IEC 61340-4-4 Ed. 1.0 b:2005

Electrostatics - Part 4-4: Standard test methods for specific applications - Electrostatic classification of flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC)

Describes procedures for evaluating the ignition risk presented by electrostatic discharges from FIBC to flammable or explosive environments. The requirements of this standard are applicable to all types of FIBC, tested as manufactured, prior to usage, intended for use without liners in flammable or explosive environments with minimum ignition energy of more than 0,14 mJ, and where the charging currents do not exceed 3,0 A. NOTE 0,14 mJ is the minimum ignition energy normally quoted for methanol. Although more sensitive materials exist, methanol has the lowest minimum ignition energy of any material that is likely to be present when FIBC are emptied. 3,0 uA is the highest charging current likely to be found in common industrial processes. This combination of minimum ignition energy and charging current represents the most severe conditions that might be expected in practice. Compliance with the requirements of this standard does not mitigate the need for full risk assessment. The test methods included in this standard may be used in association with other performance requirements, for example when a risk assessment has shown the minimum ignition energy of concern is less than 0,14 mJ or charging currents greater than 3,0 uA are present.