Dust Cloud Minimum Ignition Temperature (MIT-cloud) Test

Dust Cloud Minimum Ignition Temperature (MIT-cloud) Test:

The Minimum Ignition Temperature – Dust Layer test is used with powders to determine the surface ignition temperature at which a dust layer of a certain thickness may self-heat, ignite, or decompose. Because ignition temperature varies with layer thickness, test data collected at one thickness will not be applicable to all industrial settings. The data acquired from the standardized test method, on the other hand, provides a relative measure of a dust layer’s hot-surface ignition temperature. The test is carried out by repeatedly depositing a dust layer on a heated hot plate set to various temperatures and observing the results.

The test results may be useful in assessing safe operating conditions in industrial plants, manufacturing processes, and powder usage, storage, and accumulation places. The MIT-layer and MIT-cloud test findings are used in conjunction to establish the maximum operating temperature for electrical and mechanical equipment employed in dusty conditions (Class II).

The Minimum Ignition Temperature – Dust Layer test is carried out in line with the current version of the ASTM E2021 standard.

Video 01: Combustible Dust Testing

Common Uses of Combustible Dust Testing

• To determine the combustibility and explosibility of a material.
• Quantifying dusts by measuring their ignition and explosion characteristics.

Advantages of Combustible Dust Testing

• The American Society for Testing and Materials has standards in place to carry out these tests.
• Proper testing can prevent operational hazards in factories. 

Industrial Applications of Combustible Dust Testing

• Refineries
• Chemical factories
• Metal processing factories
• Woodworking
• Coal-fired power generation