Porvair's new Vyon safeguards against battery explosions
Porvair Filtration Group has developed cost-effective Vyon flame arrestor vents for use by battery manufacturers to safeguard from potential explosions in lead acid batteries.
Vyon sintered porous plastic materials offer excellent chemical compatibility, exceptional strength and are resistant to most acids.
The new super hydrophobic material means that it will not “wet out”, preventing gas venting. Versatile, strong, and efficient, it will also reduce the likelihood of acid spillage.
The potential for explosion within a lead acid battery arises when hydrogen gas created during normal operation reaches a specific hydrogen/oxygen concentration.
However, Porvair’s battery vents have been used to release excess gas from lead acid batteries during operating cycles and prevent flame ingress into the battery. Porvair believes this has significant safety applications for long-term usage, aiding durability and functionality.
The creation of a flow path, by which gases released through the valve element can escape from the battery, prevent propagation of any potential flames.
In addition to preventing sparks from entering the battery, battery vents provide controlled airflow, and venting.
Porvair’s consistent manufacturing processes also help to increase the manufacturing efficiency of its customers by providing a uniform surface on both sides of the product.
Porvair – which has supplied the process industry with performance-driven filtration equipment for over 25 years – manufactures in both the UK and USA and has an extensive network and distribution channels throughout worldwide.
The company’s Market Manager Roy Rigby said: “This innovative extension to our range represents a step forward in terms of battery safety and longevity.
“The potential for explosion in lead acid batteries remains present as long as mitigating safeguards are not as effective as they could be.
“However, our cost-effective Vyon flame arrestor vents prevent gas venting, meaning the risk is significantly reduced. Strong and lightweight Vyon is resistant to many chemicals making it suitable for many applications.
“We strongly believe that our customers will see the benefits of this product innovation.”
