Lighting for Hazards without Flameproof Equipment

Abstract

Examination of the terminology and definitions in use to describe protective enclosures reveals confusion among users and manufacturers of electrical equipment. The importance of agreement in the use of these terms is emphasised, particularly in relation to situations made hazardous by danger of explosion.

Recent developments have led to the possibility of ensuring safety in some hazardous situations without recourse to flameproof equipment. The techniques described are: (1) protection by pressurisation of lighting equipment, (2) protection in atmospheres containing explosive dust by complete exclusion of dust from lighting equipment, (3) the provision of lighting equipment for areas where the presence of hazardous gas or vapour is possible but only under abnormal conditions (Division 2 areas).

The problems of design, testing and installation of non-flameproof equipment suitable for these situations are discussed in some detail.

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