A DEEP DIVE INTO EXPLOSION SUPPRESSION 

Explosion suppression systems prevent a dust explosion from escalating into a full-grown explosion. The core of an effective explosion suppression system relies on its ability to detect the initial stages of an explosion event in record time. 

Typically, this occurs within the remarkable timeframe of 10 milliseconds. The system not only identifies this imminent threat but also takes immediate action to suppress it. This is accomplished through the swift injection of a specially formulated food-grade suppressant powder, designed to neutralize the combustion reaction immediately.

FLASH EXPLOSION SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS: EXPLORING THE FLASH™ EXPLOSION SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

StuvEx’s explosion suppression system, marketed under the brand name Flash™, has been crucial in mitigating dust explosions since the 1990s.
Flash™ explosion suppression systems are engineered to detect and suppress dust explosions in their early stages by injecting suppressant powder into the vessel.

These systems have undergone rigorous testing and are ATEX certified. They meet SIL 2 safety integrity levels and comply with EN 14373:2021 and EN 15089:2009 standards.

A FLASH™ EXPLOSION SUPPRESSION SYSTEM FEATURES A MODULAR DESIGN AND CONSISTS OF THREE KEY COMPONENTS: 

• One or more explosion detectors for the rapid detection of pressure increases or light intensity, or a combination of both.
• A control and indicating unit that acts as the heart of the system.
• A high-rate suppressor bottle that discharges the suppressant powder to quench the explosion.

KEY FEATURES OF THE FLASH™ EXPLOSION SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

• Not subject to Pressure Equipment Directives
• Food-compliant suppressant powder
• Easy installation and maintenance
• Robust  modular design
• Over 20 years of experience across diverse industries and equipment
• Also available as a chemical barrier

EXPLOSION SUPPRESSION APPLICATIONS IN DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES

Almost every industry that handles organic, combustible solids faces the risk of dust explosions. Examples include the food and feed industry, the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, and power generation plants. 
Most explosions occur in elevators, filters, grinders, dryers and silos. In these situations, explosion suppression can provide solutions to mitigate risks.

THE IMPACT OF A DUST EXPLOSION: A THREAT TO INDUSTRIAL EFFICIENCY

Explosions and fires caused by combustible powders are well-known hazards with the potential for devastating and irreversible consequences. In many industries and processes, it is simply not realistic to eliminate the 
formation of an explosive air-dust mixture. Milling, drying, pneumatic or mechanical conveying, and filtration of solids and fine powders are typical processes that present a high risk of fire and explosion. 
Dust explosions represent extremely rapid combustions of dust-in-air mixtures. In closed vessels, dust explosions lead to a swift increase in temperature and pressure, exceeding the structural limits of vessels and process equipment.

CONCLUSION

Investing in a superior explosion suppression system like FLASH™ represents a strategic move toward enhanced industrial safety. With these systems in place, businesses can focus on their core operations, confident that their facilities are safeguarded against the potent threat of explosions.