Universal Air & Gas Products is an industry leader in superior-quality air and gas compressor systems utilized in locations classified under a NEMA 7, hazardous class Division 1, 2, and all related Groups including B, C, and D. These locations are deemed hazardous because flammable gasses and vapors, combustible dust, and easily ignitable fibers are present and may cause fires or explosions. Explosion-proof air compressor systems are imperative in these locations to prevent such accidents.
What are the Different Classifications and Divisions of Hazardous Locations?
The National Electrical Code (NEC) classifies hazardous locations in three ways: type, condition, and nature. The various classifications and hazard class division types are as follows:
Class I Locations
Class I locations are areas with a sufficient presence or amount of flammable gasses or vapor in the air to combust. Examples of Class 1 hazardous materials are natural gas, hydrogen, and gasoline vapor. These can easily produce explosive or flammable mixtures.
Under Class I, Division I, the locations have flammable gasses and vapors present even in normal operations continuously, intermittently, or periodically. These areas may also emit flammable gasses caused by electrical equipment failure.
Meanwhile, Class I and Division II locations are areas where volatile flammable liquids or gasses are handled, used, or processed and therefore may be present. These gasses and vapors are generally confined inside closed containers or systems, ensuring they can’t escape.
Examples of Class I Locations:
- Dry cleaning plants
- Petroleum refineries
- Gasoline storage and dispensing areas
- Natural gas or hydrogen gas vehicle refueling sites
Class II Locations
Class II locations refer to hazardous sites with sufficient presence of combustible dust to support combustion. Examples of Class 2 hazardous materials are finely pulverized materials suspended in the atmosphere, which can easily cause a powerful explosion if exposed to fire.
A Class 2, Division 1 hazardous location is where combustible dust is suspended in air under normal circumstances and in enough quantities to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. The failure or malfunction of equipment may also cause a hazardous location to exist as it creates an ignition source.
In Class 2, Division 2 areas, an intermittent dust accumulation may interfere with heat dissipation from electrical equipment, causing an explosion.
Examples of Class 2 Locations:
- Grain elevators
- Flour and feed mills
- Fireworks, medicines, and plastics manufacturing
Class III Locations
Class 3 locations are those that contain easily ignitable fibers or materials. Examples of Class 3 hazardous materials are lint, shavings, and filings. These are commonly found in facilities where materials are stored, handled, or processed.
Class 3, Division 1 locations are areas where the ignitable materials are manufactured, used, and handled. On the other hand, Class 3 and Division 2 sites are where the ignitable fibers are stored or handled and likely present intermittently.
Examples of Class 3 Locations:
- Textile mills
- Woodworking plants
- Flax processing plants
Compressors for Hazardous Location Designs
Universal Air & Gas Products is a well-established source of compressor systems designed and built for use in hazardous locations. We have the expertise to build a secure system that won’t yield to a dangerous environment, regardless of your hazardous facility’s classification.
If you want to learn how we can help, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Feel free to request a quote, and we can develop a unique solution tailored to your location’s needs!
