- Material Dynamics Carolinas, Inc.
- (704) 998-6218
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Dust is hazardous in any form or matter. It becomes even more difficult to control if it is airborne. Added to this, there several risks dust poses when it becomes airborne.
- If the environment in which airborne dust is present – such as in aluminium, grain, fertilizer industry, etc. is combustible, then the dust in the air can result in fires and explosions.
- Directly breathing in the air that contains dust is a health hazard. It can affect the upper respiratory tract and also the lungs in more serious conditions.
- The government also dictates the permissible dust level in the air to ensure the safety of its citizens. The regulatory standards laid down by the government make it necessary for companies to have a dust suppression system in place.
- Having too much dust circulate in the air means more dust eventually settles down on the machinery and the equipment. This just makes the maintenance of the workspace that much more difficult.
- Irrespective of the above-mentioned reasons, every industry must do its bit for the environment and reduce pollution.
The above-mentioned reasons throw light on just how important it is to have a good dust suppression system in place. They come in all forms and sizes. Some of these methods can just be an ‘add-on’ to existing equipment while other solutions can be purchased as separate equipment.
Suppression systems can be broadly classified into two types – Wet suppression systems and dry suppression systems. The choice of the suppression system depends entirely on the type of equipment being used. But in most cases, a combination of both wet and dry suppression systems is recommended for the best results. Another type of suppression system exists which is a combination of both wet and dry systems. This approaches the problem with a foam-based suppression system.
The dust suppression systems exploit the versatile property of water. Water’s molecular structure is interesting. It can easily bind to itself but can also be easily separated into smaller and smaller units.
Dust Suppression systems employ something called atomization to the water molecules. Atomization breaks down the water molecules to a size that’s similar to that of the dust particles.
This is done with the help of a nozzle. A fine nozzle needs to be used with the appropriate dimensions and configurations. The water molecules generated are usually treated with special additives that enhance its working.
This micro molecule now attaches itself to airborne dust. This gives rise to a combination of dust/water droplets. As billions of such droplets are formed, they form an invisible, semi-plastic film. This film attracts more and more dust to come to settle on it. Once the water evaporates, the dust still remains. Except, it isn’t present in the air anymore. This dust-polymer molecule is heavier than just dust. So, it falls to the ground.
The above method is just the principle behind the working of the dust suppression systems. More complex mechanisms come into play to design a fully functional dust suppression system.
The nozzle system or the mist spraying system is ideal when it comes to controlling dust generated in conveyor belts. The wet suppression system is usually integrated with the conveyor systems. Crushing of glass or stockpiling of sand results in the release of silica dust. This can be handled with the help of a nozzle or mist spraying dust suppression system.
In most industries, it is better not to use a dust suppression system that’s moisture-heavy. This can interfere with the working of other equipment. Excessive moisture is also detrimental to production operations.
In such cases, a humidifier-like system is used to tackle the problem. These systems capture dust much in the same way but they’re able to do it without getting the surfaces wet.
With the advancement in modern technology, more complex systems are being developed. These systems keep in mind the environmental necessities as well. The aim is to come up with a dust suppression system that doesn’t further pollute the environment in the process of reducing pollution.
