Dust Control for Bulk Material Storage & Handling

Ventilation and Dust Control. Bulk Material Storage and Handling.

Dust is generated during the storage and handling of bulk materials in mining operations due to several factors, many of which are inherent to bulk materials’ characteristics and the processes associated with their storage, transfer, and movement. Materials with fine, dry, and lightweight particles, such as sand, coal, grains, or cement, are more likely to become airborne. Bulk items such as; grains, fertilizers, zinc, lead and silver (to name a few) need to be handled and stored under specific conditions due to additional risks.

In addition, the ventilation of storage sheds is also key for protecting the quality of the product being stored and to preventing the combustion of certain products in confined spaces

Dust Generating Activities. Bulk Material Storage and Handling.

Key dust generating activities in bulk material storage and handling include:

• Loading and Unloading – High drop heights during loading and unloading create turbulence that can dislodge particles. Pneumatic conveying systems may further exacerbate the dispersal of fine dust.

• Material Transfer – Movement along conveyor belts, chutes, or augers generates friction and mechanical disturbances, which can release dust. Open transfer points expose materials to wind or airflow, increasing the dispersion of dust.

• Blending and Mixing – These processes agitate materials, releasing fine particles into the air.

• Stockpile Management – Creating or reshaping stockpiles using mechanical equipment can disturb materials and result in the release of dust.

Grydale Dust Control Solutions. Bulk Material Storage and Handling.

To effectively address the causes of dust generation, a combination of control measures is typically necessary as part of an operations dust management plan.  

One key dust control measure is the installation of dust collection systems at critical points where dust is generated to capture airborne particles. This can be supported by enclosing transfer points to seal conveyors, hoppers, and other handling equipment to prevent dust from escaping into the environment. In addition, minimizing airflow disturbances by using barriers or controlled ventilation can limit unnecessary airflow over dusty materials and reduce the potential for dust generation.

Grydale is a manufacturer specializing in fixed, mobile, and onboard dust control solutions designed to manage dust from various industrial operations and processes in internationally.

We recognize the unique challenges bulk material storage and handling operations face in effectively managing dust emissions. As a trusted provider in North America of customized dust control solutions, we assist companies in minimizing airborne dust, protecting their workforce, and reducing environmental impact.

We can customize our advanced products and services to meet each client’s needs, ensuring effective dust control and enhanced operational efficiency.

Effective Dust Control. Benefits.

Implementing effective dust control solutions in bulk material storage and handling can lead to the following benefits:

1. Health and Safety 

• Dust generated from materials such as cement, coal, grains, or chemicals can be hazardous to workers’ respiratory health, potentially leading to conditions like silicosis, asthma, or other lung diseases. Furthermore, settled dust can create slip hazards, increasing the risk of workplace accidents. Fine dust particles, particularly combustible dust (e.g., from coal, grains, or metal powders), can create explosive atmospheres, posing risks to both facilities and personnel.

2. Environmental Protection

• Fugitive dust can escape into the environment, contributing to air pollution and compromising compliance with environmental regulations. When dust settles on soil or water sources, it can harm plant and aquatic life, disrupting local ecosystems.

3. Regulatory Compliance 

• Companies are required to comply with stringent air and dust emission standards. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, fines, or operational shutdowns.

4. Community Relations

• Dust that spreads from bulk material handling facilities to surrounding areas may lead to complaints from local communities regarding health concerns, property damage, or nuisance. Implementing effective dust control measures demonstrates a company’s responsibility and helps maintain good relationships with neighbors and stakeholders.

5. Operational Efficiency

• Fugitive dust represents a loss of valuable products, negatively impacting profitability and operational efficiency. Dust can infiltrate machinery, causing wear and tear, clogging filters, and increasing maintenance costs and downtime. Reducing airborne dust also improves visibility for workers and equipment operators, thereby decreasing the likelihood of accidents.

6. Product Quality and Contamination Prevention 

• Dust can contaminate nearby materials, especially in facilities that handle diverse products. Excessive dust generation can degrade the quality of bulk materials during handling and storage.

7. Maintenance Benefits

• Effective dust control minimizes the need for frequent cleaning of facilities, vehicles, and equipment. Dust accumulation can corrode metal structures, reducing their lifespan and increasing maintenance costs.

In summary, dust control in bulk material storage and handling ensures workplace safety, environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. It protects workers, minimizes financial losses, and safeguards the surrounding community and environment, making it a vital component of any material handling operation.

For flexible investment options of purchase or short-long term rentals, contact us today.