Blowdown stack

A blowdown stack is a chimney or vertical stack that is used to vent the pressure of components of a chemical, refinery or other process if there is a process problem or emergency. A blowdown stack can be used to complement a flare stack or as an alternative. The purpose is to prevent 'loss of containment' of volatile liquids and gasses.

Additional recommended knowledge

Safe Weighing Range Ensures Accurate Results

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

Weighing the right way

The failure of the blowdown stack to contain hydrocarbons vented from a raffinate splitter led to a catastrophic explosion at the Texas City Refinery (BP) in 2005.