Explosion Suppression Systems.

An explosion suppression system consists of three components: a detector; control unit; and suppressor(s). In the event an ignition occurs, the fireball expands from the ignition kernel with the pressure wave traveling ahead of the flame front. Explosion pressure detectors are configured to respond to the characteristic pressure increase within milliseconds.

The explosion suppression control unit receives the detection signal from the pressure sensors and sends a release signal to the explosion suppressor(s). Suppressant is injected into the protected vessel at high rate and high velocity, using specially designed nozzles to disperse the suppressant and engulf the growing fireball. This rapidly cools the fireball, mitigating further combustion and reducing the explosion pressure. Integral to the design of most explosion suppression system is a chemical or mechanical explosion isolation systems to reduce the risk of flame/explosion propagation to other connected process equipment.

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