Fire And Explosive Risk Assessment for Combustible Powder Pneumatic Conveyor System

Abstract

Failure to properly define operating hazards associated with pneumatic conveying system for combustible powder transportation has led to several incidences of fires and explosions. These hazards are mostly preventable if adequate safety measures are provided for the pneumatic conveying systems for dust and combustible materials during the system design, installation and operating stages. This paper presents assessment on risk of fire and explosive hazards associated with pneumatic conveying system for a combustible powder transportation and prescribe the best practice to prevent possible accident that might result from improper practice. The safety practice and relevant regulations for zoning of the operating area and guide for proper selection of suitable class of measuring instrumentation for safe system operation are enumerated.