What rating is an explosion proof fixture?

What Rating is an Explosion Proof Fixture?

When dealing with hazardous locations where fire or explosion hazards exist, ensuring the use of appropriate electrical equipment is paramount. An explosion proof fixture with explosion-proof performance is essential in such environments to prevent any ignition sources. Let's explore what factors determine the ratings of these fixtures.

Overview

In environments where flammable gases, vapors, dust, fibers, or flyings are present, standard electrical equipment may pose an ignition risk. Therefore, special regulations and standards have been developed to ensure safety in these areas. The ratings for explosion proof fixtures are integral to maintaining these safety standards.

Class and Division Explained

Explosion proof fixtures are categorized into different classes and divisions to address various types of hazards:

• Class I: Deals with ignitable concentrations of flammable gases or vapors.
• Class II: Pertains to combustible dust.
• Class III: Covers ignitable fibers or flyings.

Understanding Divisions

Each class is further divided into two divisions:

• Division 1: Where hazardous substances are present during normal operating conditions.
• Division 2: Where hazardous substances are present under abnormal conditions.

Standards and Regulations

North America

In North America, organizations such as the NFPA and OSHA provide guidelines and standards for hazardous locations. Specifically, NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC), details the classification and installation principles of explosion proof equipment.

International Standards

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) also defines standards for classifying and testing equipment used in hazardous locations through the 60079 series of standards.

Explosion Proof Lights

Understanding the classifications for explosion proof lights is crucial. Explosion-proof Heat Tracing Connection Kits are among the items requiring such delineation:

• Class I, Division 1: Continuous presence of flammable gases, vapors, or liquids.
• Class I, Division 2: Presence of flammable gases, vapors, or liquids under abnormal conditions.
• Class II, Division 1: Presence of combustible dust during normal conditions.
• Class II, Division 2: Presence of combustible dust under abnormal conditions.
• Class III, Division 1: Presence of ignitable fibers or flyings during normal conditions.
• Class III, Division 2: Presence of ignitable fibers or flyings under abnormal conditions.

Equipment and Safety

Equipment designed for hazardous locations often uses various methods to mitigate risks. These can include intrinsic safety measures or robust, sealed enclosures to contain any potential ignition from internal sparks or explosions.

Types of Protection

• Intrinsic Safety: Limits the energy within the system to prevent ignition.
• Explosion Proof: Seals and protects against sparks and explosions, ensuring internal hazards do not cause external ignition.

Available Solutions

Modern explosion proof lighting, such as the options provided by Western Technology, offers a range of solutions tailored to different industrial needs:

• The BRICK®: A versatile, rugged LED portable explosion proof area light.
• The BRICKette™: A compact, portable explosion proof LED work light.
• The STRIKER™: An explosion proof drop, blast, and work light.
• The BODYLight™: The first explosion proof rechargeable battery-powered LED light.

For more information, please visit Explosion-proof Breather.