Support - FAQ

What does "explosion proof" really mean?

Flameproof protection, or "explosion proof" as it's known in North America, is traditionally the most widely used method of protection for electrical devices in hazardous areas. The requirement is for the device's enclosure to be of significant strength and integrity to withstand an internal explosion of the harzard for which it was designed, without the explosion setting fire to the surrounding atmosphere.

What is "purged protection"?

Purging is a technique of applying a protective gas (possibly air) into an enclosure to prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere inside the enclosure. This is done by maintaining an overpressure against the surrounding atmosphere. Though this is a good method, typically used for control panels, it is limited in the sense that if there were a disaster or the pressurization system failed, the power from this device must be instantly removed rendering the device inoperative.

What are "IP ratings - ingress protection"?

There are two systems in common use for defining the amound of protection an enclosure affords against the intrusion or ingress of dust and liquids. The most widely used system is the IP code. This is defined fully in IEC 529. The NEMA Code system is often used in North America as an alternative to the IP code. Here is a reference sheet that gives NEMA codes and relates them to IP codes.

The IP code uses two digits to specify environmental protection. The first digit signifies the protection against solid matter (dust etc.) and the second digit specifies the protection against liquid (water). For your reference, here is a reference sheet that explains ratings in more detail.

What are Incoterms?

Incoterms are an international standard of determining transportation obligations, cost and risks. It defines the how and when the transfer of ownership between a seller and a buyer occurs and who is responsible for the cost. For your reference, here is a quick reference sheet offered by the International Chamber of Commerce.