Pre-inerting method and apparatus for preventing large volume contained flammable fuels from exploding
US7155347B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 19, 2004 |
| Grant date | Dec 26, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 19, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA62C37/40
- WIPO fieldEnvironmental technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method and apparatus employing a hydrofluorocarbon agent for preventing a large volume of contained flammable fuel from exploding are disclosed. Generally, a method of the present invention comprises detecting a hazardous condition proximate the contained flammable fuel and applying a hydrofluorocarbon agent to an area proximate the fluid within 3–5 seconds of the hazardous condition detection. An apparatus according to the invention comprises a sensing device (24) for detecting the presence of a hazardous condition proximate a quantity of contained flammable fuel (14), and a discharging unit including a pressurizable vessel (16) containing therein the hydrofluorocarbon agent, and a discharge nozzle (20) located proximate the contained flammable fuel (14) and operably coupled with the vessel (16).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.