Flammability testing toxic gases

The atmospheres in a confined space may be immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) because of toxic air contaminants or lack of oxygen. Before any company employee enters a confined space, tests must be performed to determine the presence and concentration of any flammable vapor or gas or any toxic airborne particulate, vapor, or gas and to determine the oxygen concentration (follow all procedures as outlined in the company s Confined Space Program). 

Gas tests for flammables or toxics should be made where appropriate and necessary work permits issued, before allowing a vacuum track to enter the affected area and during operation. 

Density Test) and toxic gas emission (DraegerTube Toxic Gas Test). For certain parts of the aircraft, FAA also requires the materials to pass either a 12 second or a 60 second vertical bum test. In addition, aircraft manufactures may have additional requirements on the flammability of the materials. Table 1 summarizes the performance of OSU resin against typical FAA requirements. Especially noteworthy are the OSU heat release values that not only meet, but also exceed OSU 65/65 standards (<55/55). At the same time, OSU resin generates a very low amount of smoke and toxic gases during burning. 

Immediately after the running test, any compressor intended for toxic, hazardous, flammable, or hydrogen-rich service should be gas tested with an inert gas to the maximum seal design pressure. The test is held at least 30 minutes and the casing and its joints checked for leaks, using a soap bubble method or other suitable means for leak detection. When no leaks are detected, the compressor will be considered acceptable. 

Fluoropolymers also low flammability. The fully fluorinated polymer polytetrafluoroethylene, for example, burns only in 95% oxygen under the test conditions of LOI. The burning, however, produces a highly toxic and corrosive gas hydrogen fluoride. 

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