issue ??

[ozzy bill]

i work on cascade systems that use r170 (ethane) which is highly flamable is there a potential risk if there was a low side leak and the compressor went to earth ?

[Brian_UK]

The earth leak would be inside the compressor we assume and the leak would be outside of the system.

The chance of there being an explosive mixture within the system is extremely unlikely.

[ozzy bill]

thanks, thought it may be possible if low side was running in a vacuum

[nike123]

thanks, thought it may be possible if low side was running in a vacuum

Burning or combustion cannot take place if there is no oxygen!

[ozzy bill]

so normal running pressure is about 3 to 5 psi, so if there was a leak on the suction side and no Lp cut out fitted then there would be a vacuum so oxygen would be introduced to the system if the compressor went to earth is it possible that there may be combustion ?