Earth clamps for Big-Bags (FIBC)
Earth clamps for
Big-Bags (FIBC)
Type of dust
Plastic
additive
Description of the plant and process
•
The product was supplied in a conductive Big-Bag (FIBC type C).
•
The Big-Bag (1) had conductive lifting handles (2) and was also fitted with
earthing points (3) on the side.
•
The lifting hooks (4) were made of metal and connected with a plastic cable (5)
to the crane.
•
A filling funnel (6) with sealing system (7) was used to empty the Big-Bag into
the silo (8).
Course of the incident
•
Dust leaked out of the improperly fitted sealing system (7) during the emptying
of the Big-Bag forming a large dust cloud in the filling area.
•
In order to solve the problem the operator called two further colleagues for
help.
•
Shortly afterwards a dust explosion occurred in the vicinity of the filling
funnel (6) and also in the Big-Bag (1).
Consequences
Due
to the problem with the sealing system (7) and the formation of a large dust
cloud three opera-tors were exposed to a much greater hazard than would
normally be present.
•
The three operators suffered severe burns.
•
Following litigation the firm had to pay tens of million Euro in damages to the
workers.
Causes
•
The Big-Bag was not earthed (9) and became charged due to the emptying
operation.
•
A spark discharge occurred from the Big-Bag (1) to the earthed metal filling
funnel (6) which
ignited
the dust cloud formed by the leaking seal and also the dust cloud in the
Big-Bag (1).
Measures
•
The Big-Bag (1) must be earthed and monitored (9) before emptying starts.
•
The sealing system should be improved to prevent the formation of a dust cloud
in the filling area.
•
Operators must be trained so that they are aware of the ignition hazards which
arise from electrostatic charging.
Earth Clamp Introduction:
In order to dissipate the electrostatic charge from various equipment, we
offer a wide range of static grounding clamps with cables, which are all ATEX
approved, certification: Ex II 2 G T6. SC-04 is
specially designed for Big-Bags (FIBC).
Features:
Die-cast aluminum
construction with brass jaws.
Brass jaws are designed to allow proper contact onto
unpainted surfaces, posts or thin materials.
Suitable for grounding and bonding on Big-Bags
(FIBC), refueling
vehicles and aircraft.
Opening: 18mm
Sizes: 112mm X 80mm
Weight:160g
