What Is Calcium Carbide Powder? - TYWH
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Who is TYWH? The world's leading calcium carbide supplier
1. Company Overview
Established in , TYWH has grown into an integrated manufacturer and supplier of calcium carbide and related application products. We have become a leading supplier of calcium carbide within the industry.
Our factory is strategically located in Wuhai City, Inner Mongolia, China, close to the core production area of calcium carbide raw materials, which allows us to efficiently obtain high-quality raw materials.
Equipped with advanced production lines and a team of experienced staff, we ensure large-scale production capabilities and stable quality of calcium carbide.
2. Production Technology and Equipment
We utilize cutting-edge crushing and processing technologies internationally recognized to ensure the high quality and particle size qualification rate of our calcium carbide products.
Our modern equipment, such as automated crushers, high-precision screening equipment, automatic filling machines, and automatic capping machines, enhances production efficiency and product consistency.
3.Calcium Carbide Products and Quality Control
We offer a variety of calcium carbide products in different specifications to meet the diverse and personalized needs of customers worldwide.
We adhere to strict quality control processes and standards to ensure that each batch of products meets customer requirements.
4. Environmental Protection and Safe Production
We implement various environmental protection measures, such as reducing dust emissions and properly handling waste to minimize environmental impact.
We have established safety production systems and management measures, regularly conducting safety training and emergency drills for employees to ensure production safety.
5. Supply Chain Management
We possess a stable raw material supply chain, ensuring the quality and continuity of raw material supply.We also have a comprehensive logistics and distribution system to ensure the safe and timely delivery of products to our customers.
6. Market and Customers
We serve over 200 countries and regions worldwide and have established cooperation with more than 300+ customers.
7. Services and Support
Customized Services: We adjust product specifications, packaging customization, and loading solutions according to customer needs.
Market Analysis: We regularly provide calcium carbide market analysis to help customers understand the price trends of calcium carbide in real-time, reducing procurement costs.
Order Tracking: Dedicated personnel are responsible for following up on the order status, updating it in a timely manner, and synchronizing it with customers.
We provide comprehensive after-sales service, including technical support and customer consultation.
2
What is Calcium Carbide (CaC₂) and Its applications?
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Introduction
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Calcium carbide, with the chemical formula CaC2, is a compound widely used in the chemical industry. Its primary application is the production of acetylene gas when it reacts with water, while it also serves as a desulfurizer and deoxidizer in the steel industry. These properties make it a vital material in industrial production.
CAS No.:75-20-7 Un No:EINECS:200-848-3 Grade Standard:Industrial Grade
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1.Definition and Chemical Properties of Calcium Carbide
Calcium carbide (CaC₂) is an inorganic compound. In its pure form, it appears as a white powder or colorless crystals. Industrial-grade calcium carbide typically exists as a gray-black or brownish solid, with freshly broken surfaces showing purple or gray. It has a pungent, sharp odor.Calcium carbide is highly reactive and can undergo reactions with various gases and solutions, especially when it comes into contact with water. This reaction results in the decomposition of calcium carbide, producing acetylene gas and calcium hydroxide, and releasing significant heat.
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2. Calcium Carbide Production Process
Calcium carbide is produced using an electric arc furnace method, where limestone and coke are mixed in a specific ratio and reacted at a high temperature (about 2,200°C) to produce calcium carbide.
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3. Main Applications of Calcium Carbide
Calcium carbide has a wide range of applications, with its most significant use being in the production of acetylene gas. Acetylene is widely used in welding, cutting, and in the synthesis of various chemical products such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and vinyl acetate. Below are some major application areas:- Acetylene Generation: When calcium carbide reacts with water, it produces acetylene gas. Acetylene is valued for its high combustion temperature and low cost in fields like welding and cutting. - Steel Industry: In the steel industry, calcium carbide serves as a desulfurizer, helping to remove sulfur impurities from molten steel, thereby improving the quality of the steel. - Agricultural Use: Calcium carbide is also used as a soil amendment, particularly in the improvement of acidic soils.
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4. Current Status And Trends In The Calcium Carbide Industry
Calcium carbide has a significant production capacity and demand worldwide, particularly in China. Currently, China is the leading global producer of calcium carbide, with a vast market size and production capacity. In recent years, China’s output and demand for calcium carbide have been steadily increasing, driven by the demand for acetylene-based chemicals and PVC production.
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5. Safety And Environmental Impact Of Calcium Carbide
The production and use of calcium carbide require strict safety measures. It must be kept dry during storage and transportation since its reaction with water generates acetylene gas and considerable heat, making acetylene a highly flammable gas.Calcium carbide production can generate dust; however, through technological innovations, dust can be collected and treated to minimize environmental impact.
Conclusion
As a fundamental chemical raw material, calcium carbide plays a critical role in modern industry. With technological advancements and increasing environmental awareness, the calcium carbide industry is evolving towards more efficient and eco-friendly production methods. In the future, the application scope of calcium carbide is expected to expand, contributing more innovation and value to the chemical industry.
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TYWH Calcium Carbide Manufacturing Process
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Introduction
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At TYWH, every step of the calcium carbide (CaC₂) processing workflow adheres to the highest standards to ensure product quality, safety, and production efficiency. Below is a detailed overview of our process, from raw material inspection to final storage.
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1. Raw Material Inspection
Each batch of calcium carbide undergoes strict quality testing upon arrival to ensure that only high-quality materials enter the production process. Key inspection criteria include:Acetylene Gas Yield: We verify that the calcium carbide produces sufficient acetylene gas when reacting with water, meeting industry demands. PH₃ and H₂S Content: The levels of these toxic gases are carefully controlled to ensure safe operation and maintain product quality.Impurity Levels: We measure the amount of non-calcium carbide materials to minimize impurities.This thorough testing process ensures that only the highest-quality raw materials proceed to the production stages.
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2. Crushing
Our state-of-the-art jaw crushers efficiently crush the raw calcium carbide to meet size requirements. The crushing process is divided into multiple stages to ensure that every piece of calcium carbide reaches the desired size.Each production area is equipped with acetylene concentration alarms, which monitor the concentration of acetylene gas in the environment, ensuring the safety of both workers and the facility.
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3. Screening
We utilize advanced vibration screening equipment with multiple mesh layers for precision particle sizing. This high-precision technology ensures that over 90% of the calcium carbide particles meet size specifications, providing consistency and reliability in particle size distribution.
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4. Impurity Removal
To enhance product purity, we implement multiple impurity removal techniques:High-Powered Electromagnets: These effectively remove iron-based impurities from the calcium carbide.Manual Sorting: Non-magnetic impurities, such as ferro-silicon, are manually screened out, further improving product purity.This process significantly reduces impurity levels, leading to a higher-quality product with superior performance.
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5. Packaging
Our fully automated packaging line ensures efficient, precise, and safe packaging. Key steps in the process include:Automated Filling: Minimizes human interference, reducing the risk of contamination.Electronic Weighing: Ensures that each package meets precise weight requirements, preventing underweight issues.Automated Sealing: Increases the airtightness of packaging, preventing moisture and air from entering.This automated process optimizes production efficiency while ensuring consistent and reliable final products.
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6. Dust Control
To protect the health of our employees and minimize environmental impact, we employ a fully enclosed dust control system throughout the production stages (crushing, screening, and packaging). This system captures dust generated during production, maintaining a clean working environment and reducing emissions.
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7. Final Inspection
We conduct random sampling of 15 kg from every 10 tons of finished product for detailed testing. Tests include:Particle Size Compliance: Ensures that the particle size meets customer specifications.Acetylene Gas Yield: Confirms that the gas output from the calcium carbide meets industry standards.Phosphine (PH₃) and Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Content: Ensures that the levels of these toxic impurities remain within safe limits.Impurity Levels: Verifies that non-active substances are within acceptable levels.Any non-conforming products are immediately discarded to ensure that only high-quality calcium carbide reaches the market.
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8.Nitrogen filling
After sealing, we inject nitrogen gas into the calcium carbide drums, displacing residual air and flammable gases. This step prevents the carbide from weathering, maintaining product stability over time. It also enhances the safety of storage and transportation.
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9. Storage
We adhere to strict safety storage standards to ensure the safe handling of calcium carbide. Key measures include:Fire and Water Protection: Prevents potential damage from fire or water incidents.Temperature and Humidity Control: Calcium carbide is stored in optimal conditions to avoid degradation due to environmental factors.These precautions ensure that the calcium carbide remains safe and of high quality during storage, ready for global distribution.
Conclusion
TYWH’s production process not only ensures the highest quality and safety of calcium carbide but also complies with industry best practices and environmental standards. We are committed to delivering premium-grade calcium carbide to acetylene manufacturers and steelmakers worldwide.
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Why Choose TYWH as Your Calcium Carbide Supplier
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Introduction
Selecting the right calcium carbide supplier is crucial for ensuring consistent production quality, safety, and efficiency in industries such as acetylene gas production and steelmaking. TYWH stands out as a reliable and high-performing supplier of calcium carbide, committed to meeting customer demands and maintaining the highest standards of production. Here's why TYWH should be your preferred partner:
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1. Automated Production Line for Maximum Efficiency
TYWH utilizes fully automated production lines, enhancing both the efficiency and precision of the manufacturing process. From raw material handling to final packaging, every step is controlled through automated systems, reducing human error and ensuring consistency. Our automated sorting and weighing systems guarantee calcium carbide is produced to exact specifications, with precise weight control. This level of automation ensures we meet large-scale production needs while maintaining exceptional quality.
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2. Strong Production Capacity
With an annual production capacity of 120,000 tons, TYWH consistently meets high-volume demands. This robust production capacity ensures that even in times of peak demand, we can provide a stable and uninterrupted supply of calcium carbide to our global clients. Our ability to scale production without compromising quality makes us a reliable long-term partner.
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3. Reliable Product Quality
Consistency in calcium carbide quality is essential for maintaining efficient and safe operations, particularly in industries that rely on acetylene gas production. TYWH focuses on delivering stable gas-yield calcium carbide, ensuring smooth, disruption-free operations. Our rigorous quality control processes guarantee that every batch meets stringent standards, supporting high productivity and operational efficiency.
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4. Safety First
Safety is a top priority at TYWH. From production to transportation, we follow strict safety protocols throughout the supply chain. Our manufacturing facilities are equipped with advanced monitoring systems, including acetylene gas sensors, ensuring a safe working environment. Additionally, we take every precaution to ensure the safe handling, packaging, and shipping of calcium carbide, minimizing risks to personnel and the environment.
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5. Fast Delivery and Reliable Logistics
TYWH understands the importance of timely delivery. With a well-stocked inventory and efficient logistics, we deliver calcium carbide quickly and safely to your location. Our streamlined transportation processes ensure your order arrives on time, minimizing any potential downtime for your production line. Whether you need a small or large shipment, we are committed to meeting your deadlines.
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6. Compliance with International Standards
TYWH takes pride in adhering to the highest standards of production and environmental compliance. Our production facilities are certified by multiple international bodies, ensuring we meet or exceed the industry's strictest regulatory requirements. By choosing TYWH, you are partnering with a supplier that follows globally recognized best practices, ensuring not only product quality but also environmental responsibility.
Conclusion
When choosing a calcium carbide supplier, you need a partner that offers high-quality products, reliable delivery, and stringent safety standards. TYWH delivers on all fronts: automated production for precision and efficiency, strong production capacity, stable product quality, and rigorous safety and compliance standards. Partner with TYWH to ensure a stable, reliable supply of calcium carbide that supports your business needs while maintaining the highest industry standards.
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How to Safely Transport And Store Calcium Carbide?
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Introduction
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Calcium carbide (CaC₂) is a vital chemical raw material, commonly used in acetylene production and steelmaking. However, due to its flammable and explosive properties, the transportation and storage of calcium carbide carry inherent safety risks. Understanding and adhering to safety precautions is critical to ensuring the safety of personnel, equipment, and stable production processes.
CAS No.:75-20-7 Un No:EINECS:200-848-3 Grade Standard:Industrial Grade
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1. Properties and Safety Risks of Calcium Carbide
Calcium carbide reacts violently with water, producing acetylene gas (C₂H₂) and calcium hydroxide. This reaction releases large amounts of heat along with the flammable gas, creating potential fire or explosion risks if mishandled. Therefore, during transport and storage, calcium carbide must be kept away from moisture and high-humidity environments.Key risks associated with calcium carbide:Flammability: Calcium carbide releases acetylene gas when exposed to water or humid air, which is highly flammable and can ignite easily in the presence of a spark or flame.Corrosiveness: The acetylene gas generated can also be corrosive, requiring careful handling to prevent equipment damage.Understanding the basic properties and hazards of calcium carbide is essential for ensuring safe transport and storage.
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2. Safety Considerations for Transporting Calcium Carbide
Packaging Standards and Sealing:Calcium carbide is typically packed in well-sealed steel or plastic drums to prevent contact with moisture in the air. During transport, it is essential to ensure the packaging is intact, with no damage that could allow external moisture to enter. Packaging must comply with international transport regulations such as the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and include proper classification and labeling based on the hazardous nature of calcium carbide.Transport in Dry Conditions:Calcium carbide must be transported in a dry environment. Specialized waterproof transport containers and vehicles should be used to prevent exposure to rain, humidity, or water sources during transit. In long-distance or marine transport, vehicles or vessels should have proper moisture protection systems.Separation from Other Hazardous Materials:Calcium carbide should be transported separately from other chemicals or hazardous materials, particularly liquids and flammable substances. According to international transport regulations, strict segregation rules apply when transporting calcium carbide with other classes of dangerous goods.Preventing Shock and Vibration:During transport, calcium carbide must be protected from strong shocks or excessive vibrations. Specialized fixtures and securing mechanisms should be used to stabilize the packaging and prevent shifting or damage during movement.Trained Drivers and Transport Equipment:Vehicles transporting calcium carbide must have appropriate hazardous materials transport licenses. Drivers and transport personnel must be trained in handling dangerous goods and capable of responding to emergencies. Additionally, vehicles should be equipped with fire extinguishers and emergency spill handling equipment.
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3. Safety Considerations for Storing Calcium Carbide
Storage Environment:Calcium carbide should be stored in dry, well-ventilated areas, away from water sources. The warehouse environment should be strictly controlled for humidity to prevent moisture ingress. Ideally, calcium carbide should be stored indoors rather than outdoors, to avoid exposure to the elements.Fire Prevention Measures:Since acetylene gas generated from calcium carbide can ignite easily, proper fire safety systems must be in place in storage areas. This includes fire alarms, extinguishers, and explosion-proof lighting. Open flames and high-heat activities should be prohibited in storage zones.Storage Segregation and Labeling:Calcium carbide should be stored in separate areas according to different granule sizes and hazard levels. Clear labeling is essential, providing information on product name, hazards, and emergency procedures to ensure staff can handle materials correctly. Labels should include warnings of potential dangers and first-response measures in case of accidents.Moisture Control:Humidity control equipment, such as dehumidifiers and sealed windows and doors, should be installed to maintain a stable warehouse environment. Before handling calcium carbide, it is essential to inspect the packaging for integrity and ensure it is properly resealed after use.Emergency Preparedness:Detailed emergency response plans should be established for scenarios such as moisture ingress or fires. All personnel involved in handling calcium carbide must undergo regular emergency response training and be familiar with evacuation routes and safety procedures.
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4. Safe Handling and Management of Calcium Carbide
In addition to transport and storage, the safe handling of calcium carbide during production is also critical. Operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks, to protect against exposure to carbide dust and acetylene gas.Regular inspections of calcium carbide packaging and storage facilities should be conducted to ensure they remain in good condition. Personnel should closely monitor temperature and humidity levels in storage areas to ensure calcium carbide is kept in ideal conditions.
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5. Choosing a Reliable Calcium Carbide Supplier
Selecting the right supplier is crucial to ensuring the safe transport and storage of calcium carbide. A qualified supplier should not only provide high-quality calcium carbide but also adhere to safety standards throughout production, transportation, and storage. Choosing a supplier with international certifications and extensive transportation experience can help reduce the risks associated with calcium carbide.As a global leader in calcium carbide supply, TYWH strictly adheres to international safety standards in the production, transport, and storage of calcium carbide. We are committed to providing our clients with safe, stable, and reliable products.Strict Quality Control:TYWH offers high-purity, multiple-granule calcium carbide products that meet international and Chinese quality standards. Our advanced production technologies and testing equipment ensure consistent product quality, minimizing risks during use.Professional Transport and Storage Services:TYWH has extensive experience in transporting calcium carbide, with all transport vehicles and personnel undergoing rigorous hazardous materials handling training. We ensure safe transport throughout the process. We also provide professional storage advice and technical support to help customers optimize their storage environments.Comprehensive After-Sales Service and Technical Support:TYWH offers full after-sales service and technical support to assist customers with any issues that may arise during transport or storage. Our team is available to provide expert solutions at any stage of the process.
Conclusion
As an important industrial raw material, calcium carbide requires strict safety measures during transport and storage. By choosing the right packaging, controlling the transport environment, and implementing proper fire and moisture prevention measures, the risks associated with calcium carbide can be minimized. Selecting a supplier with extensive experience and a commitment to safety can further reduce potential hazards in the procurement, transport, and storage of calcium carbide.If you are looking for a reliable calcium carbide supplier, TYWH is your ideal choice. We not only provide high-quality products but also offer comprehensive support for safe transport, storage, and management, ensuring a smooth and safe production process.
Chemical Data Notebook Series: Calcium Carbide - Fire Engineering
Chemical Data Notebook Series: Calcium Carbide
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
By itself, calcium carbide has only one hazard: It’s corrosive. However, when calcium carbide contacts water, a very rapid chemical reaction occurs—acetylene gas is liberated. This is the real hazard associated with calcium carbide because, when under pressure, acetylene will explode.
There are many other names for calcium carbide, including acetylenogen, calcium acetylide, calcium dicarbide, carbide, and ethyne (calcium derivative). Calcium carbide’s chemical formula is CaC2. Its molecular weight is 64.
Its UN/NA designation is , its STCC (Standard Transportation Commodity Code) is , its CAS (Chemical Abstract Services) number is 75-20-7, and its RTECS (Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances) or NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) designation is EV. NFPA’s 704 system rates calcium carbide as 1-4-2-W, The U.S. Department of Transportation classifies it as a “Flammable Solid, Dangerous When Wet,” and the International Maritime Organization classifies it as 4.3, a flammable solid. It usually exists as approximately 75% pure. The remainder is made up of calcium oxide (lime).
Properties
Calcium carbide exists in a powder or lump form and is slightly corrosive. It has a faint odor, similar to that of garlic.
With a specific gravity of 2.22, calcium carbide will sink in water. It will begin reacting at first contact with water, but not fast enough to keep from sinking.
Although it’s a stable chemical, calcium carbide reacts violently with a few other chemicals, including acids, alkalies, lead fluoride, magnesium, selenium, silver nitrate, sulfur, sodium peroxide, and tin chloride. There are reports that explosive compounds may be formed when calcium carbide contacts copper or brass. Remember this when you select the tools to handle a calcium carbide spill.
It’s unlikely that you’ll ever see calcium carbide melt, even in a fire, because the temperature required is 4,172° F. Calcium carbide boils at 4,055° F, which is just as unlikely to be reached. The substance has no vapor pressure, no flash point, no flammable range, and no ignition temperature, but it’s still listed as a flammable solid!
Calcium carbide doesn’t burn, but the acetylene gas it produces in reaction to water is flammable to the point of being explosive. Generating this gas is the major use of calcium carbide.
Any business that bottles acetylene will generate the gas itself from calcium carbide, which is shipped to these companies in siftproof, airand watertight containers. Acetylene isn’t shipped over long distances because it has such a wide flammable range (2.5% to 80%), burns at such a high temperature (11,526 calories per gram, which produces a flame temperature of 5,710° F when burned in oxygen), and is very unstable. If it’s shocked when it’s under even slight pressure, acetylene will detonate!
The chemical reaction that produces acetylene from calcium carbide is:
CaC2 + 2HOH—CH + Ca(OH)
The acetylene will vigorously bubble out of the solution, which is made up of calcium hydroxide (slaked lime), a caustic material, dissolved in water. This reaction can be catastrophic when it occurs out in the open. When acetylene is being generated for commercial use, the reaction occurs in a closed container. Water is added at an intake valve, and acetylene is removed at another port.
Hazards
A large amount of dust will be created during the shipping and handling of calcium carbide. It’s dangerous to inhale this dust. Asphyxiating acetylene would be generated by any calcium carbide dust reaching the lungs, and the calcium oxide in the dust would irritate the lungs.
Calcium oxide can also irritate the skin and eyes. Ingesting the substance is hazardous to the mouth, lips, and throat.
Since the generation of acetylene is the major hazard involved with calcium carbide, you must take precautions to prevent an explosion. Acetylene has a vapor density of 0.897, which means it’s slightly lighter than air. As it’s generated in a calcium carbide release, the gas will rise as it bubbles out of the solution. It’s at this point that the danger is greatest, because the concentration of explosive gas will be at its highest just above the reacting calcium carbide. From this point, the gas will begin to disperse in the air. The stronger the wind, the faster the dispersion will occur.
Containment efforts
It’s not always apparent when calcium carbide is mixing with water; it may even react with moisture in the air. So containment efforts have to take into consideration all the forms in which calcium carbide can be released and all the ways in which it can come in contact with water.
No matter where the release occurs, you must follow certain procedures to prevent catastrophic results from the spill.
- Approach the spill from upwind;
- Remove all ignition sources, including the apparatus;
- Secure the area around the spill as quickly as possible;
- Avoid any action that might agitate the material or cause it to come into contact with water.
Emergency responders are often so concerned that water will reach a water-reactive material that they may forget to try to prevent the water-reactive material from reaching water. Don’t allow the material to spill into sewers or waterways. And remember that moisture in the soil that contains the calcium carbide may be another source of water that begins the reaction.
Keep calcium carbide dust from swirling around—and from getting wret—by covering it with a tarp made of plastic, rubber, or some other material that won’t allow water to pass through.
This is an important procedure. Some emergency responders may think if they don’t apply water to the spill, the material will remain dry. However, they often forget about the possibility of rain. Even if it doesn’t rain, strong winds may blow the material around, and if the ground is wet, reactions will begin immediately.
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If water has contacted the calcium carbide or if rain seems likely and the material can’t be covered, one solution is to create containment dikes, ponds, and pits. You can dig trenches or pits to contain the solids or solution. Use sand, clay, soil, or another substance as diking material—just as you would for any liquid spill. These materials may also be used to block entrances to sewers and waterways. Just remember that any moisture in these materials will begin the acetylene-generating reaction.
If the calcium carbide does enter a waterway, you must notify all appropriate agencies and downstream users of the water. There will be an immediate reaction when the material contacts the water. However, some of the larger lumps will sink and take longer to react. Remove them by dredging the bottom of the waterway. But be careful, because as long as the dredged-up lumps are wet, they will generate acetylene.
Glossary
Asphyxiation—Unconsciousness or death caused by the lack of oxygen.
Dispersion—The act of widely scattering a material or dispelling it from a general area.
Narcosis—Deep unconsciousness caused by a drug or chemical.
Reactor—A vessel, usually closed, in which a chemical reaction is carried out.
Vapor density—The density of a vapor or gas as compared to air.
Water-reactive—Having the property of entering into a chemical or physical reaction when contacting water.
In a fast-moving stream, the rock-like material may be carried downstream, releasing acetylene as it moves. In this case, the generation of the gas will be spread over a larger area, and this may lessen the danger, unless, of course, the acetylene released downstream is ignited and the area affected is more highly populated or has more exposures.
The most dangerous situation would be if calcium carbide entered an enclosed area containing water, such as a sewer. Acetylene’s very wide flammable range will allow tremendous amounts of the gas to build up and move throughout a sewer system. The gas buildup and the explosion that results when an ignition source is reached could be catastrophic and cause extensive damage. This could be much more devastating than the results of an isolated spill that occurs out in the open. Remember, it’s imperative that you try to prevent calcium carbide from entering a sewer.
Handling fires
If water does reach a calcium carbide spill in the open and the acetylene is ignited, the procedures to follow will depend on the circumstances, location, exposure, and danger to human life.
In some cases, you can handle burning acetylene as you would a fire caused by a container leaking pressurized gas. The rule here is: Don’t extinguish the fire unless the flow of gas can be immediately stopped. The rationale, of course, is that as long as the gas is burning, it won’t accumulate and cause a devastating explosion. If there’s no danger to human life or exposures, it may be better to allow the acetylene to continue to burn.
You should even encourage the generation of more gas by adding water to any unreacted carbide until all the carbide has reacted and the fire goes out due to lack of fuel. Just remember that a deliberate burn that starts out with no danger to human life and exposures can get out of hand and cause severe damage. You must know all the dangers and consequences of deliberate burns and accept the responsibility for them.
Emergency responders may start the deliberate burn if they feel they can’t prevent the accumulation of acetylene gas and that this accumulation will present a greater danger of explosion if it’s ignited at some site downwind. Deliberately igniting the gas is much more dangerous than allowing a burning gas to continue burning, because the act of ignition may cause an explosion if there’s enough gas accumulated. Again, the incident commander must be aware of all dangers and be prepared for the consequences of his decisions.
Because of acetylene’s vapor density, it’s unlikely that vapors will build up. However, if they do, they can be dispersed by using a water spray or fog applied to the suspected area. But be sure not to allow the water to contact the exposed calcium carbide.
The incident commander can use any noncombustible, nonhazardous dry powder to extinguish the fire: dry sand, clay, graphite, soda ash (sodium carbonate), dry Portland cement, common table salt (sodium chloride), or lime (calcium oxide). Lime is the same chemical as the calcium oxide that might be present in the calcium carbide, so the commander should already be aware of its corrosiveness and water-reactivity.
These materials may smother the fire or dry up the water to slow down or stop the generation of gas. Carbon dioxide may or may not work, and, of course, foams contain water that might intensify the reaction. Try to avoid spreading the material or generating dust during extinguishment.
It’s not necessary to wear fully encapsulated chemical suits when dealing with calcium carbide. But do wear protective clothing that will shield your skin and eyes. This includes rubber gloves and boots, face shields, safety goggles, and any other clothing that will resist the material. Normal turnout gear will protect the part of the body that it covers. Sleeves and pant cuffs should be tied down. You must wear positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus in any atmosphere where dust has been generated. However, no type of clothing will protect you from the explosion of acetylene gas or from the tremendous heat generated by burning acetylene.
First aid
Because acetylene is such a reactive gas, inhaling it can cause dizziness, apparent intoxication, headaches, increased respiration, and narcosis. Give the victim fresh air, and administer artificial respiration if the person’s breathing becomes impaired or stops.
Use large amounts of water to wash the parts of the body that have contacted the material. Flush the eyes immediately for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the eyelids. In all cases of skin or eye contact, medical attention is necessary. If the acetylene has been ignited, any burns will be severe. They should be treated medically as soon as possible.
Emergency responders may try to contain the material by shoveling it into water-tight containers. They may even use front-end loaders and backhoes to pick up the calcium carbide and load it into covered trucks or large, secure containers.
If you are involved in cleanup and removal, remember that you must follow all federal, state, and local regulations. Also remember that the contaminated soil collected now contains a water-reactive substance, and any moisture present or subsequently in contact with the soil will cause a release and buildup of acetylene. And any sparks from cleanup tools could be the ignition source for an explosion.
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