EN ISO 4126-6:2014 provides guidance on the application, selection and installation of bursting disc safety devices used to protect pressure equipment from excessive pressure and/or excessive vacuum. It covers terminology, symbols, selection of performance tolerances, installation location and practices, and contains informative annexes with purchaser information, replacement guidance, discharge capacity, flow and type testing, and performance characteristics.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and definitions: Clarifies terms such as bursting disc, bursting disc assembly, bursting disc holder, and types (conventional/domed, reverse, slotted, flat, graphite).
- Application guidance: Emphasises considering the whole pressure relief system (not just the disc) to avoid reduced relieving capacity or impaired operation.
- Selection: Guidance on choosing the correct bursting disc safety device and appropriate performance tolerance for the intended service, including material compatibility and operating conditions.
- Installation: Practical requirements for correct location, handling and installation to maintain functionality and safety of the device.
- Informative annexes:
- Annex A: Information to be supplied by the purchaser (checklist).
- Annex B: Guidelines for determining replacement periods.
- Annex C: Guidance for determining discharge capacity for single-phase fluids (references Part 7 for calculations).
- Annex D: Flow testing procedures for bursting disc assemblies.
- Annex E: Type testing methodology for non-reclosing devices.
- Annex F: Typical performance characteristics for various disc types.
- Normative references: Manufacturing, inspection and testing requirements are referenced to ISO 4126-2; coordination with ISO 4126-3 (combined devices) and Part 7 (common data) is noted.
Practical applications
- Protection of vessels, piping, gas cylinders and other enclosures from overpressure or vacuum.
- Selection and installation guidance for process, chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and utility plants where non-reclosing pressure relief is required.
- Use in safety case documentation, procurement specifications and preventive maintenance planning.
- Basis for specifying flow and discharge testing when validating relief system capacity.
Who should use this standard
- Pressure equipment designers and process safety engineers
- Valve and safety device manufacturers and suppliers
- Procurement specialists and purchasers (see Annex A checklist)
- Maintenance and inspection teams determining replacement intervals
- Safety assessors and regulatory compliance officers
Related standards
- ISO 4126-2 - Bursting disc safety devices (manufacture, testing, marking)
- ISO 4126-3 - Safety valves and bursting disc devices in combination
- ISO 4126-7 - Common data and capacity calculations
EN ISO 4126-6:2014 is essential when specifying or installing bursting disc safety devices to ensure correct application, maintain relieving capacity, and comply with international best practice for overpressure protection.
