Proactive and Reactive Combustible Dust Solutions
Combustible dust equipment accessories designed to meet NFPA requirements fall into two primary categories – proactive and reactive. Proactive accessories are designed to prevent a deflagration event or reduce the chance of one occurring. Reactive devices are engineered to contain a deflagration event, or minimize the damage it can inflict upon people, equipment, and other property.
If combustible dust in a confined area is ignited, it will burn very rapidly and possibly explode. An initial explosion in an area where dust has accumulated may dislodge more accumulated dust or damage a containment system, leading to one or more secondary explosions. These secondary explosions can be far more destructive due to the increased quantity and concentration of combustible dust.
Proactive Devices
OSHA describes the conditions under which a combustible dust explosion can occur as the Dust Fire and Explosion Pentagon. Elements required for a combustible dust explosion include:
- Combustible dust
- Ignition source
- Oxygen in air
- Dispersion of dust particles in sufficient quantity and concentration
- Confinement of the dust
If one of the elements of the explosion pentagon is missing, a catastrophic explosion or fire will be prevented. Proactive devices are all about preventing deflagration by taking one or more of these elements out of the equation. Glacier Technology offers spark detection and extinguishing systems, and spark baffles as proactive accessories that can be incorporated into a system.
Reactive Solutions
For a highly effective and affordable reactive solution, Glacier Technology offers the CMAXX combined with proprietary IDA (In-Line Deflagration Arrester) DeltaMAXX filters. Using the CMAXX with IDA DeltaMAXX filters eliminates the need for expensive after filters, while providing an efficient and proven solution for isolating a deflagration and stopping a flame front.
Glacier Technology has extensive experience building combustible dust systems for a wide range of applications and offers a complete line of explosion and fire mitigation accessories. Let us design a combustible dust solution to meet your needs and budget.
