Craig Equipment arranges lab testing of combustible dust for Kentucky and Southern Indiana plants, measuring explosion severity and ignition sensitivity. Standard tests include KSt, Pmax and dP/dtmax (ASTM E1226), minimum ignition energy (ASTM E2019), minimum explosible concentration (ASTM E1515), dust cloud and layer ignition temperatures (ASTM E1491, E2021) and limiting oxygen concentration. Craig Equipment collects the samples, applies the results in the DHA report and uses them to specify explosion venting, isolation, suppression and spark detection.
KSt and Pmax results are used to size explosion vents, isolation and suppression.
To protect against a combustible dust, you need to know two things: how violent an explosion could be (explosion severity) and how easily one could start (ignition sensitivity).
Explosion severity data shows whether an explosion hazard exists and how energetic it could be. Ignition sensitivity data shows how the material responds to heat, sparks, impact and friction, and therefore how likely an ignition is.
Craig Equipment collects samples from your process and has them tested in a qualified lab using standardized ASTM and European EN methods. The results feed directly into your Dust Hazard Analysis and into the sizing of your explosion protection.
The tests below are the ones most often needed for a DHA. Sample quantities are the minimum usable amount for each test.
Measures the maximum explosion pressure and the maximum rate of pressure rise. Used to size deflagration vents, isolation and suppression under NFPA 68 and NFPA 69.
ASTM E1226 · EN 14034-1 and -2 · 500 g
The lowest spark energy that will ignite a dust cloud. Guides grounding, bonding and static control, and the assessment of electrical and electrostatic hazards.
ASTM E2019 · EN 13821 · 100 g
The lowest concentration of dust in air that can sustain an explosion. Used to keep dust loadings in ducts, collectors and enclosures below the explosible range.
ASTM E1515 · EN 14034-3 · 100 g
The lowest temperature at which a dust cloud will auto-ignite. Sets safe operating temperatures for dryers, ovens and other hot process equipment.
ASTM E1491 · EN 50281-2-1 · 100 g
The surface temperature at which a settled dust layer will self-heat and ignite. Sets maximum surface temperatures for motors, lighting and equipment in dusty areas.
ASTM E2021 · EN 50281-2-1 · 500 g
The oxygen level below which a dust cloud cannot explode. Used to design nitrogen or other inert-gas protection.
EN 14034-4
Depending on your material and process, your DHA may call for further testing:
Craig Equipment will confirm which tests your DHA needs and how much sample to send.
Craig Equipment turns the data into a mitigation plan and quotes the equipment it calls for, from explosion venting and isolation to spark detection and Donaldson Torit dust collectors.
Need to know how your dust behaves? Craig Equipment collects the samples, has them tested in a qualified lab and returns the results to you, with a plan to act on them.
Serving Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
Contact Us - We Can Help