Compression packing for oxygen service
Oxygen bonds with all elements in the process known as oxidation. If this process occurs rapidly fire can result. It is therefore essential that materials which will oxidise rapidly are not present in oxygen processing systems. Contaminants such as oils and greases, including anything from lubricants to simple residue contamination from handling components with bare hands, are very capable of reacting with oxygen to cause fire and potentially an explosion.
In addition to ensuring cleanliness when working on oxygen handling systems all components, including sealing products such as compression packings, must also conform to the same levels of cleanliness - containing no potentially reactive lubricants or materials.