Z343-94

1.1 This Standard describes test methods for use in assessing the performance of flame arresters intended for use with Group C and D flammable gases and vapours as defined in CSA Standard C22.1 in applications such as flare stacks, firebox air intakes, and vent lines. This Standard does not apply to details of construction, specification, selection, application, maintenance, or any of the other factors which must be considered for a suitable flame arrester installation. Note: See Appendix A for general background information concerning flame arresters and test procedures. 1.2 This Standard applies to flame arrester installations where the ambient operating temperature is in the range -45 to 100°C, and the maximum operating pressure is 108.25 kPa (absolute), unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer (see Clause 1.4). This Standard outlines the testing of complete flame arrester untis only (consisting, as a minimum, of a flame arrester housing and flame arrester element), and does not apply to the testing of individual components thereof. Performance tests of a flame suppresion system, which may form part of a flame arrester assembly, are not within the scope of this Standard. A flame warning system is mandatory for any in-line flame arrester being tested to this Standard. Notes: (1) The above temperature range and pressure limits are intended to represent normal outdoor seasonal temperature and pressure extremes to which a flame arrester may be exposed in normal use. (2) A device tested to this Standard may be operated at higher pressures, but flame arresting capabilities at pressures above 108.25kPa (absolute) are not within the scope of this Standard, unless performance claims in this regard are stated by the manufacturer (see Clause 1.4). Internal operating pressures would normally be expected to be lower than 108.25 kPa (absolute) where a low flow or loss of flow condition exists--the condition of most concern. (3) If a flame suppression system is included with an in-line flame arrester t enhance the overall performance of the system, the intent of this Standard is to assess the performance of the in-line flame arrester element only. Accordingly, this may require that a flame suppression system which is supplied with an in-line flame arrester be disabled for certain tests in this Standard. 1.3 This Standard does not apply to the following: (a) flame arresters intended for installations in, on, or associated with explosion-proof electrical enclosures as defined in CSA Standard C22.2 No. 30; (b) flame arresters used for intake and exhaust system explosion protection of diesel engines; (c) flame arrester systems using other than porous media flame arrester elements. These may be employed at the user's discretion, but are not within the scope of this Standard; and (d) flame arresters for use in oxygen-enriched atmospheres. Notes: (1) Requirements for flame arresters installed on explosion-proof enclosures are stated in CSA Standard C22.2 No. 30. (2) The tests in this Standard are designed to assess porous media-type flame arresters only; application of these tests to other flame arresting technologies that do not use porous media may not be appropriate. 1.4 The test requirements of this Standard are minimum performance requirements. Performance claims specified by the manufacturer, for example, those concerning flame arrester operating pressure, which exceed these minimum stated performance requirements shall be verified in accordance with the procedures of this Standard.