PROCESSES INVOLVING GRAIN DUST
Most grain dust is created by material handling processes, which include:
|
Dump pits |
Break milling | Sifters / Sorters / Classifiers |
|
Elevator legs |
Bin / Silo loading | Roller milling |
|
Conveyors |
Packaging | Barge / Rail car / Truck loading |
|
Garner scales |
Drying | Mixing bin venting |
|
Grain cleaners |
Hammer milling |
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR GRAIN DUST
- When grain reaches an export terminal it has been handled between 5 and 10 times. As a result, dust loading may be higher andhtis should be taken into consideraiton when sizing collectors.
- Cartridge style collectors are typically suitable for seed production plants because seeds are handled more gently than common grain and therefore, emit less dust.
- Oilseed processing often involves both heat and oils so be sure to consider both when selecting dust collectors.
HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Grain dust can be highly combustible so an understanding of NFPA, OHS, and EPA regulations is often required. Typically any collector may require an explosion mitigation strategy such as explosion vents or chemical suppression systems.