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With the introduction of mechanical vacuum pumps for degassing, methods of efficient gas cooling and dust separation become necessary to avoid the risk of a critical off-gas composition along with an ignition point that results in an explosion. This article reviews how to undertake a risk assessment and equipment to mitigate the risk.
IN all processes of vacuum steel degassing the gases and vapours formed may be dangerous if they combine with oxygen at high temperatures or combine together. Also, inert gases, such as N2 and Ar, are used and they require careful handling because of the risk of suffocation.
Generally, CO and H2 - as well as the vapours of volatile metals - are released. The metal vapours condense on colder areas of the plant and are partially oxidised to form a fine dust, which must be collected in special containers, cyclones and bag filters to prevent them reaching the vacuum...