The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) and the Explosive Atmosphere Directive set the minimum requirements for protection against risks from fire and explosions arising from dangerous substances used within a workplace. Thermal oil systems must be monitored to ensure they do not become an operational risk to employees and assets.

Over time, thermal oil molecules break down due to thermal cracking and oxidation. These processes create volatile light end fractions, heavy ends and organic acids. Poorly maintained thermal oil systems cause inefficiencies and risk due to:

· Increase in carbon content within the thermal oil system which can lead to fouling of the internal surfaces of the system.
· Formation of organic acids due to oxidation of the thermal oil, leading to possible structural integrity and component wear related issues.
· Increased level of light ends, which lower the flash point of the thermal oil, resulting in an increased risk of fire.

Operational provides a sampling and testing analysis service, which is in line with legislative requirements. Our engineers will collect a representative thermal oil sample from the manufacturing site for analysis of the following physical properties: –

· Water Content.
· Viscosity.
· Total Acid.
· Flash Point.

Contact Operational to discuss with our specialists your thermal oil sampling and testing requirements.

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