Class I, Division 2, Group B Conduit/Condulet Technical Question

[Nick82]

We are updating an existing electrical installation for which the conduits and condulets utilized in a Class I, Division 2, Group B location are marked with Class I, Division 1, Group C/D. The condulets do not contain any ignition sources as they only contain wire runs inside them.

The National Electric Code (NEC, 2017) Article 500.8(B) has an informational note which states:

“Luminaires and other heat-producing apparatus, switches, circuit breakers, and plugs and receptacles are potential sources of ignition and are investigated for suitability in classified locations. Such types of equipment, as well as cable terminations for entry into explosionproof enclosures, are available as listed for Class I, Division 2 locations. Fixed wiring, however, may utilize wiring methods that are not evaluated with respect to classified locations. Wiring products such as cable, raceways, boxes, and fittings, therefore, are not marked as being suitable for Class I, Division 2 locations.”

Since we are in a Division 2 location, does this exception above mean that the fixed wiring conduit and condulets do not need to have any hazardous rating?

Thanks,
Nick

 

[mparenteau]

Nick,

Fittings, conduit, etc. have to be listed/approved for the use intended either by the NEC or a listing agency. For example, you can't use EMT in a hazardous area, with the exception of intrinsically safe circuits (NEC requirement). Fittings aren't necessarily called out in the NEC (at least I don't think they are...double check that), but specification sheets for said fittings will show their applicability.
That said conduit isn't labeled w/ "Approved for C1, D2" locations. Some fittings/j-boxes will have a label. I believe the code is just saying that the manufacturer doesn't have to have a specific label on the fitting if it's strictly for a D2 environment. Many of the fittings I'm familiar with are "dual purpose", so they are marked on the fitting or box.

Mike