ABHR finds out what major solution Kinder has for reducing dust exposure on bulk handling worksites.
Dust exposure in conveyor belt operations presents risks to human health and the environment. Crystalline silica dust, a common byproduct in these operations, has been linked to severe health conditions such as silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even lung cancer.
The effective containment of dust emissions around high impact load zones and poorly designed conveyor transfer points is of paramount importance to today’s environmentally conscious material handling operators.
For 40 years, Kinder has helped operators across diverse industries address their toughest dust and spillage challenges. It has also designed and built several solutions to reduce dust exposure and this includes a unified system made up of three solutions.
While gas masks are mandatory on sites, some workers outright refuse to work due to the fear of exposure to hazardous dust, including crystalline silica.
“The dust contains crystalline silica, which has a massive impact on causing silicosis. It gets into the lungs, causing irritation and damage to lung tissue, which then leads to permanent scarring conditions like pulmonary fibrosis. Kinder sees it as its responsibility to prioritise mitigation,” Josh Kay, fields application engineer at Kinder, said.
The risks extend beyond respiratory issues. Workers are exposed to high concentrations of airborne dust that can accumulate in the body over time, exacerbating long-term health problems.
“If we can mitigate it early, we protect not just the workforce, but also the surrounding environment for the long term,” Kay said.
Kinder has developed a specific solution to tackle dust exposure, made up of several products working in tandem. At the centre of this system is DustScrape, which uses a filter box to trap dust while allowing clean air to circulate.
“The DustScrape box contains cloth-like filter material that captures dust particles while ensuring proper airflow,” Kay said.
The system protects workers and enhanced operational efficiency by suppressing dust where it forms. However, to further reduce emissions the company combines it with AirScrape, a unique skirting system.
“The AirScrape sits off the belt and creates a Venturi effect, sucking air into the impact zone and keeping dust contained,” Kay said.
The contact-free system acts as a side seal, suspended over the conveyor belt. With its unique diagonal arrangement of hardened lamellae, air is led from the outside into the middle of the belt, creating powerful air suction.
The material movement together with the moving belt support increases the suction effect enabling fine dust particles to remain in the conveyor section.
“The AirScrape is maintenance-free and doesn’t touch the conveyor belt, meaning there’s no wear and tear on the belt itself. Companies save money on reduced maintenance and longer belt life,” Kay said.
Kinder also provides TailScrape, which fully integrates with AirScrape to deliver outstanding sealing at the rear area, resulting in dust and material spillage reductions, and significant cost savings and resources.
TailScrape proprietary blade structure on the underside ensures a negative pressure environment within the conveying area. This prevents dust and other material spillage from escaping through the millimetre-thick gap.
While Kinder’s solutions can be used independently, the greatest benefit comes from using them together.
“The perfect solution for dust mitigation involves using the AirScrape, TailScrape, and DustScrape in tandem. This combination ensures that dust is handled within the impact zone and doesn’t escape into the environment,” Kay said.
Such systems also contribute to environmental sustainability, as they minimise dust release and protect nearby ecosystems.
“By containing dust effectively, we ensure worker safety, environmental health, and even cost savings for companies,” Kay said.
“Kinder’s products are designed to be maintenance-free and extend the life of conveyor belts. Over five years, the initial investment pays for itself through reduced maintenance costs and fewer belt replacements.
“If businesses don’t address dust issues, they risk litigation and harm to their reputation. Implementing solutions like ours is not just about compliance – it’s about doing the right thing for workers and the environment.”
“We don’t just offer products; we offer solutions. Kinder’s systems ensure dust is controlled effectively, benefiting everyone – from workers to wildlife. It’s an investment in a safer, healthier future.”
By adopting Kinder’s dust control technologies, industries can protect their workers, preserve the environment, and ensure long-term operational success.