Explosion safety for dual-fuel and LNG engines: Q-Rohr® DFE receives fourth class certificate

Having received the class certificate from Lloyd’s Register, the Q-Rohr® DFE has successfully passed its fourth class certificate. Special suitability of the explosion protection system for LNG and dual-fuel engines has also been confirmed by DNV-GL, Bureau Veritas and ABS (American Bureau of Shipping).

Gas-powered engines and the connected exhaust system for marine propulsion and power generation carry a major risk of explosion. This may be caused, among other things, by possible misfiring whereby a combustible gas-oxygen mix may reach the exhaust system. Sources of ignition mostly include hot surfaces in pipelines, turbochargers or glowing (soot) particles in the exhaust gas flow. When an explosive gas mixture meets with a source of ignition, there is the risk that pressure and flames will spread very quickly within the pipeline sections, thus usually causing damage or even uncontrolled destruction on components. This risk can lead to loss of manoeuvrability, devastating injuries and maritime distress.

The Q-Rohr® DFE is installed on the exhaust system of an engine. If an explosion occurs, it protects the engine through flameless venting technology. This reduces unacceptable overpressure, while the stainless steel mesh filter of the Q-Rohr® DFE absorbs the heat of the explosion. As a result, the explosion collapses, so that there is neither a strong shockwave nor flames. Pressure is safely relieved within the exhaust system, which remains intact. The engine room, too, receives maximum protection.

One benefit that is particularly important for ship operators is that, after an incident, the explosion vent in the Q-Rohr® DFE can simply be replaced and operation can be resumed.

Further product benefits:

•100% seal tightness to eliminate danger of asphyxiation.

•Compact, lightweight design and therefore suitable for installation within limited space

•Connection flange in accordance DIN 86044

•Corrosion-resistant: 100% stainless steel

•Substantial noise reduction, even under normal operation