Z343-98 (R2002)

1. Scope 1.1 This Standard describes test methods for use in assessing the performance of porous media element flame arresters intended for use with Class I, 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 the details of construction, specification, selection, application, maintenance, or any of the other factors that must be considered for a suitable flame arrester installation. Notes: (1) See Appendix A for general background information concerning flame arresters and test procedures. (2) With the exception of the terms "flame arrester", "firebox", and "in-line flame arrester", terms that are defined in Clause 3 are shown in italics in the text elsewhere throughout this Standard. 1.2 This Standard applies to flame arrester installations where the ambient temperature to which the arrester is exposed is in the range -45 to 100°C, and where the maximum operating pressure for flame arrestment is 108.25 kPa (absolute), unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer (see Clause 1.4). This Standard covers the testing of complete flame arrester units 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 suppression 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 is 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 108.25 kPa (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 to 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 installation 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 arresters for use in oxygen-enriched atmospheres. 1.4 The test requirements of this Standard are minimum performance requirements; however, it shall be permissible for the manufacturer to qualify the device for more stringent conditions by using such conditions in conjunction with the procedures specified in this Standard.