fusible plugs in UK legal ?

[kfjoe]

hi all

could anyone please tell me if replacing a fusible plug on an old system is legal in the UK ?

thanks in advance for any help

[Brian_UK]

Don't see why it shouldn't be, it's a recognised safety relief device.

[monkey spanners]

They were difficult to get for a while but all the new ones have a 'CE' mark on them (or something similar) now.

I am still fitting them if they were original equipment.

Jon

[kfjoe]

thanks guys

[al]

One of our wholesalers is refusing to stock them, they claim they were outlawed under fgas or PED or some such.

Alec

[Grizzly]

Hi Guys.
Fusible plugs are installed to safely release potentially large amounts of refrigerant.
IF THE SYSTEM IT PROTECTS IS SUBJECTED TO HIGH TEMPERATURES.
IE in a fire.
I quote from EN378.


fusible plug
device containing a material which melts at a predetermined temperature and thereby relieves the pressure

I cannot understand how they are said to be banned?
Can anyone explain?
To my knowledge they have never replaced Bursting discs or PRV's.
Grizzly

[Grizzly]

OK Guys.
The mud is a little clearer.
Please read below....
I will try and decipher the particular info needed to elaborate upon which refrigerant is which category.
But so far the relevant tables are weighing in at 550kb.
To big for me to post.

Read on..


b) Fusible plugs
Fusible plug shall not be used when A2, B1, B2, A3 or B3 refrigerants are used.

Fusible plugs shall not be used as the sole pressure relief device between a refrigerant containing component
and the atmosphere for systems with a refrigerant charge larger than 2,5 kg of group A1 refrigerant.

A fusible plug is used to protect the refrigerating system against overpressure in case of an excessive external
heat source, such as fire.

If a fusible plug is mounted on the pressure vessel or any other part which it protects it shall be placed in a
section where superheated refrigerant would not affect its correct function.

Fusible plugs shall not be covered
by thermal insulation.

Discharge from fusible plugs shall take place so that persons and property are not endangered by the
released refrigerant.
Grizzly