Appleton :: Shedding Some Light on Ex n Lighting
Ex n lighting is intended for use in hazardous locations classified as Zone 2. While the requirements for the construction, assessment, and testing of light fixtures with type "n" protection are published by the IEC in Article 79-15 (Sections Three and Four, Clauses 15-23) - it is valuable for electrical professionals selecting these devices to understand the concepts in general terms.
What's Type "n"?
According to the IEC, products with type "n" protection are incapable, in normal operation, of igniting a surrounding gas atmosphere. Moreover, faults capable of ignition are unlikely. There are three distinct ways of achieving type "n" protection:
Ex nA:
For non-sparking apparatus, including light fixtures. The basic concept of Ex nA is that internal fusing and sockets are not capable of producing a spark which can ignite a surrounding explosive atmosphere.
Ex nC:
For sparking apparatus in which contacts are suitably protected by means other than restricted breathing. Lighting fixtures achieving an Ex nC rating use either enclosed break devices, non-incendive components, hermetically sealed devices, sealed devices, or energy-limited apparatus and circuits.
Ex nR:
For restricted breathing enclosures, which minimize the possibility that a surrounding explosive gas atmosphere will enter the apparatus. Restricted breathing light fixtures use an enclosed and gasketed design similar to designs used by CEC light fixtures listed to Class 1, Division 2.
For Ex nA and Ex nC light fixtures, the T number temperature is measured from the internal hot spot of the fixture (the lamp). For Ex nR fixtures, the T number temperature is measured from the external hot spot (the fixture's lens or globe).
If you need more information about the complexities of Ex n lighting, contact Appleton.
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Listings
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