Dust explosion measurements differ from gas explosions. Gas explosions use volume percentage, while dust explosions rely on particle mass per unit volume (g/m³ or mg/L). If the concentration is too low, dust particles are too far apart, making it hard for fire to spread.
Sufficient Oxygen Content Is Essential
Oxygen is the foundation for dust combustion—without it, dust can’t ignite.
An Ignition Source with Sufficient Energy
Dust explosions require 1–2 orders of magnitude more minimum ignition energy than gas explosions. Most dust clouds need 5mJ–50mJ to ignite.
Dust Must Be in a Suspended State
Dust must form a dust cloud (suspended in the air) to maximize gas-solid contact area and speed up reactions.
A Relatively Enclosed Space Is Necessary
A closed space allows dust cloud pressure and temperature to rise rapidly, triggering an explosion.
Sources of Dust
Dust is generated during:
Crushing, grinding, and melting solid materials in production.
Loading, unloading, transporting, and mixing powders.
Inadequate protection during oxidation processes.
Main Dust-Generating Operations
Mining activities like rock drilling, blasting, and tunneling (quarries and construction projects release large dust volumes).
Metal smelting: Crushing, processing, and smelting raw materials.
Special industries such as glass and cement production.
Welding work and surface treatment.
If you work in these fields, use dust collection measures—dust hoses are an ideal solution. Contact Orientflex today for the best dust management solutions.