What is an Explosion-Proof Enclosure? Types, Advantages

An explosion-proof enclosure is a type of protective housing designed to prevent the ignition of flammable gases, liquids and dust in hazardous environments. These enclosures are critical in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing and mining, where the potential for explosions is high. In this article, we will discuss the different types of explosion-proof enclosures, the advantages they offer and the various applications in which they are used.

What is an Explosion-Proof Enclosure?

The explosion-proof enclosure is a special type of electrical enclosure that is made to be installed in areas where there is a danger of explosion and/or fire of combustible dust. Depending on the type and design ex-proof enclosures can be made of structural or stainless steel, aluminum alloy, zinc alloy and plastic.

Explosion-proof enclosures are designed with extended threaded flanges that cool and contain the explosion within the enclosure. Therefore, any potential electrical arc that occurs will not be spread to the external explosive atmosphere. 

Types of Explosion-Proof Enclosures

There are different types of explosion-proof enclosures or systems.

Junction boxes are ideal for rigid conduit systems in potentially explosive environments like gasoline pumps.

Cabinets are used to store hazardous substances such as flammable liquids and chemicals. 

Safe barriers control the energy supplied to electrical equipment in hazardous areas. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of an Explosion-Proof Enclosure

Pros:

• It is safe and reliable in explosive atmospheres.
• An explosion-proof enclosure helps all the people working in the hazardous environment remain safe in case of an accident. It also minimizes the potential damage.
• The material used in the enclosure is durable. It has high impact resistance.
• It complies with the highest safety standards.
• It has a high degree of protection.

Cons:

• It is an expensive solution compared to standard enclosures.
• Power must be shut down during maintenance.
• In hazardous areas, opening the door of the enclosure for maintenance is not permitted.
• The material used in the enclosure is heavy.
• The wiring should be wrapped with conduits.
• Implementations of any changes to the system are difficult.

Applications of an Explosion-Proof Enclosure

It is specially designed for applications such as:

• Oil and gas.
• Offshore and marine.
• Industry and process automation.
• Chemical and refinery.
• Pharmaceutical.
• Food and beverage.
• Nuclear and renewable energy plants.
• Aviation.