Shenhai Explosion-Proof
According to GB3836.1—2010 “Explosive Atmospheres Part 1: Equipment General Requirements,” explosion-proof electrical equipment is designed for operation in atmospheric environments. The typical atmospheric conditions include:
1. An atmospheric pressure range from 0.08 to 0.11 MPa;
2. An oxygen concentration of 21% (by volume) in standard air, with other inert gases like nitrogen constituting 79% (by volume);
3. An ambient temperature between -20°C and 60°C.
The operational environment of electrical equipment is vital for its safety. For instance, explosion-proof electrical devices are often specified to operate in temperatures between -20°C to 40°C. Lower atmospheric pressure, which implies thinner air, can adversely affect the cooling efficiency of electrical devices. Likewise, fluctuations in atmospheric temperature influence cooling performance, directly affecting the device’s operational efficiency.
When electrical equipment’s designed environment diverges from the actual atmospheric conditions, it’s crucial to adjust the parameters, particularly for high-power devices, to maintain safety standards.
The designated operational environment temperature, set during the design phase, outlines the permissible temperature range for the equipment’s operation. This environment temperature forms the foundation for all the equipment’s performance indicators. Discrepancies between the actual and designed environments can lead to underperformance or, in severe cases, malfunctions. Specifically for explosion-proof electrical equipment, exceeding the prescribed temperature range could compromise the explosion-proof integrity of certain types.
Moreover, the air’s oxygen content significantly affects the safety of explosion-proof electrical devices. Operating equipment intended for explosive components in an “oxygen-rich” setting may pose risks. In such environments, the altered combustion properties of flammable gases can challenge the normal function of equipment designed for standard conditions.