Explosion-Proof Ventilation Fans

Where Are Explosion-Proof Ventilation Fans Used?

Sparkless ventilation fans are commonly used in locations such as:

• Warehouses
• Plants
• Mills
• Tanks and Silos
• Spray Booths
• Manufacturing Facilities

Hazardous Classifications

Which locations are considered hazardous? The National Electrical Code (NEC) considers hazardous locations to be areas where fire or explosion hazards may exist due to flammable gases or vapors, flammable liquids, combustible dust, or ignitable fibers or flyings.

There are three types of hazardous locations:

Class I Locations

A Class I location is created by the presence of flammable gases or vapors in the air in sufficient quantities to be explosive or ignitable. When these materials are found in the atmosphere, a potential for explosion exists if an electrical or other source of ignition is present.

Class II Locations

Class II locations are created by the presence of combustible dust in the air in sufficient quantities to be explosive or ignitable.

Class III Locations

A Class III location is created by the presence of easily ignitable fibers or flyings. Typically, these fibers and flyings are not suspended in the air but can collect around machinery or on lighting where heat, a spark, or hot metal can ignite them.

Visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to learn more.