EXTERNAL PUBLICATIONS
HSE RR1108
Liquid classification for flammable mists
FABIG Members: Log-in to access all FABIG resources LOG IN
SUMMARY
Many types of industrial equipment can potentially produce an explosive oil mist if a fault develops. However, information on the conditions in which a mist can be ignited and continue to burn is limited. To help address this, HSE and 14 industry sponsors co-funded a Joint Industry Project (JIP) on oil mist formation and ignition.
This report, produced for the JIP, addresses the contribution the fluid within a pressurised system makes to the risk of an ignitable mist forming if a leak develops.
Fluids were put into three groups, based on their flashpoint and ease of atomization: “volatile fuels” include fuels and solvents which have a low flashpoint and atomize easily; “lubricants” include many actual lubricants and also heat transfer fluids and other oils with a relatively high flashpoint and poor atomization; “fuel oils” which have a low flashpoint but poor atomization.
When heated, “fuel oils” should show similar behaviour to “volatile fuels”.
This work was used to select a representative fluid from each group for use in experimental tests.
This Research Report and the work it describes were funded by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Its contents, including any opinions and/or conclusions expressed, are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect HSE policy.
