metal structured packing - clean(new col) a fire risk?
metal structured packing - clean(new col) a fire risk?
(OP)
Dear all,
i understand the risk of structured packing fires during turnarounds etc. that a spark could be a major risk.
Is this the same case for a new install of stuctured packing into a clean column on a new plant.?
and is the risk the same as the packing is being stored?
ie do we need to be carefull installing the packing in a constuction site?
i understand the risk of structured packing fires during turnarounds etc. that a spark could be a major risk.
Is this the same case for a new install of stuctured packing into a clean column on a new plant.?
and is the risk the same as the packing is being stored?
ie do we need to be carefull installing the packing in a constuction site?





RE: metal structured packing - clean(new col) a fire risk?
RE: metal structured packing - clean(new col) a fire risk?
Main risk with packing is presence of pyrophoric iron. This compound doesn't need spark to ignite, only oxygen. This is particulate dangerous in refinery vacuum towers. Usually before opening for maintenance such column are chemically washed. Even after cleaning during maintenance it is good idea to keep packing wet.
Good article: http://www.cheresources.com/ironfires.shtml
For installation of new packing , main concern is how to keep debris away from packing, also walking on them is not good idea.
I hope that your packing vendor will provide you enough data how to deal with packing during installation also many vendors offers supervisors for packing installation.
Regards,
Milutin
RE: metal structured packing - clean(new col) a fire risk?
Milutin, has given the good answer to this subject,which is a commom practice.
luis marques
RE: metal structured packing - clean(new col) a fire risk?
The workers felt the heat from below and evacuated. The tower was flushed with water. This was one experience anyway.
best wishes,
sshep