The average lifespan of a typical flashback arrestor is 18 months, depending on average use, by CGA and OSHA requirements for industrial applications. We recommend testing for flow and reverse flow at least once a year (see product instructions for how to test.)
Check valves only prevent the reverse flow of gases and CANNOT stop a flashback. Check valves do not have the essential element to stop a flashback: a flame barrier. A flame barrier stops the rapid flame propagation through hoses, regulators and torches. Without this protection, the check valve cannot stop a flashback.
No, all flame barriers are not created equal. Flame barriers can be made of different materials and have different micron openings. The flame barrier needs to be made a material that will extinguish fires and have the right size openings to allow gas through- but not a flashback. If the micron openings are too large or the material is not correct- the flame barrier will not stop a flashback. SuperFlash flashback arrestors are made of high quality 3-5 micron stainless steel- and are 100% tested so they stop flashbacks every time.
SuperFlash Flashback Arrestors can come with a thermal shut off that can stop hose burnback and repeated flashbacks.