Explosion Proof & Flame Proof

This protection method assumes that the surrounding explosive atmosphere can enter an enclosure intended to protect electrical equipment and that there will be internal explosions during the life of the protected equipment.

In order to be certified as explosion or flame proof, the enclosure must be strong enough not to fracture or distort under the internal pressures generated in order to contain explosions and prevent propagation. When testing a product for Explosion proof protection, it will have to undergo several actual explosions within simulated environments.

The chart below gives an overview of North American and International Explosion and Flame Proof protection standards:

There are differences between Explosion Proof protection and Flame Proof protection that must be noted and will have an impact on your projects depending on where you intend to sell them. Generally, Explosion Proof is utilized in the US while Flame Proof is utilized in Canada and Europe.