When it comes to ATEX compliant engines used in offshore oil and gas applications, not all ATEX 3G protection is the same. Our approach to thermal control is one of the many details that sets Pyroban apart.
An exhaust gas cooler and other thermal controls are listed in the specification of many explosion protection systems, but did you know that if you pick the wrong supplier, some hot areas may be left exposed?
One key area to look out for is the charge air system and compressor side of the turbo which reaches the 200degC (T3) temperature boundary very quickly in relatively low European ambient temperatures. The heat can also move around depending on a number of variables.
Pyroban is one of the only manufacturers that provides this level of thermal control with its SCTB (Soft Compound Thermal Barrier) coating technology to reduce the thermal signature.
Here’s a Pyroban protected Caterpillar engine at load showing a spot surface temperature of 148decC in a 32decC ambient atmosphere – proving that it is safe. Can your supplier show this thermal signature on the charge air system and compressor side of the turbo?
Our commitment to safety in hazardous areas is paramount, which is why we won’t leave hot surfaces that could cause an ignition exposed. We have been applying thermal coatings to the inlet systems of ATEX diesel engines since 2009 and have built up unrivalled knowledge of the process.
Unfortunately, we continue to see ATEX solutions placed on the market by competitors that don’t meet the T class and are therefore (arguably) unsafe. A quick check of the thermal control on our competitors’ solutions for the Caterpillar 3406 or C18 are a good example. This engine needs additional protection to the charge air system to allow it to be properly certified in ambient temperatures above 30degC – so beware!
This image shows a Pyroban conversion for a Cat C18 and the thermal control. It was supplied with Pyroban’s ExSCS™ system to eliminate the need for the high-maintenance exhaust flame arrestors and act as a combined safety shutdown and diesel engine control module.
So, when you ask “why Pyroban?”, the answer is clear. We are one of the only businesses with the experience (of more than 50 years) and integrity needed for truly safe operations.
For more information visit www.pyroban.com, email sales@pyroban.com or call +44 (0) 1273 456800.
