Liquids ignition hazard evaluation

Predictive hazard evaluation procedures may be required when new and different processes, designs, equipment, or procedures are being contemplated. The Dow Fire and Explosion Index provides a direct method to estimate the risks in a chemical process based upon flammability and reactivity characteristics of the chemicals, general process hazards (as exothermic reactions, indoor storage of flammable liquids, etc.) and special hazards (as operation above the flash point, operation above the auto-ignition point, quantity of flammable liquid, etc.). Proper description of this index is best found in the 57-page Dows Fire and Explosion Index, Hazard Classification Guide, 5 th ed., AIChE, New York, 1981. 

The NFPA 430 classification system, the fire hazard behavior of liquid and solid oxidizers that can increase the burning rate or cause spontaneous ignition of a combustible material. Also, the reactivity behavior of liquid and solid oxidizers includes those that can undergo a self-sustained decomposition or an explosive reaction. The definitions used to define liquid and solid oxidizer classes can be subject to interpretation. The NFPA 430 classification system is based on the Technical Committee s evaluation of available scientific and technical data, actual experience, and it s considered opinion. A listing of typical liquid and solid oxidizers by class can be found in the Appendix of NFPA 430. The oxidizers listed are assumed to be pure materials unless otherwise specified. 

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