Precision Gas Control
For Experimental Combustion Rig
Designing and manufacturing one-off pieces of equipment requires considerable
The first was of paramount importance
engineering skill, especially when that equipment is required to control combustible gases
and is a constant feature in any Saflame
and deliver precisely repeatable results. So when Saflame was approached to design an
design, while connectivity was also a
experimental combustion rig which required precise, independent control of three gases,
long-standing element of its control
it turned to Bürkert Fluid Control Systems to provide the solution.
panels. The level of gas control which
would be required in this particular project
Saflame is a manufacturer and supplier of
The design process started with the
needed some expert assistance, which was
thermal processing and control equipment
initial consultation where the university
provided by Bürkert.
to a wide range of industries and has
provided an outline of the purpose of the
considerable expertise in designing the
rig, the gases involved and the limiting
control mechanisms including the use
factor of size which was determined by
of PLC's, SCADA and fieldbus systems.
the dimensions of the fume cupboard in
This experience led to a request from the
which the test rig would be operating.
Chemistry Department at the University of
Beyond this basic list of parameters, the
Liverpool for Saflame to develop a special
detailed design was left in the hands of
laboratory combustion rig to assist with
the engineers at Saflame. Three major
research into flame deposition of chemical
design areas were established first, safety,
films onto various materials.
precision and connectivity.
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PECM Issue 21
The basic concept of the
combustion rig was provide a
platform which would allow
oxygen, nitrogen and liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) to be mixed at
precise ratios and ignited to
produce a consistent flame. Once
a stable flame is established, a
test chemical is introduced into
this flame and then deposited onto
a sample material plate which is
positioned in front of the flame.