BSV Blast Vent

BSV Blast Vent

The AFP BSV Blast Vent Series combines AFP’s proven explosion venting technology with optional insulation and fire protection, providing a complete venting solution for arc flash, pressure, and gas-discharge events.

Each model in the series is precision-built to protect switchgear, transformer, and battery-storage enclosures by safely venting overpressure to atmosphere in under 60 ms.

Constructed entirely from 304 or 316L stainless steel, the BSV range delivers reliable, maintenance-free performance in all climates: from desert installations to sub-zero facilities.

Applications

The BSV Blast Vent Series is designed for controlled pressure relief in environments where electrical faults, gas discharges, or blast overpressure events can occur.

Each model provides reliable venting performance for both indoor and outdoor installations. Typical applications include:

• Ducting from switchgear units. To vent arc flash overpressure safely to the atmosphere.
• Substations or rooms housing electrical equipment. Where reliable gas-tight sealing and rapid venting are essential.
• Battery storage facilities. Combining explosion relief with optional insulation or fire-rated protection.
• Data centres and IT facilities. Requiring low leakage, temperature controlled blast protection.
• Rooms with gas suppression systems. Where venting performance must integrate with inert gas discharge systems.
• Power generation and substation buildings. For robust, corrosion resistant external venting in all climates.

Integrated safety for electrical and energy systems

Modern power and energy facilities often combine high voltage equipment, gas suppression systems, and densely configured enclosures. During electrical faults or thermal events, these systems can rapidly accumulate heat and gases, creating hazardous overpressure conditions.

The BSV Blast Vent Series protects personnel and infrastructure by safely relieving internal pressure, directing gases away from critical equipment, and maintaining enclosure integrity during fault or discharge events.

Each BSV model performs three essential safety functions:

• Gas venting. Allows the controlled release of accumulated or discharge gases, preventing dangerous build up within enclosed spaces.
• Pressure relief. Maintains enclosure stability and ensures compatibility with gas suppression and cooling systems by providing a calibrated relief pathway.
• Explosion venting. Offers a rapid response outlet for overpressure during arc flash or blast events, reducing the risk of structural damage or escalation.

By combining these functions within a single modular design, the BSV Series provides a comprehensive safety solution for electrical rooms, transformer enclosures, and battery energy storage installations. This ensures reliable performance across the full range of operating conditions.

Model differences

The BSV units are suitable for all blast-related applications, but there are variants available that include thermal or fire-rated insulation.

• BSV AF: Provides arc flash pressure relief and blast protection for gas- or air-insulated switchgear and electrical enclosures.
• BSV INS: Adds thermal and acoustic insulation for environments where additional insulation is needed. For example, in cold storage environments or locations subject to extreme external temperatures.
• BSV F-INS: Highest protection level, with both insulation and certified fire containment. Fire rated insulation is primarily intended for battery storage applications, particularly when the BSV AF is roof-mounted. In such cases, it prevents condensation from forming and dripping onto battery packs. Using non-combustible insulation is preferable here, as conventional polyurethane (even fire-rated types) can still burn.