The March Technology Evening, held at the Durban Country Club, had the benefit of receiving a polished and informative presentation on the topic ‘Electrical explosion protection with focus on flameproof and increased safety enclosures’, by Frederik Langenhoven, the solutions manager from Pepperl+Fuchs.
Hennie Prinsloo thanks Frederik Langenhoven (left) after the presentation.
Frederik provided a well-balanced overview of information critical to the selection and use of enclosures together with their associated equipment in hazardous areas. After giving a simplified and easily understandable overview of the types of area classification, he showed the types of enclosure and some alternative protective measures that are required to ensure safety. Some unusual examples of potential hazards such as energy from an ultrasonic source, and even from laser beams, were briefly covered before moving on to more specific requirements for enclosures.
His displays and samples were used to clearly show what is permissible when mounting equipment in each type of enclosure, and also the certification requirements for that equipment. Repeated references were made to the need for users to comply with requirements that are specified in the manual as supplied by the original equipment manufacturer.
Pat Fowler of Honeywell (right) accepts the Patron Membership certificate from Hennie Prinsloo.
The distinction between ‘Maintenance’ and ‘Repair’ activities with regards to equipment in hazardous areas was clarified, and his presentation concluded with details about the increased application of line bushings to segregate equipment in Ex d enclosures in combination with an Ex e enclosure.
His presentation gave rise to many questions and observations from the audience, clearly prompted by their own observations and experience in industry. They indicated that there are some commonly misunderstood definitions and procedures that exist in companies that manage hazardous areas.
Hennie Prinsloo thanked Frederik for his interesting talk, and also thanked Pepperl+Fuchs for sponsoring the evening. Everyone then adjourned to networking over a delicious dinner and drinks.
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