Although diesel engines are safer than gasoline engines when working in hydrocarbon-rich environments, they can become an ignition source in certain situations. Diesel engine speed is controlled by an internal speed governor which meters the amount of fuel fed to the engine. If flammable vapors are present in the atmosphere, they are drawn into the intake system along with clean air, and the additional fuel causes the engine to accelerate. As the engine speed rapidly increases, it draws in more air – and more vapors. The cycle continues until the engine is running off the unmetered vapors as its fuel source. If this cycle is not stopped, it can cause the engine to overspeed, or runaway, making it a potential ignition source for the explosive vapors and lead to:

• Valve bounce
• Flames exiting the intake and exhaust pipes
• Surface temperatures (auto ignition)
• Sparks
• Catastrophic injury or death

For over 45 years, AMOT has promoted better safety in hazardous industries by raising awareness of the risks of operating diesel engines in these environments and educating industry professionals about ways to protect their equipment and people. We continue to invest in research and product technologies as diesel engines evolve to meet modern performance standards.

We work with engine manufacturers, oil and gas service companies, companies that provide support services, and operators to design complete systems that protect against diesel engine runaway and the risks of a diesel engine becoming an ignition source on worksites.