FIRE FROM MOLTEN POLYMER
FIRE FROM MOLTEN POLYMER
(OP)
Hello,
My plant produces high density polyethylene and the final product is pelletized resins after extrusion.
My problem is that when the molten polymer is exposed to atmospheric air, it catches fire. Last week, it happened again, and this time the extruder die plate caught fire although very small fire. Keep spraying with water is one of the solutions but that not only wasting a lot of water but also messy and labor intensive. Can anyone provide a better and practical solution like some process control or changes in operating conditions. Or something else.
Appreciate your guidance.
Thanks.
Chng,TM
My plant produces high density polyethylene and the final product is pelletized resins after extrusion.
My problem is that when the molten polymer is exposed to atmospheric air, it catches fire. Last week, it happened again, and this time the extruder die plate caught fire although very small fire. Keep spraying with water is one of the solutions but that not only wasting a lot of water but also messy and labor intensive. Can anyone provide a better and practical solution like some process control or changes in operating conditions. Or something else.
Appreciate your guidance.
Thanks.
Chng,TM





RE: FIRE FROM MOLTEN POLYMER
I would think that others with direct experience would have encountered this problem before and will be able to help with specific recommendations. HTH
RE: FIRE FROM MOLTEN POLYMER
Mike Halloran
NOT speaking for
DeAngelo Marine Exhaust Inc.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
RE: FIRE FROM MOLTEN POLYMER
You need to determine the root cause of the fire. Is it monamer? Is it the extrusion temperature? Is it non explosion-proof equipment in the area? You have been lucky so far, your operators are on the ball and don't run when they see a fire. You need to get to the root cause and solve the problem before the fire ignites any polymer dust in the area and you all go up in smoke!.
Goodluck
Stonecold
RE: FIRE FROM MOLTEN POLYMER
It caught fire when the die plate was under maintenance and the die plate chamber door was open.
Thanks guys for your response.
tmc1