What Are The Different Types Of Explosion-Proof Lighting

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Safety is the utmost priority for those working in hazardous environments, such as areas containing combustible materials or flammable vapours, liquids, or gases. Businesses operating in such conditions are mandated by law to install explosion-proof light fittings to safeguard workers. 

However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hazardous lighting. There are various types of dangerous environments that help categorise what class and division an explosion-proof light is certified for. So how can businesses ensure they choose the appropriate lighting? Read on to learn more.

Learn More: Everything You Need to Know About Explosion-Proof Lighting

Explosion-proof lighting class and division explained

North American Classification

European & IECEX Classifications

Definition of Zone or Division

Class I Division 1 (gases)

Zone 0 (gases)

An area in which an explosive mixture is continuously present or present for long periods.

Class II Division 1 (dust)

Zone 20 (dust)

Class I Division 1 (gases)

Zone 1 (gases)

An area in which an explosive mixture is likely to occur in normal operation.

Class II Division 1 (dust)

Zone 21 (dust)

Class I Division 2 (gases)

Zone 2 (gases)

An area in which an explosive mixture is not likely to occur in normal operation. If it occurs, it will only exist for a short time.

Class II Division 2 (dust)

Zone 22 (dust)

At Supermec, we often receive a particular query, “Which explosion-proof light fitting is suitable for us?”. The answer to this question is: it depends on the hazardous area classification of the environment where the equipment is deployed and the client’s requirements. 

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Here is a broad categorisation of explosion-proof lighting based on the European and IECEX classifications:

• Zone 0 (gases) – An environment where an explosive mixture of gases is present for long periods or is continuously present.

• Zone 1 (gases) – An environment where an explosive mixture of gases is likely to accumulate during normal operations.

• Zone 2 (gases) – An environment where an explosive mixture of gases is not likely to accumulate under normal circumstances. If it does, it will only be for a short amount of time.

• Zone 20 (dust) – An environment where an explosive mixture of dust is continuously present or present for long periods.

• Zone 21 (dust) – An environment where an explosive mixture of dust is likely to accumulate during normal operations. 

• Zone 22 (dust) – An environment where an explosive mixture of dust is not likely to accumulate under normal circumstances. If it does, it will only happen for a short period.

   

Zone 0 is deemed the most dangerous or critical, followed by Zone 1 and then Zone 2. As such, Zone 0 has higher specification requirements than Zones 1 and 2, and Zone 1 has more stringent requirements than Zone 2. For example, you can utilise Zone 1 explosion-proof lighting for both Zone 1 and 2 but not Zone 0.

Types of explosion-proof lighting 

Generally, explosion-proof lighting is categorised into two types – temporary lighting and fixed lighting. 

1. Explosion-proof temporary lighting

 Explosion-proof temporary lighting is often referred to as portable explosion-proof light, as such equipment can be easily transported from one place to another. As such, they are more versatile and can be tailored to the unique needs of various industries, including coal mines, land-based or offshore rigs, and chemical plants, among others. Examples include our explosion-proof LED flood lights and explosion-proof LED high bay lighting.

2. Explosion-proof fixed lighting

As the name implies, explosion-proof fixed lighting is mounted to a set location and cannot be moved from one place to another. Such lighting fixtures are commonly used to illuminate Zone 1 and 2 of a particular facility. These explosion-proof light fittings are usually available in the form of fluorescent light fixtures or designed to contain halide light elements.

Supermec offers a comprehensive selection of explosion-proof and flameproof light fixtures tailored to various business needs. If you are unsure of which light fixtures best suit the confined spaces of your hazardous work environment, do not hesitate to contact our team for assistance. Our staff will be delighted to help you select the ideal light fittings to enhance your workplace safety.

Explosion-proof lighting can serve as a critical safety measure by mitigating the risk of ignition, thus minimizing the possibility of causing any accidents. However, you need to be careful when selecting the right explosion-proof lighting. The one-size-fits-all approach will not work here. This is because different industries have different requirements and challenges. This creates a necessity for a thoughtful approach to selecting the right lighting fixtures. This post will guide you through the process of selecting the right explosion proof lighting fixtures for your industry.

Understand Your Hazardous Environment

The first thing to do is to understand the specific hazardous conditions in your industry. This includes identifying the presence of vapors, flammable gasses, combustible dust, and other hazardous materials. Determine the classification and zone of the hazardous area. These factors will impact the type of explosion proof lighting fixtures required.

Consider Your Industry Requirements

Keep in mind that different industries have specific lighting needs. The oil and gas sector requires explosion-proof lighting that is also resistant to corrosive substances. Meanwhile, mining operations demand lighting fixtures capable of withstanding vibrations. So, make sure you think about the specific challenges and operations requirements of your industry when selecting explosion-proof lighting fixtures.

Check Compliance with Regulations and Standards

In hazardous environments, safety regulations and standards are non-negotiables. So ensure that the lighting products you choose are compliant with relevant safety certifications  and standards in the desired region. So look for important certifications that validate teh fixtures’ ability to withstand explosive environments.

Evaluate Ingress Protection or IP Ratings

IP ratings represent the level of protection a fixture offers against dust and water ingress. Selecting explosion-proof lighting with high IP ratings is crucial in industries where moisture and dust are prevalent. This ensures the longevity and reliability of the fixtures in challenging conditions.

Evaluate the Various Lighting Technologies

Explosion-proof lighting fixtures offer various lighting technologies, such as fluorescent, LED, or incandescent. So, make sure you check the specific lighting needs of your industry and then weigh the benefits that each technology will offer you. Due to its numerous benefits, LED technology has become the industry standard. These fixtures are long-lasting, energy efficient, and emit minimal heat. They also minimize the risk of ignition.

Assess the Lumen Output and Illumination Levels

These features play an important role in ensuring adequate visibility in hazardous environments. So, assess the required illumination levels for different areas in your industry and choose fixtures that deliver the desired brightness without compromising safety.

Opt for Versatile Mounting Options

Different hazardous areas require specific lighting mounting types. So, pay attention to the mounting options available for your selected explosion-proof light fixtures. Ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, pendant, or pole-mounted fixtures are the various mounting possibilities you can choose for the explosion of light fixtures based on teh requirements. You may look for lighting fixtures with user-friendly designs that simply require installation and replacement.

To Sum Up

Remember that selecting the right explosion-proof lighting for your industry is a critical step in creating a safer work environment. It will also help enhance productivity and efficiency. Understanding the various factors that impact your choice will help you make an informed decision. So keep these points in mind before making a purchase for explosion-proof lighting for your industry.

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