How to Select the Right Rupture Disc for High-Temperature Systems

2026-04-27

Modern industry has gradually been developing towards high temperature, high pressure, and high load conditions. The operating temperatures of process systems in fields such as petrochemicals, power, and metallurgy are continuously rising, and safety relief devices are facing challenges from high temperatures. As a critical overpressure protection device, the selection of rupture discs in high-temperature environments is directly related to the safety of production equipment and personnel. Experts point out that when choosing the appropriate rupture disc for high-temperature systems, evaluations should focus on two core aspects: 'material selection and structural adaptation' and 'performance matching and verification'.

 

Material selection and structural adaptation based on high-temperature environments.

The impact of high temperature on rupture disc performance mainly manifests in three aspects: creep of the material leading to rupture pressure drift, accelerated lifespan reduction due to metal oxidation, and sealing failure caused by thermal expansion. Industry statistics show that about 35% of premature rupture disc failures are directly related to improper selection for high-temperature environments.

 

In terms of material selection, different high-temperature resistant materials correspond to different application scenarios:

1.Stainless steel: Suitable for temperatures up to about 400℃, it is the standard choice for conventional high-temperature conditions.

2.Nickel-based alloys: Due to their excellent creep resistance, they are suitable for environments of 400-700℃.

3.Special metals (tantalum, titanium): Used for highly corrosive high-temperature media such as chlorine and nitric acid.

4.Graphite: Can withstand extreme temperatures above 1000℃, but attention should be paid to its service life in oxidizing atmospheres.  

 

In terms of structural types, the reverse arch bursting disc is recommended for operating conditions with frequent temperature fluctuations due to its excellent fatigue resistance. In contrast, the domed rupture disc, although lower in cost, is prone to premature failure under high-temperature cycling.

 

Even with such complexity in rupture disc material and structural selection, Shenyang Xinguang Aerospace Safety System Co., Ltd. still adheres to high standards and strict requirements, carefully controlling material selection and has successfully developed rupture disc products capable of withstanding high pressure and high temperature conditions, having obtained CE certification and ASME UD system certification.

 

Performance matching and verification based on process conditions.

A bursting disc can only provide genuine protection if it activates at the set pressure, and high temperature is a key factor affecting the accuracy of the disc. Before selecting a bursting disc, three points must be clarified: the maximum operating temperature rather than the average temperature, the ratio of operating pressure to burst pressure, and the frequency and amplitude of temperature fluctuations.

 

In the calculation of burst pressure, high temperatures can lead to a reduction in material strength, so the high-temperature correction factor provided by the manufacturer must be used. Taking 316L stainless steel as an example, the actual burst pressure in a 500°C environment may be only about 70% of the nominal room temperature value. Ignoring this correction could result in the disc activating earlier or later than intended at the actual temperature, posing a safety risk.

 

High temperatures also affect the accuracy deviation of the bursting disc's operation. Under normal conditions, the burst pressure deviation is usually ±5% or ±10%, but in high-temperature environments, this range may expand to ±15%. Therefore, it is recommended to prioritize selecting a reverse arch bursting disc with heat-resistant coating, as its accuracy is more stable under high temperatures.

 

The verification stage is the final step in evaluating the selection. Users are concerned whether the product meets the test requirements for high-temperature bursting discs according to standards such as ASME and GB/T 567. For special operating conditions such as vacuum, attention must be paid during selection; it is necessary to choose either a reverse arch bursting disc or a domed bursting disc with vacuum support.


Reverse arch bursting disc


Shenyang Xinguang Aerospace Safety System Co., Ltd. has a modern factory equipped with automated precision machining equipment and advanced testing instruments. We strictly implement a quality management system and conduct comprehensive tests on products, including pressure, sealing, and fatigue tests, to ensure safety and reliability in specific environments. As a national high-tech enterprise, we will continue to strengthen our manufacturing capabilities to confidently meet customized demands under high temperature, high pressure, and special working conditions.


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