This article is about Layout and Spacing of High Skin Temperature Equipment for plant layout and plant safety consideration as per international codes and standards.
Layout and Spacing of High Skin Temperature Equipment
High skin temperature equipment such as heaters, furnaces, boilers, and other heat-generating equipment must be given proper consideration during the layout and spacing process in industrial plants.
The following are some key considerations when designing the layout and spacing of high skin temperature equipment:
- Keep high skin temperature equipment away from personnel and other equipment: High skin temperature equipment should be located in a designated area, away from personnel and other equipment. This will help reduce the risk of injury or damage to other equipment due to the high temperatures involved.
- Provide adequate clearance around equipment: Sufficient clearance should be provided around high skin temperature equipment to allow for maintenance and repair work to be performed safely. Clearance should also be provided to prevent heat buildup and ensure adequate ventilation.
- Ensure proper ventilation and cooling: High skin temperature equipment generates a lot of heat, and proper ventilation and cooling are necessary to prevent overheating and potential damage to the equipment. The layout should ensure that sufficient ventilation and cooling systems are in place to maintain safe operating temperatures.
- Consider fire protection and prevention: High skin temperature equipment poses a fire hazard, and proper fire protection and prevention measures should be incorporated into the layout and spacing plan. This includes fire suppression systems, proper insulation, and regular maintenance and inspection.
- Follow industry standards and regulations: Designers should follow industry standards and regulations for the layout and spacing of high skin temperature equipment. This includes standards set by organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
High Skin Temperature Equipment Spacing in Plants
Diesel engines, gasoline engines, and combustion gas turbines present a constant source of ignition for
possible hydrocarbon releases and should be carefully located. Such equipment should be insulated and
otherwise isolated by passive systems to maintain a low outer surface temperature. Provide a minimum
separation of 10.5 m between high skin temperature equipment and equipment handling hydrocarbons
below auto ignition temperature or below 260 °C.
Equipment Handling Nonflammables, Noncombustibles, or Nontoxics
As reflected in Tables 1-A and 2-A there is no established recommended minimum spacing from most
equipment to equipment handling nonflammables, noncombustibles, or nontoxics. When locating this type
of equipment considerations must be given to the following:
- Criticality of the equipment (i.e., equipment necessary to control or mitigate emergencies or safely shut down process equipment should be located as other emergency equipment).
- Relative expense, replacement time, and importance to the operation of the facility (i.e., if critical, the equipment should be located away from high fire potential equipment).
- The electrical classification of the equipment must be considered relative to the surrounding equipment and the area classification.
FAQs About High Skin Temperature Equipment
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What is high skin temperature equipment?
High skin temperature equipment refers to machinery, equipment or surfaces that are expected to reach high temperatures during operation, which can pose a risk of burns or other injuries to workers who come into contact with them.
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What are some examples of high skin temperature equipment?
Examples of high skin temperature equipment include boilers, steam pipes, furnaces, ovens, kilns, and heat exchangers.
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How do you determine the safe distance for workers from high skin temperature equipment?
The safe distance for workers from high skin temperature equipment can be determined by calculating the heat radiation from the equipment, considering factors such as the surface temperature, the distance from the equipment, and the duration of exposure.
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What are some measures that can be taken to protect workers from high skin temperature equipment?
Measures that can be taken to protect workers from high skin temperature equipment include providing protective clothing, installing barriers or fencing around the equipment, and implementing administrative controls such as limiting worker exposure time or ensuring adequate ventilation in the work area.
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Are there any regulations or guidelines related to high skin temperature equipment?
Yes, various regulations and guidelines exist to address the hazards associated with high skin temperature equipment. For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards related to protecting workers from heat and fire hazards in the workplace, while the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) publishes standards related to temperature limits for various types of equipment.
Read Full Article of Plant Equipment Layout Safety Considerations.