Purpose
The purpose of the Lower Explosion Limit test is to discover the lowest dust concentration that can be ignited.
LEL can be used in processes where the dust concentration is controllable such as in some types of dryers and pneumatic transport systems. It is also an important parameter when performing the hazardous area classification of a facility.
Method
This test is performed based on EN 14034-3 2006: “Determination of explosion characteristics of dust clouds – Part 3: Determination of the lower explosion limit LEL of dust clouds”.
We disperse dust samples of various sizes inside a 20-litre explosion apparatus and expose them to a 2kJ ignition source. We repeat the trial by varying the dust concentration inside the apparatus until the LEL is found.
Benefit
By knowing your dust’s LEL, it may be possible to keep the concentration of the dust cloud below that to prevent explosions in installations where the dust concentration is controllable.
Lower Explosion Limit test enquiries
Do you have any questions about the test? Please submit them through the form below.
