Dustless Blasting is a safe process that can be used in many situations, including on live pipelines.
Does Dustless Blasting Produce Sparks?
Although the Dustless Blasting process can produce sparks, these are classified as “cold sparks”, which are not capable of igniting flammable gases. This is because the water used in the Dustless Blasting process dissipates static electricity, effectively preventing the type of spark which can cause combustion.
Is Dustless Blasting Safe in Combustable Atmospheres?
Dustless Blasting can be used on flammable sites where other methods of surface preparation are not permitted. This is because the “cold sparks” produced by Dustless Blasting are not capable of igniting combustable atmospheres.
Several independent studies conducted by unbiased third parties have confirmed this. Reports done by Thornton Laboratories, Shell Research Ltd, UK and Bradley, National Safety Council Congress, USA show the same results, even with a wide variety of abrasives and combustibles.
What is the Difference Between a Cold Spark and an Ignitable Spark?
“Cold sparks” are produced by friction, whereas the type of spark that can ignite a combustible atmosphere is caused by static electricity.
Many other independent studies and real-world jobs have confirmed that no static electricity build-up occurs during the Dustless Blasting process. This is because the water used in the process creates a natural ground which prevents static electricity. It should be stressed that during dry blasting operation, measures must be taken to prevent the build up of a static charge.