Many companies have a common understanding that water-based coatings use water as a solvent, there is no risk of explosion, and the painting workshop does not need to undergo explosion-proof renovation. Recently, the author visited a stainless steel processing enterprise and used water-based matte bending oil and water-based diluent on site for the processing of fingerprint free protective coatings on stainless steel.
This production line was originally planned and constructed in accordance with environmental protection requirements. Although explosion-proof lamps, hanging fire extinguishing balls and other facilities were installed on site, it can be seen that these explosion-proof hardware were temporarily added during the later stage of safety standardization review and emergency department inspection.
Many practitioners have the same question: should explosion-proof measures be implemented for water-based paint coating technology?
**Clear conclusion: Water based paint coating operations must also be accompanied by comprehensive explosion-proof and fireproof measures. **Compared to traditional solvent based paints, water-based paints have significantly reduced combustible material content, but this does not necessarily mean that there is no risk of explosion.
1、 There are three major risks of explosion in water-based spraying technology
1. The raw materials contain flammable organic solvents
The dispersing medium of water-based paint is not entirely pure water. To improve leveling, drying speed, and paint film effect, organic solvents such as alcohols and esters are added to the coating formula. When these volatile substances accumulate to a certain concentration and come into contact with an ignition source, they can still cause combustion and explosion.
The occupational disease hazard detection report of the enterprise shows that Class A hazardous substances such as methanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, and xylene were detected in the fingerprint free paint. Looking at the testing data of water-based paints submitted by various enterprises over the years, almost all water-based coatings can detect flammable and explosive VOC components.
2. Suspended paint mist can form explosive aerosols
Spraying operations will generate a large amount of fine paint mist particles, which will suspend and accumulate in enclosed and poorly ventilated workshops. Once the concentration reaches the lower explosive limit, it will create an explosive hazardous environment.
3. The drying process can easily cause the accumulation of flammable gases
If using open flame and hot air for direct drying, the solvent evaporation rate will be accelerated. Once the exhaust of the oven is not smooth and volatile organic compounds accumulate in a sealed manner, it is highly likely to cause explosion accidents inside the drying equipment.
2、 Standard system to be followed for explosion-proof coating
The painting workshop has a complete national standard system for fire and explosion prevention, with core specifications including:
GB 6514-2023 "Safety Regulations for Painting Operations - Painting Process Safety and Ventilation", GB 50058-2014 "Code for Design of Electrical Installations in Explosive Hazardous Environments", GB/T 50493-2019 "Design Standard for Detection and Alarm of Combustible and Toxic Gases in Petrochemical Industry", safety regulations for various painting and drying rooms, and general fire prevention regulations for buildings.
For production lines that have already been built and put into operation, it is difficult to completely demolish and rebuild them according to the standards of new construction projects. It is more suitable to adopt targeted remedial renovation plans.
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