Explosion Severity (Pmax, Kst)

Dust and Powder Flammability Testing

Standards

BS EN 14034 parts 1 & 2 / ASTM E1226

Test

The explosion severity test is conducted to determine maximum pressure (Pmax), Maximum rate of pressure rise ((dP/dt)max) and Kst of an ignited powder, dispersed in air, as a dust cloud.

Working through a range of powder concentrations, the powder is dispersed into a 20L explosion vessel (sphere) using, dry compressed air. These suspended dust clouds are then exposed to a large 10 kJ chemical ignition source and any ignition and following explosion is monitored, measured and recorded. Testing over a wide range of powder concentrations enables a flammability curve to be generated, along with peak values.

Sigma-HSE Group

Benefits

Data generated by the explosion severity test is predominantly used for either design of explosion protection systems (venting, containment or suppression) or to confirm a material is appropriate for processes with an established explosion protection system.