This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: E1226 − 19

Standard Test Method for

Explosibility of Dust Clouds1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1226; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

INTRODUCTION

Particulate solids of combustible materials present a significant risk of dust explosion if suspended
in air and subjected to an ignition source. The methods of this standard can be used to determine if
a dispersed dust cloud is “explosible” and, if so, to what degree it is explosible, that is, its
“explosibility.” Knowledge that a dust may be explosible if dispersed as a dust cloud is important in
the conduct of a process hazard safety review. Contained herein is an explosibility or go/no-go
screening test procedure for the purpose of determining whether a dust sample is explosible.
If a dust is explosible, the explosibility parameters, maximum explosion pressure, Pmax; maximum
rate of pressure rise, (dP/dt)max; and explosibility index, KSt, are useful in the design of explosion
prevention and control measures as described in national (NFPA) and international (ISO, CEN and
others) explosion protection standards.

1. Scope NFPA 68, NFPA 69, and NFPA 652) when used in conjunction
1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this test method is to provide with approved or recognized design methods by those skilled
standard test methods for characterizing the “explosibility” of in the art.
NOTE 1—Historically, the evaluation of the deflagration parameters of
dust clouds in two ways, first by determining if a dust is maximum pressure and maximum rate of pressure rise has been performed
“explosible,” meaning a cloud of dust dispersed in air is using a 1.2-L Hartmann Apparatus. Test Method E789, which describes
capable of propagating a deflagration, which could cause a this method, has been withdrawn. The use of data obtained from the test
flash fire or explosion; or, if explosible, determining the degree method in the design of explosion protection systems is not recommended.
of “explosibility,” meaning the potential explosion hazard of a 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
dust cloud as characterized by the dust explosibility standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
parameters, maximum explosion pressure, Pmax; maximum rate standard.
of pressure rise, (dP/dt)max; and explosibility index, KSt. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.2 Limitations. Results obtained by the application of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
methods of this standard pertain only to certain combustion responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
characteristics of dispersed dust clouds. No inference should be priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
drawn from such results relating to the combustion character- mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
istics of dusts in other forms or conditions (for example, 1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
ignition temperature or spark ignition energy of dust clouds, dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ignition properties of dust layers on hot surfaces, ignition of ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
bulk dust in heated environments, etc.) Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.3 Use. It is intended that results obtained by application of mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
this test be used as elements of a dust hazard analysis (DHA) Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
that takes into account other pertinent risk factors; and in the 2. Referenced Documents
specification of explosion prevention systems (see, for example
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
D3173 Test Method for Moisture in the Analysis Sample of
Coal and Coke
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E27 on Hazard
Potential of Chemicals and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E27.05 on
2
Explosibility and Ignitability of Dust Clouds. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2019. Published January 2020. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as E1226 – 12a. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/E1226-19. the ASTM website.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 E1226 − 19
D3175 Test Method for Volatile Matter in the Analysis
Sample of Coal and Coke
E789 Test Method for Dust Explosions in a 1.2-Litre Closed
Cylindrical Vessel (Withdrawn 2007)3
E1445 Terminology Relating to Hazard Potential of Chemi-
cals
E1515 Test Method for Minimum Explosible Concentration
of Combustible Dusts
2.2 NFPA Publication:4
NFPA 68 Standard on Explosion Protection By Deflagration
Venting
NFPA 69 Standard on Explosion Prevention Systems
NFPA 652 Standard on the Fundamentals of Combustible
Dust
2.3 VDI Standard:5
VDI-3673 Pressure Release of Dust Explosions
2.4 ISO Standard:6
ISO 6184/1 Explosion Protection Systems, Part 1, Determi-
nation of Explosion Indices of Combustible Dusts in Air
2.5 ASME Code:7
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII
FIG. 1 Typical Recorder Tracings of Absolute Pressure, P, and
Rate of Pressure Rise, dP/dt, for a Dust Deflagration in a 20-L
3. Terminology Chamber
3.1 Definitions—For determination of terms relating to haz-
ard potential of chemicals see Terminology E1445.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 Pex, n—the maximum pressure rise (above the pres-
sure in the vessel at the time of ignition) produced during the
course of a single deflagration test (see Fig. 1).
3.2.2 Pm, n—maximum pressure rise produced during the
course of a single deflagration test that is corrected for the
effects of ignitor pressure and cooling in the 20-L vessel (see
Sections X1.8 and X1.9).
3.2.3 Pex,a, n—the maximum absolute pressure produced
during the course of a single deflagration test:
n 2 P ex,a 5 P ex1P ignition
3.2.4 Pmax, n—the maximum pressure rise (above pressure
in the vessel at the time of ignition) reached during the course
of a deflagration for the optimum concentration of the dust
tested. Pmax is determined by a series of tests over a large range
of concentrations (see Fig. 2). It is reported in bar.
3.2.5 Pignition, n—the absolute pressure in the vessel at the
time of ignition.

3
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org.
4 FIG. 2 Pmax and (dP/dt)maxas a Function of Concentration for a
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
Typical Dust in a 20-L Chamber
Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
5
Available from Beuth Verlag, D-1000 Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany or
American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York,
NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
6
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1, ch. de
la Voie-Creuse, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://
3.2.6 ∆Pignition, n—the pressure rise above Pignition caused
www.iso.ch. or from Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), by activation of the ignitior(s) with no dust present in the
25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. chamber.
7
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http:// 3.2.7 (dP/dt)ex, n—the maximum rate of pressure rise during
www.asme.org. the course of a single deflagration test (see Fig. 1).

2
 E1226 − 19
3.2.8 (dP/dt)max, n—maximum value for the rate of pressure 5.3 The values obtained by this testing technique are spe-
increase per unit time reached during the course of a deflagra- cific to the sample tested and the method used and are not to be
tion for the optimum concentration of the dust tested. It is considered intrinsic material constants.
determined by a series of tests over a large range of concen- 5.4 For dusts with low KSt values, discrepancies have been
trations (see Fig. 2). It is reported in bar/s. observed between tests in 20-L and 1-m3 chambers. A strong
NOTE 2—Recorder tracings of pressure (absolute) and rate of pressure ignitor may overdrive a 20-L chamber, as discussed in Test
rise for a typical dust deflagration in a 20-L chamber are shown in Fig. 1. Method E1515 and Refs (1-4).8 Conversely, more recent
The maximum values, Pmax and (dP/dt)max for a dust are determined by testing has shown that some metal dusts can be prone to
testing over a large range of concentrations as shown in Fig. 2. underdriving in the 20-L chamber, exhibiting significantly
3.2.9 deflagration index, KSt, n—maximum dP/dt normal- lower KSt values than in a 1-m3 chamber (5). Ref (6) provides
ized to a 1.0-m3 volume. It is measured at the optimum dust supporting calculations showing that a test vessel of at least
concentration. KSt is defined in accordance with the following 1-m3 of volume is necessary to obtain the maximum explosi-
cubic relationship: bility index for a burning dust cloud having an abnormally high
K St 5 ~ dP/dt! max V 1/3 (1) flame temperature. In these two overdriving and underdriving
scenarios described above, it is therefore recommended to
where: perform tests in 1-m3 or larger calibrated test vessels in order
P = pressure, bar, to measure dusts explosibility parameters accurately.
t = time, s, NOTE 5—Ref (2) concluded that dusts with KSt values below 45 bar m/s
V = volume, m3, and when measured in a 20-L chamber with a 10 000-J ignitor, may not be
KSt = bar m/s. explosible when tested in a 1-m3 chamber with a 10 000-J ignitor. Ref (2)
and unpublished testing has also shown that in some cases the KSt values
3.2.10 explosible, n—a material with a Pressure Ratio equal measured in the 20-L chamber can be lower than those measured in the
or greater than 2.0 in any test when tested using the Explosi- 1-m3 chamber. Refs (1) and (3) found that for some dusts, it was necessary
bility or Go/No-Go Screening Test described in Section 13. to use lower ignition energy in the 20-L chamber in order to match MEC
or MIC test data in a 1-m3 chamber. If a dust has measurable (nonzero)
NOTE 3—An explosible dust when dispersed in air is capable of Pmax and KSt values with a 5000 or 10 000-J ignitor when tested in a 20-L
propagating a deflagration, which could cause a flash fire or explosion chamber but no measurable Pmax and KSt values with tests conducted
depending on the level of confinement. using an ignition source less than or equal to 2500 J, it may be helpful to
test the material in a larger chamber such as a 1-m3 chamber using at least
3.2.11 ignition delay time, td, n—experimental parameter a 10 000-J ignition source to further characterize the material’s explosi-
defined as the time interval between the initiation of the dust bility in dust cloud form.
dispersion procedure (the time at which the dispersion air starts
to enter the chamber) in an experimental apparatus and the 6. Interferences
activation of the ignition source (see Fig. 1). The ignition delay 6.1 In certain industrial situations where extreme levels of
time characterizes the turbulence level prevailing at ignition turbulence may be encountered, such as the rapid introduction
under the defined test conditions. of expanding gases resulting from combustion in connected
3.2.12 pressure ratio (PR), n— piping or operations where hybrid mixtures (combustible dusts
and combustible gases or vapors) are encountered, the use of
PR 5 ~ P ex,a 2 ∆Pignitor! ⁄P ignition
NOTE 4—When testing in the Siwek 20-L vessel (see Appendix X1), PR
the deflagration indices based on this test method for the sizing
may be calculated using the corrected explosion pressure: of deflagration vents may not be possible.
n 2 PR 5 ~ P m 1 P ignitition! ⁄P ignition 7. Apparatus
7.1 The equipment consists of a closed steel combustion
4. Summary of Test Method
chamber with an internal volume of at least 20 L, spherical or
4.1 A dust cloud is formed in a closed combustion chamber cylindrical (with a length to diameter ratio of approximately
by an introduction of the material with air. 1:1) in shape.
4.2 Ignition of this dust-air mixture is then attempted after a 7.2 The apparatus must be capable of dispersing a fairly
specified delay time by an ignition source located at the center uniform dust cloud of the material.
of the chamber. 7.3 The pressure transducer and recording equipment must
4.3 The pressure time curve is recorded on a suitable piece have a combined response rate greater than the maximum
of equipment. measured rates of pressure rise.
7.4 An example of a chamber and specific procedures that
5. Significance and Use have been found suitable are shown in Appendix X1. This
5.1 This test method provides a procedure for performing chamber has been calibrated as described in Section 10.
laboratory tests to evaluate deflagration parameters of dusts. 7.5 Examples of other test chambers that have not yet been
5.2 The data developed by this test method may be used for calibrated are listed in Appendix X2.
the purpose of sizing deflagration vents in conjunction with the
nomographs and equations published in NFPA 68, ISO 6184/1, 8
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
or VDI 3673. this standard.

3
 E1226 − 19
8. Safety Precautions state, it should be recognized that the test results may not represent the
most severe dust deflagration possible. Any process change resulting in a
8.1 Prior to handling a dust material, the toxicity of the higher fraction of fines than normal or drier product than normal may
sample and its combustion products must be considered. This increase the explosion severity.
information is generally obtained from the manufacturer or
9.3 To achieve this particle fineness (≥95 % minus 200
supplier. Appropriate safety precautions must be taken if the
mesh), the sample may be ground or pulverized or it may be
material has toxic or irritating characteristics. Tests using this
sieved.
apparatus should be conducted in a ventilated hood or other
area having adequate ventilation. NOTE 7—The operator should consider the thermal stability of the dust
during any grinding or pulverizing. In sieving the material, the operator
8.2 Before initiating a test, a physical check of all gaskets must verify that there is no selective separation of components in a dust
and fittings should be made to prevent leakage. that is not a pure substance.
8.3 All enclosures containing electrical equipment should 9.4 The moisture content of the test sample should not
be connected to a common ground. Shielded cables should be exceed 5 % in order to avoid test results of a given dust being
used. noticeably influenced.
8.4 If chemical ignitors are used as an ignition source, safety
NOTE 8—For most materials, dry samples will produce maximum Pmax
in handling and use is a primary consideration. Ignition by and KSt values. For some water reactive materials, such as reactive metals,
electrostatic discharge must be considered a possibility. When maximum values may occur when some moisture is present.
handling these ignitors, eye protection must be worn at all NOTE 9—There is no single method for determining the moisture
times. A grounded, conductive tabletop is recommended for content or for drying a sample. ASTM lists many methods for moisture
preparation. Federal, state, and local regulations for the determination in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Sample drying is
procurement, use, and storage of chemical ignitors must be equally complex due to the presence of volatiles, lack of or varying
porosity (see Test Methods D3173 and D3175), weight change due to
followed. oxidation, and sensitivity of the sample to heat. Therefore, each must be
8.5 All testing should initially be conducted with small dried in a manner that will not modify or destroy the integrity of the
sample. Hygroscopic materials must be desiccated.
quantities of sample to prevent overpressurization due to high
energy material. 9.5 Retention and storage of dust samples can lead to aging
8.6 In assembling the electrical circuitry for this apparatus, which may affect explosibility results. Changes that may occur
standard wiring and grounding procedures must be followed. If are, but not limited to: drying or absorption of moisture, loss of
a high-voltage spark circuit is used, it presents an electric solvent or volatiles, surface oxidation, slow chemical/
shock hazard and adequate interlocking and shielding must be biological reactions or other decomposition mechanism. Ap-
employed to prevent contact. propriate measures should be taken to avoid aging of the
sample prior to testing, so the sample remains representative of
8.7 The operator should work from a protected location in the material present in the industrial process to be protected.
case of vessel or electrical failure. Dusts that are susceptible to aging effects after being sampled
8.8 The vessel should be designed and fabricated in accor- shall be preserved in a suitable atmosphere and stored under
dance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, suitable temperature conditions until tested. Argon blanketing
Section VIII. A maximum allowable working pressure should be considered for dusts that are unusually reactive with
(MAWP) of at least 15 bar is recommended. moisture and oxygen, or both. Argon may be otherwise
preferable to nitrogen as a blanketing gas, owing both to its
9. Sampling, Test Specimens, Test Units, and Storage larger density and to the slower rate at which oxygen will
9.1 It is not practical to specify a single method of sampling diffuse into opened or leaking sample containers.
dust for test purposes because the character of the material and
its available form affect selection of the sampling procedure. 10. Calibration and Standardization
Generally accepted sampling procedures should be used as
10.1 The objective of this test method is to develop data that
described in MNL 32.9
can be correlated to those from the 1-m3 chamber (described in
9.2 Tests may be run on an as-received sample. However, ISO 6184 ⁄1 and VDI 3673) in order to use the nomograms and
due to the possible accumulation of fines at some location in a equations (see 5.2).
processing system, it is recommended that the test sample be at
least 95 % minus 200 mesh (75 µm). 10.2 Because a number of factors (concentration, unifor-
mity of dispersion, turbulence of ignition, sample age, etc.) can
NOTE 6—It may be desirable in some cases to conduct dust deflagration affect the test results, the test vessel to be used for routine work
tests on materials as sampled from a process because process dust streams
must be standardized using dust samples whose KSt and Pmax
or deposits may contain a wide range of particle sizes or have a
well-defined specific moisture content, materials consisting of a mixture parameters are known in the 1-m3 chamber. Samples used for
of chemicals may be selectively separated on sieves and certain fibrous standardization should provide a wide range of KSt values. A
materials which may not pass through a relatively coarse screen may minimum of five different dust samples are required over each
produce dust deflagrations. When a material is tested in the as-received of the following three KSt ranges: 1–200, 201–300, and >300
bar m/s. The Pmax value for each dust must agree to within
9
MNL 32 — ASTM Manual on Test Sieving Methods is available from ASTM 610 % with the 1-m3 value and the KSt value must agree to
Headquarters, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, W. Conshohocken, PA 19428. within 620 %.

4
 E1226 − 19
10.3 In cases where the test apparatus will not be used to 11.5 Place ignition source in the center of the apparatus.
determine deflagration indices of dusts within certain dust 11.6 Seal chamber, all valves must be closed.
classes, it is permissible to reduce the number of standardiza-
tion dusts tested in these ranges. 11.7 Partially evacuate chamber so that after addition of
dispersing air, the desired normal pressure in the chamber of 1
10.4 The calibration and standardization procedure for a bar absolute will be reached prior to initiation of the deflagra-
chamber will normally involve varying the dispersion proce- tion test.
dure (especially the dispersion and delay time) so that the
measured data are comparable to those from the 1-m3 chamber. 11.8 Actuate the timing circuit to conduct the test.
Once the specific dispersion procedures (that produce data NOTE 12—The dust sample is automatically dispersed through a
comparable to those from the 1-m3 chamber) have been dispersion system in the chamber. The deflagration is then initiated when
determined, they are fixed for future testing. a defined ignition delay time has elapsed. This effective ignition delay
time, td, is the length of time between the first pressure rise due to dust
10.5 Average measured values from three calibrated 20-L dispersion and the moment normal pressure has been reached in the
chambers for lycopodium dust (the reticulate form, Lycopo- chamber and ignition is activated (see Fig. 1). The length of this time
dium clavatum, a natural plant spore having a narrow size defines the degree of turbulence and in many cases the concentration of
distribution with a mean diameter of ~28-µm) are: the dust dispersed in the chamber at the moment of ignition.

Pmax = 7.0 bar 11.9 The pressure time curve is recorded on a suitable piece
(dP/dt)max = 555 bar/s of equipment, such as a storage oscilloscope, high-speed chart
KSt = 151 bar m/s recorder, or electronic data acquisition system. The explosion
Data were obtained from two calibrated 20-L chambers for data, Pex and (dP/dt)ex, can be obtained in accordance with Fig.
Pittsburgh seam bituminous coal dust (~80 % minus 200 mesh, 1.
~50 % minus 325 mesh, 36 % volatility).
11.10 After the test, open a valve to vent pressure from the
Pmax = 7.0 bar
(dP/dt)max = 430 bar/s
chamber. Open the chamber, remove residue and thoroughly
KSt = 117 bar m/ s clean the chamber and dispersion system.
10.6 Dust deflagration data in the 1-m3 chamber at Basel, 11.11 It is recommended that an initial concentration of 250
Switzerland are: g/m3 be tested (see 9.2). This concentration may be systemati-
Lycopodium: cally increased by an equivalent of 250 g/m3 (for example, 500,
Pmax = 6.9 bar 750, 1000 g/m3 etc.) until curves are obtained for both (dP/dt)ex
KSt = 157 bar m/s
and Pex that clearly indicate an optimum value has been
Pittsburgh seam bituminous coal: reached (see Fig. 2). Two additional test series are run at the
Pmax = 7.0 bar concentrations where the maximums were found and at least
KSt = 95 bar m/s
one concentration on each side of the maximums.
Dust deflagration data for other dusts measured in the 1-m3
chamber are listed in Refs (7, 8). NOTE 13—The (dP/dt)max and Pmax values are normally obtained in the
500 to 1250-g/m3 range. In many cases the Pmax and (dP/dt)max values are
10.7 In addition to the initial calibration and standardization not found at the same concentrations. For materials containing high
procedure, at least one suitable dust should be retested quar- atomic weight elements (for example, metals) or inert components the
terly to verify that the dispersion, turbulence, and ignition optimum values may occur at larger concentrations and it is acceptable to
characteristics of the system have not changed. use concentrations increments larger than 250 g/m3 (for example 2000,
2500, 3000 g/m3 etc.)
11. Procedure 11.12 If it is indicated that the optimum concentration for
11.1 These general procedures are applicable for all suitable (dP/dt)max or Pmax is less than 250 g/m3, the tested concen-
chambers. The detailed procedures specific to each chamber tration may be halved; (125, 60, 30 g/m3) until the optimum
are listed in the corresponding appendix. value is obtained.
11.2 Inspect equipment to be sure it is thoroughly cleaned
and in good operational condition. 12. Calculation

NOTE 10—A high frequency of operation (20 to 40 explosions per day)

12.1 Pressure and rates of pressure rise are determined from
can increase the operating temperature in some chambers to approxi- pressure-time records. Fig. 1 is a typical record from which
mately 40 to 50°C. It has been determined that a reduction of up to 15 % these values are obtained. The value of Pex, for a test at a given
in Pmax will result if the operating temperature in the chamber rises to this concentration, is the highest deflagration pressure (absolute)
range. minus the pressure at ignition (normally 1 bar), as shown in
11.3 Ensure that the oxygen content of the dispersion air is Fig. 1A. The value of (dP/dt)ex for a given test is the maximum
20.9 6 0.5 %. Higher or lower oxygen content will affect the slope of the pressure trace (Fig. 1A) or the highest value on the
Pmax and KSt values. rate of pressure rise trace (Fig. 1B).
NOTE 11—The oxygen content of some synthetic air cylinders may 12.2 The reported values for Pmax and (dP/dt)max are the
range from 19 to 26 %. averages of the highest values (over the range of concentra-
11.4 Place a weighed amount of dust in the storage chamber tions) for each of the three test series (see Table X1.2). The
or main chamber according to detailed instructions in the highest value may not occur at the same concentration for each
appendixes. of the three test series.

5
 E1226 − 19
12.3 The deflagration index, KSt, is calculated from (dP/ 13.2.1 Conduct the first test at a dust concentration of 1000
dt)max and the chamber volume, V, using the cubic relationship g/m3.
(see 3.2.11). 13.2.2 If the value of the explosion pressure ratio, PR is less
12.4 Verification of Measurements: than two when tested at the first dust concentration, then
12.4.1 Time between the onset of dust dispersion and the conduct an additional test at a second dust concentration,
electrical activation of the ignition source gives the ignition typically of 2000 g/m3.
delay time, td. Variation between tests should not exceed NOTE 15—For many samples testing at concentrations of 1000 g/m3 and
610 %. 2000 g/m3 is appropriate. It may be advisable to use different concentra-
12.4.2 The highest dP/dt and P values are compared for tions based upon the laboratories testing experience with similar samples.
For instance, some materials containing high atomic weight elements (for
each of the three test series (see Table X1.2). These values example, metals) or mixtures of inert and combustible material can be
typically do not vary more than one concentration interval explosible at higher concentrations. In such cases, it is advisable to test at
between test series. If the variation is greater, it should be higher concentrations. A laboratory may also choose to test at more than
evaluated whether tests need to be performed at additional two concentrations.
concentrations in each series to ensure the maximum values are 13.2.2.1 If the value of the explosion pressure ratio, PR is
captured or whether a fourth series should be performed and greater than or equal to two at any concentration tested, then
the results of all four series should be considered. the dust sample is classified as “explosible” as a dust cloud
The highest dP/dt and P values are compared for each of the under the test conditions.
three test series (see Table X1.2). These values should not vary 13.2.2.2 If the value of the explosion pressure ratio, PR is
more than one concentration interval between test series. If the less than two at all concentrations tested, then the dust sample
variation is greater, the tests should be repeated. is classified as “not explosible” as a dust cloud under the test
12.4.3 If a low dP/dt is obtained, a weak deflagration may conditions. (Warning—A material classified "not explosible"
have occurred. Under these conditions, it is important that the is not necessarily non-combustible. The same material when
dP/dt measurement is not taken from the ignition source but exposed to different conditions, such as elevated temperatures,
from the dust-air mixture itself (see Fig. 3). external heat flux, presence of flammable vapors, size reduc-
12.4.4 The Pmax and (dP/dt)max for the ignition source by tion or moisture, may undergo smoldering, flaming or defla-
itself must be established in the apparatus. grative combustion either as a dust cloud or as layer. Additional
analysis should be considered where adverse process or storage
13. Explosibility or Go/No-Go Screening Tests conditions exist or where there is a basis to believe the material
13.1 The objective of the screening test is to determine if the has the potential to self-heat.)
submitted dust sample is explosible or not. The test does not NOTE 16—If testing in a Siwek 20-L vessel from Appendix X1 and
provide dust deflagration properties such as Pmax and KSt. using the corrected explosion pressure Pm to evaluate PR (see Note 4), the
13.1.1 Conduct initial tests using a 5 kJ or greater ignition PR less than 2 criterion is equivalent to a criterion of Pm less than 1 bar(g)
source. when the ignition pressure Pignition is nominally 1 bar(a) (between 940
and 1060 mbar(a)). More generally, the PR less than 2 criterion is
NOTE 14—Using an ignition source of 10 kJ (two 5-kJ igniters) is equivalent to a criterion of Pm less than the ignition pressure Pignition for
recommended in order to minimize the possibility of a false negative. all values of Pignition.
However, if the researcher has concerns that the test may have been
overdriven in the 20-L chamber, then see 5.4. 14. Report
13.2 It is suggested to conduct screening test in accordance
14.1 Report the following information for explosibility
with 11 – 11.10 and the following:
screening tests:
14.1.1 Identification of the material tested; including type of
dust, source, code numbers, forms, and previous history,
14.1.2 Particle size distribution of the sample as tested,
14.1.3 Moisture or volatile content, or both, of the as-tested
material, if applicable,
14.1.4 Report the dust concentrations tested and resulting
explosion pressure ratios (PR), or corrected explosion pressure
Pm, and classification of whether or not the dust is explosible
as a dust cloud.
14.1.5 Type and energy of the ignition source,
14.1.6 Test chamber used and any deviation from the
normal procedure, and
14.1.7 If synthetic air was used for testing, then report the
oxygen concentration of the air.
14.2 Report the following information for the explosibility
FIG. 3 Typical Recorder Tracings of Absolute Pressure, P, and
parameters test:
Rate of Pressure Rise, dP/dt, for a Weak Dust Deflagration in a 14.2.1 Identification of the material tested; including type of
20-L Chamber Using a 5000-J Ignitor dust, source, code numbers, forms, and previous history,

6
 E1226 − 19
14.2.2 Particle size distribution of the sample as received 15.1.1 Maximum Pressure, Pmax:
and as tested, 15.1.1.1 Repeatability—Duplicate measurements should
14.2.3 Moisture or volatile content, or both, of the as agree within 5 %.
received and as-tested material, if applicable, 15.1.1.2 Reproducibility—Duplicate measurements at dif-
14.2.4 Maximum pressure, maximum rate of pressure rise, ferent laboratories should agree within 10 %.
and the concentrations at which these occur. Curves showing 15.1.2 Maximum Rate of Pressure Rise, (dP/dt)max or Def-
these data may also be included (see Fig. 2). It should be lagration Index, KSt:
reported whether the maximum pressure is the directly mea- 15.1.2.1 Repeatability—Duplicate measurements should
sured value or a corrected value (such as in X1.8 and X1.9). agree to within 30 % at KSt = 50 bar·m/s, 20 % at KSt = 100
14.2.5 KSt value, rounded to the nearest integer, bar·m/s, and within 10 % at KSt = 300 bar·m/s.
14.2.6 Type and energy of the ignition source, 15.1.2.2 Reproducibility—Duplicate measurements at dif-
14.2.7 Test chamber used and any deviation from the ferent laboratories should agree to within 30 % at KSt = 50
normal procedure, and bar·m/s, within 20 % at KSt = 100 bar·m ⁄s, and within 10 % at
14.2.8 If synthetic air was used for testing, then report the KSt = 300 bar·m/s.
oxygen concentration of the air. 15.2 Bias—Because the values obtained are relative mea-
sures of deflagration characteristics, no statement on bias can
15. Precision and Bias be made.
15.1 Precision—The following criteria should be useful for
judging the acceptability of results. They are from X1.11 and 16. Keywords
X1.12 and Table X1.3 16.1 dust explosion; explosion pressure

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. SIWEK 20-L APPARATUS

X1.1 Survey—The Siwek 20-L apparatus including the

explosibility test chamber and associated instrumentation is
shown in Fig. X1.1.10 Additional details of the apparatus and
its calibration relative to the 1-m3 chamber can be found in
Refs (9-11).

X1.2 General Description:

X1.2.1 Fig. X1.2 is a schematic of the test apparatus,
associated instrumentation, and related time diagrams. Detailed
drawings concerning the 20-L sphere, the perforated annular
nozzle, and the pilot-activated outlet valve are shown in Figs.
X1.3-X1.5. The most important part numbers are listed in
Table X1.1.
X1.2.2 The test chamber is a hollow sphere made of
stainless steel, with a volume of 20 L and designed for a
continuous operating pressure of 30 bar. A water jacket serves
to remove the heat generated by the deflagration as to maintain
thermostatically controlled test temperatures. For testing, the
dust is dispersed into the sphere from a pressurized dust storage
chamber (V = 0.6 L) by means of the outlet valve and a
perforated annular nozzle. The outlet valve is opened and
closed pneumatically by means of an auxiliary piston.
X1.2.3 An alternative to the perforated annular nozzle is the FIG. X1.1 Siwek 20-L Apparatus
rebound nozzle shown in Fig. X1.6.

X1.3 Pre-Evacuation—Prior to dispersing the dust, the

20-L sphere is partially evacuated to 0.4 bar absolute. This
evacuation of the 20-L sphere by 0.6 bar together with the air
10
Available from Adolph Kühner AG, Dinkelbergstrasse 1, CH-4127, contained in the dust storage chamber (+20 bar; 0.6 L), results
Birsfelden, Switzerland, or Cesana Corp., P. O. Box 182, Verona, NY 13478. in the desired starting pressure (1 bar) for the test.

7
 E1226 − 19
X1.7.2 If within this first test series, the maximum values
for the pressure and the rate of pressure rise are not observed,
testing is to be continued with higher concentrations (>1500
g/m3) until these maximum values have been clearly passed.
Subsequently, two further test series have to be carried out.
X1.7.3 For the data, Pmax and (dP/dt)max, the means from
the maximum values of each series are reported (see Table
X1.2). The KSt is calculated from the above mean by use of the
following cubic relationship:
~ dP/dt! max V 1/3 5 K St
@ bar/s # @ m 3 # 1/3 5 @ bar m/s #

X1.8 Correction for Explosion Pressures Exceeding 5.5

Bar:
X1.8.1 Because of the cooling effect from the walls of the
FIG. X1.2 Schematic of the Siwek 20-L Apparatus 20-L sphere, the values for Pex > 5.5 bar are slightly lower than
in the 1-m3 vessel. Comparisons of pressure/time recordings
show also that the pressure drop after the explosion is much
X1.4 Ignition Source—The standard ignition source is two faster in the 20-L sphere.
pyrotechnic ignitors11 with a total energy of 10 000 J (5000 J
each). Each ignitor contains 1.2 g of the following composi- X1.8.2 To obtain results equivalent to the 1-m3 vessel, this
tion: 40 % zirconium metal, 30 % barium nitrate, and 30 % Pex value may be corrected.
barium peroxide. This source is initiated by a 1-A electric fuse X1.8.3 Numerous correlation tests between the 1-m3 vessel
head, with a delay time of less than 10 ms. The ignitors are and the 20-L sphere have shown that the following equation
placed in the center of the 20-L sphere, firing in the horizontal may be utilized for this correction:
plane and in opposite directions. P m 5 0.775P ex1.15

X1.5 Ignition Delay Time, (td)—The inlet and outlet valve, where:
the ignition, and the recording are controlled automatically. Pm = corrected explosion pressure.
The degree of turbulence is mainly a function of the ignition
delay time, td, which is the time between the onset of dust X1.9 Correction of the Explosion Pressure, Pex < 5.5
dispersion and the activation of the ignition source (see Fig. Bar—Due to the small test volume, the pressure effect caused
X1.2). Therefore, for dust testing, the ignition delay time, td, by the pyrotechnic ignitors must be taken into account in the
has been standardized for the 20-L sphere to td = 60 6 5 ms. range of Pex < 5.5 bar. A blind test, with the pyrotechnic
ignitors alone, will give a pressure of approximately 1 bar if
X1.6 Evaluation System—In the evaluation unit, the mea- 10 000 J are used. But during a dust deflagration, with rising
sured values from the two pressure sensors are digitized with a Pex, the influence of the pyrotechnic ignitors will be minimized
high degree of resolution and stored in a read/write memory. by the pressure effect of the deflagration itself.
Subsequently, the pressure data are evaluated by the micro-
computer, point by point, and displayed on the screen together X1.9.1 The following equation may be utilized for this
with the course of pressure versus time. The stored curves can correction:
also be recorded slowly on a normal y/t-recorder. As a
safeguard against spurious measurements (auto-check), the
P m 5 5.5 S 5.5 2 P CID
P ex 2 P CI
bar

system uses two independent pressure measuring channels. where:

X1.7 Practical Determination of Deflagration Data: Pm = corrected explosion pressure,
PCI = pressure due to chemical ignitors = 1.6 (IE/10 000),
X1.7.1 The investigations must cover a wide range of and
concentrations, as shown in Fig. 2. In the first series, the IE = ignitor energy.
maximum pressure and the maximum rate of pressure rise are
determined. Starting with a dust concentration of 250 g/m3 (5 X1.10 Mild Dust Deflagration—If a dP/dt of less than 150
g/20 L), the concentration is either increased in steps of 250 bar/s is encountered, it may happen that the rate of pressure rise
g/m3 or decreased by 50 % of the previous value, until the of the pyrotechnic ignitors is higher than that of the deflagra-
maximum values for the explosion data [Pmax, (dP/dt)max] have tion itself. It is therefore necessary to compare the pressure
clearly been covered. curve of the test with the pressure curve of the pyrotechnic
ignitors (see Fig. 3 and Fig. X1.7). Typical values for pyro-
11
technic ignitors of E = 10 000 J are approximately 80 − 100
The chemical ignitors are available commercially from Fr. Sobbe, GmbH,
Beylingstrasse 59, Dortmund Nordrhein-Westfalen 44329, Germany or from Cesana bar/s. It can be assumed that the pressure rise caused by the
Corp., PO Box 182, Verona, NY 13478. pyrotechnic ignitors is terminated after about 50 ms. Thus, the

8
 E1226 − 19

FIG. X1.3 Siwek 20-L Sphere

tangent may be drawn only 50 ms after ignition. X1.12 Reproducibility:

X1.11 Standard Deviation: X1.12.1 Maximum Deflagration Pressure, Pmax—For Pmax,
3 the average of duplicate tests obtained by each of several
X1.11.1 This is valid for the 1-m vessel as well as the 20-L
sphere, when pyrotechnic ignitors are used as the ignition laboratories never differed by more than 10 %.
source. Pmax can be determined with an accuracy of 65 %, X1.12.2 KSt Value—For KSt, the average of duplicate tests
which is independent of the deflagration velocity. obtained by each of several laboratories never differed by more
X1.11.2 The accuracy of the K St values shows a marked than the values indicated in Table X1.3.
decrease towards lower values (see Table X1.3). In the upper
range (K St > 400 bar m/s), it is similar to that of the Pmax.

9
 E1226 − 19

FIG. X1.4 Perforated Annular Nozzle With Dimensions in Millimetres

10
 E1226 − 19

FIG. X1.5 Outlet Valves

11
 E1226 − 19
TABLE X1.1 Listing of Drawings and Main Parts for the
Siwek 20-L Apparatus
Part
Fig. Number Nomenclature
Number
X1.2 2 Ignition leads
X1.2 7 Pyrotechnic ignitors
X1.2 15 Measuring flange
X1.2 24 Sight glass
X1.2 28 Protective disk
X1.2 31 Ball valve (venting, vacuum)
X1.2 32 Ball valve (thermostat circuit)
X1.2 33 Perforated annular nozzle
X1.2 38 Bottom flange
X1.2 40 Top cover
X1.2 41 Bayonet ring for fast opening
X1.2 44 Top flange for wide opening
X1.2 50 Manometer with transfer diaphragm
X1.2 53 Pressure hose
X1.2 55 Dust storage chamber
X1.2 56 Cover of dust storage chamber
X1.2 69 Outlet valve
X1.2 70 Electromagnetic valve Type 123
X1.2 71 Electromagnetic valve Type 122
X1.2 123 Vacuum manometer
X1.2 132 Safety switch
X1.3 1 Tube bend
X1.3 2 Threaded bend
X1.3 3 Coupler
X1.3 10 Cap
X1.4 1 Valve body
X1.4 6 Disk
X1.4 7 Base-plate
X1.4 9 Face
X1.4 60–64 O-rings
X1.4 65–66 Rings

FIG. X1.6 Rebound Nozzle, With Dimensions in Millimetres

12
 E1226 − 19
TABLE X1.2 Example for the Determination of Pmax and (dP/dt)maxA
NOTE 1—20-L Apparatus, E = 10 000 J
Concentrations
250 500 750 1000 1250
[g/m3]
Explosion data Pex dP/dt Pex dP/dt Pex dP/dt Pex dP/dt Pex dP/dt
[bar] [bar/s] [bar] [bar/s] [bar] [bar/s] [bar] [bar/s] [bar] [bar/s]

Series 1 6.9 242 8.1 300 7.8 340 7.4 389 7.2 341
Series 2 7.3 281 7.8 342 8.2 369 7.6 346 7.0 324
Series 3 7.1 266 8.0 323 7.9 355 7.5 377 6.9 359
A
The maximum values for each series are underlined:
Pmax = (8.1 + 8.2 + 8.0) ⁄3 = 8.1 bar,
(dP/dt)max = (389 + 369 + 377) ⁄3 = 378 bar/s, and
KSt = (378 bar/s) (0.02m3)1/3 = 102 bar m/s.

FIG. X1.7 Mild Dust Explosion

TABLE X1.3 Standard Deviation in the 20-L Apparatus

KSt δ
[bar·m/s] [±%]
50 30
100 20
200 12
300 10
$400 5

13
 E1226 − 19

X2. OTHER DUST EXPLOSIBILITY TEST CHAMBERS HAVING A VOLUME OF AT LEAST 20 L

X2.1 The chambers12,13,14,15,16,17 have not yet completed test procedures will be added as each is calibrated as in Section
the calibration process (see 10.2). Details of the chambers and 10.

12
X2.2 A partial list of other chambers used for dust testing is
20-L chamber designed by Hercules, Cumberland, MD.
13
Fike 20-L Dust Explosion Vessel manufactured by Fike Metal Products, Blue
cited in Footnotes 12 through 17 with additional information
Springs, MO. given in Refs (12-16).
14
Bureau of Mines 20-L Dust Explosibility Test Chamber. For more information,
see Ref (11).
15 17
20-L chamber manufactured by Safety Consulting Engineers, Schaumburg, IL. Proctor and Gamble 20-L chamber. For more information, see Refs (13, 14)
16
Union Carbide 26-L chamber. For more information, see Ref (12). and (15).

REFERENCES

(1) Cashdollar, K. L., and Chatrathi, K., “Minimum Explosible Dust (9) Siwek, R., 20-L Laborapparatur für die Bestimmung der Explosions
Concentrations Measured in 20-L and 1-m3 Chambers,” Combustion Kenngrösser brennbarer Stäube. (20-L Laboratory Apparatus for the
Science and Technology, Vol 87, 1993, pp. 157–171. Determination of the Explosion Characteristics of Flammable Dusts),
(2) Proust, C., Accorsi, A., and Dupont, L., “Measuring the violence of Ciba-Geigy, Basel-Winterthur Engineering College, Winterthur,
dust explosions with the ‘20 l sphere’ and with the standard ‘ISO 1m3 Switzerland, 1977.
vessel’ Systematic comparison and analysis of the discrepancies,” (10) Siwek, R., and Cesana, C., Operating Instructions for the 20-L
Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, Vol 20, 2007, pp. Apparatus, 3rd revised edition, Adolf Künher, A. G., Birsfelden,
599–606. Switzerland, August 1984.
(3) Dastidar, A., and Amyotte, P., “Determination of Minimum Inerting (11) Siwek, R., “Experimental Methods for the Determination of the
Concentrations for Combustible Dusts in a Laboratory-Scale Explosion Characteristics of Combustible Dusts,” Loss Prevention
Chamber,” Transactions of IChemE, Vol 80, Part B, 2002, pp. and Safety Promotion in the Process Industries, Vol 3, p. 1304,
287–297.
EFCE, Basel, Switzerland, 1980.
(4) Taveau, J., Going, J., Hochgreb, S., Lemkowitz, S., and Roekaerts, D.,
(12) Cashdollar, K. L., and Hertzberg, M., “20-L Explosibility Test
“Igniter-Induced Hybrids in the 20L Sphere,” Journal of Loss Pre-
Chamber for Dusts and Gases, Review of Scientific Instruments, Vol
vention in the Process Industries, Vol 49, 2017, pp. 348–356.
56, 1985, pp. 596–602.
(5) Taveau, J., Lemkowitz, S., Hochgreb, S., and Roekaerts, D., “Scaling
Up the Severity of Metal Dusts Deflagrations,” Proceedings of the (13) Chippett, S., and Britton, L. G., “A Method for Characterizing Dust
12th International Symposium on Hazards, Prevention and Mitigation Deflagration Behavior for Application to Vent Relief Design,”
of Industrial Explosions, December 2018, pp. 99–122. Particulate Science and Technology, Vol 3, 1985, pp. 159–177.
(6) Britton, L. G., and Harrison, B. K., “Minimum Explosible Concen- (14) Britton, L.G., and Chippett, S., “Practical Aspects of Dust Deflagra-
trations of Mist and Dust Clouds,” Process Safety Progress, Vol 37, tion Testing,” Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries,
No. 1, March 2018, pp. 4–17. Vol 2, 1989, pp. 161–170.
(7) Field, P., Dust Explosions, Elsevier Scientific Publishing Co., NY, NY, (15) Cocks, R. E., and Meyer, R. C., Fabrication and Use of a 20 Litre
1982, Appendix F. Spherical Dust Testing Apparatus, Proctor and Gamble, Internal
(8) Bischoff, Hopf, Watermann, and Schütz, Forschungsbericht Staubex- Report, Cincinnati, OH.
plosionen: Brenn und Explosions-Kenngrössen von Stauben, Haupt- (16) Cocks, R. E., and Meyer, R. C., “Fabrication and Use of a 20-L
verband der Gewerblichen Berufsgenossen schaften e.v, Bonn Federal Spherical Dust Testing Apparatus,” AICHE Loss Prevention, Vol 14,
Republic of Germany, 1980. 1981, pp. 154–163.

RELATED MATERIAL

Bartknecht, W., Explosions: Course, Prevention, Protection, Springer- Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, Vol 20, 2007, pp. 599–606.
Verlag, New York, NY, 1981. Dastidar, A., and Amyotte, P., “Determination of Minimum Inerting
Proust, C., Accorsi, A., and Dupont, L., “Measuring the violence of dust Concentrations for Combustible Dusts in a Laboratory-Scale Chamber,”
explosions with the ‘20 l sphere’ and with the standard ‘ISO 1m3 vessel’ Transactions of IChemE, Vol 80, Part B, 2002, pp. 287–297.
Systematic comparison and analysis of the discrepancies,” Journal of

14
 E1226 − 19
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, Tel: (978) 646-2600; http://www.copyright.com/

15