Galleries, bins, basements and loadout bins also can be vented. Consult an experienced engineer or a qualified manufacturer or distributor for further information on venting these locations. Explosion Suppression Explosion suppression is accomplished by detecting a grain dust explosion early and flooding the confinement with an extinguishing agent. Research has shown that this technology can effectively suppress grain dust explosions in bucket elevator legs. A grain dust explosion can be detected by optical, thermal, or pressure sensors, or a combination of sensors.
Optical sensors react to ultraviolet radiation from a spark or flame.
Dust concentrations inside the leg can impede optical sensors. Thermal sensors compare the air temperature at the leg outlet to the air temperature at the leg inlet. If this temperature difference exceeds a prescribed threshold, a signal is initiated. Pressure sensors are most commonly used for detecting grain dust explosions. Pressure sensors use a diaphragm-type device which responds to the initial pressure front of an explosion by quickly closing electrical contacts.