Extraction system for flammable and explosive chemical dust

In this case study, we describe the extraction and filtration system for flammable and explosive chemical dust designed and built for a leading chemical company. The system was installed at the production plant in Spoleto (Italy), in the department dedicated to the mixing and packaging of flame retardant dust.

During these processes, fine dust tends to disperse into the air, creating a risk both to the health of operators and to the safety of the working environment, as it is potentially flammable and explosive. The customer therefore needed to adopt an extraction solution capable of effectively abating dust while ensuring high operational reliability.

Bub Vent water filter for explosive dust

The solution we adopted for the abatement of explosive dust was the installation of an extraction system with a Bub Vent water filter, constructed entirely from Aisi 316 stainless steel.

The dust is extracted at several points along the mixing and packaging line, using special extraction inlets and hoods, and it’is conveyed into the water filter.

Our Bub Vent is able to break down explosive dust thanks to the principle of atomisation of the washing liquid (located in the tank at the base of the filter) by the same air flow containing the dust to be eliminated. The dust particles are forced to pass through several annular passages with Venturi cartridges, which increase their speed: during this phase, the gas and liquid interact, causing the dust particles to be ‘captured’. In order to inert the dusty flow at the inlet of the Bub Vent, continuous spraying of the washing liquid with nozzles is also provided, thanks to the action of the recirculation pump.
The water filter has an additional filtering stage at the outlet with high-efficiency droplet separators, accessible via doors for inspection and maintenance.

The clean air coming out of the Bub Vent is expelled into the atmosphere through a self-supporting chimney with a diameter of 700 mm, equipped with a silencer and inspection ports for analysis.

Management of the extraction system

The operation of this extraction system can be managed locally within the production department, directly using the buttons on the electrical panel cabinet, or remotely, using a control panel with a 15″ touch screen HMI panel.

The interface is simple and intuitive to use: from the HMI panel, it is possible to switch the system on and off without accessing the production department, as well as to check the system’s operating parameters and promptly identify any warnings and alarms that may be active.

Specialists in dust extraction

In our long-standing experience in the design and installation of extraction systems, we have often found ourselves working with companies operating in the chemical sector: this has made us experts in the treatment of many types of dust, whether inert, flammable or potentially explosive.

Each system is developed based on the specific requirements of the production process, with solutions aimed at reducing pollutants and ensuring workplace safety.

Does your company require an extraction system? Please do not hesitate to contact us: our technical department is available to provide detailed advice.