How to Choose an Explosion Proof Motor?
Explosion-proof motor is a kind of motor that can be used in flammable and explosive factories, and does not generate electric sparks during operation. Explosion-proof motors are mainly used in coal mines, oil and gas, petrochemical and chemical industries.
While there are many different types of motors on the market, it is still very important for any business to have an explosion proof motor, especially if there are any hazardous locations around the warehouse. This makes it even more important to have an explosion proof motor in the area, as having a normal motor that is not explosion proof at all can be detrimental.
However, choosing the right explosion proof motor for the right area is not an easy task and there are many things to keep in mind when choosing.
4 tips for choosing a right explosion-proof motor
- Determine the classification of the motor
The first thing you need to do before you decide to do any other steps is to check the classification and then you can do the division and grouping of the motors.
Class I motors are placed in locations or environments where explosive vapors or flammable gases can be found. Class II motors are typically found where there is a large amount of potentially explosive or conductive dust. Examples of Category III locations include locations where large amounts of sawdust can be found, such as linen mills and textile mills. - Make sure the motor is certified
Determining the correct way to use a motor is really critical, but don't forget to make sure the motor is legally compliant and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
The equipment should also have the International Electrotechnical Commission Explosives (IECEx) certification as it shows that the machine has been tested and meets the international standards specified in the certificate. Such a certificate also certifies that the manufacturing site has been inspected to ensure that the manufacturer's quality system meets the requirements. - Thoroughly inspect the motor
Even if the motor has been mechanically or electrically modeled, it is the responsibility of the UL Recognized Service Center to ensure that the motor's ability to suppress explosions remains unchanged. When they do, have them protect the rebuilt motor from winding service. If rebuilding requires extensive work, contact an experienced engineering firm and have the service center purchase the required motor parts in Singapore.
Basically, the most important thing to look out for here is to make sure a certified professional performs all the proper checks needed so that when rebuilding the motor everything is in order. - Be wary of auto-ignition temperatures
Now is the time to refer to the group chart you made at the beginning, because you have to look at the autoignition temperature (AIT) of different types of hazardous substances. AIT is the lowest temperature at which there is enough energy to cause a chemical to spontaneously ignite, even in the absence of a flame, spark, or any other ignition source.
Once you have a clear understanding of the chart, you will know which motor is best for a specific auto-ignition temperature and hazardous environment, so you can be sure the environment is safe.
Every warehouse has at least one hazardous location, and if you don't choose the right motor for it, you can create a potential accident that will cost the business and, in the worst case, even lead to loss of life. So be sure to choose the right explosion-proof motor and make sure to install it correctly from the start to prevent such incidents from happening.
