Sensitivity to ignition by electrostatic discharge of explosive dust / air

Abstract

In industrial sectors that use, process, transport or store, substances such as combustible dusts could exist some workplaces with explosion hazard due to the possibility of dust/air explosive formation and ignition, both inside the installations and in the surrounding atmosphere. Methods and means of protection aim to prevent the development of explosive atmospheres, followed by preventing the occurrence of ignition sources and then limiting the effects of explosions. To assess the risk of ignition of the explosive atmosphere, there must be known first of all, the explosive atmosphere’s sensitivity to ignition by electrostatic discharge, respectively, the minimum ignition energy of the explosive mixture, afterwards being required an analysis on the possibilities of formation and discharge of electrostatic charge. For the most common combustible dusts, the minimum ignition energy is given, but for new types of flammable substances this parameter defining the sensitivity to ignition of the mixture by electrostatic discharges must be determined. The paper presents the results of research carried out in order to develop the methods and standards for determining the minimum ignition energy of the combustible dust / air mixture and of the methods for the assessment of the risk of ignition of the dust/air explosive atmosphere by electrostatic discharge.

General consideration regarding fault – find, tests and maintenance in the installations in hazardous areas

“…In accordance with the requirements from SR EN 60079-17, inspection and maintenance of Ex installations must be carried out only by experienced personnel, whose training has included training on the different types of protection, the requirements from the above-mentioned standard, national regulations as well as the principles of classification of hazardous areas, [9][10][11]. Proof of relevant experience and the trainings performed must be documented and available.…”