If an explosion occurs, minimizing the affects and any business downtime, are critical. Explosion Isolation is designed to prevent an explosion from escalating, by blocking the flame paths that lead to other process equipment or occupied areas - effectively containing the explosion, and eliminating secondary explosions. Utilizing control and explosion detection devices, mechanical or chemical barriers are used to block flames and pressure from spreading, saving valuable resources and minimizing damage.

In isolating an explosion or deflagration, response time and operational reliability are critical. Fike explosion isolation systems have been subjected to extensive development testing on both a system and a component level. Each component is rugged, durable, dependable...and fast.

Mechanical Explosion Isolation
Fike has developed a fast-acting explosion isolation valve designed specifically to close in milliseconds to provide a mechanical barrier against both flame and pressure - and in both directions in the piping! These mechanical explosion valves prevent the transmission of flame and burning materials, but are most effective when integrated into an explosion detection/protection system. Used in conjunction with explosion venting or explosion suppression, Fike mechanical isolation valves are one of the most useful, versatile methods of explosion protection available.

Chemical Isolation
When the connected piece of equipment is protected by explosion venting or explosion suppression, little pressure can be expected. In such cases, connecting pipe can be protected with a more economical chemical isolation barrier.

Chemical explosion isolation is achieved by the rapid discharge of a chemical extinguishing agent in the interconnecting pipe or duct. An explosion detector detects the deflagration pressure or flame front, initiating the rapid discharge of extinguishing agent, thus preventing the propagation of flame and burning materials.

NOTE: Chemical isolation should not be confused with ignition source (spark) suppression systems. Such systems are intended to detect burning particles traveling down a duct and extinguish them with a down-stream spray of water. They are not designed to stop deflagrations once they have started and are ineffective for preventing deflagration propagation through interconnected equipment.

To assist our customers in determining the appropriate explosion protection products, Fike maintains the most comprehensive Testing facility in North America. From the simple to the complicated, our testing facilities help you identify which safety and protection equipment is correct for your application.