Explosion Proof (XP) Mixers

Explosion proof (XP) motor classifications

There are six general classifications when it comes to the overall definition of explosion proof motor classifications. These brief descriptions can aid and assist you in better understanding how to maintain safe mixing operations.

Please note: These definitions involve the presence of specific flammable gasses or vapor that may be present in sufficient quantities to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures or situations.

• Group C – Classifications in Group C include certain volatile vapors that when concentrated can lead to explosions.
• Group D – Classifications in Group D involves atmospheres containing gasoline, hexane, benzene, butane, propane, alcohols, acetone, benzol, lacquer solvent vapors, natural gas and the like.
• Class 11 – Classifications in Class 11 are those that are hazardous because of the presence of combustible dust.
• Group E – Classifications involve atmospheres containing metal dust, including aluminum, magnesium, or their commercial alloys.
• Group F – Classifications involve atmospheres containing carbon black, charcoal, coal or coke dust.
• Group G – Classifications involve atmospheres containing flour, starch, grain or combustible plastics or chemical dusts.

Of course, when it comes to pharmaceutical or food and beverage industries, not all of these definition of explosion proof motor classifications come into play. Moreover, depending upon the ultimate product that will be involved in the mixing process, some of these definition of explosion proof motor classifications will be more important to understand and regulate than will others.

In the final analysis, when it comes to definition of explosion proof motor classifications and dealing with the prevention of explosive situations in the mixing process, two factors come into play. First, the proper type of equipment must be selected and installed — properly — in the first instance. Second, it is vital that the equipment once installed be utilized in a proper, appropriate and safe manner.

By understanding definition of XP motor classifications generally, you will be in a better position to make certain that your mixing operations are undertaken with maximum safety.

Air Motors

Known for their rugged construction and reliability, Air Motors and air powered Gearmotors are available in both lubricated and oilless models. An air motor is something to consider for XP applications, or for flexibility in powering a mixer.

There are also stainless sanitary air motors which are nicely suited for biopharm mixing applications. Some benefits of air motors on mixing equipment:

• Non-electrical operation reduces the possibility of explosion from igniting flammable gases
• Undamaged by overloads
• Ideal in hazardous and hostile environments
• Rugged and simple to install
• Variable speed capabilities allow flexibility and versatility, by using an air control valve you can easily adjust the mixer speed
• Cool-running operation means air motors can be used in ambient temperatures of up to 250 F (120 C)

There are some negatives with air mixer motors compared to electric mixer motors. The benefits of electric are that they are quiet, do not have excessive air exhaust, and they do have very accurate speed control, and feedback loops to a VFD.