Managing Combustible Dust
What is Combustible Dust?
Combustible dust is any dust that has a high probability of igniting an explosion. This includes dust and particulate generated by a wide array of processes. In manufacturing and industrial environments, process dust collects on surface areas like ceilings, rafters, duct, and equipment very quickly. When the dust is combustible, this accumulation creates an environment that is highly flammable and explosive. Activity within the area can disturb or ignite combustible dust, leading to an explosion, catastrophic loss of life, injuries, and destruction.
Industrial processes like filtration, heating, milling, or spraying of combustible material create a potential risk for a dust explosion. When explosive material is confined in an unprotected process volume, a deflagration can trigger, leading to overpressure and flame ball.
Air Solutions is knowledgeable and experienced to assist you in implementing a reliable combustible dust management system. We offer you the added value of a customer centered approach, focused on serving your application requirements. Contact us to discuss your project.
- WHAT TYPES OF DUSTS CAN BECOME COMBUSTIBLE?
- COMBUSTIBLE DUST EQUIPMENT
- TYPES/CLASSIFICATIONS
- APPLICATIONS
It may be surprising to learn that dust and particles generated by a wide range of materials and processes have the potential to be explosive. Some of the most common types include:
- Agricultural Products and Dust (Sugar, Powdered Milk, Wheat Grain)
- Carbonaceous Dusts (examples: Charcoal, Cellulose, Corn)
- Chemical Dusts (Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Stearate, Sulfur)
- Metal Dusts (Aluminum, Bronze, Iron)
- Plastic Dusts (Epoxy Resin, Melamin, Vinyl)
Dust testing is extremely important in confirming whether or not a dust is combustible and may require specialized equipment, such as spark resistant fans, for mitigating threats.
We perform a combustible dust explosion risk assessment and design an equipment solution that is customized to work within the constraints of the application process equipment, facilities, environment, and project budget, while meeting all safety goals required by codes and standards.
Air Solutions proudly offers combustible dust management technology from BS&B and Boss Products, including:
- Industrial explosion protection
- Explosion isolation valves
- Flameless venting
- Explosion suppression
- Explosion diverters
- Abort gates
- Building duct vents
- Chemical explosion isolation
- Mechanical explosion isolation
- Spark detection and extinguishing
The Air Movement and Conditioning Association (AMCA) has three classifications for “spark resistant” fans and blowers:
- Type A – construction requires all materials of the fan or blower that are in contact with the air stream be comprised of spark resistant nonferrous material such as aluminum or brass
- Type B – construction requires a nonferrous wheel and a rubbing ring around the hole where the fan or motor shaft enters the fan or blower housing
- Type C – construction requires a nonferrous plate on both sides of the inside of the fan or blower housing
For more information on AMCA spark resistant construction, refer to AMCA 99-16, Section 8 available in AMCA Publication 99-16.
- Chemical Processing Plants
- Oil & Gas Refineries
- Pharmaceuticals
- Dust Collection & Combustible Dust Control
- Wastewater Treatment Facilities
- Paint Booths & Coating Applications
- Food Processing & Grain Handling
Why Trust Air Solutions for Combustible Dust Equipment?
The Air Solutions team will provide a combustible dust explosion risk assessment and recommend a systems approach that involves dust collection, an isolation valve, chemical suppression, and any other necessary system elements. The system is customized to work within the constraints of the application process equipment, facilities, environment, and project budget, while meeting all safety goals required by codes and standards.