Burn Rate Testing

The burn rate test is used to determine the rate of combustion propagation of a combustible dust layer. Data from this method can predict the severity of a combustible dust explosion, providing a relative measure of how rapidly combustion will propagate through a layer of material once ignited.

Our 3-Step Approach

1. Conduct an explosion severity test with the material of interest
2. Iterate to find the laminar burning velocity that matches the measured dP/dt value
3. Predict the response of the full-scale system using the laminar burning velocity

Implementation of this burn rate model will allow for a more accurate simulation of real-life conditions. It may be used to address the performance-based option within NFPA 68 for operation outside the applicability range of the provided deflagration vent sizing equations. It may also be used to predict the behavior under many different conditions of interest, such as:

• Increased/decreased initial temperature
• Increased/decreased initial pressure
• Larger/smaller vessels
• Higher/lower set pressure

Applicable Standard

49 CFR Ch. 1 Pt. 173 App. E, Guidelines for Classification and Packing Group Assignment of Class 4 Materials.

The parameter measured is the burn rate in mm/sec.

Sample Results

Sample Requirements

100g of dust sample of known particle size and moisture content

Sample Preparation

No special preparation is required. The sample should be tested as received. If you have questions about what is appropriate for your application, call us at 1-844-ioKinetic to discuss further.