Selecting the safe type of static protective FIBC for a specific application can seem daunting. Fortunately, help is at hand in the form of National and International Standards that provide definitive guidance, recommendations and requirements. We covered these in the Type D FIBC Technology Monthly Newsletter for March 2024, and explained some of the terminology related to electrostatic explosion risks in the Type D FIBC Technology Monthly Newsletter for April 2024. In this article we provide a step-by-step guide to selecting the safe type of static protective FIBC, using a flowchart that replicates the specifications of NFPA 77, IEC 61340-4-4 and IEC TS 60079-32-1.
Before using the flowchart, it is necessary to know the sensitivity to electrostatic ignition of the product being packaged, and of the environment in which the bulk bags will be emptied. The parameter that is used to define sensitivity to electrostatic ignition is minimum ignition energy (MIE). Safety data sheets can be a source of MIE values for products, or they can use the terms “flammable” or “combustible”. If the MIE of the product is not known, but it is known to be potentially at risk of ignition, the safe option is to assume it is flammable and follow the flowchart accordingly. The same principle applies to the environment in which the bulk bags are emptied. If a dust is present that is sensitive to ignition, but the MIE is not known, the safe option is to assume it is flammable.
Flammable solvents or gases that can be present, either within the packaged products (see Note 3 after the flowchart), or in the environment in which the bulk bags are emptied, will always require the highest level of static protection, irrespective of MIE.
CROHMIQ Static Protective Type D FIBC are the safe bulk bags for all operations involving hazardous explosive atmospheres.
