Fire and explosion protection
Metav symposium showcases new safety solutions
German machine tools are considered to be among the safest in the world. Nevertheless, safety remains an ongoing issue for researchers and developers, which the VDW (German Machine Tool Builders' Association) in Frankfurt/Main and the Berufsgenossenschaft Holz und Metall from Mainz have been addressing for many years. On February 20, the symposium "Fire and explosion protection in metal-cutting machine tools" will therefore take place as part of Metav 2018. Experts will present innovations relating to safe machine tools.
Despite the trend towards digitalization and networking, there is and will continue to be a "man at the machine". For this reason, fire and explosion protection in machine tools remains a long-term issue. Designers, procurers and operators of these machines should therefore refresh their knowledge from time to time.
Water-immiscible cooling lubricants as a source of danger
Fires on machine tools are often caused by cooling lubricants that are not water-miscible. If the degree of atomization of this process aid is high, there is a risk of fire and explosion in the event of errors in the machining process (incorrect lubricoolant supply, tool breakage, milling into the solid, etc.).
At the symposium, experts will show, among other things, how to influence the cooling lubricant in order to reduce the tendency to fog. A new test stand will also be presented, which can be used to test the behavior of safety devices such as pressure relief flaps, flame arresters and door labyrinths in the event of danger. Last but not least, improvements to extinguishing systems will be shown in order to meet the higher safety requirements of the employers' liability insurance association.
Light metals also in focus
However, light metals such as magnesium, titanium and aluminum, which are increasingly being machined, are also sources of danger. Depending on the particle size, these can also burn or explode. To avoid this, special safety precautions are required, which will be discussed in the second part of the conference.
For example, an expert will be presenting the safety concept of the German Employers' Liability Insurance Association for Wood and Metal for grinding aluminum. In addition to filter systems and safety equipment for the extraction line, a company from the extraction technology sector will also be showing a new system that can be used to safely separate explosive dusts.
Last but not least, at the end of the symposium there will be the opportunity to exchange ideas with the experts and to visit the METAV. The program of the symposium and the contact details for registration can be found on the Internet.









