Appendix I: Job Safety Analysis
What is the purpose of this experiment?
The purpose of this experiment is to determine the gas pressure drop across a bed of particles as
a function of the gas velocity. The fluidization behavior of a bed of small particles will be
studied.
What are the hazards associated with the experiment?
The spilling of sand and silica on the floor, which will occur during operation of the column and
during the sifting of the sand in order to obtain the right particle size range, makes for a slippery
work environment. Compressed air is used to fluidize the bed. Since there is air passing through
small sand and silica particles, it is possible that these particles could enter the eye, nose and/or
mouth. A heater use is adjacent to the fluidized bed apparatus and could possibly expel
exuberant amounts of heat and burn the operator.
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How will the experiment be conducted in a safe manner?
A vacuum is included with the station, so that will be used to maintain a clean area when sand
and silica are being used and sifted. Eye protection will be worn so that sand and silica particles
in order to reduce the change of them entering the eyes. Care should be taken not to inhale either
of these particles and hands will be washed after working with the silica.
What safety controls are in place?
The air inlet regulator has an internal diaphragm that will maintain constant inlet pressure of 40
psig. Should the pressure increase erratically, the regulator valve will relieve the pressure to
maintain the inlet pressure. The vacuum cleaner has a filter adapter attached which prevents
excessive dust accumulation when cleaning up the area.
Describe safe and unsafe ranges of operations.
In order to prevent blowing sand or silica out the top of the column, operate at a superficial
velocity below the settling velocity. Carefully controlling increments air flowing through the
column will prevent the discharge of the bed out the top of the column. Silica column cannot be
heated to temperatures greater than 110°F. Should the Plexiglas reach temperatures of 265ºF,
then it will melt.
I have read relevant background material for the Unit Operations Laboratory entitled:
“Fluidized Beds” and understand the hazards associated with conducting this experiment. I have
planned out my experimental work in accordance to standards and acceptable safety practices
and will conduct all of my experimental work in a careful and safe manner. I will also be aware
of my surroundings, my group members, and other lab students, and will look out for their safety
as well.
Electronic Signatures:
Bernard Hsu
Daniyal Qamar
Jeff Tyska
Alex Guerrero
Tomi Damo
Ryan Kosak
Andrew Duffy