Improving the Fire Safety of Zirconium Alloy Scrap

This study was conducted to evaluate and improve the fire safety of zirconium alloy scrap in industrial settings. The ignition characteristics of the scrap were assessed through customized tests based on ASTM E1226-19 standards. Experimental results showed that steel wool-type and pig tail-type scraps exhibited the highest ignition risk, with a minimum ignition energy (MIE) of 2.1 mJ, indicating possible ignition from ordinary static electricity. In water reactivity tests, the ignition temperature increased from 1,831.3 ℃ to 1,959.3 ℃. The risk assessment identified mechanical friction, the use of inappropriate cleaning tools, and inadequate electrical equipment sealing as major hazards. Thereafter, improvement measures were proposed, including mandating the use of spark-prevention safety tools, enhanced electrical enclosure sealing, and the implementation of monitoring systems.