Perform a detailed internal inspection every 2-3 years. Look for warping,clogging, or corrosion. Replace damaged parts with approved
5. Keep detailed records of all inspections, cleaning, and repairs.
6. Train staff to recognize signs of wear and follow correct procedures

Common problems include clogging from dust, corrosion from chemicals and mechanical damage. Regular inspection and cleaning help prevent these issues.Using corrosion-resistant materials and following manufacturer guidelines also improve safety.

Tip: Inadequate maintenance can cause flame arrester failure, leading to catastrophic fires, equipment damage, and costly downtime.

ZHENCHAO Overview

Products

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 products stand out for several reasons:

• Integration of breather valves with flame arresters to balance tankpressure 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

ZHENCHAO provides installation and maintenance guidelines to help customers keep their flame arresters working safely.