Prevent Combustible Dust Events with Appropriate Maintenance of Conveyor Parts in Lubbock, TX

September 5, 2019 4:29 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

Is your facility at risk of combustible dust events? OSHA reports that there have been over 500 explosions in grain handling facilities over the last three decades in the U.S. In 2017 alone, combustible dust explosions and fires killed 13 and injured another 163 people worldwide. Proper maintenance of conveyor parts in Lubbock, TX is key to preventing these disasters.

What are the risks that lead to these events? Here’s an overview of combustible dust and how you can take steps to keep your facility clean and safe.

The Combustible Equation

As you process grain or other products in your facility, dust is inevitable. Some products and crops generate more dust than others, but all generate some. These small particles drift through the air and accumulate on rafters, equipment and other overhead areas. As the dust builds up, several things can occur that, together, lead to an explosion.

First, the dust becomes suspended in the air. Second, the confined space of a processing facility traps the dust in overhead areas. Third, an ignition source is present that launches the combustible dust event. An overheated conveyor part in Lubbock, TX, a spark from a piece of equipment, static electricity, grinding sparks or even a dropped tool can ignite the accumulated dust in the facility. The dust that is suspended in the air explodes, igniting the accumulated dust on the equipment and sending a blazing fire throughout the facility.

Combustible Dust Prevention

To mitigate the risk of combustible dust events at your facility, you can take two key proactive steps. Both involve proper maintenance of your equipment and surroundings.

First, maintain a clean facility. Take steps to prevent the accumulation of combustible dust. Schedule regular cleaning of your overhead areas and all equipment. This can be a challenging task, especially in hard-to-reach areas. You may want to consider a proactive solution such as industrial dust control fans that provide continuous cleaning of these areas.

Second, maintain your equipment. When was the last time you serviced your conveyor parts in Lubbock, TX? Inspect all components regularly to look for signs of wear and tear. Ensure everything is in optimal condition before operation each day. Replace any worn or damaged parts right away. Follow all safety procedures recommended for your system.

By keeping your conveyor parts in Lubbock, TX in top condition, you’ll reduce the risk of malfunction, sparks or other situations that can lead to combustible dust events. For a reliable source of quality conveyor parts in Lubbock, TX, look to your local supplier.

We Have You Covered

Keep your facility safe with quality parts from M.B. McKee Company, Inc. We offer a top selection of bearings, belts, chains, conveyor systems, gearing, lifts, motors, drives, tools, valves and fittings. Our engineering division also provides general formulas, NEMA motor frames, elevator legs, screw and belt conveyors, lift charts, components from Baldor and Flexco and various interchangeable parts. Contact us today to discover what our dedicated team can do for you. We look forward to assisting you soon.

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