When it comes to the stainless steel intermediate bulk container, safety regulations, codes, and standards require fusible vents to be installed on the product. Fusible vents are vital safety and prevention components designed to keep a metal IBC from exploding in the event of a fire by releasing gas or vapor buildup that can occur due to increasing temperatures. in the event of a fire. The US DOT in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 178.705 (2)(i) requires the installation of fusible vents on SS IBC containers.
Metal IBC Fusible Vent Options
There are two standard fusible vent options available for SS IBCs: the 2″ Rieke™ vent and the 3″ fusible vent. When properly installed and maintained, both options function as an IBC automatic internal pressure relief device. Each has distinct features and benefits, making one choice perhaps better suited for different applications.
2″ Rieke™ Vent
The 2″ Rieke vent is integrated into the metal IBC’s lid like a plug, both seamless and unobtrusive, and provides a ‘set-and-forget’ type solution to meeting regulatory requirements for IBC explosion protection. The 2″ Rieke vent is not designed to be removed for work operations or applications. As a result, this ensures the vent will be ready to function properly during an active fire.
Key Features:
- Built-in fusible link type
- Flush-mount, bung-style design
- Set-it-and-leave-it, no re-torquing required
The 2″ Rieke vent is ideal for applications that may not benefit or require an additional filling aperture and where consistent fire emergency protection is desired.
3″ Fusible Vent
The 3″ fusible vent is a threaded cap-style vent built to be installed, torqued, and set on a designated nipple thread on the SS IBC lid. The 3″ fusible vent can be removed for use as a filling aperture for easier access to the IBC tank during filling operations and then replaced for storage and fire protection. An important point here is the 3″ fusible vent cap must be properly torqued upon closure to ensure proper activation in the event of a fire.
Key Features:
- Cap-style, threaded design allows vent to be removed and replaced
- Double functions as a fusible vent and filling aperture
- If removed, must be properly torque tightened for closure
The 3″ fusible vent cap is best suited for work operations that can benefit from an additional filling port that makes adding payload to the IBC faster and where the potential for fire exposure is less likely.
Takeaway
Choosing between the 2” Rieke vent and 3” fusible vent will depend on the specific needs of the company and work operations. With the 2″ Rieke vent, you can prioritize worry-free, built-in explosion protection, and with the 3″ fusible vent you can streamline filling your stainless steel IBCs by using the vent as an additional filling aperture.