Fireproofing of PSVs

Chemical engineering, Plant designs related to chemical, petro-chemical or oil&gas, Operational assistance, etc.
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hg_55
Posts: 0
Joined: 21 Jul 2026, 06:25

Fireproofing of PSVs

Post by hg_55 »

In what cases PSVs designed for fire cases can be fireproofed? Our process engineers have recommended us to apply fireproofing on some PSVs. What can be the driving factors?
luca
Posts: 31
Joined: 26 Jul 2025, 14:46
Area of interest: Electrical Engineering

Re: Fireproofing of PSVs

Post by luca »

Some facilities require equipment to remain functional for 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 120 minutes, depending on evacuation philosophy.
If a PSV is needed to continue relieving pressure during prolonged fire exposure, fireproofing may help preserve its mechanical integrity.
opo21
Posts: 63
Joined: 22 Dec 2025, 08:14
Area of interest: Chemical Engineering

Re: Fireproofing of PSVs

Post by opo21 »

If your process engineers have recommended fireproofing only for selected PSVs, they may have identified one or more of the following during the design or risk assessment:

Jet fire exposure -Very high heat flux can impair PSV operation before it relieves effectively.
Proximity to high-pressure hydrocarbon equipment -Greater likelihood of direct flame impingement.
Deluge system limitations -Passive protection compensates where active fire protection may not be sufficient.
Long emergency response or depressuring time -PSV must remain functional for an extended duration.
Critical service (e.g., toxic, hydrogen, sour gas) -Higher consequences if the PSV fails to operate.
Pilot-operated or bellows PSV -More heat-sensitive internal components.
Escalation prevention -Ensures continued overpressure protection of adjacent equipment during a major fire.
sys1
Posts: 49
Joined: 06 Apr 2026, 08:02
Area of interest: Chemical Engineering

Re: Fireproofing of PSVs

Post by sys1 »

That must have been recommended to reduce the thermal load when there is an actual call in fire case scenario.
Fireproofed assets would support reducing that load.
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