What Is An Explosion Isolation Valve?

One of the many safety precautions that exist in the construction and demolition industry is an explosion isolation valve.

An explosion isolation valve (EIV) is a safety device used to prevent the release of explosive gasses from a gas pipeline. The valve opens when the pressure inside the pipeline reaches a certain level, preventing the build-up of pressure that could result in an explosion.

How do explosion isolation valves work?

An Explosion Isolation Valve  is a safety device that stops a pressure build-up in an industrial or hazardous area in the event of an accident. The valve is activated by a sensor when the pressure reaches a preset level.

B-Flap I-Explosion Isolation Flap Valve

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 When activated, the valve opens and allows gas to escape, reducing the pressure within the area. The gas escapes and the pressure within the area is reduced.

This prevents an explosion or dangerous build-up of pressure.

What do explosion isolation valves look like? 

The most common form of explosion isolation valve looks similar to a standard check valve and has two moving parts. One moves in the direction of flow and one moves in the direction opposite the flow. 

They are open, close, open and closed by spring action when they are in a fully open position. When they are activated by air pressure changes, one moves out of the way while the other closes to prevent damaging gases from escaping.

 There are also more modern forms that use electronics to open and close them automatically depending on air pressure changes.