Ignition Energy MIE of Dust Suspensions

The maximum effective energy of a static discharge can be compared with the MIE of a dust to determine whether ignition is probable, as discussed in Chapters 2 and 3. MIE test methods are described in S-5.4.2 and special considerations discussed in 6-1.3 through 6-1.5. At the time of writing, ASTM was close to development of a standard for dust MIE measurement. 

Appendix A-6-1.2 shows that MIE increases with approximately the 2nd or 3rd power of representative particle diameter. This emphasizes the need 

In addition to the great dependence of MIE on particle size distribution and the possible accumulation of additives, complicating factors in measuring and applying MIE data include the presence of flammable gas (6-1.3.1) plus the effects of moisture (6-1.6) and possibly increased temperature (6-1.5) relative to the test temperature. 

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