SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 2009
STP48839S

Oxygen Fire Hazards in Valve-Integrated Pressure Regulators for Medical Oxygen

Source

In recent years, medical oxygen regulators that incorporate a cylinder isolation valve have increased in popularity. These devices, often called valve-integrated pressure regulators (VIPRs), essentially combine several components into one highly compact manifold design, typically including a fill valve, shut-off valve, residual pressure valve, regulator, and relief valve. Combining these components into a single manifold block presents unique oxygen fire hazards that can differ greatly from those found in the stand-alone versions of the components. In order to avoid fires, these hazards must be understood and addressed in the design of the VIPR. This paper presents the most common oxygen fire hazards found in VIPR devices as well as the ASTM analysis and testing methods used to qualify a new design, specifically considering oxygen compatibility of materials, toxicity of combustion products, ignition mechanisms, and reaction effects of a fire.

Author Information

Forsyth, Elliot, T.
Oxygen Safety Consultants, Inc., Tulsa, OK
Newton, Barry, E.
Wendell Hull and Associates, Inc., Las Cruces, NM
Chiffoleau, Gwenael, J. A.
Wendell Hull & Associates, Inc., Las Cruces, NM
Forsyth, Brad
Wendell Hull and Associates Inc., Las Cruces, NM
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Details
Developed by Committee: G04
Pages: 285–302
DOI: 10.1520/STP48839S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-8407-7
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-7508-2