Intrinsically safe
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Intrinsically safe is an attribute applied to electrical equipment that is designated for use in explosion-prone areas.
In normal uses, electrical equipment often creates internal tiny sparks in switches, motor brushes, connectors, and in other places. Such sparks can ignite flammable substances present in air. A device termed intrinsically safe is designed to not contain any components that produce sparks or which can hold enough energy that could produce a spark.
For example during marine transfer operations when flammable products are transferred between the marine terminal and tanker ships or barges. Two way radio communication needs to be constantly maintained in case the transfer needs to stop for unforeseen reasons such as a spill. The United States Coast Guard requires that the two way radio must be certified as intrinsically safe.
- IS (Intrinsic Safety): see Intrinsic safety
- ATEX (Potentially Explosive Atmospheres): see Equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres
[edit] References
- Setra Pressure Management Division FAQ on Explosion Proof/Intrinsically Safe
