White Papers: In Depth Research

• White Paper: Understanding the Risks Associated with FIBCs and Electrostatic Hazards

  Author: Fauske & Associates

  Posted: Oct 22, 2012

  Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) have found their niche in the worldwide transportation of powdered, flaked and granulated products. FIBCs are typically made of woven plastic with some type of liner insert and are often referred to as super sacks, big bags or bulk bags in industry. During filling and emptying of FIBCs there is a steady accumulation of static charge that can result in electrostatic discharges from the FIBC. This may in turn provide sufficient energy for ignition of combustible particulate solids or flammable vapors, not to mention unsettling shocks to nearby personnel. In this white paper we review the NFPA 654 Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from Combustible Particulate Solids and the importance of why identifying the Minimum Ignition Energy (MIE) of your combustible dust or flammable vapor is a necessary component for selecting the correct FIBC Type for your application. Download now.

• How to Make Sure Your Dust Collection System Complies with Combustible Dust Standards

  Author: Camfil Farr

  Posted: Sep 25, 2012

  Combustible dust explosions are a risk in many areas, but one of the most common locations is the dust collector. This white paper reviews OSHA and NFPA standards, how to identify hazards, and the types of equipment used for explosion protection. It also examines common shortfalls to compliance.

• CP Special Report: Hardware Safety

  Author: Continental Disc Corp.

  Posted: Aug 14, 2012

  The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard [29 CFR 1910.119(j)] require plant management to identify and address hazards. Further challenging plant management, the mechanical integrity (MI) element of the PSM has been difficult for many facilities to implement. In fact, PSM audits by OSHA have consistently demonstrated that MI accounts for a large number of citations at most facilities. In this Chemical Processing Special Report, we take a look at how to effectively implement strategies to comply with PSM standards including:

  • Common piping, hoses and valves hazards – what PHA (Process Handling Analysis) teams should look for to improve the quality of the hazard evaluation
  • MI element of PSM – an in-depth look at the stated MI requirements, the perceived interpretation of these requirements and further considerations for identifying your plant’s compliance strategy
  • MI implications – the impact MI has on plant’s written procedures, training, inspection & testing, and how equipment deficiencies and quality assurance programs are managed

• Carbon Adsorption & Reactivation: Turning Obligation into Opportunity in the Chemical Process Industry

  Author: Calgon Carbon

  Posted: Jun 20, 2012

  Chemical, petrochemical, and oil-refining plants are process-intensive operations with regulatory requirements to protect the surrounding water and air from the effects of industrial pollution. This paper reviews activated carbon adsorption, the reactivation process, liquid phase and vapor phase adsorption design guidelines, and typical applications of the technology in industrial/environmental treatment.