Under the requirements of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002, an organisation must identify and classify areas of the workplace where explosive atmospheres may occur.
Historically, the gas cloud volume Vz required for area classification had to be estimated using a methodology defined in BS EN 60079:10-1 (2009).
This methodology has no basis in science and has frequently been shown to produce unnecessarily conservative results.
In 2011, HSE developed a scientifically-based mathematical model of a flammable gas jet to provide more realistic estimates of Vz for releases of flammable gases in ventilated enclosures or outdoors.
Quadvent 2 builds on the original Quadvent, an easy-to-use software tool which calculates Vz for any situation in which the flammable gas cloud volume or extent of the flammable cloud needs to be determined for a release of pressurised gas. It allows for a wider range of applicability including different fluid types and an improved interface. The software also includes a model for buoyant gas releases and pressure liquefied gases, such as LPG.
Read about how Quadvent 2 can support your hazardous area classification in our white paper.
Who is Quadvent 2 for?
Quadvent 2 is aimed at any industry that routinely handles or stores flammable gases including natural gas, hydrogen, LPG, propane, butane, ammonia or refrigerants, and many others.
The benefits of using Quadvent 2
As an alternative to estimating the flammable gas cloud volume by using the method described in BS EN 60079:10-1 (2009), Quadvent 2 provides the following benefits:
- The software is quick and easy-to-use
- Realistic Vz estimates save the capital and maintenance costs of unnecessarily protecting electrical and non-electrical equipment for use in hazardous areas
- It uniquely calculates Vz both for ventilated enclosed areas and for outdoors
- The software has been rigorously tested and validated against detailed gas release data to ensure its reliability as a tool for hazardous area classification
- Quadvent 2 can realistically estimate the natural ventilation rate of a building
- Mathematical models have been added to cover a variety of gas and liquid release scenarios including gas jets, flashing releases and plume releases
- The software features a comprehensive help system and is supported by specialist training and consultancy services from HSL
Request a FREE evaluation copy of Quadvent 2 by emailing quadvent@hse.gov.uk or buy online today.
Hazardous Area Classification training
HSE provide regular training sessions on DSEAR (gases and liquids) and hazardous area classification, including the use of Quadvent 2, at the HSE Science and Research Centre in Buxton, Derbyshire.
HSE can also deliver bespoke training and consultancy relating to hazardous area classification and associated matters on-site.
Annual licence
Quadvent 2 is sold as an annual licence and is supplied electronically as a downloadable installation package.