Spark Detector Arrestor Extinguish Systems

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Spark Detector Arrestor Extinguish Systems

Spark detectors are used to identify an ignition point or light source. After a spark is detected, the extinguish system kicks into action to snuff out the flame as quickly as possible.

Limiting the spark or source within the ductwork of the dust system begins with spark detection and extinguish systems.

Spark Causes in Your Facility

Fires and explosions are a risk to manufacturing facilities because they can arise from many seemingly everyday operations. Dull tools, damaged metal bearings and overheating motors are just a few of the common areas of sparks. If embers are allowed to reach a dust collector, filter or material silo, the results can be catastrophic to both plant and personnel.
Spark detection and extinguish systems enhance your risk management process. These devices not only help prevent devastating fires, they also lessen the risk of damage to equipment, manufacturing lines and machinery, ensuring that production keeps moving forward.
Buildup becomes an unnecessary fire and explosive risk. Dust collecting methods help reduce the potential for buildup of debris on beam structures and machinery.

Don’t put your facility at risk, keep it under surveillance with a quality spark detection and extinguish strategy.

ABORT GATES

Abort gates are high-speed dampers that are used as a safety device to protect both employees and equipment and help prevent property damage. While standard dampers are most often associated with airflow and pressure, the main goal of an abort gate is to stop the spread of a fire within a dust collection system.

Abort gates are used together with spark detection systems. When this device detects any light within the ductwork, the abort gate is activated to quickly divert sparks, flames, smoke, gases and burning material out of the pneumatic conveying system. Abort gates are highly effective, as the typical reaction time is measured in milliseconds. Spark detection can also be used to activate deluge water spray within ductwork to eliminate flames or possible ignition potential.

The combination of an abort gate, spark detection system and a deluge water spray system offers effective protection.

THE 2-ZONE SYSTEM

ZONE 1

If the electronic eye of the spark detection system detects light, it will engage a deluge spray downstream to try to douse the spark. The system will continue to run as normal if the spark is not detected by a second electronic eye.

ZONE 2

Zone 2 of the abort gate will be activated if the second electronic eye does detect a light after the deluge spray.

ABORT GATE USES

Two of the most common applications for abort gates are in dust collection systems or pneumatic conveyance of any combustible material. The abort gates can be placed in front of filters and/or baghouse collectors to protect the equipment. They can also be placed in the ductwork system if the air is returned to the building, which reduces overall cost for makeup air replacement.

Abort gates can be customized to specific needs. When strategically placed in your pneumatic system, abort gates reduce risk.

BACKDRAFT DAMPERS

The main principle behind backdraft dampers is allowing airflow in one direction while restricting it in the other. Backdraft dampers are ideal for evacuating odors or providing circulation in a one-way route.

BACKDRAFT DAMPER PRODUCTS

There are a few different types of back draft dampers, including:

Back pressure dampers are used as a safety device in pneumatic conveyance systems. The placement of the damper is typically outside of the process area or building and in front of a dust collector. This style of damper is used to stop back pressure situations, such as explosions, from returning through a ducting system to the building or process area, which will cause extensive damage.

Gravity type dampers, or mechanically actuated dampers, are used in conjunction with a fan to exhaust air from a given space. When the fan is not in operation, the damper closes and does not allow air to flow back into the space or ductwork.

EXPLOSION VENTS & DUCTS

Explosion vents are safety devices used to provide pressure relief in a dust collection system. When internal pressures start to surge after an explosion, the vents open up to relieve that pressure, reducing the risk of loss of life, or damage to equipment or the building.

WHEN TO USE AN EXPLOSION VENT

In a perfect world, you would never have to use an explosion vent. However, since the world of manufacturing and other industrial processes is not perfect, it is crucial to have explosion vents and ducts installed for the safety of your facility and personnel.
Explosion vents are not only used for emergency purposes. In processes that produce significant consistent explosions, the vents are freely discharged preventing flames from encountering the protected equipment. Ductwork can be used to vent the flames and associated gases safely outside the building.

TYPES OF EXPLOSION VENTS

There are two main types of explosion vents:

Self destructive – A one-time explosion vent that must be replaced before operation continues.
Reusable – An explosion vent that can be used repeatedly, also known as an abort gate. An abort gate must be manually reset before the system can be operational.

Contact us for more information on the type of explosion vents and associated ducts that are suitable for your intended application.

DUST CONTROL SERVICES

System Design, Manufacturing & Installation

The success of upgrading or implementing a dust control strategy in any facility starts with an efficient design, followed by craftsman-quality fabrication and expert installation, all the while recognizing that ‘the devil’s in the details’.

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Dust Control System Assessments

Simply having a dust collection system installed is not enough to ensure a safe and efficient facility forever. Dust collection system assessments are recommended to ensure your system and its components are working as intended

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