During various applications that take place within companies, dust is emitted into the air that can then settle on the equipment around the workshop. Although this may seem like daily practise to those involved, if the combustibility of the dust is unknown there is the potential that a fire or explosion can occur. Knowing if the dust is combustible is highly important as the correct dust collecting methods and equipment need to be put into the place.
Combustible dust can be a wood-based dust, which is to be expected, but also organic dust such as cocoa powder, flour, lemon pulp and sugar, as well as dust from pharmaceutical, plastics and textiles can be combustible. If you are not sure if the dust your applications are emitting are combustible a list created by the US Occupations Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can help you classify it.
To avoid any explosion from occurring the correct dust collector for the application must be installed. Envirox, supplier of Nederman dust collectors and equipment, understands that not all businesses are the same and that different solutions are required for different companies. Nederman dust collectors suitable for combustible dust are all ATEX certified with explosion vents included to reduce the danger and relieve the pressure in a controlled manner should an explosion occur. The explosion isolation valves are installed into the duct line next to the dust collector to ensure that an explosion doesn’t make its way back into the workshop.
It is good to remember that not all combustible dust is created equal, whereas they can all create a fire, the impact of the explosion or fire can vary. To determine how combustible your dust is, a test will be needed. When determining the results of this test the Kst value and the Pmax value of the dust will be evaluated. The Kst value will determine the severity of the explosion it can cause, while the Pmax value indicates the maximum pressure that will be created should the dust explode. The dust will be then given an St classification based on these findings. St classes range from 0 to 3, with St0 representing no explosion and St3 representing a strong explosion.
Recent NFPA and ATEX directives require companies to conduct risk assessments on the combustibility of the dust emitted in their workshops and during their manufacturing processes. Should an explosion occur due to the necessary precautions not being put into place the CEO will be found liable.
For more information and combustible dust protection, Envirox is available to provide expert opinions and solutions for all business and applications. With years of experience aiding in the health and safety of many businesses, Envirox understands the needs of various companies and creates customised solutions to create the required results.
