Inlet Flame Trap/Flameproof Joints

INLET FLAME TRAP/FLAMEPROOF JOINTS

The Caterpillar 3126 diesel engine system is approved as a flameproof diesel engine system suitable for use in underground coal mines. The flameproof design allows the engine to be used in the designated hazardous or potentially gassy areas within the mine.

The principle of flameproofing the engine system involves designing it to withstand an internal explosion without damaging the structural integrity of the engine components. This ensures that the internal explosion will not propagate to the outside atmosphere with sufficient energy to cause an external explosion.

In the case of the air intake system the flameproofing commences at the aftercooler flame trap and proceeds to the intake manifold, engine block gasket.

This engine system is tested and approved for use in an atmosphere with a maximum methane (CH4 ) concentration of 1% by volume. If higher levels are encountered the machine must be driven immediately to a ventilation intake area within the mine where the methane concentration is less than 1% by volume.

Flame Trap Housing