SGB VLXE Ex M Series Operator's manual

Documentation
Explosion-protected vacuum leak detector
VLXE .. Ex M and VLXE .. Ex MMV
TÜV-A 19 ATEX 1119 X
Please read instructions prior to commencing any work
Last updated: 07/2020
Art. No.: 602422

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Table of Contents
1.General...................................................................................4
1.1Information .....................................................................4
1.2Explanation of Symbols .................................................4
1.3Limitation of Liability.......................................................4
1.4Copyright........................................................................4
1.5Warranty Conditions ......................................................5
1.6Customer service ...........................................................5
2.Safety......................................................................................6
2.1Intended Use..................................................................6
2.2Obligation of the Operating Company............................6
2.3Qualification ...................................................................6
2.4Personal Protective Equipment......................................7
2.5Fundamental Hazards....................................................8
3.Technical Data of the Leak Detector ...................................9
3.1General Data..................................................................9
3.2Electrical Data................................................................9
3.3EX data ..........................................................................9
3.4Switching Values............................................................9
3.5Field of application .........................................................10
4.Design and Function............................................................. 13
4.1Design............................................................................13
4.2Normal operating condition ............................................13
4.3Air Leaks ........................................................................14
4.4Liquid Leaks...................................................................14
4.5Pressure increase above atmospheric pressure in in-
terstitial space when using a VLXE .. MV-Ex, acc. to
chapter 3.5.1 f) as well as 3.5.2 .....................................14
4.6Displays and Controls ....................................................15
5.Mounting the System............................................................17
5.1Basic Instructions...........................................................17
5.2Assembly of the Leak Detector ......................................17
5.3Pneumatic Connection Lines ......................................... 18
5.4Completing Pneumatic Connections.............................. 20
5.5Electrical Cables ............................................................21
5.6Electrical Wiring Diagram...............................................21
5.7Installation Examples ..................................................... 24
6.Commissioning .....................................................................32
6.1Tightness test.................................................................32
6.2Commissioning the Leak Detector ................................. 32
7.Functional Check and Maintenance ....................................34
7.1General ..........................................................................34
7.2Maintenance ..................................................................34
7.3Functional check ............................................................ 35
8.Malfunction (Alarm)...............................................................40
8.1Alarm Description...........................................................40
8.2Malfunction.....................................................................40
8.3How to Behave...............................................................40
9.Spare parts............................................................................. 41
Contents

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10.Accessories........................................................................... 41
11.Disassembly and Disposal................................................... 41
11.1Disassembly .................................................................. 41
11.2Disposal ......................................................................... 41
12.Appendix................................................................................ 42
12.1Use of Interstitial Spaces That Are Filled with
Leak Detector Fluid........................................................ 42
12.2Appendix W, Warmed Tanks (Heated Tanks) ............... 43
12.3Dimensions and Drilling Pattern .................................... 46
12.4Declaration of Conformity .............................................. 47
12.5Declaration of Performance ........................................... 48
12.6Declaration of Compliance of the Manufacturer ............ 48
12.7Ex-approval.................................................................... 49
12.8Certification TÜV-Nord................................................... 53
Contents

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1. General
1.1 Information
These instructions provide important notes on using the leak detector
VLXE.. Ex M and VLXE .. Ex MMV. The prerequisite for workplace
safety is the adherence to all safety and handling instructions speci-
fied in this manual.
Furthermore, any local regulations for prevention of accidents appli-
cable at the site of use of the leak detector and general safety instruc-
tions must be complied with.
1.2 Explanation of Symbols
In these instructions, warnings are marked with the adjacent symbol.
The signal word expresses the level of hazard.
DANGER:
Imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING:
Potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
CAUTION:
Potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
minor or moderate injury.
Information:
Highlights useful tips, recommendations, and information.
1.3 Limitation of Liability
All information and instructions in this documentation have been
compiled considering the applicable standards and regulations, the
state of the art, and our longstanding experience.
SGB does not assume any liability in the case of:
Noncompliance with these instructions
Improper use
Use by unqualified personnel
Unauthorized modifications
Connection to systems not approved by SGB
1.4 Copyright
The contents, texts, drawings, images and other representations are
copyrighted and subject to industrial property rights. Any misuse is
punishable.
General



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1.5 Warranty Conditions
We provide warranty for the leak detector VLXE.. Ex M and
VLXE .. Ex MMV for a period of 24 months from the day of installation
on site in accordance with our General Terms & Conditions.
The maximum warranty period is 27 months from our date of sale.
Warranty conditions are subject to submission of the functional/test
report on initial commissioning by trained personnel.
The serial number of the leak detector must be stated.
The obligation of warranty shall cease to exist in the case of
- inadequate or improper installation
- improper use
- modifications/repairs without consent of the manufacturer.
Our warranty does not include parts, which may be perished prema-
ture due to their consistence or category of usage (e.g. pumps,
valves, gaskets, etc.). Furthermore, we are not liable for defects or
corrosion damages caused by humid or inappropriate installation en-
vironments.
1.6 Customer service
Our customer service is available for any inquiries.
For information on contacts, please refer to our website sgb.de or the
label of the leak detector.
General

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2. Safety
2.1 Intended Use
Assembly of housing, preferably outdoors
Conditions from Section 3.5 “Field of Application” must be adhered
to.
Only the interstitial spaces of double-walled tanks/pipelines that
show sufficient underpressure
Grounding/equipotential bonding in accordance with applicable
regulations
Interstitial space denotation flame arresters required by regulation
Tightness of the interstitial space according to this documentation
(Section 6.1).
Installation only in Zone 1, Zone 2 or outside of the EX area
Explosive vapor-air mixtures: II A to II B3; T1 to T4 alternatively,
depending on the flame arrestor types
Explosive vapor-air mixtures: II B and H2; T1 to T4
Ambient temperature -40°C to +55°C
Implementation in manhole pits or inspection chambers shall be
sealed gas-tight
The power supply cannot be disconnected
Ground/main voltages shall be at the same potential as the equi-
potential bonding of the tank/pipelines
Any claims arising from misuse are excluded.
2.2 Obligation of the Operating Company
Leak detector VLXE .. Ex M and VLXE .. Ex MMV are used in the
commercial sector. The operating company is therefore subject to
statutory occupational safety obligations.
In addition to the safety instructions in this documentation, all appli-
cable safety, accident prevention, and environmental regulations
must be adhered to. In particular:
- Compiling a risk assessment and implementing its results in a di-
rective
- Performing regular checks as to whether the directive is in compli-
ance with the current standards
- The directive includes information on how to react to an alarm that
might arise
- Arranging for an annual functional check
-
2.3 Qualification
The personnel must be capable of independently recognizing and
avoiding potential risks based on their qualifications.
Safety
WARNING!
Danger from
misuse
WARNING!
Danger in case
of incomplete
documentation

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Companies commissioning leak detectors should have completed re-
spective training with SGB, through SGB or its authorized representa-
tive.
National guidelines must be adhered to.
For Germany: Technical service qualification for mounting, commis-
sioning, and maintenance of leak detection systems.
2.4 Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment must be worn during work.
- Wear the necessary protective equipment for the work in question
- Note and comply with existing PPE signs
- For further information, see 2.4.1
Entry in the "Safety Book"
Wear HV vest
Wear safety footwear
Wear hard hat
Wear gloves – where necessary
Wear safety goggles – where necessary
2.4.1 Personal protective equipment for systems that may be subject to risk of explosion
The parts listed here refer in particular to safety when working with
systems that may be subject to risk of explosion.
If work is performed in areas in which an explosive atmosphere must
be expected, the minimum required equipment is as follows:
Suitable clothing (risk of electrostatic charge)
Suitable tools (in accordance with EN 1127)
WARNING!
Danger to humans
and the environ-
ment in the case of
inadequate qualifi-
cation
Safety

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Suitable combustible gas indicator calibrated to the existing vapor-
air mixture (work shall be performed only at a concentration of
50 % below the lower explosion limit)1
Measuring equipment to determine the oxygen content in the air
(Ex/O-meter)
2.5 Fundamental Hazards
DANGER:
From electric current
When working on the leak detector, it must be disconnected from the
power supply unless stated otherwise in the documentation.
Comply with relevant regulations regarding electric installation, explo-
sion protection (e.g. EN 60 079-17), and accident prevention.
CAUTION:
From moving parts
If work is being done on the leak detector, it must be disconnected
from the power supply.
DANGER:
From explosive vapor-air mixtures
Explosive vapor-air mixtures can exist in the leak detector and in the
connection lines.
Ensure there is no gas present prior to performing work
Comply with explosion regulations, e.g., German Ordinance on Indus-
trial Safety and Health (Betriebssicherheitsverordnung, BetrSichV)
(and/or directive 1999/92/EC and the laws of the respective member
states resulting therefrom) and/or others.
DANGER:
From working in chambers
The leak detector is usually assembled in the open air, whereas the
assembly kit is usually assembled in manhole chambers. Therefore,
the chamber must be entered for assembly.
Before entering, the corresponding protective measures must be tak-
en and it must be ensured that no gas and sufficient oxygen are pre-
sent.
1Other manufacturers' or countries' regulations may provide different percentages.
Safety

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3. Technical Data of the Leak Detector
3.1 General Data
Dimensions and drilling pattern see Section 12.3
Weight 10 kg
Storage temperature range -40°C to +60°C
Operating temperature range -40°C to +55°C
Buzzer volume 105 dB with external horn
Housing protection class IP 54
Version without solenoid valve ≤5 bar (feed pressure)
with solenoid valve > 5 ≤25 bar (feed pressure)
with solenoid valve and
additional pressure switch> 25 ≤90 bar (feed pressure)
3.2 Electrical Data
Power supply 100 to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
or: 24 V DC
Power input 50 W (incl. heating)
Terminals 5, 6, external signal: max. 24 V DC; max. 300 mA
Terminals 11 – 13, potential free: DC ≤25 W or AC ≤50 VA
Fuse protection: max 2 A (1500 A)
Overvoltage category: 2
3.3 EX data
Leak detector II 1/2(2)G Ex db eb ib [ib Gb] mb IIB+H2T4 Ga/Gb
with F 501: II 1/2(2)G Ex db eb ib [ib Gb] mb IIB3 T4 Ga/Gb
with F 502: II 1/2(2)G Ex db eb ib [ib Gb] mb IIC T4 Ga/Gb
3.4 Switching Values
Type Alarm ON, at
the latest:
Pump OFF,
not more than:
Functionality*of the
interstitial space given
for
34 - 34 mbar - 120 mbar - 650 mbar
230 - 230 mbar - 360 mbar - 650 mbar
255 - 255 mbar - 380 mbar - 650 mbar
330 - 330 mbar - 450 mbar - 700 mbar
410 - 410 mbar - 540 mbar - 750 mbar
500 - 500 mbar - 630 mbar - 850 mbar
570 - 570 mbar - 700 mbar - 900 mbar
Special values can be agreed upon between the client and SGB.
Overpressure alarm (VLXE .. Ex MMV) at + 50 mbar
* fundamental lower values are possibly valid for double-walled steel
tanks, if need be with the use of an underpressure valve
Technical Data

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3.5 Field of application
3.5.1 Tank
a) Single-walled horizontal (underground or aboveground) cylindrical
tanks with leak protection lining (LAK) or leak protecting jacket
(LUM) and suction line leading to the low point
Usage limits: None for density and diameter
b) Double-walled horizontal cylindrical (underground or aboveground)
tanks (e.g., DIN 6608-2, 6616, or DIN EN 12 285-1-2)
- Same as a), but with no suction line to low point
- Same as c), but with no suction line to low point
- Same as d), but with no suction line to low point
Usage limits:
Density of
the stored
material
[kg/dm3]
Hmax.(Tank height or height of the low point of the pipe-
lines to the node point2)[m]
230 255 330 410 500 570
0.8 2.6 2.9 3.8 4.8 6.0 6.9
0.9 2.3 2.6 3.4 4.3 5.3 6.1
1.0 2.0 2.3 3.1 3.9 4.8 5.5
1.1 1.9 2.1 2.8 3.5 4.4 5.0
1.2 1.7 1.9 2.6 3.2 4.0 4.6
1.3 1.6 1.8 2.4 3.0 3.7 4.2
1.4 1.5 1.6 2.2 2.8 3.4 3.9
1.5 1.4 1.5 2.0 2.6 3.2 3.7
1.6 1.3 1.4 1.9 2.4 3.0 3.4
1.7 1.2 1.4 1.8 2.3 2.8 3.2
1.8 1.1 1.3 1.7 2.2 2.7 3.1
1.9 1.1 1.2 1.6 2.0 2.5 2.9
A minimum of density 1 is needed for underground systems.
2The node point is the merger of the suction and measuring lines at a vacuum leak detector for pipelines.
This can also be in the assembly kit or a manifold.
Technical Data

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c) Double-walled (or single-walled with leak protection lining or leak
protecting jacket) vertical cylindrical tanks or troughs with a dished
bottom (underground or aboveground) with a suction line leading
to the low point (DIN 6618-2: 1989)
Usage limits:
Diameter
[mm]
Height
[mm]
Max. density of the stored material
[kg/dm3]
34 230 255 330 to 570
1600 2 820 1,9 1,9 1,9 1,9
3740 1,6 1,9 1,9 1,9
5350 1,6 1,9 1,9 1,9
6960 1,6 1,9 1,9 1,9
2000 5400 1,4 1,9 1,9 1,9
6960 1,4 1,9 1,9 1,9
8540 1,4 1,9 1,9 1,9
2500 6665 1,0 1,9 1,9 1,9
8800 1,0 1,9 1,9 1,9
2900 8400 0,9 1,9 1,9 1,9
9585 0,9 1,9 1,9 1,9
12,750 0,8 1,2 1,2 1,6
15,950 - 1,0 1,0 1,2
d) Rectangular or cylindrical tanks or troughs with a flat bottom (dou-
ble-walled or with leak detection lining or leak detection jacket)
with a suction line to the low point
Density of
the stored
material
[kg/dm3]
Hmax.
[m]
34 230 255 330 410 500 570
0.8 7.5 17.3 19.1 23.4 23.8 24.5 24.2
0.9 6.6 15.3 17.0 20.8 21.1 21.8 21.5
1.0 6.0 13.8 15.3 18.7 19.0 19.6 19.4
1.1 5.4 12.6 13.9 17.0 17.3 17.8 17.6
1.2 5.0 11.5 12.8 15.6 15.8 16.4 16.2
1.3 4.6 10.6 11.8 14.4 14.6 15.1 14.9
1.4 4.3 9.9 10.9 13.4 13.6 14.0 13.8
1.5 4.0 9.2 10.2 12.5 12.7 13.1 12.9
1.6 3.7 8.6 9.6 11.7 11.9 12.3 12.1
1.7 3.5 8.1 9.0 11.0 11.2 11.5 11.4
1.8 3.3 7.7 8.5 10.4 10.6 10.9 10.8
1.9 3.1 7.3 8.1 9.8 10.0 10.3 10.2
Technical Data

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e) Standing cylindrical tanks with double-layered floor made of metal
(e.g. according to DIN 4119)
- As above, but with leak protection lining (stiff or flexible)
- Vertical cylindrical tanks made of plastic with double-layered
floor
Usage limits: None for density and diameter
f) Tanks according to a) to d) that operate with an inner overlay
pressure of up to 25 bar
Usage limits: in line with the aforementioned points using a type
VLXE .. Ex MMV
3.5.2 Pipelines/tubes
In factory or on-site construction
Usage limits: according to the Table in Chap. 3.5.1 under b) where
instead of the tank diameter the height between the low point of the
interstitial space and the node point is to be set.
- Suction lines: The alarm-vacuum shall be at least 30 mbar higher
than the max underpressure in the inner pipe at the high point of
the interstitial space
- Pressure lines with feed pressure of up to 5 bar:
Version VLXE 230 Ex M to VLXE 570 Ex M
- Pressure lines with feed pressure of up to 25 bar:
Version VLXE 230 Ex MMV to VLXE 570 Ex MMV
- Pressure lines with feed pressure of up to 90 bar:
Version VLXE 230 Ex MMV to VLXE 570 Ex MMV, only in con-
junction with an additional pressure switch, combined with sole-
noid valve.
- In particular applications (single pipe, gradient to a point), the ver-
sion VLXE 34 Ex Mcan also be used.
- For Germany: with proof of usability from construction authority
3.5.3 Monitorable fluids
Liquids hazardous to water with a flash point below 60°C (55°C for
Germany as per TRBS/TRGS), such as fuels. The following also ap-
plies:
- The materials used must be resistant to the liquids being moni-
tored.
- Water-polluting liquids, the (possible) explosive steam-air mixture
(also such ones that can arise through the stored/conveyed liquids
in contact with air, humidity, condensation or the materials used) of
which classes them in gas groups II A to II B and H2, as well as
temperature codes T1 to T4 such as gasoline, for example.
- If different water-polluting liquids are transported in individual pipe-
lines and monitored with a leak detector these liquids or their mix-
ing must not have any hazardous effects on one another or cause
any chemical reactions.
Technical Data

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4. Design and Function Design
Interior view, with:
18 Denotation flame arrester
20 Three-way valve in suction line
21 Three-way valve in the measuring line
60 Vacuum pump
75 Display board
139 Keypad
147 Pressure-resistant housing with control
165 Separating barrier
169 Data bus module (BM-i)
4.2 Normal operating condition
The vacuum leak detector is connected to the interstitial space via
suction, measuring and connection line(s). The vacuum generated by
the pump is measured and controlled by a pressure sensor.
When the operating vacuum is reached (Pump OFF), the pump shuts
off. The vacuum slowly drops due to slight, unavoidable leaks in the
leak detector system. When the Pump ON switching value is reached,
the pump turns on and the interstitial space is evacuated until the op-
erating vacuum is reached (Pump OFF).
In normal operating condition, the vacuum swings between the Pump
OFF and Pump ON switching values, with short periods when the
pump is run and longer standstills, depending on the tightness and
temperature fluctuations of the entire unit.
Design and Function
75
20
21
165
144
18
60
139
169

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4.3 Air Leaks
If an air leak occurs (in the outer or inner wall, above the liquid level),
the vacuum pump switches on to restore the operating vacuum. If the
leak causes the incoming air to exceed the pump’s capacity limit, the
pump remains on continuously.
Increasing leak rates lead to a further decrease in pressure (with the
pump running) until the Alarm ON switching value is reached. This
triggers the visual and audible alarms.
4.4 Liquid Leaks
In case of a liquid leak, the liquid enters the interstitial space and col-
lects in the low point of the interstitial space.
The incoming liquid decreases the vacuum, which causes the pump
to turn on and evacuate the interstitial space(s) until the operating
vacuum is reached. The process repeats itself until the liquid stop
valve in the suction line closes.
Because of the vacuum that still exists on the measuring line side,
additional stored or conveyed product or water is sucked into the in-
terstitial space, the measuring line, and, if applicable, into a pressure
compensation vessel. This causes the vacuum to drop until the
“Alarm ON” pressure is reached. This triggers the visual and audible
alarms.
Comment: It is also an option to use a liquid sensor in conjunction
with a solenoid valve instead of the liquid stop valve. The liquid alarm
is then triggered when the sensor comes into contact with liquid.
4.5 Pressure increase above atmospheric pressure in interstitial space when using a leak
detector VLXE .. MV-Ex, acc. to chapter 3.5.1 f) as well as 3.5.2
If a pressure increase of more than 50 mbar above atmospheric pres-
sure occurs in the interstitial space, the solenoid valve in the suction
or connection line is closed and the pump switches off.
The pressure increase is indicated visually and acoustically (pressure
build-up alarm).
For the version up to 90 bar (additional pressure switch and solenoid
valve), the additional pressure switch is actuated in the case of a fast
pressure increase, which immediately closes the solenoid valve to
protect the leak detector from inadmissibly high pressures. The pres-
sure build-up alarm is triggered; if the additional pressure switch is
connected via the probe contacts, the probe alarm is also shown.
Design and Function


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4.6 Displays and Controls
4.6.1 Display
4.6.2 Function "Turn off audible alarm signal"
Briefly press “Mute“ button once; audible signal turns off, and the red
LED flashes.
Pressing the key again will turn the audible signal on.
This function is not available during normal operating conditions and
malfunctions.
4.6.3 “Testing the optical and audible alarm signal” function
Press and hold the “Mute“ button (for about 10 seconds). The alarm
will be triggered until the key is released.
This inquiry is only possible if the pressure in the system has exceed-
ed the “Alarm OFF” pressure.
3(Flashing) is active for the acknowledged external signal.
4The “Mute“ button does not have a function, which means the audible signal cannot be turned off.
Indicator
light
Operating condi- tion Alarm, vacuum below “ Alarm ON” Probe alarm Solenoid valve malfunction
Pressure build-
up alarm
Malfunction
OPERA-
TION:
green
ON ON ON ON ON ON
ALARM:
red OFF ON
(flashing)3OFF
ON
(flash-
ing)
ON
(flash-
ing)
ON4
ALARM 2:
yellow OFF OFF
ON
(flash-
ing)
ON Flashing OFF
Design and Function

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4.6.4 “Tightness inquiry” function
Press and hold the „Mute“ button until the signal lamp is flashing rap-
idly, then release it. The display (103) will show a tightness value and
the same value will be indicated by the number of “Alarm” signal lamp
flashes.
This display disappears after 10 seconds and the current vacuum in
the system is displayed again.
For the "Tightness inquiry" function, the leak detector must have per-
formed at least 1 automatic refilling interval under normal operating
condition (i.e. without external filling, e.g. by an installation pump) to
achieve a valid statement.
This inquiry is recommended before performing a regular functional
check of a leak detector. In this way, it is possible to estimate imme-
diately whether it is necessary to look for leaks.
Number of flash signals Assessment of tightness
0 Very tight
1 to 3 Tight
4 to 6 Sufficiently tight
7 to 8 Maintenance recommended
9 to 10 Maintenance urgently recommended
The smaller the above value, the tighter the system. The significance
of this value also depends on temperature fluctuations and should
thus be considered a reference point.
Design and Function
(
103
)

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5. Mounting the System
5.1 Basic Instructions
- Prior to commencing work, the documentation must be read and
understood. In case of ambiguities, please ask the manufacturer.
- Observe the approvals of the manufacturer for the tank/pipeline
and the interstitial space.
- The safety instructions in this documentation must be adhered to.
- Only qualified service companies may be used for assembly and
commissioning5.
- Lead-throughs for pneumatic and electric connection lines, through
which the EX atmosphere can carry over, must be sealed gas-tight.
- Comply with relevant regulations regarding electric installation, ex-
plosion protection (e.g. EN 60 079-14, -17), and accident preven-
tion.
- Comply with explosion regulations, e.g. BetrSichV (and/or directive
1999/92/EC and the laws of the respective member states result-
ing therefrom) and/or others
- Pneumatic connections, connection lines and fittings must be de-
signed to at least PN 10 for the entire temperature range.
- Before entering inspection chambers, the oxygen content must be
tested and the inspection chamber flushed if necessary.
- If metallic connection lines are used, it must be ensured that the
power supply grounding is on the same potential as the pipe-
line/tank to be monitored.
5.2 Assembly of the Leak Detector
- Wall mounting using the supplied mounting material.
- Outside and inside the Ex-area (zone 1 or 2), in the open air, with-
out any more protective boxes.
If a protective box should nevertheless be necessary for opera-
tional reasons, the protective box must be adequately ventilated.
- Install the housing protected from external mechanical loads. (Test
with low requirements).
- If it is assembled in an enclosed space, it must be well ventilated.
The operator shall apply EN 60 079-10/EN 13 237 as a basis for
evaluation.
- To avoid excessive heating, the leak detector must not be installed
directly next to a heat source.
The ambient temperature must not exceed 55°C; appropriate
measures may need to be taken (e.g., installation of a roof to pro-
tect against sunlight).
- Ventilation systems must be kept clear.
5For Germany: Specialist service companies as per German water legislation that have documented qualifi-
cations to install leak detection systems.
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- Do not mount in access or inspection chambers.
- The housing of the leak detector is integrated into the potential
compensation.
5.3 Pneumatic Connection Lines
5.3.1 Requirements
- At least 6 mm inside clearance
- Resistant to the stored or conveyed product
- At least PN 10 over the total temperature range
- The full cross section must be maintained (not bent)
- Color coding: Measuring line: RED; Suction line: WHITE or
CLEAR; Exhaust: GREEN.
- The lines between the interstitial space and leak detector must not
exceed 50 m in length. If the distance is greater than this, a larger
cross section must be used. There are special requirements for the
exhaust line, see section 5.3.1.
- Condensate traps must be installed at all low points of the connec-
tion lines.
- Assemble liquid stop valve in the suction line (generally included in
the assembly kit).
- If liquids are being stored or transported that require compliance
with explosion protection, suitable denotation flame arresters must
be installed at the entry to the interstitial space.
5.3.2 Exhaust
- The length of the exhaust line must not exceed 35 m. If these
lengths are not sufficient, consult the manufacturer.
- The exhaust line is generally routed to the tank ventilation, in
which case a denotation flame arrester must be installed directly
before the connection on the tank vent side.
- Exceptions to the return of the exhaust to the tank ventilation:
Tanks with interior overlay pressure, tanks according to DIN 4119
with double-layered floor, double-walled pipes or comparable:
oThe exhaust line can lead outside to a safe6area, outside of the
explosion area:
Provide a condensate trap and liquid stop valve at the end of
the exhaust line. The area within 1 m diameter of the end of the
exhaust is considered as having zone 1 conditions; attach a
warning sign if necessary.
oThe exhaust ends in zone 1 (e.g. remote fill chamber or collec-
tion space):
A denotation flame arrester7must be provided at the end of the
exhaust line. Condensate traps must be provided at low points;
6Among other things, not accessible to public transport/persons
7The denotation flame arrester can be omitted, if the exhaust is laid frost-free and a kink (e.g. shifting of a
protective tube) or a block in the exhausted can be precluded.
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a liquid stop valve is not required if the end of the exhaust is in
an area which is made liquid-tight (e.g. with collecting area).
- Caution: An exhaust line which ends outdoors must not in any cir-
cumstances be used to detect leaks (e.g., by “sniffing”). Attach
warning signs if necessary.
5.3.3 Several pipelines interstitial spaces are connected in parallels
- Lay connection lines at a downward angle to the interstitial space
or the manifold. If there are low points in the connection lines and
lines are laid out of doors as well install condensate traps at all low
points!
- Lay suction and measuring lines at a downward angle to the mani-
fold. If this is not possible, place condensate traps at all low points.
- Connect a liquid stop valve to each connection line to the intersti-
tial space, against the valve direction.
This prevents leaking liquids from entering the interstitial spaces of
the other pipelines.
- If stop valves are installed in the connection line shut-off cocks,
then they should be sealable in open position.
- For applications with pressure compensation vessel (see 5.7.4 and
5.7.5):
Length of the measuring line from the pressure compensation ves-
sel (V=0.1 l)8: Type 230…330: Lmax 16 m
Type 410 Lmax 12 m
Type 500 Lmax 10 m
Type 570 Lmax 8 m
CAUTION: The bottom edge of the pressure compensation vessel
must not be lower than the node point; the upper edge of the pres-
sure compensation vessel must not end more than 30 cm above
the node point.
For each 10 ml of the condensate trap(s) used in the measuring
line between the pressure compensation vessel and leak detector,
Lmax is reduced by 0.5 m
- OR (alternatively to the pressure compensation vessel) 50% of the
overall length of the measuring line must be laid with a 0.5 to 1%
gradient to the node point. Lmin = 0.5 x total length of the measur-
ing line.
5.3.4 Several pipeline interstitial spaces are connected in parallel
The liquid stop valves installed against the direction of flow (27*) pre-
vent that the other interstitial spaces become filled with liquid in case
of a leak in a pipeline. The interstitial space volumes of the connected
pipes must meet the following conditions:
3∙VÜR 1 > VÜR 1 + VÜR 2 + VÜR 3 + VÜR 4 and
3∙VÜR 2 > VÜR 2 + VÜR 3 + VÜR 4 etc.
VÜR (number) is the volume of the respective interstitial space. No. 1 is
the interstitial space the suction line is connected to (see 5.7.6)
8If this volume is multiplied, Lmax. is multiplied in the same way.
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5.4 Completing Pneumatic Connections
5.4.1 Assembling the connection to the tank’s interstitial space.
(1) Generally according to the tank manufacturer’s specifications.
(2) SGB offers assembly kits with the various connection possibilities.
5.4.2 Assembling the connection to the pipelines interstitial space or test valves
(1) Generally according to the pipelines/interstitial space manufac-
turer's specifications.
(2) If Schrader valves are used, please proceed as follows:
- Unscrew protective cap
- Re-tighten lock nut
- Unscrew valve insert and stick next to the connection with ad-
hesive tape. (As evidence of disassembly)
- Screw connection to the interstitial space or test valve and fas-
ten finger-tight.
- If necessary, further tighten with suitable pliers.
5.4.3 Between leak detector and interstitial space
(1) Select and install suitable pipe.
(2) During installation of the pipe, ensure again that they are protect-
ed against damage when the manhole chamber is entered.
(3) Complete the relevant connection (according to the illustrations in
the following images)
5.4.3.1 Flanged screw connection (for flanged pipes)
(1) Lubricate O-rings
(2) Insert spacer ring loosely into the screw socket
(3) Slide union nut and pressure ring over the pipe
(4) Hand-tighten union nut
(5) Tighten union nut until need for increased force is clearly noticeable
(6) Final assembly: Tighten by another ¼ turn
5.4.3.2 Clamping ring screw connection for metal and plastic pipes
(1) Insert support sleeve (only plastic pipes) into end of the pipe
(2) Insert pipe (with support sleeve) all the way to the stop
(3) Tighten the screw connection by hand until resistance becomes
noticeable, then tighten a further 1 ¾ turns with a wrench
(4) Loosen nut
(5) Tighten the nut by hand up to a noticeable stop
(6) Final assembly of the screw connection by tightening a ¼ turn
5.4.3.3 Quick screw connections for PA pipes
(1) Cut PA pipe to length at a right angle
(2) Unfasten union nut and slide over the end of the pipe
(3) Slide pipe onto nipple up to the beginning of the thread
Mounting