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LEV explosive panels and dust explosion potential.
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paul-ps  
#1 Posted : 25 June 2014 15:27:38(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
paul-ps
I am getting mixed professional opinions as to what is the recommended safe clearance around an extraction systems explosive panel. I have been advised both 100cm and 50cm. Which is correct?

The panels were fitted as a precaution as the LEV draws in nickel alloy dust. Again i have been given varying opinions as to the dusts explosive potential - Nil/possible/fireball. Please advise.
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A Kurdziel  
#2 Posted : 25 June 2014 16:35:10(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
A Kurdziel
Not an expert on this: I thought that nickel as not particularly reactive and if in powder form came with a low explosive risk. Could be different for the alloy concerned.
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simplesafety  
#3 Posted : 25 June 2014 16:51:00(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
simplesafety
Also no expert on this – but as far as I’m aware nickel and nickel based alloys can create ignitable dust and fines through processing.

http://www.hpa.org.uk/we...e/HPAweb_C/1236757318774
http://www.alcoa.com/glo...view.asp?LoadMSDS=199690

May also be usefull: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg351.pdf

As for the explosion relief panel, I'd imagine it depends on how long the securing chain is -maybe wrong. But it would always be a good idea to position it in a direction away from people if practicable.
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A Kurdziel  
#4 Posted : 25 June 2014 17:06:43(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
A Kurdziel
apologies
did a quick check and it was established that the dust is explosive.
serves me right for guessing!
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stevedm  
#5 Posted : 25 June 2014 18:24:27(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
stevedm
You need the MIE (minimum ignition energy) for the product that is why it is so difficult to give you a straight answer..

http://www.hse.gov.uk/re...sl_pdf/2004/hsl04-12.pdf
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Matt_Channnon  
#6 Posted : 27 June 2014 11:20:05(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Matt_Channnon
Well you could calculate the TNT equivalence with some complicated maths or you could direct the potential blast away from people so that there is no chance of harm.

Prevention of the explosion is probably a better way forwards though, ATEX rated fans and motors for example?
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Matt_Channnon  
#7 Posted : 27 June 2014 11:23:36(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Matt_Channnon
Also this reference suggests that Nickel dust is a low risk with regards ignition

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh...les/works/pdfs/etoma.pdf
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