Aspects of explosion risk assessment in the case of bucket elevators

Abstract

Many of the technological processes that take place in the installations in which cereal products are transported and / or stored, involve the existence of combustible dusts. These dusts may be suspended in the air, or in the form of accumulations in layers or deposits of dust of various thicknesses, and may lead to fires, explosions or catalytic decomposition in the presence of oxygen. If the combustible dusts are swirling in the air in appropriate proportions and an effective source of ignition is present, they can burn rapidly and with considerable explosive force. Given that most of the time, as a result of an explosion of combustible dust, the resulting damage is generally greater than that caused by an explosion of flammable gases, it is necessary to pay special attention to the way in which they are taken. and implemented measures to protect and prevent explosions of combustible dust. This paper highlights the principles and main factors that must be taken into account when conducting an explosion risk assessment for a bucket elevator carrying grain products, in order to establish and implement the necessary prevention and protection measures to ensure a minimum level. acceptable risk.