Focus Article - Electrostatic Hazards Associated with Liquid and Powder Processing
Often an electrostatic ignition hazard arises when the electrostatic charge generated in a process is allowed to accumulate to levels sufficient to give rise to electrostatic discharges. Thus, the first step in an electrostatic hazard assessment is identifying where in the process electrostatic charge can be generated and accumulated. Next, if the generation and accumulation of charge cannot be controlled, the types of electrostatic discharges that can arise must be identified. Lastly, in order to verify that a hazard exists, the effective energy of these discharges must be determined and compared to the minimum ignition energy (MIE) of the prevailing flammable atmosphere or the dielectric strength of lining (the natural limitation of charge accumulation) in vessels, containers and piping.