Grain dust is an unavoidable aspect of transporting and handling grain; addressing this issue requires implementing the best management practices to avert safety risks.
The dust generated during grain handling activities usually consists of grain fragments, soil remnants, plant debris, fungi, bacteria, fertilizer, agricultural chemical residues, insect droppings, small rodents, and birds. The composition of grain dust can vary depending on the type of grain that is being transported, its growing conditions, and the way the grain is harvested, stored, and processed; for example, rotten grain contains elevated amounts of dust and bacteria.
One of the biggest dangers that grain dust poses is the risk of an explosion. Not all types of dust are combustible: for the dust to cause an explosion, the dust itself must be flammable. For example, salt dust, no matter the amounts of it present in the air, will not cause an explosion as salt itself does not burn. Grain, on the other hand, especially in the form of dust, is highly flammable and often causes explosions at grain storage and transportation facilities. The volatile characteristics of dust depend on the type of grain and its minimum explosive concentration (MEC). A critical MEC level can be reached in a very short time during handling operations. Given that all other elements (confinement, ignition source, oxygen) are present, an explosion is highly probable.
Grain dust also causes serious health problems for those who are exposed to it. Inhalation of grain dust causes lung-related problems like coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, asthma, chronic bronchitis, and allergies. Skin exposure to grain dust causes rashes, irritation, eye inflammation, nasal irritation, and grain fever.
There are several solutions to the grain dust problem:
- Changes in grain handling practices can positively impact and reduce the levels of grain dust. Possible changes to the handling process include limitation of operations during wind; reduction of the grain free-fall distances and grain velocities; removing the “wind tunnel” by enclosing the receiving area; keeping a conveyor belt at the lowest speed.
- Grain dust collecting is the most effective way of reducing the presence of grain dust in the air and reducing the risk of combustion.
Redwood Technology presents Scroiler™ – a new type of wet air scrubber that does not get clogged by grain dust. It does not require frequent maintenance checks, it can use water or other cleaning liquid, it is economical and eco-friendly.
If you are interested in Scroiler™, please contact us at info@optromix.com