Unfortunately, dust explosions are common and costly in a wide array of industries such as petrochemical, food, paper and pharmaceutical. It is imperative that practical and theoretical knowledge of the origin, development, prevention and mitigation of dust explosions is imparted to the responsible safety manager. The material in this book offers an up to date evaluation of prevalent activities, testing methods, design measures and safe operating techniques. Also provided is a detailed and comprehensive critique of all the significant phases relating to the hazard and control of a dust explosion. An invaluable reference work for industry, safety consultants and students. - A completely new chapter on design of electrical equipment to be used in areas containing combustible/explosible dust - A substantially extended and re-organized final review chapter, containing nearly 400 new literature references from the years 1997-2002 - Extensive cross-referencing from the original chapters 1-7 to the corresponding sections of the expanded review chapter

The author summarizes todays knowledge of the cause and consequences of dust explosions which were the main focus of his professional life. The presence of explosible dust/air mixtures does not generally represent a risk of an explosion although all organic and metallic dusts are explosible. The author develops test-methods for explosion hazards associated with dust and constructive methods to prevent dust explosions. The book is written for practical use. The reader learns to recognise the hazard of a dust explosion and the effectiveness of safety measures. The book is richly illustrated and demonstrates the correct use of the empirical theories.

Handbook of Powder Technology, Volume 4: Dust Explosions presents the dust explosion problem in general terms and describes how and why dusts explode. This book discusses the various approaches used to deal with the dust explosion hazards. Organized into five chapters, this volume begins with an overview of the methods used to assess, remove, or minimize the hazard of dust explosions. This text then examines the factors that influence the initiation and severity of an explosion. Other chapters consider the explosion prevention and explosion protection techniques. This book discusses as well the characteristics of a dust explosion and the historical development of the problem. The final chapter deals with the significant concept of explosion protection to reduce the worst effects of an explosion to an acceptable level. This book is a valuable resource for managers, engineers, scientists, safety personnel, and others involved in the handling ad processing of materials in solid particulate form.

Besides its obvious destructive potential, military R&D also serves to protect human lives, equipment and facilities against the effects of weapons. Concepts have therefore been developed that improve safety of stationary and mobile facilities against pressure waves, thermal radiation and fire. Effective, fast fire extinguishing equipment has been designed for tank compartments and motors. Closed buildings are demolished and landmines are removed with gas and dust explosions. Stringent safety requirements have been developed for the production of ammunition and explosives. Military and related industries have accumulated a vast knowledge and sophisticated experience that are very valuable in a variety of civil applications. The knowledge is based on theoretical and experimental research work, the origin of which sometimes dates back many centuries. It has often been classified and therefore has remained unknown to the civilian population, until now.

The new definitive reference in the field. Between them, the renowned team of editors and authors have amassed unparalleled experience at such institutes as BAM, PTB, Pittsburgh National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, BASF AG, and the University of Göttingen. In this work -- the first of its kind for 35 years -- they describe in detail those measures that prevent or limit industrial explosions and the damage so caused. They cover various preventative methods, as well as the current state of technology combined with data gained through experimentation. This handbook offers operational, planning, design and safety engineers working in industry, government agencies and professional associations in-depth knowledge of the scientific and technical basics, allowing them to apply explosion protection according to any given situation.