Familiarise with High Pressure Terminology

Compressor Dictionary – D

Design of a Filling Station

In Germany, filling stations are governed by an industrial code of practice (Gewerbeordnung).
The pressure vessel directive (Druckbehälterverordnung) defines the required safety appliances and regulations. Furthermore, a permit by the local industrial inspection board (Gewerbeaufsichtsamt), which may only be obtained after a thorough TÜV-inspection of the installation, is required. Exemptions apply solely for compressors that are used for private or intra-company breathing air demand (for example, for a company's fire brigade, process air). It is illegal to supply third parties (which includes sports divers that work for the company).

Compressors that are run by diving clubs represent a legal grey area. Under no circumstances should they supply breathing air to non-members. Even though there is no official requirement to satisfy the governmental safety code, the underlying principles for hazard-free operation of a compressor system ought to be observed.

The licensing procedure is highly bureaucratic and time consuming; numerous regulations have to be observed. These include the pressure vessel directive (Druckbehälterverordnung), rules for safety and hazard prevention (Unfallverhütungsvorschrift), technical regulations (Technische Regeln), engineering rules (VDE-Vorschriften), industrial norms according to DIN, building regulations (Landesbauordnung), etc.

In order to obtain a licence, the filling station must be located in a non-residential area. This includes commercial or industrial estates, which have been approved by the local authorities. Furthermore, operators have to supply a plan of the premises that indicates the interior layout, the access doors and the exact position of the compressor. The compressor unit has to be installed clear of all access doors; emergency exits may not be obstructed. For compressor systems that are assembled on site (i.e. not ready-to-run compressor units), detailed installation sketches must be supplied. Key parameters, such as the required distance from the walls and the minimum cross-section of the air ducts, are listed in the compressor's operating manual. The manual, alongside the invoice and the TÜV-certificate (which can be obtained from the compressor manufacturer), is frequently requested. Any TÜV certificate will meet this requirement, even if it has been issued by an agency other than the local TÜV. The test report for the filling hoses, which expires after one year, may also be required!

The unit has to be equipped with a readily accessible emergency shut-off switch. The switch must be located at hand's reach and outside potential danger zones.

To avoid licensing problems, we recommend that you talk to local authorities, such as the industrial inspection board, TÜV and civic administration, before assembling your filling station.

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