HAZARDOUS AREAS FEATURE
Fume extraction in chemical stores
Axair Fans discusses the importance of ventilation systems when choosing a storage unit for safekeeping flammable substances and guarding workers from harmful fumes and dust
F
lammable substances are used in most industrial environments, but storage of these materials improperly can pose a great risk to personnel, the public and property. There are a large variety of chemical storage cabinets available on the market, but best practice guidelines for COSSH chemical storage units indicate that a chemical store should be well ventilated. When choosing a storage unit for the safekeeping of flammable substances, ventilation should be one of the key points to consider, and if not purchased as a ventilated unit, it is advisable to fit an industrial fan suitable for the purpose of ventilating the store. The need for ventilation and, more specifically, the type of fan that is required is determined by the hazardous nature of each chemical component. Temperature fluctuations in many chemicals can serve to increase vapour emissions and flammability so the need for ventilation becomes ever more apparent especially when a unit is situated in direct sunlight. Effective ventilation not only keeps chemicals appropriately cooled but also reduces this build-up of fumes. As a general rule, any ventilation system should exhaust fume outside into the atmosphere and away from additional sources of ignition. By exhausting away this prevents surrounding rooms and people from inhaling or being affected by the
harmful gases. Chemicals can be classed in two categories, flammable and corrosive. ATEX certified industrial fans, such as those available from Axair Fans, are designed specifically for use within potentially hazardous or combustible environments and are manufactured with non-sparking components such as copper inlets. Corrosive fumes, when in large volumes and over long periods, will damage or destroy materials that they come into contact with. Substances containing corrosive bases such ammonia, such as those found in sulphuric or hydrochloric acids, will erode the surface of the fan components if not manufactured in suitable material fit for purpose. The extraction of corrosive fumes should be done with a corrosion resistant fan, polypropylene is the standard material, which can withstand the nature of the chemical gases that pass through the scroll and the impellers. In this instance the motor should be kept out of the airstream to ensure long lifespan and also to prevent the overheating of the motorised components. The wide airflow and pressure ranges of the S-range and ATEX ST range of corrosion resistant fans from Axair is able to handle both corrosive and ATEX fume extraction when ducting out of chemical stores. The ductwork that is
attached to the industrial fan should also carry the same of similar level of protection against corrosion as the fan scroll and impeller itself. In smaller storage units where the materials are non-corrosive and ventilation is more general, an axial fan can be used to ventilate, this should be certified for use in ATEX applications but in these instances the motor that is held within the airstream can withstand the nature of the gases, fumes or mists. It is worth noting that
flammable gases are denser
than air so they can accumulate at floor level. For this reason the ventilation system should be set up to ensure that these low level gases can be extracted effectively. To ensure safety when working with corrosives, it is important that you remain up to date with COSHH legislation and continuously evaluate the chemicals being measured in the chemical store. Equally, with those in potentially flammable environments, the ATEX risk should be assessed by a qualified body to ensure that the components are specified correctly for the nature of the application. Refer to relevant ATEX gas and dust zones for further clarification but always seek independent advice if needed.
Axair Fans
www.axair-fans.co.uk
ATEX APPROVED INTRINSICALLY SAFE TERMINAL BOXES AND ACCESSORIES
Established in 1989 to specifically manufacture and export enclosures and cabinets for low voltage applications, Tempa Pano has proved its market presence through affordable high quality products. With offices based in the UK, France, Romania, Bulgaria and Russia, as well as distributors in Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, Tempa Pano strives to be within close reach of the markets’ demand. Tempa Pano’s UK operations have been present since 2000, serving its UK customer base with bespoke engineering solutions and customer oriented support. As part of an extensive enclosure and electrical distribution range, Tempa
Pano also manufacture ATEX, IECex approved explosion proof terminal boxes. These are produced using high grade stainless steel or pre-galvanised painted steel, with the option of including certified combinations of terminals fitted to mounting rails on the rear panel. Designed with the highest safety measures and a high degree of protection, the company says
its the TEX and TES Series of junction boxes answer customer requirements for increased and intrinsically safe applications. Aiming to provide customers with integrated solutions, Tempa Pano correspondingly supply a range of ex-proof products including isolators, plugs, sockets, signalling technologies, thermal management elements and cable glands. The company says these products can easily combined utilising the ergonomic design of its terminal boxes. Coupled with a highly experienced and qualified engineering team whose
expertise is readily available to Tempa Pano UK, the company’s sales team is confident in finding the best technical solutions with effective designs and competitive market prices. So whatever your application may be Tempa Pano could be the solution partner you are looking for.
Tempo Pano
www.tempapano.com
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INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE | AUTUMN 2017
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