Explosion Proof Lighting Information
Environments containing explosive materials, flammable gasses, vapors or dust require the shielding of any possible ignition source in order to maintain a safe workplace. As these environments are almost always indoors, they require artificial illumination in order to ensure proper visibility and safety for personnel. The light fixtures used for this must meet a number of different requirements, including being specifically designed and certified being explosion proof per the UL 844 Standard.
UL 844 Standard certified explosion proof lighting is unique when compared to traditional fixtures in the way in which it is constructed. Unlike most light fixtures which have unshielded electronics, and enclosures that are open to air, explosion proof fixtures are specifically designed to shield and separate electronics and electrical components from the outside environment. They also must be impact and shock resistant in the event of an accident in order to prevent exposing their electronics to the outside atmosphere.
Our specialized explosion proof lighting is designed to meet all NEMA requirements for hazardous environments. They feature sealed impact resistant non-conductive aluminum housings and can be mounted in a variety of different manners to work in different environments. With heavy duty lenses and thoroughly shielded electronics, they are ideal for any hazardous environment that requires serious lumen output.
Explosion Proof Lighting Applications
Explosion proof lights are used in hazardous areas that have a high risk of accidental fires or explosions. These environments usually have some level of flammable gasses, vapors, dust or liquids that are present that can potentially ignite and create explosions. Common applications include but are not limited to the following:
- Chemical Warehouses
- Machine Shops
- Refineries
- Petrochemical Facilities
- Oil and Gas Production Facilities
- Coal Mines
- Power Plants
- Grain Processing Facilities
- Wood Sawmills
- Steel Mills
- Metal Foundries
Explosion Proof Lighting Layout
Our LED lighting experts designed a explosion proof lighting layout for a tanker fuel pumping station. Using photometric software we placed 4 LED round explosion proof lights around the area to ensure 30 foot candles of illumination
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is explosion proof lighting?
This is lighting that is intended for hazardous environments containing combustible dust or flammable gasses, such as a manufacturing facility, petroleum refinery, chemical plant, etc. These fixtures feature heavy duty sealed housings and shielded electronic components.
Q. How does explosion proof lighting work?
The purpose behind lighting being explosion proof is to prevent combustible dust or gasses coming in contact with electronic or electrical components. In order for this to be achieved, fixtures must feature heavy duty housings that are thoroughly sealed from the outside atmosphere, and usually have special extra steps taken to properly shield electronics.
Q. Where is explosion proof lighting required?
This type of lighting is specifically required in any hazardous environment that contains potentially combustible gasses or dust. These are usually industrial manufacturing or production facilities, such as chemical plants, metal foundries, etc.
Q. What is Class 1 Div 1?
This is an area where gasses, vapors or liquids may exist under normal conditions that have the potential to become flammable or ignitable.
Q. What is Class 1 Div 2?
This is an area where explosive or flammable gasses, vapors or liquids usually will not be present under normal conditions.
Q. What is the difference between Class 1 Div 1 and Class 1 Div 2?
The primary difference between these two classes has to do with the likelihood of the presence of flammable, explosive or otherwise ignitable gasses, vapors or liquids in a particular area. Class 1 Div 1 is a higher risk environment where the possibility of accidental or unintentional explosions can happen, whereas Class 1 Div 2 is a lower risk environment where the possibility of this occurring is substantially reduced.