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Flammable liquids are integral to many industrial processes, including chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, pharmaceuticals, and flavor and fragrance manufacturing. However, the very properties that make these liquids useful also make them hazardous. The risk of fires or explosions when handling flammable liquids cannot be overstated, which is why robust safety measures are crucial.
The Importance of Fire-Safe Valves
A critical safety component in systems dealing with flammable liquids is the fire-safe shutdown valve. Designed to automatically shut down in the event of a fire, these valves help prevent the escalation of potentially catastrophic incidents by stopping the flow of hazardous liquids. Assured Automation’s FM Fire-Safe Fusible Link Thermal Shutdown Valves are engineered to provide this essential protection.
Features and Benefits of FM Fire-Safe Valves
Assured Automation’s FM Fire-Safe Valves are packed with features that ensure reliable and efficient performance in critical situations:
- Automatic Shutoff: The valves feature a fusible link that melts at a specific temperature, ensuring automatic closure without the need for manual intervention.
- Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials, these valves are designed to withstand harsh industrial environments and prolonged exposure to flammable substances.
- Ease of Integration: The valves are designed for seamless integration into existing safety systems, making them an excellent choice for both new installations and retrofits.
- Regulatory Compliance: FM Approved and meeting stringent safety standards, these valves help ensure that your facility adheres to regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of penalties or shutdowns.
- Enhanced Safety: By automatically stopping the flow of flammable liquids in a fire, these valves significantly reduce the risk of explosions and fire spread, protecting both personnel and assets.
These features make FM Fire-Safe Valves a crucial component in maintaining a safe and compliant operation.
Types of FM Fire-Safe Valves Available
Assured Automation offers three types of FM Fire-Safe Valves:
- FW 3-Piece Ball Valves:
- Fire-Safe to API 607: These valves are designed for reliable fire-safe operation.
- Materials: Available in Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel.
- Port: Full Port design ensures minimal pressure drop.
- Line Sizes: Available in sizes from ½” to 2″.
- End Connections: Options include NPT, Socket Weld, and Butt Weld.
- Thermal Links: U.L. listed thermal link temperatures range from 165°F (74°C) to 500°F (260°C).
- W50 Flanged Ball Valves:
- Fire-Safe to API 607: Engineered for fire-safe functionality in demanding applications.
- Materials: Constructed from Stainless Steel or Carbon Steel.
- Port: Full Port design for optimal flow.
- Line Sizes: Ranging from ½” to 6″.
- End Connections: 150 Lb ANSI Flange connection.
- Thermal Links: U.L. listed thermal link temperatures from 165°F (74°C) to 360°F (182°C).
- BFV Butterfly Valves:
- Fire-Safe to API 607: Suitable for larger line sizes and high-performance applications.
- Materials: Available in 316 Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel.
- Line Sizes: Ranges from 2″ to 12″.
- End Connections: Includes 150LB Wafer and 150LB Lugged.
- Thermal Links: U.L. listed thermal link temperatures from 165°F (74°C) to 500°F (260°C).
Each type of valve is designed to provide optimal performance in fire safety scenarios, making them essential components in your safety system.
How FM Fire-Safe Valves Work
The FM Fire-Safe Valves are equipped with a fusible link that melts at a predetermined temperature, triggering the valve to close automatically. This mechanism ensures that, even in the absence of human intervention, the valve will act to isolate flammable liquids, minimizing the spread of fire and protecting both people and property.
Applications in Various Industries
These valves are vital across industries that handle flammable liquids:
- Chemical Processing: Where various chemicals, many of them highly flammable, are mixed and processed.
- Oil and Gas: In refineries, where large volumes of flammable liquids are stored and processed.
- Pharmaceuticals: Where solvents and other flammable chemicals are used in drug manufacturing.
- Flavor and Fragrance: In flavor/fragrance applications where alcohol is used.
Compliance and Assurance
Adhering to safety regulations is imperative when working with flammable liquids. Assured Automation’s FM Fire-Safe Valves are FM Approved, meaning they meet rigorous standards for safety and performance. Installing these valves in your systems not only helps ensure compliance but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your facility is protected by top-tier safety equipment.
FM Fire-Safe Series Standards:
- National Fire Protection Association NFPA 58, (1979 Edition)
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106(b)(4)(iv)(c) Flammable Liquids
- Factory Mutual Class Number 7440, May, 1981
- ANSI/API 607
- AIChE Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) Guidelines for Safe Storage and Handling of Reactive Materials, pages 163,181, 1995
Conclusion
In any industry dealing with flammable liquids, the risk of fire is a serious concern. By integrating FM Fire-Safe Valves for flammable liquids from Assured Automation into your safety systems, you take a proactive step in safeguarding your operations, protecting your workforce, and securing your assets against fire-related incidents.
For more information on how FM Fire-Safe Valves can enhance your facility’s safety, visit our FM Fire-Safe Valve page.