Pressure-Electric Firing Device

Storage tanks should be designed in accordance with the ASME code for unfited pressure vessels. AH-welded constmction is recommended. Ethylene oxide storage tanks should be electrically grounded, isolated from potential fire hazards, and equipped with pressure rehef devices. New equipment should be cleaned of iron oxide and immediately purged with inert gas. 

Unattended operations must be planned with automatic safety switches that prevent serious damage (fire, flooding, explosion) in case of accidental equipment failure or interruption of utility services such as electricity, water, or gas supplies. Of special concern are the constant flow of cooling water and the operation of high-temperature baths. In the case of water flow, a device should be installed in the water line to (1) automatically regulate the water pressure (so as to avoid surges that might disconnect or rupture a water hose), and (2) automatically turn off electrical connections and water-supply valves in case of a total loss of water supply. In the case of hot thermostat baths or ovens, a sensor/control device should be installed that automatically turns off the electrical power to all heaters if the temperature exceeds some preset upper limit. 

The real world test parameters discussed above have been incorporated into the fire hazard assessment model used by UL (Webber 1983) to determine the compliance of transformer fluids with section 450.23 of the National Electrical Code. In order to be compliant with the code, transformers insulated with less-flammable liquids are permitted to be installed without a vault in Type I and Type II buildings of approved noncombustible materials in areas in which no combustible materials are stored, provided there is a liquid confinement area, the liquid has a fire point of not less than 300 C and the installation complies with all restrictions provided for in the listing of the liquid. UL has identified the need for pressure relief devices and current limiting fusing to limit the effect of possible high current arcing faults. 

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