possible. The flame temperature is much higher in oxygen than with air and the destructive power much more as well. Oxygen enrichment can


happen in various ways, such as a gas leak from pipe connections or breaking into a pipeline system. Should you have a large leak and an ignition, a flame can develop in no time at all. Many oxygen fires have


been caused by the improper use of oxygen – examples are the inflation of tyres, rubber boats and driving pneumatic tools. Before using high pressure oxygen one should ask yourself if what you are doing could possibly cause a fire. There are some incorrect operations which could contribute to the risk of an oxygen fire. When a regulator is used, ensure that it is closed after use, as when you open the cylinder again the high pressure of the cylinder on the opened regulator will cause a high flow of oxygen in an uncontrolled manner that can cause an ignition and a resulting fire. When rapidly opening


the valve of a cylinder, a similar action can be the cause of a fire due to the excessive friction of high pressure and velocity of the oxygen. Should a valve of a cylinder be opened with oxygen flowing down a pipe against a dead end, you could find that


due to the rapid increase in temperature of the adiabatic compression, a fire could result. Oxygen booster pumps have a specific way they should be operated and all the correct precautions should be adhered to as per the manufacturer’s manual. Compatibility of all the


materials should be assessed as o-rings and seals could have an exact lookalike substitute, resulting in a tragedy. Even PTFE thread tape comes in an oxygen compatible variant and a non-compatible variant, so make sure that you get the right one. Replacing metal alloy parts on an oxygen system should be done with the help of the original equipment supplier as the wrong alloy could lead to a disaster. Lubricants are not allowed


in oxygen service as almost all of them are flammable in oxygen and could cause an instantaneous explosion. Clothing can also be a source of concern as most materials enriched with oxygen will burn vigorously, even fire resistant materials. In an oxygen enriched atmosphere of 40% vol/ vol the burn speed goes from 3,5cm/sec in air to 13,75cm/sec. Following these rules will


ensure that your next encounter with oxygen will be a good one. For more information, email hans. strydom@afrox.linde.com


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