Metal Combustion in High-Pressure Flowing Oxygen

The possibility of an ignition event leading to component combustion is a significant consideration in the design and operation of all oxygen production and handling systems. Most materials of construction can react violently with oxygen if ignition occurs. This paper discusses some of the current concepts of ignition and combustion of metals and presents combustion data on several metals. The materials examined were selected based on prior use in oxygen systems and anticipated combustion behavior. The observed combustion behavior is discussed in light of current theories about combustion. The materials examined were aluminum (intercoolers, evaporators, tanks, pump casings), tin babbitt (labyrinth seals), carbon steel (tanks, pipelines, compressor casings), 90–10 cupro-nickel (heat exchangers, intercoolers), and silver (labyrinth seals).