What is Explosion Proof?
Definition of Explosion Proof in Construction
Requirement in many chemical, medical, industrial projects, that require all electrical and mechanical installations to be explosion proof.
In most situations, this requirement is most important in the electrical applications on the project. Conduits must be sealed, to stop any possibility of shorts within the conduit system. Short circuits could ignite any flammable fluids or gases within the structure. In addition conduits need to be sealed to eliminate any possibility of transfer of gases or fluids through the actual conduit systems. Light fixtures, junction boxes, light switches and receptacles are all specially made to be explosion proof. Explosion proof installations are highly critical in laboratories, clean rooms, etc. and their specific requirements are closely monitored and inspected.
The failure of improper installation of equipment or electrical components within an explosive environment is extremely dangerous. In some instances the use of a loose connection or cover plate is the preferred explosion proof assembly, due to the fact that if there were any type of explosion within a loose fitting cap or cover, the explosion would dissipate out the gaps in the cover plate and not simply blow apart.