Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Hazardous Locations
3. Key Features of an Exhaust Fan for Hazardous Locations
4. Standards and Certifications
5. Material and Construction
6. Performance Parameters
7. Feice Company Solutions
8. Conclusion
9. References

Introduction

An exhaust fan designed for hazardous locations must adhere to stringent safety standards to ensure it operates safely in volatile environments. These fans are engineered to prevent the ignition of flammable gases, dust, or fibers, which are typically present in industrial settings such as chemical plants, oil refineries, and grain silos.

Understanding Hazardous Locations

Hazardous locations are defined by the presence of combustible materials that may ignite under specific conditions. These are further classified into classes and divisions or zones:

• Class I: Flammable gases or vapors are present.
• Class II: Combustible dust is present.
• Class III: Ignitable fibers or flying particles are present.
• Division 1 or Zone 0/1: Hazardous materials are present during normal operations.
• Division 2 or Zone 2: Hazardous materials are present under abnormal conditions.

Key Features of an Exhaust Fan for Hazardous Locations

Key features of a suitable exhaust fan include explosion-proof motors, spark-resistant construction, and non-static materials. Such fans are meticulously designed to ensure they do not become ignition sources themselves.

Standards and Certifications

Exhaust fans for hazardous locations must comply with various national and international standards, such as:

• National Electrical Code (NEC) in the USA
• IECEx and ATEX in Europe
• Canadian Electrical Code (CEC)

Certification indicates that the product has been tested and complies with the relevant safety requirements.

Material and Construction

Materials used in constructing exhaust fans for hazardous locations include aluminum, stainless steel, and other metals with corrosion-resistant properties. Many fans incorporate non-sparking materials for the fan blades and housings.

Performance Parameters

Efficiency and performance of these fans are often measured in terms of:

• Airflow Capacity: Measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicating the volume of air that the fan can move.
• Static Pressure: Measured in inches of water gauge (in wg), which affects the fan's ability to move air through resistance.
• Energy Efficiency: Calculated in terms of power usage versus airflow capacity, often expressed as CFM per watt.

Feice Company Solutions

Feice offers a range of exhaust fans tailored for hazardous locations, with features such as:

• Explosion-proof motor housings
• Corrosion and moisture-resistant coatings
• Compliance with NEC, IECEx, and ATEX standards
• Available in various sizes with airflows ranging from 500 to 12,000 CFM

Conclusion

Exhaust fans for hazardous locations must be carefully selected based on the specific needs of the environment they will serve. Key considerations include compliance with safety standards, appropriate material selection, and necessary performance attributes to ensure safe and effective operation.

References

• National Fire Protection Association. (2023). NFPA 70®: National Electrical Code® (NEC®).
• International Electrotechnical Commission. (2023). IEC 60079 Series - Explosive Atmospheres.
• Canadian Standards Association. (2023). CSA C22.1: Canadian Electrical Code.