Westech Flame Arrester – Series 55

The Westech Series 55 In-Line Detonation Flame Arrester is a 2nd generation flame arrester designed to provide maximum protection against all modes of flame propagation, including deflagration, stable detonation, and overdriven detonation.

In many industrial applications, flame fronts can accelerate through piping systems, increasing pressure and velocity to levels that exceed the capabilities of conventional arresters. The Series 55 is engineered to address these conditions through advanced design and extensive real-world testing.

Unlike standard flame arresters that are tested only to minimum requirements, the Series 55 is tested in excess of existing standards, including conditions such as momentum impulse (long-run stable detonation), thermal failure, and reignition of downstream unburned gases. This ensures reliable performance in actual field conditions, not just controlled test scenarios.

The Series 55 incorporates Westech’s patented technologies and design advancements to deliver superior protection, lower pressure drop, and reduced maintenance requirements. As a fully passive device, it operates without power or controls and can be installed anywhere within the piping system, regardless of length or configuration.

Westech manufactures and supports the Series 55 globally, providing engineering expertise, application support, and servicing to ensure long-term performance and safety.

Available: Canada Wide


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Description

Full Detonation Protection

  • Designed to arrest deflagration, stable detonation, and overdriven detonation
  • Provides protection against all modes of flame propagation
  • Tested beyond standard requirements to simulate real-world conditions

Tested Beyond Industry Standards

  • Accepted to EN12874, ATEX 94/9/EC, and other international standards
  • U.S. Coast Guard accepted (CFR154) for 2”–18” line sizes
  • Tested for momentum impulse, thermal failure, and downstream reignition

Passive, Independent Operation

  • No reliance on power, sensors, or external components
  • Provides continuous protection under all operating conditions
  • Self-contained design for reliable, long-term operation

Self-Sealing Element Design

  • Impervious to impact damage from high-pressure detonation shock waves
  • Maintains performance even under repeated extreme conditions
  • Protection can improve when exposed to high-energy events

Detonation Momentum Attenuators (DMA)

  • Incorporates patented DMA plates for shock wave protection
  • Reduces the effects of detonation forces on the arrester element
  • Assists with particulate knock-out in vapour streams

Low Pressure Drop & Large Surface Area

  • Designed with significantly increased element surface area (up to 31x conventional designs)
  • Minimizes pressure drop and fouling effects
  • Reduces system costs associated with piping and equipment

Maintenance-Friendly Design

  • Easily removable elements for inspection and cleaning
  • Reduced fouling leads to lower maintenance frequency
  • Designed for long service life in demanding environments

Flexible Installation

  • Suitable for vertical or horizontal installation
  • Bi-directional operation
  • Can be installed anywhere in the piping system regardless of length or configuration

Applications

The Series 55 In-Line Detonation Flame Arrester is used in applications where high-speed flame propagation and detonation risks are present, including:

  • Oil & Gas production and processing facilities
  • Petrochemical and refining operations
  • Vapour recovery systems and terminals
  • Chemical processing plants
  • Marine loading and vapour control systems
  • Industrial piping systems with long runs or complex configurations

These applications require protection against both deflagration and detonation events, where conventional flame arresters may not provide sufficient performance.

Documents

Westech-Flame-Arrester-Series-55_042920_Westech.pdf

Westech-Flame-Arrester-Series-55_FR.pdf

Manufacturer info

Westech Industrial Ltd. Since 1966 Engineers and plant operators have benefited from the quality of products and solutions provided by Westech Industrial Ltd., a global leader in research, testing and manufacturing of In-line Deflagration and Detonation Flame Arresters.

Website: https://westech-ind.com/

SPECS

Type:
In-Line Detonation Flame Arrester
Operation:
Passive, with no external power required
Installation:
Vertical or horizontal installation; bi-directional operation
Size Range:
3” – 18”
Standards & Approvals:
EN12874, ATEX 94/9/EC, U.S. Coast Guard CFR154, CSA, FM, UL, PTB, BSI, and IMO
Construction:
Carbon steel housing with 304 stainless steel elements
Options:
316 stainless steel housing, DIN mating flange connections, special alloy fabrication, internal coatings, special surface finishes, and special testing/designs
Technical Data:
Full dimensional data, weights, flow charts, and configuration options are available in the Series 55 datasheet.

PRODUCT FAQ's

What is a detonation flame arrester used for?
A detonation flame arrester is used to stop high-speed flame fronts, including detonations, from propagating through piping systems, preventing catastrophic equipment damage and safety risks.
What makes the Series 55 different from standard flame arresters?
The Series 55 is tested beyond standard requirements and is designed to handle real-world conditions such as long-run detonations, thermal effects, and reignition scenarios that many conventional arresters are not designed for.
Can the Series 55 be installed anywhere in a piping system?
Yes. The Series 55 is designed to provide protection regardless of pipe length, configuration, or location between ignition sources and protected equipment.
Does the Series 55 require monitoring or external controls?
No. It is a fully passive device and does not require sensors, actuators, or power to operate.
What industries use detonation flame arresters like the Series 55?
Industries include oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical processing, and marine vapour control systems where detonation risks are present.
Does Westech provide service and support?
Yes. Westech provides global support including application guidance, installation recommendations, maintenance support, and servicing.