News

Replace flammable solvents!

Reduce the fire risk in your production

Risks of using flammable solvents in a Production Environment

In industrial and manufacturing settings, the use of flammable solvents presents significant risks. These solvents, characterized by their low flash points are prone to ignite at relatively low temperatures, creating a dangerous environment for workers and equipment. Some of the risks associated with their use are:

Fire and Explosion Hazards

Fire and Explosion Hazards:

Flammable solvents can easily vaporize, and their vapors can form explosive mixtures with air.

This risk is particularly high in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas where vapors can accumulate.

Health Risks:

Many flammable solvents are also toxic. Inhalation of vapors or skin contact can cause acute health effects such as dizziness, headaches, respiratory distress, and skin irritation.

Prolonged exposure can lead to more severe conditions, including organ damage and cancer.

Environmental Impact:

Spills and leaks of flammable solvents can contaminate soil and water sources, leading to long-term environmental damage.

Regulatory and Compliance Issues:

Due to their hazardous nature, the use of flammable solvents is strictly regulated.

Companies must comply with a range of safety standards and environmental regulations, which can be complex and costly to implement.

Fire and Explosion Hazards - Environmental Impact

Benefits of Switching to Solvents with Higher Flash Points

Transitioning to solvents with higher flash points can significantly mitigate the risks associated with the use of flammable solvents. These benefits include:

Enhanced Safety:

Solvents with higher flash points are less volatile and less prone to ignition, significantly reducing the risk of fires and explosions.

This creates a safer working environment for employees and reduces the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Flashpoint tester

Health Improvements:

These solvents often emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), leading to better air quality in the workplace. Reduced exposure to toxic fumes lowers the incidence of health issues among workers, promoting a healthier workforce.

Environmental Protection:

Higher flash point solvents have lower volatility, reducing the risk of air and water pollution. Additionally, they are easier to handle and dispose of, minimizing environmental contamination.

Regulatory Compliance:

Using solvents with higher flash points simplifies compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

These solvents often fall into less stringent regulatory categories, reducing the burden of compliance and associated costs.

Cost Efficiency:

While the initial cost of higher flash point solvents may be higher, the long-term savings from reduced accident rates and lower insurance premiums.

Moreover, a safer and healthier work environment can enhance productivity and reduce employee absenteeism.

Conclusion:

While flammable solvents are prevalent in many industrial processes, their associated risks make them a hazardous choice. Switching to solvents with higher flash points can significantly improve safety, health, and environmental outcomes, while also offering economic and regulatory benefits.

ESTI CHEM Solvents with higher Flash Points

We offer a range of alternatives to solvents with low flash points for application in production environment. Some examples are shown below.

Low flash point solvent

Flashpoint,°C 

Replace with high-flash point solvent

Flashpoint,°C 

Acetone

<-20

RESIN CLEANER A

103

Ethyl acetate

-4

ESTISOL 165

81

Methyl ethyl ketone

-3

RESIN CLEANER EP2

98

White spirit

40

ESTISOL 190

124

D-limonene

48

ESTISOL 199

84

 

Do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your solvent replacement project:

Read more

Read more

Contact us