Specifying explosion-proof connectors

The threat of explosion is real in many of today’s industrial applications, from petrochemical refineries and cleaning facilities to flour silos and even landfill sites. The best way to prevent electrical equipment from causing an explosion is not to use it in areas where these flammable substances are present, but of course, that can’t always be avoided. Explosion proofing of electrical equipment is therefore necessary, and connectors are critical to this since they have the potential to create arcs and sparks as part of normal operation.

In this week's Engineers' Insight, Marco Enge explores the standards used to define harzardous environments and how manufacturers of explosion-proof connectors reduce potential for, or contain, arcs and sparks that may occur in specially designed recepatacles.