Did you know that most powder and bulk processes are vulnerable to a dust explosion? If the following elements are present.
- The handled dust possesses explosive properties. This includes a variety of dusts, including sugar, flour, plastics, metals, and more.
- The dust is suspended in the form of a dust cloud.
- The dust cloud is confined.
- Oxygen is present within the volume.
- If this combustible mixture is met by an ignition source, such as a spark, electrostatic discharge, or an overheated surface, a deflagration will occur.
Without explosion protection, the unmitigated deflagration will quickly reach its maximum pressure, which will challenge the vessel's casing strength as it begins to deform or even rupture. Pressure and flames will likely propagate through ducts into connected upstream and downstream processes, causing even more destruction.
These five elements are ever present in most powder and bulk processes, which is why explosion protection is often necessary to ensure a safe work environment and regulatory compliance.