Flare pilot ignition in accordance with API 537

[MortenA]

I cant find a clause in API 537 that either prohibits or allows the use of a flare gun as the primary method for igniting the flare pilot except for section 4.8.2, third bullet point where its stated that igniter shall work without relying on the flare igniting the pilot (i think its impossible to light the pilot itself with a gun reliably anyway). Any thoughts on this?

Best regards, Morten

 

[EmmanuelTop]

Pilot gas ignition systems are also discussed in API 521, section 5.7.7. (6th edition). End users are advised to establish selection criteria based on experience with operating plants/facilities.
I haven't encountered any specific code requirements so far with regards to prohibition of certain types of ignition systems.


Dejan IVANOVIC
Process Engineer, MSChE

 

[MortenA]

Well, but _coul: you consider a flare gun as an ignition "system"?

On a related note, i think i have heard about flare rifles for refineries (where the falres are often very high) but my offshore operators gives me a blank stare when i menition this. Anybody know about flare rifles?

Best regards, Morten

 

[MortenA]

typo should read _could_

 

[Compositepro]

I guess that a flare rifle would be a standard rifle loaded with tracer rounds.

 

[georgeverghese]

As far as I know, flare guns are used only when spark igniters or flame front generators have some how failed to start the pilot.