The role and importance of risk assessment in machinery design and control systems on the example of a model research line designed for the production of low-emission composite fuel

The article discusses the construction and functionality of a modular line for the production of low-emission composite fuel, which was developed as part of a project co-financed by European Funds, the aim of which was to develop an ecological, composite solid fuel intended for low and medium power boilers. The designed and built innovative production line has been tested in terms of safety requirements in accordance with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Based on the harmonized standards, the risk estimation algorithm was selected. The assessment covered, inter alia, mechanical, electrical and thermal hazards, hazards related to noise and processed material, and those related to control systems that perform safety functions. In order to eliminate non-conformities, technical and organizational measures increasing the safety of service were proposed.