Analysis of causation of a dust explosion in industrial plant

Abstract

Common solids (e.g. flour, sugar, etc.) can be suspended and transported in air via pneumatic conveying systems. Finely divided solid substances dispersed into a dust cloud (e.g. into a silo) can form a potential explosive atmosphere, if in the right concentration with the oxidizing agent (e.g. air). In addition, it is known that the pneumatic handling of substance, which allows its transport at a certain velocity, can generate static charges; thus, a possible competent ignition source may be also created.