Everything You Need To Know About Gas Distribution System & Safety

Imagine this

You are a lab technician and you perform testing and analysis using gas on a regular basis. However, one day, when you were about to use a particular gas, you activate a mechanism to obtain it only to discover that the flow and pressure is lower than the required level. Due to this, here are some problems that can arise:

1. The accuracy of the test can be compromised. Not only this there is a possibility that you’re not able to complete the task due to poor pressure and flow
2. Finding out the source of problem can be expensive and time-consuming as well
3. If in case the flow and pressure of gas is being impacted due to a leak, then there could be a potential safety risk to lab technicians as well.

No matter where your lab is located- within a research facility, a chemical refinery or an industrial plant, problems like these can have a significant impact on the local operations. Therefore, it is very important to maintain a consistent and reliable gas delivery to all the critical points of use.

The lab technicians and management team has several priorities on a daily basis and ensuring proper gas distribution tops the list. This is why a well-designed gas distribution system plays a major role in the ongoing consistency, accuracy, productivity and safety. Here are few reasons for the same:

1. All Gases Pose A Potential Risk

Did you know that there are some gases that carry more risk potential than others. Gases such as ammonia, sulfur dioxide, and hydrogen chloride are poisonous and noxious in nature and pose an immediate risk if leaked. Direct exposure of any of these gases is very dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

All the types of gases pose a potential safety risk if they escape the designated distribution system. However, gases like oxygen and hydrogen are highly combustible in nature if in contact with the lab or plant atmosphere. If nitrogen escapes from the gas distribution system, it can displace atmospheric oxygen levels. This further creates a hazardous environment in an enclosed space. On the other hand, gases that are heavy such as propane and butane can drop into and collect within lower-level cavities and enclosures, creating explosion risks.

Given that gases like oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen are not always treated with the same levels of caution as noxious gases, it is possible for the lab to be experiencing small leaks without operators even realising the same. In such a situation, it is not only the gas that gets wasted but at the same time, it also poses a serious safety threat.

But, how does one ensure that there are no gas leaks and the gases flow with right pressure through the distribution system? Opting for a professional evaluation is the most effective way to identify issues like gas leaks, etc. Doing this will also minimise safety risks.

2. Pressure and Flow: Critical For Your Productivity

Besides safety hazards, lack of proper gas pressure and flow also impact the lab tech’s ability to perform lab assignments efficiently and accurately.

For example, lower level of gas pressure and flow can decrease the number of tests one can complete in a given time period. It may also compromise the functionality of the testing equipment.

Usually, suboptimal pressure and flow of gas is rooted in system design inefficiencies. One of the best examples for this is system overdesign , where several valves and regulators are included to throttle pressure as it travels from the source to the main point. Always remember that ‘more’ does not always mean ‘better’.

Sometimes, the cost of extra valves or regulators can be offset by selecting smaller gas transfer lines. This is because the use of a combination of extra valves and smaller lines can limit the maximum available pressure and flow at the point of use. This further limits the testing capability of the lab. Apart from this, selecting smaller lines will also decrease the maximum flow of the system and can create problems if needs change.

The only thing that can be of benefit here is a professional evaluation of the gas distribution system. The experts will be able to spot areas for design improvement and also help you achieve your desired requirements without limiting pressure of flow of gas. This also allows one to use a higher level in future if requirements change.

If you want to know more about how to improve your gas distribution system or how a professional survey can help you use your laboratory to its full potential, then get in touch with us today. Our gas distribution specialists will discuss your challenges and then plan a reliable gas delivery system according to your requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main components of a gas distribution system?

Gas sources, pipelines, pressure regulators, safety valves, and receiving units are some of the main components of a distribution system.

2. Can I use both PNG and LPG at the same time?

No. If you want to switch to PNG then you will first have to turn off your LPG supply.

3. What should I do if I smell gas?

The safest thing to do in such a situation is that turn of the main control valve of the gas pipeline immediately. You should also not operate any electrical switch. Open all doors and windows and call the safety helpline number.

4. Where to get the best gas distribution system?

Zeibaq for more than 15 years has been one of the most affordable and reliable gas distribution systems. Zeibaq offers its services across Saudi Arabia.

5. Can poor gas flow and pressure impact my work?

Yes, poor gas pressure and flow will not only harm efficiently but also negatively impact the result accuracy. Sometimes, the cost of extra valves or regulators can be offset by selecting smaller gas transfer lines. This is because the use of a combination of extra valves and smaller lines can limit the maximum available pressure and flow at the point of use.