The latest craze for gin in the UK has seen a massive surge in the number of new distilleries with the latest figures suggesting that there are now more than 361 across the country. Just six years ago, there were only 153 in the UK, clearly illustrating the growth of the sector.
The growth is fuelled by Britain’s insatiable appetite for gin, as well as a new-found love of cocktails that has seen the emergence of British whiskies, vodkas, rums, brandies and liqueurs.
The distillation of spirits does however carry risks as whenever a flammable gas or vapour is mixed with air (oxygen), there is the potential for an explosion. The accidental ignition of the flammable mixture can result in a flame that can travel through the unburnt mixture until the fuel is consumed by the reaction. In an enclosed space, an explosion caused by the rupture of a distillery vessel containing a pressurized liquid that has reached temperatures above its boiling point is known as BLEVE (boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion) and presents a significant risk.
For more than 50 years, Elmac has been supporting the spirits industry by providing flame arresters that help protect those involved in the manufacture of spirits. Having the right safety equipment allows distillers to manufacture their drinks in the safest and most efficient ways and ensures they are compliant with the relevant HSE regulations.
Elmac Technologies are experts in providing flame arresters and pressure protection devices exceed industry standards and are proven to protect people, property and the planet.
Our high-quality flame arresters and valves not only keep the manufacturers in line with the latest regulatory standards, but also ensure they experience reduced product and vapour losses. Lower operating costs are also achieved from reduced downtime and maintenance leading to further benefits to distillers.
Elmac’s extensive range of unstable detonation arresters incorporates the patent-protected HEDS™ technology and offers protection in all explosion scenarios. The patented protected lightweight ERB range of flame arresters facilitates installation in the most difficult to access locations and our range of high-performance Pressure/Vacuum Relief Valves offers a unique PTFE sealing system designed to reduce product losses.
At Elmac Technologies, we tailor our products to meet the specific requirements of each distillery application and provide an unrivalled level of pre and post-installation support. We are also in the process of developing a training centre which will allow engineers and technicians to understand the key principles of a flame arrester, the correct way to maintain them and how to inspect to ensure regulatory compliance.
Through our work with our approved installation partners we can offer turnkey solutions with bespoke clamp designs that enable utilisation of existing tank fittings that can eliminate the need for hot works.
Put simply, we have the heritage, expertise and knowledge to give you the products and customer care required to ensure your distillery runs smoothly, safely and efficiently.