Explosion protection for the PAINT & COATING industry
Preventing Explosions in the Paint & Coating Industry
In the painting industry, various types of coating materials are processed and used. The most commonly used materials include liquid paints and powder paints. In both cases, there is a significant risk of fire or explosion.
Unlike liquid paints, where the individual components are mixed and reacted in a solution of water or solvent during production, the individual components of the powder paints are mixed in the melt. The final mixture is extruded by the production equipment on cooling rollers and, after cooling, is grounded in special mills to the required coarseness of the powder particles. This substance is the final product – powder paint.
The powder paint is not diluted or dissolved in any liquid for application. It is applied in powder form through compressed air, which, when mixed with the powder, forms a mixture that behaves as a liquid mixture. It can create a dangerous explosive atmosphere in paint booths, a danger that arises especially in filter units.
RISKS OF EXPLOSION IN THE PAINT & COATING INDUSTRY
Fires and dust explosions in the paint industry can occur, for example, during grinding and crushing of the melt in the production of powder paint. The application of powder paints in paint booths also poses a great risk. During the painting process, dispersed dust is collected in filters, where it can create an explosive atmosphere. Electrostatic discharges on paint guns can also be a problem, where a fire can occur.
COMBINATION OF ELEMENTS LEADING TO IGNITION AND EXPLOSION
Ignition and subsequent explosion occur if the following conditions are met at the same time in the same space:
Preventing Explosions in the PAINT & COATING INDUSTRY
EXPLOSION PROTECTION METHODS
BENEFITS OF EXPLOSION PROTECTION
Production and Application Processes of Powder Paints
Making liquid paint involves mixing parts with water or other liquids, but powder paint is made differently. For powder paint, the parts are mixed together while hot and melted. This melted mixture is then pushed through machines onto cooling rollers. Once cool, the mixture is ground into tiny bits in special machines to make the powder paint.
Unlike liquid paint, powder paint stays as a powder when it’s being used. It is sprayed using forced air rather than being mixed with liquid. When the powder mixes with this forced air, it flows like a liquid. This process can create dangerous conditions in paint rooms that might explode, especially around the filters.
