I have a question I don’t quite understand
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What is the difference between intrinsically safe and explosion-proof types? In what situation should that be used?
Intrinsic safety means it is safe by nature; even in the event of an electric spark, no explosion will occur in its vicinity； The explosion-proof type works in a similar way: we need to confine devices that may generate electric sparks within a specific area, so that even if sparks occur, they stay within that confined space, keeping the outside area safe. Whether it should be intrinsically safe or explosion-proof depends on the hazard level
Explosion-proof? It should be explosion-proof type; both intrinsically safe and explosion-proof are explosion protection classifications. Intrinsically safe devices can be used in Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2; flameproof devices can be used in Zone 1 and Zone 2
Intrinsic safety is one of the explosion-proof types; intrinsic safety protection is the safest among all explosion-proof types
It seems there’s no explosion-proof type available. Common types of explosion protection include flameproof, increased safety, intrinsic safety, and positive pressure types. Among them, the flameproof type is used in Zone 1 and Zone 2 ； Intrinsically safe type is used in Zone 0 (ia), Zone 1 (ib), and Zone 2 (ib). Zone 0: Areas where an explosive mixture is present continuously for long periods under normal conditions. Zone 1: Areas where an explosive mixture may be present under normal conditions. Zone 2: Areas where an explosive mixture is not likely to be present under normal conditions, but may appear occasionally or for short periods only under abnormal conditions
Additional information for Zone O above: Areas where explosive mixtures are present continuously or for extended periods in the form of gases, vapors, or mists – over 1,000 hours. Zone 1: 2–1,000 hours; typical locations for explosion-proof electrical equipment. Zone 2: Occasional presence, not exceeding 2 hours
Common explosion-proof types include flameproof type, increased safety type, intrinsically safe type, positive pressure type, as well as oil-filled and sand-filled types.
Intrinsic safety instruments refer to those in which the arc sparks generated by the instrument itself are not sufficient to cause an explosion； Used in Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2. Flameproof type refers to sealing the generated arc sparks in a closed space, isolating them from the outside world. Used in Zone 1, Zone 2