Hot Water Advanced Inerting Explosion Suppression System

Application Examples

Available Options

Large and small sizes.
Standard vertical process entry or horizontal with mounting elbow.
Range of deflector plates for specific applications.
Process entry seals up to pharmaceutical standard.
Included as standard:
- pressure and temperature switches (level indication) in suppressor bottle.
- proximity switch indicates position of arm/disarm lock.
- support bracket for bottle.
- provided with outer vacuum shell for high insulation and hygiene.

The Atex HWAIS is an innovative solution to the complex problem of non-contaminating explosion suppression in large volumes. Superheated water is released under pressure to quickly disperse microscopic droplets over a large area creating an inert atmosphere which immediately extinguishes flame.

Features

High efficiency water suppressant.
Self-propelling agent requires no nozzles or high pressure storage.
New high-speed gas generator actuated release valve removes the need for explosively initiated rupture discs.
Having two gas generators provides redundancy, doubling the safety integrity level.
Simple arm/disarm mechanism is possible via lockable valve.
Discharged systems can be refilled on-site.
Water is compatible with a wide range of processes because it is safe and non-toxic.
Can be used inside all plant areas regardless of ventilation.
Automatic supervision.

Concept and Operation

HW AIS is a reservoir of pressure hot water. On entering the protected volume, the hot water releases an explosive discharge of thermal energy, causing the water to rapidly expand under its own pressure. This thermal expansion disperses a mist of fine water droplets ( < 50µm ), greatly increasing the water's extinguishing efficiency. It accelerates into the protected volume covering a wide area, even around obstructed volumes.

The pressure hot water is electrically heated in stainless steel cylinders. The cylinders are self-controlled by a pressure switch and temperature switch. When the hot water valve receives a 'fired' signal from a control system and/or sensor it fires the actuators, opening the valve. The hot water is then discharged under its own low 10bar pressure into the protected volume.

The major advantage of the Hot Water Advanced Inerting System is that only a few entry points are required to provide large volume protection. System operation costs associated with traditional powder suppressors do not apply, for the following reasons:

Process cleanup time and costs are minimal.
Contamination by suppressant is generally not an issue.
Refilling with water is simple and quick.
Pressurising the suppressant is by the flick of a switch.
Valve refurbishment costs are only for seals and labour.

Like the ATEX Powder Suppressor, the Hot Water Advanced Inerting System comprises simply a valve and two gas generators. The dual gas generator valve actuator provides redundancy for added safety.

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