Regulatory and Safety Compliance in Centrifuges for Petroleum, Oil, Lubricant, Fuel and Biodiesel Applications

In the context of laboratories dedicated to the processing of petrol, oil, lubricants, fuel and biodiesel, the use of previous generation centrifuges is a common practice.

These centrifuges, while time-tested, can present a latent hazard to users and the laboratory environment, rendering them inadequate for meeting current applications and standards established by ASTM norms.

Non-compliance with modern standards can lead to serious accidents and negatively affect the quality of the processed samples.

How to determine if a centrifuge is in compliance with current standards?

To carry out an adequate verification and ensure safety and efficiency in the centrifugation process, the following points are key:

Manufacturing standards: The first checkpoint is to make sure that the centrifuge complies with the international standards for the manufacture of centrifuges, such as EN 61010-1, EN 61010-2-010 and EN 61010-2-020, which guarantee conformity with modern safety requirements.

Brushless motor: Verify if the centrifuge employs a brushless motor, which reduces the risk of explosions and improves operational safety.

Lid lock system: Make sure that the centrifuge lid cannot be opened during centrifugation and the unit cannot start until it is fully closed.

Calibration: Check that the centrifuge has undergone recent calibration.

Unbalance system: Verify the presence and functioning of imbalance detection and control systems.

Insulation: Ensure that the centrifuge has optimal thermal insulation.

Accessories: Verify that the equipment has accessories that reduce aerosol production according to ASTM standards.

If the result of any of these actions is not positive, contact your centrifuge provider.

GRS (GAS RELEASE SYSTEM)

To ensure the safety of both the equipment and the user and eliminate any risk associated with aerosols, Ortoalresa has developed the GRS accessory, specially designed for integration with all OA centrifuges for petroleum, lubricating oil, fuel oil and biodiesel applications.

The main functions of the GRS are:

– To reduce the concentration of gas during operation, and therefore the risk of explosion.

– To eliminate the health risk to the user from inhaling the generated vapors.

– To prevent the dispersion of gases into the laboratory environment.

By implementing the GRS accessory, a safer and more controlled work environment is guaranteed during centrifugation processes, complying with the safety standards required in the handling of solvents and aerosols in the laboratory setting.

Compliance with regulations and safety standards in centrifuges for petroleum, lubricant oils, fuel oil, and biodiesel applications is a fundamental aspect to ensure safety and efficiency in laboratories dedicated to these processes.

In the event of detecting any non-compliances, it is advisable to take the necessary measures, such as contacting the supplier or considering the adoption of modern centrifuges that comply with ASTM standards.

Ortoalresa’s GRS provides a solution to reduce the risks of explosions, vapor inhalation and dispersion of gases. This system allows the extraction of the atmosphere with a high content of aerosols and channel it through the GRS towards a safe area for its treatment.