Does anybody know the rules for selecting motors for explosive environments. I am working in a Stell Mill and we have an area where there are explosive fumes in the air. I want to make sure we specify the right motor. Can anybody help with the guidelines surrounding this?
You need to make sure you are following the area classification properly
Hi JohnnyBlake1965,
If you are wondering about selecting motors for explosive or hazardous environments this is how the area classification works: There is a Class division Group and T code that all make up the are classification.
Class Designation: Possible classes are I & II. Class I refers to gases, vapors or liquids (ie. gasoline) Class II refers to dusts that can be flammable (ie. flour dust) Class III
Group Designation: This designation covers the types of flammable material the motor is resistant to. There are tables available that explain the designation for each type of material.
Division: They are Div. 1 or Div 2. Div 1 means there are flammable materials in the air consistently. Div 2. means that there are flammable materials contained in that area but in the event of a spill etc. there will be a flammable environment.
T Code: These codes identify the maximum temperature the motor can physically get to up to and including burnout.
This is just an explanation of the area classification please make sure you talk to a real motor expert before making any decision.
Hope this help
It sounds like you need a Div1 fully explosion proof motor. Make sure you speak to a motor expert before buying a motor for this location.
Div 1 – Explosion proof. I have used Baldor they are very good. I hear Teco Westinghouse is also a very good motor.
