Flammable raw materials, which are in small-scale form, harbor a permanent danger potential. In conjunction with atmospheric oxygen, these materials form an explosive atmosphere. If an ignition source is added, devastating fires and dust explosions can result.

In industrial production, raw materials are heavily comminuted; therefore, pneumatic conveying paths are a major component of production facilities. However, not only the scheduled dusts and bulk goods are transported via this connection. Sparks or glowing parts can also be produced in processing machines or dryers and thus represent a considerable risk of fire and explosion for downstream system components such as filters and silos.

A fire or a dust explosion occurs whenever three conditions are met at the same time: flammable dusts, air (oxygen) and an effective ignition source. If these requirements are fulfilled, an explosion event can take place.