The Science Of Dust Control Systems

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a useful resource on controlling dust. In Chapter 3 of the OSHA handbook, it explains why dust should be controlled, the various forms of dust control systems that are available, and how to select the correct one, and how to design a water spray system to limit the spread of dust.

Some reasons why dust should be controlled are to reduce and prevent the possibility of dust explosions and fires. Also the reduction of accidents is greater with better visibility of the workplace. Decreasing dust will also decrease the wear and tear on equipment and minimize maintenance at the same time. For workers, less dust means less protective gear that is needed as well as reduce the possibility of foul odors, which can have a negative effect on productivity.

There are three basic types of dust control systems that are in use today that companies can select from. There are systems that use a ventilation system in a building to remove or capture dust particles. Other types include a wet dust suppression systems at the ground level that use water to dampen the soil or other small particles that make them too heavy to become airborne. Airborne dust can also be thwarted with a water system where a spray can attach with the particles causing them to fall to the ground.

There are four commonly used components to most industrial dust control systems. There is a capturing mechanism at the source of the dust. This is usually an exhaust hood. Attached to this hood is duct work that transports the dust to a dust collector. At the collector, the dust is separated from the air. At the end of the duct work, after the dust is removed from the air, is the fan and motor that is the power behind the airflow.

The main parts of a water spray system include the spray nozzle, a hose that supplies the water, and, of course, the water source. The most important part is the spray nozzle. This is where the spray pattern and velocity of the spray are regulated for a water spray dust control system.

By: Mark Sierra

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Additional information can be found regarding how erosion control plants can be used to keep dust contained, especially in construction areas where dust is most prevalent. Check out the Dust Stop Zone for more Free information.