Many industries involve coating products with a flammable solvent or mixture of solvents and then run through an oven or dryer to dry the solvents, so they are removed from the finished product. Examples of process ovens & dryers applications include:
For the past few weeks we shined the spotlight on the Semiconductor Application; we've looked at WHAT happens in a facility and WHY monitoring is necessary in the different parts of the facilities (PPM,
Hazardous gases are stored and distributed in the semiconductor plant, which includes:
Storage Areas
Distribution
Delivery Piping
In these operations there exists the possibility that the hazardous gas could accidentally leak or spill into the surrounding area. Pumps, control valves, manifolds, piping junctions, fittings and connections are some of the potential sources for leaks or spills. With so many opportunities for leakage, continuous monitoring of such hazards is an essential part of keeping the plant safe.
Process tools are enclosed areas in which specific wafer processing functions occur. Any process tools handling flammable gases require a hazardous gas detection system to ensure safety and be in compliance to codes. The FM standard states that “ventilation shall be provided for all tools handling flammable and combustible liquids. Ventilation shall be provided to ensure the atmosphere does not exceed 25% of the LEL (LFL) in the event of the largest possible leak.”
Containers of hazardous gases, both flammable and toxic, are often isolated from the surrounding environment by safety enclosures (gas cabinets). Some process tools have a gas control enclosure section that serves the same purpose as a gas cabinet. It is important to monitor these enclosures for leaking gas to save product as well as prevent a toxic condition. The cabinets and enclosures are ventilated to prevent the buildup of any leaking gas.
Reliable gas detection and monitoring systems are an essential element of the semiconductor plant’s safety system. It requires gas detection systems that can accommodate a variety of combustible and toxic gas applications with both single and multi-sensor network solutions. A variety of systems are available for different monitoring applications. Using the correct system will result in managing gas hazards in the most effective and efficient way.
For the past couple weeks we shined the spotlight on the Pollution Control Industry; we've looked at the three ways to reduce emissions (Oxidizers, Incineration & Solvent Recovery). This week let's discuss HOW, by looking at real life applications:
