What is the primary function of a flame arrestor in a hydrogen system?

The primary function of a flame arrestor in a hydrogen system is to prevent the propagation of a flame from a source of ignition to other parts of the system, thereby preventing a larger fire or explosion. A flame arrestor is a safety device that allows the flow of gases but stops a flame from passing through it. It typically consists of a porous material, such as a crimped metal ribbon or a wire mesh, with small passages that quench the flame by absorbing its heat and reducing the temperature below the ignition point of the gas mixture. If a flame enters the flame arrestor, the heat is dissipated by the porous material, preventing the flame from propagating to the other side. Flame arrestors are used in various locations within a hydrogen system, such as vent lines, fuel gas lines, and storage tanks, to protect against potential ignition sources and prevent explosions. They are particularly important in hydrogen systems because hydrogen is highly flammable and has a wide flammability range. Therefore, a flame arrestor acts as a crucial barrier to prevent the spread of flames in a hydrogen system.