Why should I install a FLAMEX System to protect my Baghouse if it already has sprinkler protection?
A FLAMEX System is a proprietary fire supression system for dust collectors. It is just one of many different systems, and techniques available to protect your dust collection system against fires, and explosions.
Excerpt from The Potential for Dust Explosions in Dust Collection Systems:
Dust Control
Controlling the amount of dust generated, where it is generated, and the dispersion of it throughout the facility, is key to reducing the likelihood of an explosion from occurring. The following steps should be taken in this regard:
* Minimize the amount of dust that escapes from processing equipment and ventilation systems.
* Install a Dust Collection System and monitor it closely to ensure it is operating properly.
* Where possible, install materials (Surfaces) that collect dust poorly and facilitate easy cleaning.
* Inspect and note all hidden or concealed spaces where dust accumulation might occur.
* Maintain a set schedule for cleaning all dust prone areas, and follow it closely.
* Use cleaning methods that do not themselves generate dust clouds when ignition sources are present.
* Locate Relief Valves away from dust hazard zones.
* Maintain a comprehensive dust control program, with hazard dust inspections, testing, housekeeping, and control initiatives.In several of the cases highlighted earlier, the initial explosion spread by means of ductwork that connected various equipment (usually the Dust Collection System, and/or different parts of the ventilation system) throughout the plant. It is therefore vital that these ductwork systems be fitted with isolation values and inspected regularly to remove excess sitting dust accumulations.
Additionally, certain dust generating operations (such as the use of abrasives, blasting, grinding, or buffing) fall under OSHA (or similar governmental agencies) ventilation requirements.
Ignition Control
Along with Dust Control, controlling all possible ignition sources also plays a major role in any comprehensive Dust Control Program. Along with Electrical Considerations, there are many other areas that merit attention with regard to ignition potential. Here are several key recommendations for controlling possible Dust Ignition sources.
* Proper Installation, Classification, Operation, and Maintenance of all Electrical Equipment and Wiring (Class II wiring methods and equipment such as “dust ignition-proof” and “dust-tight” should be employed)
* Employ adequate Static Electricity control methods such as Grounding Wires/Rods, etc.
* Limit Smoking, Open Flames, and Sparks in work area.
* Limit or isolate sources of mechanical sparks and friction
* Separate foreign materials that may ignite combustibles from process materials.
* Limit contact between heated surfaces and heating system from combustible dusts.
* Install spark arrestors/spark traps in all dust collector ductwork.Further resources including US regulation, guidelines, and recommendations can be found in the following sources:
* NFPA 654, Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids
* OSHA’s Powered Industrial Trucks standard (29 CFR 1910.178).Damage Control
Despite the best efforts of all parties involved, incidents may still occur. It is therefore, the wise course of action is to prepare for the worst, and implement a strategy that will reduce the severity of such an incident should it occur. The following is a list of recommended steps to take to minimize the impact of a Dust Explosion:
* Separate, and Segregate the Hazard to the extent possible. Place distance between the hazard and the work area, and isolate the hazard with barriers where possible.
* Install deflagration venting.
* Install pressure relief valves on applicable equipment.
* Employ Spark/Ember detection systems, and extinguishing equipment.
* To the extent possible, install explosion protection system, including sprinkler systems, and other assorted specialized suppression techniques. Read More…
http://www.baghouse.com/2011/01/19/the-potential-for-dust-explosions-in-dust-collection-systems/
One of the most important advantages of a spark detection and extinguishing system is that it is designed to PREVENT a possible ignition source from entering a collection vessel where the environment necessary for a potential fire or explosion is likely to be found. This is most often accomplished with a brief water spray in the duct upstream of the collector that requires no downtime or clean up. A sprinkler system by contrast requires a large build-up of heat caused by a fire in the vessel before it will release. It is too slow to prevent an explosion. Upon activation, the sprinkler suppression floods the unit until it is manually shut off resulting in downtime and clean up. Initial damage to the unit from the fire would also be incurred. Sprinkler systems installed in a dust collector basically are designed to keep a fire from spreading after it has begun. Spark Detection and Extinguishing Systems are designed to prevent the fire or explosion from occurring.
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