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15. Additional regulations for permanent installations
A permanent installation requires that the system is effectively and redundantly monitored by at least
two gas detection devices. The function of the gas detectors has to be checked weekly. These
function checks must be recorded in writing.
The amount of fuel which is held available and is connected with the device must be as low as
possible.
The shut-off valves should be opened as shortly as possible before the usage and they should be
closed again as fast as possible after the effects.
If the device is used with gas bottles:
The fuel shut-off valves on the gas bottles must be closed if no personnel is present to supervise the
devices.
If the device is used with gas cartridges:
No gas cartridges are allowed to remain in the device if no personnel is present to supervise the
devices.
16. Safety distances
The safety distances stated in this manual refer to flame retardant materials. For other materials or
objects that are susceptible to heat the safety distances must be significantly increased. The thermal
output of this effect device is enormous. It is more than 1.2 Megawatt if gas cartridges are being used
at a cartridge temperature of 20°C. Especially the safety distance upwards must be increased by 3 m
if easily inflammable materials are present.
The required safety distance for safe operation is depending on several parameters. The flame height
is influenced by different nozzle sizes if gas cartridges are being used and by the selected output
pressure of the pressure regulator if gas bottles are being used. Furthermore wind and every other air
movement and the thermal lift are relevant factors.
Also the duration how long the electromagnetic fuel valves are opened is having an influence on the
required safety distance. If the valves are opened for extremely short times (approx. 0.1 to 0.5
seconds) smaller flame balls are being generated compared to longer durations.
In addition the temperature of the gas cartridges or gas bottles is affecting the flame height.
The pressure in the gas cartridges is rising with the temperature. Due to the lack of a pressure
regulator the flame height depends directly on the temperature of the fuel in the cartridges.
If gas bottles are used the output pressure of the regulator is constant and therefore the flame height
is actually not depending on the temperature of the bottle unless the liquefied gas is very cold or is
chilled by the evaporative heat loss so that the vapor pressure in the bottle is falling below the
selected output pressure of the regulator. Propane has a vapor pressure of approx. 4 bar at 0°C and
approx. 2 bar at -15°C.
Wind or thermal influences may heighten the effects which can demand increased safety distances as
well.
In general the following rule applies: The operator is responsible for the accident-free usage of the
G-Flame and has to decide by his own judgment which safety distance is required.
In certain circumstances the safety distances may be specified by the authorities that are responsible
for the safety during the fire prevention assessment on site. The following tables should inform you
about the effect height to be expected and be an orientation guide when specifying the minimum
safety distances.
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