Working Process of an Elevated Flare

 Working Process of an Elevated Flare  

 1. Gas Transportation and Pretreatment  

During industrial production, flammable gases are first transported to a knockout drum, where preliminary gas-liquid separation occurs. The separated liquid is collected and periodically discharged. The treated flammable gas then flows to a water seal drum, where it overcomes the water seal pressure to enter the subsequent pipeline system. The water level and pressure in the water seal drum are monitored and adjusted by the control system to ensure the effectiveness of the seal and the safety of the system.  

 2. Ignition and Combustion Initiation  

When the flammable gas reaches the vicinity of the flare tip, the ignition system activates. The igniter first lights the pilot gas to form a stable flame. The flammable gas is then ejected from the flare tip, mixes with ambient air, and begins to burn under the influence of the ignition source. During the initial combustion phase, the control system closely monitors the flame status to ensure a smooth combustion process. If ignition fails, the control system will follow preset procedures to attempt ignition multiple times or activate a backup ignition system, while alerting operators for inspection and resolution.  

 3. Stable Combustion and Monitoring Control  

During combustion, the flare system's control system continuously monitors various operating parameters. Pressure sensors monitor the pressure of the flammable gas, and gas flow control valves are adjusted based on pressure changes to ensure a stable gas supply for combustion. Temperature sensors monitor the temperature of the flare tip and surrounding environment to prevent structural damage from excessive heat. Flow sensors monitor the flow rate of the flammable gas to ensure it remains within the designed combustion range for efficient and complete combustion. If any abnormal parameter changes are detected, the control system will promptly adjust equipment or take emergency measures, such as regulating steam or air injection to improve combustion efficiency or cutting off the gas supply in critical situations to ensure system safety.  

 4. Combustion Shutdown and Post-Treatment  

When there is no longer a need to discharge flammable gases during industrial production, or when the flare system needs to be stopped for maintenance or inspection, the control system first closes the gas supply valve to stop the flow of flammable gas into the flare system. The ignition system continues to operate for a period to ensure that any residual flammable gas in the flare tip is completely burned off. After combustion has fully stopped, post-treatment of the flare system is performed, such as inspecting the condition of the flare tip burner, ignition device, and other components, and cleaning impurities from the knockout drum and water seal drum to prepare for the next startup and operation.