Charge Panel

Fusible Loop Charge Panel

What is a fusible loop charge panel? A fusible loop charge panel is a pneumatic panel that monitors a fusible loop system for the detection of fire. The fusible loop panel also complements a fire and gas detection system. Fusible loop systems are installed on offshore platforms to detect fire. The installation of the fusible loop is in accordance with API RP 14C recommendation.

The charge panel will regulate and meter a fix amount of instrument air to the fusible loop. During a fire, the heat generated by the fire will melt one or more of the fusible plug located in or near the fire. The ‘melting’ of the plug will cause a release of air from fusible loop through the plug. Since the release of this regulated air exceeds the amount of regulated/metered air supply, the pressure in the loop will decrease significantly. This decrease in pressure is monitored by a pressure switch on the charge panel. The signal from the switch is then utilized to signal an alarm to the Fire and Gas System.  In addition, an additional pneumatic output is tied to the deluge valve pilot valve where it is use to open the deluge valve.

We offer 3 standard panels with the following data sheet.

Data sheet with 3 standard panels. (1)
Data sheet with 3 standard panels. (2)

Specification for our high quality FLCP-30 charge panel includes

  • Single zone charge panel. Panel constructed out of 316/L with full depth enclosure  on top and sides.
  • Equipped with 2 liter (0.52 gallon) capacity volume bottle with double check as a back-up to interruption of air/nitrogen supply. Volume bottle constructed out of  316/L stainless steel and design for 200 psig with hydro testing. Equipped with 316SS isolation valve and drain. 
  • All 316SS filter regulator with automatic liquid drain feature. 
  • Panel equipped with 316SS quick charge button to provide quickly and efficient start-up.
  • A 316SS low pressure cutoff switch is provided to remove air/nitrogen from the loop in the event of a fusible plug activation to ensure a failsafe system.
  • Panel is equipped with an explosion proof hermetically sealed pressure switch to indicate the activation of a fusible plug. Switch approved for Division 1 and 2; Class I, Groups A, B, C and D; Class II, Groups E, F and G Hazardous Locations. ATEX approved switch is available on request.
  • Copper free aluminum pull box provided to facilitate wiring of pressure switch.
  • 2.5″ Vibration resistant stainless steel pressure gauge for the indication of supply pressure. Dual scale 0 to 200 psi/(kg/cm^2) range. Equipped with 316SS isolation valve mounted on front of panel with locking provision.
  • 2.5″ Vibration resistant stainless steel pressure gauge for the indication of regulated pressure. Dual scale 0 to 60 psi/(kg/cm^2) range.  Equipped with 316SS isolation valve mounted on front of panel with locking provision.  
  • 2.5″ Vibration resistant stainless steel pressure gauge for the indication of loop pressure. Dual scale 0 to 60 psi/(kg/cm^2) range. Equipped with 316SS isolation valve mounted on front of panel with locking provision. 
  • 3/8″ tube connection provide with 316SS inlet isolation valve with locking provision for customer’s incoming pneumatic supply.
  • 3/8″ tube connection provide for connection to fusible loop. 1/2″ tube connection available on request.
  • Tubing are 3/8″OD x 0.049″ seamless 316/L stainless steel. Tube fittings are high quality double ferrule 316SS tube fittings.
  • All wetted parts are constructed out of 316 Stainless Steel to prevent corrosion and contamination of fusible loop. 
  • Air or Nitrogen supply to range from 60 to 180 psig.
  • Size is approximately 20”W x 24”H x 8.5”D.

We also offer fusible plug and fusible tubing to complement our fusible loop panel. Do contact us for your instrumentation needs.