Burst disc

Burst disc‏‎ (also known as a rupture disc, burst diaphragm, pressure safety disc, or bursting disc) is a non-reclosing pressure relief device that, in most uses, protects a pressure vessel, equipment or system from overpressurization or potentially damaging vacuum conditions.

A burst disc is a pressure relief device that is designed to burst or rupture when a predetermined differential pressure, either positive or vacuum, is achieved. The disc is designed to burst at a specific pressure to protect the system or equipment from a potentially catastrophic failure due to overpressure.

Design and Operation

A burst disc is typically a circular piece of metal, plastic or composite material that is scored or weakened in a specific pattern to allow it to burst at a specific pressure. The disc is held in place by a disc holder, which is designed to support the disc until the burst pressure is reached. When the pressure reaches the burst pressure, the disc ruptures, allowing the pressure to be relieved.

The design of a burst disc is critical to its operation. The disc must be designed to burst at the correct pressure, and the pattern in which it is scored or weakened can affect how it bursts and how quickly the pressure is relieved. The material of the disc can also affect its performance, as different materials have different properties under pressure.

Applications

Burst discs are used in a wide variety of applications, including chemical processing, oil and gas production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, food and beverage processing, and aerospace applications. They are also used in fire extinguisher systems, air conditioning systems, and medical devices.

In many of these applications, the burst disc is a critical safety device that protects expensive equipment, systems, and personnel from the potentially catastrophic effects of overpressure or vacuum conditions.

See Also

• Pressure vessel
• Pressure relief valve
• Safety valve

References

‎