Road Dust Control Chemicals in Canada

Canadian cities can spend billions of dollars each year on infrastructure, but the budget may be insufficient to do all the work required, and the demand to conform to higher safety, environmental, and health protection standards increases. In some cases, there is no funding to pave all gravel roads, lanes and parking lots. This can become a problem in hot, dry weather as the small particles become stirred up by traffic, causing dust. When that is the case, municipalities often turn to dust control products on unpaved roads and paths to minimize their impact on the environment.

Dust control is critical to prevent air-borne particles from contaminating the air. Dust control products help keep dust and small particles on the road to minimize risks associated with poor visibility due to dusty conditions. Dust is not a problem when it rains or when the ground is wet, however, this is not the case when the conditions are dry. Then it becomes important to consider using road dust control chemicals. These chemicals provide lasting results and do not dry out easily, minimizing the need for frequent reapplication.

Resin modified emulsion products are a commonly used road dust control chemical in Canada. Apart from controlling dust, they also strengthen and stabilize the road. Resin modified emulsion products are a good alternative to calcium chloride when environmental sensitivity is a priority. Made from tree resin ingredients, the non-ionic, state-of-the-art emulsion technology has superior bonding strength and environmentally friendly benefits. It can be used near wetlands without risk of contamination. 

High-quality, environmentally friendly road dust control chemicals in Canada should be non-corrosive and biodegradable. Therefore, they do not pose any significant risk to the environment, people, or application equipment. They contain a humectant which draws moisture from the air and aids in minimizing dust, as well as a surfactant to ensure optimum wetting characteristics.

How to Use Conveyor Belt De-icer

Frost and ice tend to form on conveyor belts during frigid winter weather. Not only will it cause delays and disruptions in your work—it may cause damage to the conveyor belt and equipment, as well. One of the most common ways to remove the ice is through direct combustion, which applies direct flame to the surface of the belt as it moves. However, using a specially formulated conveyor belt de-icer can be a better option when you want to reduce manual labour and save on energy costs. Here are some things to consider that can help you maximize the efficacy of the product:

• Use your existing equipment – A conveyor belt de-icer does not require special machinery or equipment for application. You can use your existing equipment to spray the agent on idlers, pulleys, and belts to prevent precipitation buildup and ice glaze on critical components.
  
  
• Choose the right de-icer - A good conveyor belt de-icer is a non-toxic, de-icing and anti-freeze compound with excellent wetting characteristics. It is non-hazardous, biodegradable, safe to handle, and compatible with belt wetting fluids that are glycol-based (i.e., propylene and ethylene glycol). Make sure it is from a reputable manufacturer that has freeze-tested the compound to ensure stability. Consider a liquid de-icer that can maintain low viscosity, even at sub zero temperatures.

• Generate cover friction – When you apply anti-icing or de-icing products to conveyor belts, keep in mind that the objective is to make sure that there is enough cover friction to enable the belt to work efficiently, even if it needs to go through a steep climb. Belt cover friction prevents backsliding to ensure the materials being transported have a good surface for gripping.

• Pre-treat conveyor belts for prevention – By pre-treating machinery with the conveyor belt de-icer you will ensure smoother operations. The deicer provides a layer of protection to the equipment and belt, even before the weather gets cold.

• Apply regularly – Apply conveyor belt de-icer regularly to maintain effectiveness throughout the winter. Pre-spraying the belt, as well as continuously spraying the product on the belt will prevent it from freezing to the belt and from sticking together, thus minimizing carry-back.