This article will discuss how typical powder dryers operate, what hazards they present and strategies that can be used to manage the risk of fire and explosion inside of this equipment. Read the first part of this two-article series to learn about the conditions that allow fires and explosions to occur inside of drying equipment and the potential sources of ignition that can trigger industrial dryer fires and explosions.

Handling and processing of powders at elevated temperatures is widespread in many industries. The range of temperatures associated with these operations varies depending on the nature of the material and the intent of the operation (drying, melting, agglomeration etc.).

 The long-awaited 2013 revision of NFPA 654, Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids, has arrived. This revision was issued by the Standards Council and became effective on June 18, 2012.