Combustible metal dusts are the source of increasing concern for regulatory officials and plant managers alike. Airborne particulates present problems for hygiene and personal health, and particulates of some alloys like aluminum may cause explosions. In that regard they are a critical housekeeping problem, too.
The federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration takes the threat of explosive lists aluminum and magnesium plants in the National Electrical Code as types of locations (Class II) made hazardous by the presence of combustible dust. It also lists metal dusts (Class E includes aluminum and magnesium, among others) as hazardous substances
By OSHA estimates, 30,000 U.S facilities are at risk for major combustible dust explosion. It recommends, and sometimes requires, manufacturers to use certified explosion proof or dust ignition-proof vacuums in plant maintenance programs.
Nilfisk Industrial Vacuum is offering CFM Immersion Separator as an extension of its explosion-proof vacuum line. It is used in conjunction with CFM-brand vacuum cleaners. It is designed to be installed upstream from the vacuum, where it collects dust particles common to Group E in a neutralizing fluid bath.
The new CFM Immersion Separator is assembled from low-sparking materials and grounded components, and features a grounding strap as an additional safety measure. The drain valve is easy to empty, and a sight-level tube makes it simple for operators to monitor liquid levels. The unit is set on antistatic wheels, making it easy to maneuver. Coalescent filters are installed to prevent the passage of fluid droplets that have been agitated by the working air from passing back into the vacuum.
All Nilfisk explosion-proof vacuum cleaners can be equipped with antistatic, conductive accessories and are adaptable for overhead installation.