Guest Lecture FP 585: Explosion Dynamics - Combustible Dust Hazards – Analysis and Mitigation with Alfonso Ibarreta, Ph.D., P.E., CFEI

ABSTRACT

This lecture will discuss the distinct hazards linked to combustible dust and explain how they differ from the explosion risks associated with flammable gases and vapors. 

1. Identify and quantify the properties of the dust, parameters, and testing methods.
2. Modeling - The use of empirical models (such as NFPA 68 venting equations) and CFD software (such as FLACS).
3. The regulatory framework  –  OSHA, state regulations, and NFPA standard requirements. 

4. Case Study - A combustible dust explosion investigation will be described. 

BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Alfonso Ibarreta holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and is a certified Fire and Explosion Investigator with expertise in combustion processes, fires, and explosions. He has extensive experience in using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models, such as FLACS, to simulate flammable liquid/vapor releases, vapor cloud explosions, and combustible dust explosions. Dr. Ibarreta is a principal member of the NFPA Technical Committee on Explosion Protection Systems, where he contributes to standards such as NFPA 67, 68, and 69. He also serves on the Massachusetts Board of Fire Prevention Regulations, overseeing state fire safety codes. 

This lecture is offered as part of FP 585: Explosion Dynamics, for the Explosion Protection Engineering (XPE) – A new and exciting interdisciplinary MS program by Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Fire Protection, and Mechanical Engineering at WPI. Link:  Master Science Explosion Protection Engineering