No, they don't serve the same function. And for safety's sake, one should have both.

Check valves simply stop reverse flow of the gases. Check valves, however, typically cannot stop a flame front traveling
back through the torch and the hoses -- flashback arrestors serve that function. A flashback constitutes a serious safety
hazard. If the flame reaches the regulators (it'll likely ruin them) and the cylinders, an explosion might occur. A prolonged
flame inside the torch handle can actually melt it.

One may install flashback arrestors either at the torch or at the regulators, and check valves typically at the torch. If the
torch lacks these safety devices, one may add them although, typically, you'd have to compensate for them when
adjusting the regulators. Victor makes a style of torch, called Vanguard, that has a patented check valve-flashback
arrestor combination.

When I learned gas welding never saw flash back arresters or check valves on gas welding rigs. Now OSHA requires
them and manufactures trying to prevent law suits include them with new outfits. Flash back arrester is a screen or
sintered metal filter that flame can't easly pass through. Some but not all flash back arresters include check valves. Check
valves prevent reverse flow of gas. This prevents mixing of gas in hoses preventing flame traveling up hose. Flash back
arrester should be mounted at torch. Check valves can be mounted at torch or regulator but not both to prevent excessive
flow restriction. Flash back arresters should be replaced if exposed to flash back.

Flashback can occur when the fuel pressure drops suddenly or when the tip of the torch becomes plugged and the torch
is hot. Oxygen, generally at a higher pressure, especially with a cutting tip, will overcome the fuel pressure and feed back
into the hose. Acetylene, Oxygen and heat can cause the mixture to ignite, and a flame can travel up the hoses, through
the torch body etc. Carbon deposits can be left in the torch, hoses etc from the enclosed flame. These carbon deposits
can plug tips etc. This is an explanation of a portion of the result of flashback. Results may vary, void where prohibited.

Flashback Arrestors
 Designed to stop a flashback AND prevent reverse flow

 Flashback Arrestors have a flame barrier which stops a rapid flame propagation through hoses, regulators and torches.
 Flashback Arrestors also include an internal Check Valve which is protected by the flame barrier.
 SuperFlash Flashback Arrestors can come with a thermal shut off that can stop hose burnback and repeated
flashbacks.
 SuperFlash Flashback Arrestors are U/L approved and OSHA compliant!
 SuperFlash Flashback Arrestors will stop a flashback even if the internal check fails or leaks.
Check Valves
 Check Valves only prevent the reverse flow of gases, and CANNOT stop a flashback.
 Check Valves do NOT have a flame barrier
 Check Valves do NOT contain an inlet filter, which keeps out dust and debris.
 Check Valves need to be checked at least annually, or more often in abusive or heavy duty applications. Most people
don't take the time to inspect them!
 If a Check Valve fails, the reverse flow of gases (which is extremely dangerous) WILL go through the CheckValve.
Tip! How often should I replace my Flashback Arrestors?
The average lifespan of a typical Flashback Arrestor is 18 months, depending on average use, by CGA and OSHA
requirements for industrial applications. We recommend testing for flow and reverse flow at least once a year (see product
instructions for how to test).

The What, Where, and When of Hose Type Flashback Arrestors

Harris Products Group

Flashback arrestors and check valves are safety devices designed for oxy-fuel systems to prevent or control
damage from an occurrence like a flashback. They are used to prevent damage to equipment, but more importantly,
to prevent personal injury. By now you probably have read the Safety Guidelines and you already know what safety
devices are available and their features, etc. The intent of this article is to discuss the proper selection, and
recommended placement and maintenance of these safety devices. This additional information will help you to
maximize the benefits of using flashback arrestors and other safety devices.

Selection:

Choose the proper size device, paying particular attention to required equipment gas flow rates and the flow
information supplied with the flashback arrestors like P charts. Features like thermal shut offs may also influence
device selection. The aggregate number of safety devices in a system can also create an issue. Each safety device
used creates a restriction in flow, so always follow the equipment manufacturer’s recommendations. Check valves
alone create little restriction; however, as little as one extra flashback arrestor may render the system unsafe to
operate.
 Flashback arrestors on a Harris torch

Placement:

The best place to install the equipment for the most protection is as close to the designed or potential problem area
as conditions permit. Sometimes physical size and inherent flow restrictions limit the placement, so check with the
equipment manufacturer for suggestions as to the placement and or combination that will provide the most personal
protection and expose the equipment to the least potential damage in case of an incident.

Maintenance and Testing:

All equipment, especially safety equipment like flashback arrestors and check valves, must be in good working order
to function properly. Check with the manufacturer for suggestions regarding periodic testing and maintenance. In the
absence of the specific manufacturer’s instructions, a general rule would be to check the safety devices every 6
months when used in average conditions, more often in abusive and/or extremely dirty environments.

Check valves alone or those incorporated in most flashback arrestors are generally easy to test. Contact The Harris
Product Group for a copy of the instructions. Flashback arrestors with flame barrier devices are to be tested only by
methods and or equipment recommended by the manufacturer – if at all.

Never try to repair check valves or flashback arrestors unless authorized by the manufacturer – replace when found
defective.

Select the device with the features providing the most protection given the specific conditions, application, and
environment the equipment will be used in. Place safety device(s) within the system at the location that provides the
most protection for both the operator and the equipment without creating additional hazards or issues that may
discourage their continued use. Once chosen and installed, maintain the safety equipment by not exposing it to
excessively dirty conditions or abuse. Test or inspect the equipment according to the manufacturer’s
recommendations. Harris recommends testing and/or inspection periods every 6 months for average conditions and
more often in abusive or extreme conditions.
CGA E2 – Check Valves
CGA V1 – Flashback Arrestors

Dry flashback arrestors typically use a combination of safety elements to stop a flashback or reverse flow of gas.
This type is typically found in cutting and welding applications all over the world. They work equally effectively in all
orientations, and need very little maintenance. In many countries or regions they are mandatory to be installed at the
gas regulator or gas outlet/ tapping point. Depending on the application they are also often used at the torch side as
an additional safety device.
Flashback arrestors help prevent:

 Further gas flow in the case of pressure shocks.

 The entry of air or oxygen into the distribution line or single cylinders.
 Flashbacks which are the rapid propagation of a flame down the hose.
 Further gas flow in the event of a burnback.
According to the norm EN 730-1 / ISO 5175 they include a minimum of two safety elements:
A gas non-return valve (NV), which:

 prevents dangerous gas mixtures.

 ensures the gas only flows in the intended direction.
and a flame arrestor (FA), which:

 cools the flame to below the ignition temperature of the gas or gas mixture.
 prevents flashback.
In addition to these two basic safety functions a flashback arrestor can also have a:
Thermal cut-off valve (TV), which:

 prevents excessive temperatures.

 closes automatically at a certain temperature and cuts off the gas flow long before the ignition temperature of
the gas mixture is reached.
and a pressure-sensitive gas cut-off valve (PV), which stops the gas flow in the event of pressure shocks
The flashback arrestors are suitable for most technical gases (fuel gases) such as acetylene, hydrogen, methane,
propane, propylene and butane as well as oxygen and compressed air.
Flashback arrestors have to be tested for gas non-return, for tightness and for gas flow by a qualified person
depending on the country specific regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

When a flammable mixture of fuel gas and air or oxygen is present in a gas line upstream of a welding or cutting
blowpipe, flame can flash back into the gas line, and there is the possibility of a serious accident.

A flame or flashback arrestor is a safety device designed to stop a flame in its tracks. It is therefore used to prevent
flashback into cylinders or pipework.
A flashback arrestor should not be confused with a non-return valve, which has no particular flame stopping

properties. A non-return valve can reduce the probability of a flashback, as it serves to prevent reverse flow of oxygen
into fuel lines and fuel into oxygen lines.

The flame arrestor usually contains an element which may consist of narrow passages through a wire mesh or metal

foam. When a flame enters the element, it is quickly cooled by the cold surface of the element and the flame is

extinguished. The flame arrestor may contain a pressure or temperature actuated cut-off valve, and may then be
known as a flashback arrestor.

It is strongly recommended that arrestors with cut-off valves are fitted to the pressure regulator outlet of all acetylene

cylinders and acetylene distribution systems. It is highly advisable to fit them to the oxygen outlet, and other fuel gas
outlets. They can be fitted to the blowpipe, but this offers no protection from a fire arising from a leaking hose.

Further reading:

 UK: The Safe Use of Compressed Gases in Welding, Flame Cutting and Allied Processes, HSG139 (HSE Books)

 Flame Arrestors HSG158 (HSE Books)

 USA: Compressed Gas Association Inc Publication TB-3

Dear Engr. Eslam

Welding Workshop at AP150 needs the maintenance/replacement of some

of the equipment component mentioned below. As per CGA and
OSHA safety standards, these components have completed their lifespan and
must be replaced. Operating equipment in such conditions may arise an
unsafe environment for personnel and equipment
1 - Flashback Arrestors -------------------- 10 Pairs
2 - Check Valves ---------------------------- 10 Pairs
3 - Oxy-Acetylene Gas Hoses ------------- 10
4 - Oxygen Regulators ---------------------- 10
5 - Acetylene Regulators -------------------- 10
6 - Welding Torches with tips -------------- 10
7 - Electrode Holders ------------------------ 15

For detailed specifications please contact Engr. Shakeel from MCET @

0592057467