New generation of the VENTEX® explosion protection valve

The new VENTEX® explosion protection valve revolutionizes plant planning, (Image source: RICO Sicherheitstechnik AG)

The further development of the VENTEX valve offers many advantages to the user (Image source: RICO Sicherheitstechnik AG)

The RICO Security Technology AG presents a new innovation in 2021: The company based in Herisau, Switzerland, launches the next generation of the proven VENTEX® explosion protection valve and offers customers a variety of new features and optimizations in the field of explosion-proof decoupling. The valve now has a flow velocity of at least 30 m/s across all nominal sizes, ensuring an even higher level of process safety. The valve can be installed immediately before or after pipe bends in the pipeline; double pipe bends or combinations of pipe bends in different directions are also no problem. "This way, we ensure significant advantages in plant planning, as customers need less space and do not require a straight inlet section. The installation distance in the area of organic dust has been extended and ranges between 2 m and 15 m depending on the nominal size. With these two innovations, there is increased flexibility in the use of the passive explosion protection valve," explains Lorena Rigor, Head of Product Management and Customer Service at RICO. For processes involving metallic dust, the new VENTEX® is also certified in nominal size DN400. Additionally, the new generation achieves up to 20% better pressure drop values. RICO has also responded to customer feedback: the previously unavailable nominal size DN250 has been added to the VENTEX® portfolio and is now available as standard. "Through our research and development, we have further improved maintenance procedures and achieved important flow and sealing optimizations," says Lorena Rigor, emphasizing the importance of seals. These not only prevent potential flame penetration but also dampen the high accelerations during valve closure in the event of an explosion. "During numerous explosion tests on our products, we found that a seal is absolutely necessary for safety reasons and is also less problematic regarding contamination and assembly tolerances than a tight metallic gap," she adds. The Head of Product Management and Customer Service further explains: "All seals are now no longer glued but fitted with a new technology, enabling customers to perform simple, quick, and cost-effective maintenance, facilitating rapid re-commissioning." Against this background, the complexity of our product has been generally reduced. Regular inspection and maintenance are the basis for the long service life of the valve, which is 20 years when maintenance intervals are observed. For the new VENTEX® generation, a 20-year warranty is even provided when used as intended. The valve of the new generation is also available as a custom solution if needed. Whether in CIP design, as a high-temperature valve up to +300°C, or with a C4 or C5 corrosion coating — RICO offers the right solution for nearly every requirement.