Plain Graphite Rupture Disc
Product Model: ZD-G01 (Standard Plain Type)
Material: Impervious Graphite (Anti-Corrosive Grade).
Design: Solid, flat graphite membrane without pre-scoring.
Opening Characteristic: Bursts into multiple fragments, providing full, rapid opening.
Pressure Range: Very low to medium, typically 0.1 barg to 4.0 barg.
Primary Use: Emergency pressure relief in highly corrosive services where fragment containment is possible or acceptable.
Overview
For processes involving aggressive acids, chlorinated compounds, or solvents that rapidly destroy metallic components, plain graphite rupture discs offer a simple and highly effective solution. Manufactured from high-quality impervious graphite, this disc sacrifices itself completely upon activation, fragmenting to create an immediate and unrestricted opening. Its primary advantage is exceptional corrosion resistance at a relatively low cost, making it the standard choice for protecting vessels and systems in chemical processing, metal pickling, and waste treatment applications where media compatibility is the foremost concern.
Features & Benefits
Superior Corrosion Resistance: Resists virtually all acids (except strong oxidizers like hot concentrated nitric acid), alkalis, and halogenated solvents, offering longevity where metals fail.
Cost-Effective for Aggressive Media: Provides a reliable safety device for corrosive services without the high cost of exotic metal alloys like tantalum or Hastelloy.
Rapid Full-Bore Relief: Fragmentation ensures no flow restriction after bursting, allowing for maximum discharge capacity.
High-Temperature Capability: Suitable for temperatures up to 400°C in inert atmospheres, and often higher than polymer-based alternatives.
How It Works
The solid graphite disc acts as a pressure boundary. When the system pressure exceeds its mechanical strength, the disc fails in a brittle fracture mode, breaking into several pieces. These fragments are expelled from the holder, clearing the entire nozzle area for pressure relief. A downstream fragment containment screen is often recommended to catch the pieces.
Specifications (Descriptive)
Available in standard sizes from DN25 to DN400. Burst pressures are typically in the lower range; for example, a DN100 disc may be rated for 0.5 barg, while a DN50 disc can handle up to 2.5 barg. The disc thickness is directly correlated to its burst pressure rating. Standard holders are carbon steel with corrosion-resistant coating or fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) to protect the external assembly. Gaskets are usually graphite or PTFE-based.
Q&A
Q: What happens to the fragments after bursting?
A: The graphite pieces are expelled into the downstream piping or containment system. It is critical to install a fragment containment screen or ensure the discharge path leads to a safe, contained area to prevent debris from damaging equipment or creating a hazard.
Q: Is this disc suitable for vacuum service?
A: No. The plain graphite disc is not designed to withstand significant backpressure or vacuum. For services involving vacuum or backpressure, a different design (such as a composite or supported disc) must be considered.
Q: How careful must I be during installation?
A: Graphite is brittle. Installation requires care to avoid cracking the disc during handling or when tightening flange bolts. Bolts must be tightened evenly and gradually in a cross pattern to the specified torque. Overtightening will crush the disc.
About ZD Safety
We provide robust solutions for harsh chemistry. Our plain graphite discs are a testament to simplicity and effectiveness, offering reliable protection in environments where corrosion resistance is non-negotiable.
