Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus and method for extinguishing fires consuming combustible fluids, particularly gaseous fluids, issuing from wells, pipes or vent stacks. The apparatus comprises an extinguisher body typically having a cylindrical passageway which is connected in inline flow relationship with the well, pipe or vent stack and through which the flow of combustible fluid must pass. A diffuser cone is mounted within the extinguisher body passageway in coaxial alignment, the apex of the cone directed towards the outlet of the extinguisher body. An extinguisher fluid nozzle is mounted within the extinguisher body passageway for directing a flow of high momentum inert gas against the apex of the conical diffuser. High momentum inert gas is supplied to the nozzle when it is required to extinguish a fire consuming the combustible fluid passing through the extinguisher body and out of the well, pipe or vent stack. The high momentum flow of inert gas directed against the apex of the cone effectively blocks the flow of the combustible fluid through the extinguisher body while purging the combustible fluid from the extinguisher body to the outlet of the well, pipe or vent stack. The invention has particular applicability to vent stacks connected to the ullage spaces of tanks containing cryogenically liquefied combustible fluids such as liquid hydrogen or liquefied natural gas.

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First Claim