An international chemical manufacturer sought dust characterization testing of various polymers to gain insights into the potential risks involved in handling and processing these materials in their powdered or dust form. This multi-specialty chemical manufacturer develops chemical solutions for personal and home care, beauty products, and industrial applications. Industrial operations like these use data from dust testing to comply with combustible dust standards such as NFPA 660 and NFPA 652, standards that apply to any facility handling combustible dust or combustible particulate solids.
The ioKinetic team conducted Explosion Severity and Minimum Ignition Energy (MIE) dust characterization tests in our ISO accredited, ultramodern testing laboratory. These tests provided crucial details for meeting compliance, including particle size, moisture content, and the explosive properties of the polymer dust. The data was meticulously recorded and presented in a clear, organized table to ensure the information is self-explanatory. ioKinetic also included photographic documentation of the experiments for the client's direct observation, assuring full transparency.
The detailed report helped the facility's managers and operators address and manage hazards that they were previously unaware of. ioKinetic included several combustible dust mitigation next steps in the report, recommending a process hazard analysis (PHA) study and updating management of change (MOC) procedures. This information empowered the organization to implement safer handling procedures and ultimately foster a safer work environment.