UB/DF

Function and Description

The PROTEGO^® UB/DF diaphragm valve is a worldwide unique deflagration-proof and endurance burning-proof pressure relief valve combining the function of a dynamic and static flame arrester. It is primarily used as a device for flame transmission-proof out-breathing on tanks, containers, and process equipment. The valve offers reliable protection against overpressure, prevents the in-breathing of air and product losses almost up to the set pressure, and protects against atmospheric deflagration and endurance burning if stabilized burning occurs. The PROTEGO^® UB/DF diaphragm valve has proven itself over many years under a wide variety of operating conditions in the mineral oil and chemical industries. The set pressure is adjusted with a freeze resistant water-glycol mixture which ensures safe operation under extreme cold weather conditions. The PROTEGO^® UB/DF valve is available for substances from explosion group IIB3 (NEC group C MESG ≥ 0.65 mm).

When the pressure in the tank reaches the set pressure, the diaphragm (1) on the outer valve seat ring (2) is lifted and vapors are released into the environment. The set pressure is adjusted by the weight of the liquid load (water-glycol mixture) in the outer ring chamber (3). The overpressure chamber is equipped with an opening (4) to keep the pressure in balance. The opening is equipped with a FLAMEFILTER^® to prevent flame transmission into the overpressure chamber. The overpressure setting is determined by the filling level of the loading liquid and can be adjusted by a floating level indicator (5).

The tank pressure is maintained up to the set pressure with a tightness that is above the normal standards due to our highly developed manufacturing technology. This is achieved by the liquid loaded diaphragm pressing tightly around the special designed valve seat surface area even when the operating pressure increases, which reduces surface pressure and unnecessary leakage. After the overpressure is released, the valve re-seats and provides a tight seal.

If the set pressure is exceeded, explosive gas/product vapor/air mixtures are released into the atmosphere. The speed at which these mixtures exit the annular gap between the diaphragm and the outer valve seat ring is considerably greater than the flame speed. If this mixture ignites, flashback into the tank is prevented. If the mixture flow continues, the dynamic flame arresting feature prevents flashback, even in the case of endurance burning. Even at relatively low flow rates, e.g., during thermal out-breathing, the gap formed by the volumetric flow is so narrow, that flames in the gap are extinguished, and a flashback is prevented. At very low pressure settings, the explosion pressures resulting from an atmospheric deflagration may be strong enough to lift the diaphragm off the valve seat rings. The ignition into the tank can be prevented by installing the PROTEGO^® flame arrester unit (8). This PROTEGO^® flame arrester unit provides additional protection against atmospheric deflagration when the valve is open for maintenance and inspection.

The valve can be used at an operating temperature of up to +60°C/140°F and meets the requirements of European tank design standard EN 14015 (Appendix L) and ISO 28300 (API 2000).

Type-approved in accordance with the current ATEX Directive and EN ISO 16852, as well as other international standards.