The likelihood of a potentially catastrophic explosion is an ever-present danger in the oil and gas storage sector. This is due to the fact that the structural integrity of storage vessels is vulnerable to the relatively small changes in pressure routinely encountered during normal operating conditions.

During the filling and emptying cycles of tanks and vessels, the liquid volume and vapour space will change. This coupled with fluctuating operating temperatures and pressures, results in the need for pressure and vacuum protection equipment. In addition to normal operation, tanks and vessels are vulnerable to engulfment by fire could result in large volumes of vapour needing to be rapidly vented, in order to protect the tank and its environment.

Safety devices such as alarms or control systems cannot be fully relied upon, as these can malfunction, which could lead to catastrophic failure of the tank. This can result in critical injuries, loss of product and severe environmental damage. Alternatively, businesses within the Oil & Gas industry must rely upon fail-safe devices in order to prevent these risks, such as Pressure/Vacuum Relief Valves, Emergency Relief Vents, and/or other venting relief devices such as Bursting Discs. These devices should be fitted in addition to Flame Arresters, in any cases where these may be required.

Here at Elmac, our product offering expands beyond our range of industry-leading flame arresters – we also pride ourselves on being pressure protection specialists. Our range of low-pressure protection equipment is designed to safeguard tanks and vessels from under or over pressure, during both normal and emergency conditions.

Our low-pressure protection equipment is designed to protect tanks from rupture or implosion during both filling and emptying cycles. The devices limit product loss and environmental discharges whilst also protecting tanks during thermal changes.

We are committed to developing world-leading Pressure/Vacuum Relief Valves and associated safety equipment, that provide ultimate protection in low pressure process environments. Our experienced technical team work closely with our worldwide customer base to design and size bespoke, cost-effective solutions that meet or exceed their requirements in terms of both safety and operational performance benefits.

If you have any questions about our range of low-pressure protection equipment, then do feel free to drop us a Tweet or message us on LinkedIn.