Explosion Protection Valve with Pre-Filter Type ESV/VF – Air Inlet Valve for Protective Shelter Ventilation Systems

The Explosion Protection Valve with Pre-Filter Type ESV/VF reliably protects shelters and secure facilities against the effects of explosions. It is designed as an air inlet valve for protective shelter ventilation systems and prevents blast pressure waves caused by conventional explosions, industrial accidents, or other extraordinary events from entering the protected area.

At the same time, the integrated pre-filter removes coarse particles from the incoming outside air. This protects downstream ventilation components and improves the operational reliability of the entire ventilation system.

Depending on the model, the ESV/VF is available with 1 bar or 3 bar protection and is suitable for a range of protective shelter ventilation systems.

Function and Operating Principle

Outside air first passes through the integrated pre-filter, which captures dust and coarse contaminants. The filtered air then flows through the explosion protection valve into the ventilation system.

During normal operation, the valve ensures a continuous supply of fresh air. If a blast pressure wave occurs, the valve closes automatically within milliseconds, preventing dangerous overpressure from entering the shelter. Once the pressure event has passed, the valve automatically returns to normal ventilation mode.

Areas of Application

Explosion protection valves with pre-filter are suitable for use in:

• Protective shelters and personnel protection facilities
• Government and emergency response organizations
• Emergency hospitals and protected medical facilities
• Military installations
• Telecommunications and data centers
• Critical infrastructure
• Nuclear power plants
• Petrochemical facilities
• Industrial and manufacturing plants
• Secure rooms with enhanced protection requirements

Protection Principle

The Explosion Protection Valve with Pre-Filter reliably protects people and critical equipment against blast pressure waves caused by explosions, industrial incidents, or other hazardous events. In the event of a blast, the spring-loaded valve disc closes automatically, preventing the pressure wave from entering the protected area. After the pressure or suction phase has ended, the valve reopens automatically and resumes normal ventilation.

The integrated pre-filter additionally removes dust and coarse particles before they enter the ventilation system, protecting downstream components and increasing system reliability.

Construction and Materials

The ESV/VF has been designed for long-term operation under demanding environmental conditions.

Materials:

• Valve housing made of hot-dip galvanized steel
• Pre-filter basket made of hot-dip galvanized steel
• Wall sleeve made of hot-dip galvanized steel
• Pre-filter made of polyester fibers
• Valve disc and closing mechanism made of stainless chromium-nickel steel
• Anchoring bolts made of chromium-nickel steel

The design was developed for long-term use in demanding environmental conditions. The hot-dip galvanized steel components and the components made of chrome-nickel steel offer a high level of corrosion protection and ensure a long service life.

The selection of high-quality materials ensures high corrosion resistance, a long service life, and reliable operation, even under demanding operating conditions.

Available Variants

The product is available in several versions:

• ESV/VF 40 (1 bar) for VA 40 ventilation systems
• ESV/VF 75/150 (1 bar) for VA 75 and VA 150 ventilation systems
• ESV/VF 150 (3 bar) for protective shelter ventilation systems requiring an increased protection level

Technical performance varies by model, including airflow capacity, pressure drop, protection level, and installation configuration.

Standards, Certification, and Type Approval

The Explosion Protection Valve with Pre-Filter complies with the requirements of the Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection (BABS).

Type testing is carried out by LABOR SPIEZ, part of the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (VBS).

Approvals (depending on model)

• BZS T 03-011
• BZS T 96-007
• BZS T 74-012

BSSD supplies only tested and approved components for protective shelter and security systems.

Scope of Delivery

Depending on the selected version, the package includes:

• Explosion protection valve
• Pre-filters
• Valve housing with outlet connection and flange
• Inspection cover
• Condensate bottle
• Wall sleeve (model dependent)
• Installation documentation

Installation Notes

To ensure compliance with applicable standards, only approved mounting materials and components may be used. Installation must be carried out in accordance with BABS requirements and the relevant installation instructions to maintain the certified protection and performance levels.

Individual consultation

Selecting the appropriate explosion protection valve depends on the installed ventilation system, the required protection level, and the structural conditions of the project.

Our specialists will assist you in selecting the correct ESV/VF model and provide guidance on planning, approvals, and installation. Contact us for individual technical consultation.