Correctly assess the risks of dust fires and explosions
The new guideline VDI 2263 Part 1 describes the testing of dust with regard to its flammability and explosion properties.
Dust fires and explosions can occur wherever particles of combustible materials mix with air. This includes not only wood, coal, flour and similar known easily combustible materials, but also metals. The VDI 2263 series of guidelines is used to assess hazards and for measures to prevent dust fires and dust explosions and their dangerous effects. The new Sheet 1 deals with the fundamentals and the safety-related parameters of bulk materials.
Determine fire and explosion properties of a dust
The most reliable way to determine the fire and explosion properties of a dust is to examine a sample and describe the hazardous properties by safety-related parameters. The scope of the investigations to be carried out is based - in consistent cooperation between the tester and the user - on the protection objective or the applicable protective measures against the occurrence of fires and explosions. The guideline is intended for managers and specialists from industry and trade who want to obtain an overview of test methods and technical rules.
VDI 2263 Sheet 1 is used to assess the risk of dust fires and dust explosions and describes preventive measures. For this purpose, the testing of dust with regard to its flammability and explosion properties is the preferred procedure. The procedure for such testing is specified in this guideline, as is the examination of the samples and the description of the properties in terms of safety-related parameters. The tests within the scope of VDI 2263 Part 1 are mostly carried out under atmospheric pressure and at room temperature, but deviations from this are possible and are also dealt with in the guideline.
Objection period until the end of October
The opportunity to help shape the directive by submitting comments exists through use of the electronic objection portal or by written notification to the issuing company (geu@vdi.de). The deadline for objections is Oct. 31, 2019. VDI guidelines can be used in many public display points can be viewed free of charge.
The publisher of the guideline VDI 2263 Part 1 "Dust fires and dust explosions - Safety characteristics of bulk materials" is the VDI Society Energy and Environment (GEU)
