Problem: An Eastern U.S. wastewater treatment plant using biogas to fuel engines had frequent backfires and explosions in the exhaust duct system. Backfires occur when mapping air/fuel settings to achieve the optimum performance, since biogas has variable quality and a lower methane content. Explosion vent panels were installed on the exhaust ductwork to mitigate the effects of explosions.  The frequency of backfires and the requirement to shut down the engine and replace the vents after each explosion led to extended downtime. 

Solution: IEP Technologies supplied EVM Explosion Relief Valves. The company worked with plant maintenance personnel to calculate the size and quantity of explosion relief valves needed to replace the vent panels. The self-resetting, closeable, spring-loaded relief valve has an integral flame arrester. It can be used indoors or outdoors and can be activated multiple times without plant downtime or maintenance. The valves are certified by ATEX and IACS. Each unit is tested for function, opening pressure and leak-tightness before shipment.

Result: The installation allowed plant personnel to optimize engine mapping settings and avoid downtime. Backfires and explosions in the exhaust duct were relieved without requiring immediate shutdown of the engine. 413-896-1485; www.ieptechnologies.com