Overview
ISO 23693-3:2026 specifies methods for determining the resistance of passive fire protection (PFP) materials and systems to mechanical loads resulting from gas explosions. This part of the ISO 23693 series focuses on tubular and I-section substrates that undergo elastic deformation only, addressing the combined effects of pressure and drag in explosion scenarios. The standard applies to PFP materials exposed to fire hazards where initial explosion impacts could compromise their integrity before fire exposure.
These standardized testing methodologies simulate the mechanical loads that may be imparted by explosions resulting from the release of flammable gases, pressurized liquefied gases, flashing liquid fuels, or dusts. The document is essential for ensuring the reliability and safety of PFP products in hazardous environments.
Key Topics
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Applicability: Targets PFP systems on tubular and I-beam (I-section) substrates experiencing elastic deformation only. Excludes substrates that undergo plastic deformation or brittle failure.
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Explosion Load Simulation: Describes how to simulate both overpressure and drag loads to which PFP materials may be exposed during a gas explosion. Load generation methods are referenced from ISO 23693-1.
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Test Methods:
- Direct Measurement: Quantifies pressure and drag using stagnation and side-on overpressure gauges.
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Utilizes validated CFD modelling to simulate explosion effects when direct measurement isn’t practicable.
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Instrumentation: Specifies the arrangement and use of pressure gauges for acquiring reliable testing data, including calibration procedures.
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Specimen Set-Up: Outlines requirements for test specimens, including minimum dimensions, mounting, and placement within the explosion flow path.
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Result Evaluation: Details data smoothing and interpretation strategies (like rolling averages) for overpressure profiles and dynamic pressure calculation.
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Damage Assessment: Provides classification of observed specimen damage (cracking, displacement, crushing, etc.) to support robust post-explosion evaluation.
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Reporting Requirements: Mandates comprehensive documentation for each test, including specimen construction, pre-existing conditions, instrumentation details, observed damage, and photographic evidence.
Applications
ISO 23693-3:2026 is crucial in industries utilizing passive fire protection systems in settings where gas explosions are a realistic hazard, such as:
- Oil and Gas Facilities: Onshore and offshore installations where PFP materials are applied to piping and structural steelwork.
- Chemical Processing Plants: Environments where explosive atmospheres from gas or vapor releases pose fire and explosion risks.
- Industrial Plants: Facilities handling flammable gases, liquids, or combustible dusts.
- Power Plants: Areas where PFP safeguards critical tubular and I-section components from potential explosion and fire escalation.
Manufacturers, engineers, safety professionals, and asset owners utilize this standard to:
- Assess and compare the explosion resistance of PFP products,
- Validate the continued integrity of PFP systems after blast exposure,
- Meet regulatory and insurance requirements for fire and explosion safety.
Related Standards
- ISO 23693-1: General requirements for determining resistance to gas explosions of passive fire protection materials.
- ISO 13943: Fire safety - Vocabulary, providing definitions applicable to fire safety and PFP standards.
For comprehensive protection solutions and compliance, ISO 23693-3 should be applied in conjunction with these related standards to ensure robust, reliable PFP system performance in hazardous environments.
Keywords: ISO 23693-3, passive fire protection, explosion resistance, tubular substrates, I-beam sections, overpressure, drag load, gas explosion, CFD modelling, fire safety standards, industrial fire protection testing.
Open preview (PDF)Determination of the resistance to gas explosions of passive fire protection materials — Part 3: Tubular and I-section substrates subject to elastic deformation only
