Tuesday February 10, 2009
2:00pm – 4:00pm

111 Electrostatic Hazards Associated with Liquid and Powder Processing

Vahid Ebadat, Chilworth Technology, Inc. This presentation will discuss: The conditions under which electrostatic charges can generate, accumulate, and cause incendive discharges during liquid and powder processing/handling operations. Practical techniques for identifying, quantifying, and eliminating/controlling electrostatic ignition hazards.

 

Abstract:

Electrostatic charge is normally generated whenever two materials (solids and/or liquids) make and then break contact. Therefore, electrostatic charge generation is expected during operations such as liquid and powder flow through piping, hoses, and chutes, agitation/mixing, and filtration. Charge can accumulate on liquids and solids (powders and processing equipment) if they are insulating or electrically isolated from ground. The accumulation of charge on liquids, powders, and on insulating (plastic) and ungrounded metal plant and equipment can give rise to electrostatic discharges sufficiently energetic to ignite flammable atmospheres. Electrostatic discharges from charged liquids could also cause pinholing of glass-lined and plastic-lined piping and vessels, resulting in leaks, corrosion of the piping or vessel, and contamination of the liquid. Consequently, it is essential to identify and control potential electrostatic charge generation and ignition hazards.

This presentation will discuss the condition under which electrostatic charges can generate, accumulate, and cause incendive discharges during liquid and powder processing/handling operations. Practical techniques for identifying, quantifying, and eliminating/controlling electrostatic ignition hazards will be presented.

About the speaker:

Vahid Ebadat, Ph.D., M.Inst.P, MIEE, C.Eng., C.Phys. is the CEO of Chilworth Technology, Inc. He has worked extensively as a process and operational hazards consultant for the chemical, pharmaceutical and food industries. Dr. Ebadat is a regular speaker at training courses on gas and vapor flammability, dust explosions, and controlling electrostatic hazards. He is a member of NFPA 77 Technical Committee on Static Electricity, NFPA 654 Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particular Solids and ASTM E27 Committee on Hazard Potential of Chemicals. Dr. Ebadat's research has culminated in the publication of numerous technical papers and articles.