Instantaneous venting, non-frangible burst panel structure

Abstract

A flexible, low-mass, non-fragmenting burst member or panel is provided which is extremely predictable and essentially instantaneous in operation, even at low burst pressures, in order to safely vent and protect pressure vessels such as bag houses or the like from the potentially catastrophic effects of internal explosions or adverse high-pressure conditions. The panel structure preferably includes a thin metallic substrate having a pattern of tape directly applied thereto, with a coating of epoxy paint over the tape pattern and substrate; sharp-breaking, shear burst lines are thereby produced along the edges of the tape pattern which ensures that the panel will instantaneously vent a pressure vessel through essentially the entire area of full vent opening, thus giving a degree of operational predictability impossible to attain with conventional burst-type venting structures. The panels thereof can be simply produced in any desired size and shape by applying a tape pattern to a metal substrate of known thickness, followed by spray-coating the substrate and tape to enhance the corrosion and abrasion resistance thereof. Circumscribing frame structure is preferably employed for holding the panel in place, and this, along with the low mass of the panel, prevents creation of dangerous flying fragments when the panel bursts to vent an explosion.