Explosion Proof and Spark Resistance- Check These Feature before You Buy a Crane
Explosion-proof and spark resistance are two different terms, and there is confusion about them. This article outlines the difference and provides some information on specifying the classification of the application.
Explosion Proof
The term “Explosion Proof” includes the take care of the Manual chain hoist trolley components like enclosures, motors, controls, and wiring. It is required to enclose any spark from piercing out of the enclosure and igniting the combustible material present in the surrounding environment.
Spark Resistant
“Spark Resistance” is the prevention criteria when the mechanical spares of the hoist lead to a spark in motion. Friction between particular spares can lead to sparks enough to ignite flammable gas or dust. A cigarette lighter is a familiar example of this. The type and dilution of gases in an area are few elements that leverage potential ignition from a mechanically generated source, but other important factors comprise-
The sorts of materials that make contact
The speed/pressure that allows the materials to contact
Corrosion on one or more of the contacting surfaces
Lubrication
There occurs a spark when steel surfaces contact in non-lubricated conditions. Steel is majorly used in cranes and hoists as load-bearing spares such as lower blocks, load chains, hooks, and trolley wheels, and as such may not be appropriate for some harmful environments.
Application
When an application has to find an Explosion-proof Class, Group, and Condition, the majority of manufacturers and suppliers of cranes and double girder bridge crane have to know the hazard and the NEC classification explained by the purchaser. The need for spark resistance features also has to be determined by the buyer. As such, we at LOADMATE recommend that buyers extensively research the sources of combustible elements in the operating atmosphere and engage the professional opinion of a technical expert to know the appropriate Explosion Proof Classification and Spark Resistance features.
Explosion-proof and spark resistant features do not come cheap. Depending on the NEC classification, special motors, explosion-proof enclosures, control pendants, and safety limits may be required; sometimes even more than doubling the price of the equipment. The capacity rating of the machine can be reduced when stainless wire rope or chain is needed for spark resistance since it is not equally strong as the same parts in steel. Technology has helped in some classifications using intrinsically safe relays that preclude the need for costly, large, and heavy explosion-proof components. Options to save money on spark resistant features include the use of copper-plated hooks instead of very expensive solid bronze hooks.
The features like explosion-proof and spark resistance are not cheap. Depending on the explosion-proof enclosures, NEC classification, special motors, and safety limits may be needed, a few times making the price of equipment double. The capacity rating of the equipment can be minimized when the stainless wire rope or chain is needed for spark resistance as it is not as strong as the similar parts in steel. Technology has helped in some classifications that use essentially safe relays that prevent the need for costly, heavy explosion-proof spares. Choices to save money on spark resistant features
You can talk to an application expert who can walk you through the needs and ascertain that you get equipment suited to your application.
