GFCI with 120V Receptacles in Hazardous Area

[ksps100]

Dear ALL,
We have Class 1 Div 2 Group B,C,D Area in a part of the plant and the rest of the Plant is classified as Class 1 Div 2 Group C,D area.

The specification states that ALL Conveinience receptacles(120V Single phase,Explosion proof type) shall be provided with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters.
I checked out the Vendors(Crouse Hinds,Appleton),and they offer GFCI only for Group C,D areas.
They do not offer for Group B areas.
Is there any specific Hazard if we provide GFCI on Group B area receptacles.
Vendor is proposing that GFCI be mounted in the Distribution Panel(Ex type)-but this limits my operation since one breaker feeds 8 receptacles and a GF on one receptacle would render all 8 outlets without power.

 

[dwftx34]

Installing the GFI protection is probibly your only choose because the GFI device breaks the current internally causing a spark i do not think you want this in your explosion proof area. If an explosion proof GFI is avilable. I bet the price far exceededs the inconvenience of resetting a GFI breaker every once in a while.

 

[ruggedscot]

This is one that is easily solved - get the required GFI and locate it outside of the haz area and wire it through to a fully rated socket....

job done.

Sometimes we look at what is infront of us and dont make the connection. Even if the GFI is outwith the area the socket is still protected.

This GFI breaking a fault current can produce quite a spark so its best to have it outta the area anyways, unless its one of those really expensive jobs.

Rugged

 

[itsmoked]

Just make sure the protected fully rated outlet is clearly labeled as being GFI'd. Man can that cause some confusion when not labeled!!! Why is this outlet dead??!?!? The breaker hasn't tripped!

Keith Cress
Flamin Systems, Inc.-

http://www.flaminsystems.com