Explosion proofoperation, The motor, The controller – Parr Instrument Series 4580 User Manual
Page 20: The heater, The wiring, Explosion proof operation
 
- 19 -
EXPLOSION PROOF 
OPERATION 
 
 
If the local safety code requires that
equipment installed in the user’s laboratory 
must be explosion proof, there are four 
possible ignition hazards to be considered: 
 
1. The Motor 
The standard adjustable speed motor
is not explosion proof, yet these motors 
are not unduly hazardous if operated in a 
well ventilated location where care is 
taken to prevent the accumulation of 
explosive gases or vapors. To eliminate 
a spark hazard originating at the motor, 
Parr can furnish an air motor as 
described previously, or the reactor can 
be equipped with a variable speed, 
explosion proof motor which is approved 
for use in Class 1, Groups C & D, and 
Class 2, Groups E, F, & G environments. 
Explosion proof motors are furnished 
with a temporary power cord and plug 
which are not explosion proof. The user 
should remove this temporary wiring and 
replace it with an explosion proof switch 
and wiring which will comply with the 
local electrical code. 
 
2. The Controller
The Parr Controllers furnished with
these reactors contain switches and 
other elements which are not explosion 
proof. The minimal spark hazard 
associated with these units can be 
resolved by installing the controller in a 
remote location outside of the hazardous 
area or by enclosing it in an approved 
explosion proof housing. If enclosed 
within a positive pressure, clean air 
housing, the discharge from the housing 
must be directed into a safe area. If 
requested, Parr will furnish the long lead 
wires needed to mount the controller in a 
remote location. If the controller is to be 
 
 
installed in an explosion proof housing, 
the user must provide the necessary 
housing and installation. 
 
3. The Heater 
The elements in the heater could be
dangerous in an explosive atmosphere if 
the surface temperature of the element 
becomes high enough to ignite 
flammable vapors. This hazard must be 
evaluated for each individual installation 
since major modifications are required if 
the heater must be isolated from the 
surrounding atmosphere. Users who 
consider this a significant hazard are 
urged to contact the Parr Instrument 
Company for further discussion and 
suggestions which might be helpful. 
 
4. The Wiring
The wiring provided with the standard
reactor systems does not meet the 
standards prescribed for explosion proof 
operation. Optional, intrinsically safe 
barriers are available.