Having difficulties in inspecting sealed tanks in explosive zones? Normal lights can be even more dangerous – they can spark a disaster. But explosion-proof sight glass lights enable a clear view inside hazardous equipment while ensuring the utmost protection of the workers and equipment. So, in this blog, we will explore explosion-proof sight glass lights from every aspect. Keep reading!
1) What is an Explosion-proof Sight Glass Light?
“An explosion-proof sight glass light is a type of light fitting used for safe and clear illumination of tanks, vessels, pipelines and other interiors. It is especially used in places where there is flammable gas, vapours, and dust present.”
Broadly speaking, an explosion-proof glass sight glass light is a type of light fitting that is a combination of two major elements: safety and illumination. Basically, it is used to view inside equipment without opening it. In addition to this, “Explosion proof” means that the light has been designed to function safely in places where volatile gases and dusts are present to ignite.
However, these lights are primarily utilised in reactors, sealed tanks, and pipelines. Their primary role is simple, but important: it helps workers to see clearly through the sight window. Well, this enhances the level of safety during inspections and monitoring. Moreover, it saves time and decreases the complexity of the situation.
How It Differs from Ordinary Lighting
A question might arise in your mind: can’t we just use a normal light? The answer to your question is: no, in a dangerous environment. It is because the ordinary lights are not designed to withstand harsh or hazardous environments. They pose a risk of igniting sparks or overheating, which is dangerous in combustible areas.
On the other hand, explosion-proof sight glass lights are specifically designed for a hazardous environment. Yes, they are sealed to sparks and prevent ignition. Hence, explosion-proof sight glass lights are safe to use.
2) Key Components and Working Principle
To provide safe and clear illumination in dangerous places, explosion-proof sight glass lights are built with specific parts that perform a specific function. Now, let’s discuss the important parts of these lights first, and then we will unfold their working principle.
Key Components of Ex Sight Glass Light
i) Lamp Body Material
The lamp body is an important component of explosion explosion-proof sight glass light that is manufactured using reliable and strong materials, like aluminium or stainless steel. Well, these materials are tough and resistant to corrosion, heat, and impact.
This is used in industries where chemicals, heat, or moisture are present. However, the sturdy housing serves to protect the light from external impact and restricts any escaping sparks.
ii) Light Source Type
LEDs are the primary light source for modern sight glass lights. LEDs are energy-saving, have a long life, and emit low heat. On some occasions, halogen bulbs might be used due to safety concerns. Additionally, they also produce bright and concentrated beams of light, which are ideal for vessels and tank inspections.
iii) Mounting Type
The majority of these lights are incorporated into the sight window or glass. They can be attached with brackets, clamps, or even flanges, depending on the configuration. This mounting method decides the focus of light on the equipment. As a result, it becomes easy to inspect the equipment well.
iv) Explosion-proof Structure Type
To be fair, the backbone of the product is the explosion-proof design. It consists of sealed joints, flameproof enclosures, and pressure-resistant enclosures. These features cease the sparks or heat from blowing outward and causing danger in explosion zones.
One more good thing is that the structure fulfils the regulatory standards of safety and clear tests to ensure it is safe for use.
v) Protection Level
Moreover, these lights also have high IP ratings (like IP65 or IP67), which indicates protection from solid, liquid, and oil intrusion. These features make them more dependable, especially in harsh conditions present in industries.
Working Principle of Ex Sight Glass Light
The working principle of these lights proceeds in a way that prevents the emission of sparks or flames that might ignite an explosive atmosphere around the light.
A tank or equipment can be visually inspected through the sight glass without having to physically open the tank. Well, it facilitates and illuminates the view from inside. It prevents the ignition of any external fire. Actually, the enclosure is constructed to contain an explosion by cooling the escaping gases to a temperature that will not ignite outside.
The sight glasses are thick so they can withstand pressure and thermal stress. In order to avoid the creation of sparks, the electrical parts are sealed and set to operate at a lower temperature.
Moreover, the area within the enclosure is illuminated by the light when the power is turned on. If any problem occurs in any equipment, the explosion-proof design ensures that there is no hot gas or flame leak out. So, in this way, it ensured that the environment remains safe.
3) Hexlon Explosion Proof Sight Glass Light
The inspection light Hexlon BAK51-ⅡE explosion-proof sight glass light has been specifically designed to be used in dangerous places. This light’s purpose is to shine light into the tank and other vessels where there is flammable dust or gas is present.
Key Features
+ Explosion Protection: It enables safety in different hazardous areas, so it is certified for use in Zone 1 and Zone 2 (gas environments), as well as Zone 21 and Zone 22 (dust environments).
+ Durable Construction: Moreover, it offers high light transmission and impact resistance. The transparent cover is crafted from tempered glass. The lamp housing is made from strong aluminium alloy with a powder-coated finish, offering resistance to corrosion and mechanical impact.
+ Versatile Voltage Options: Hexlon explosion-proof sight glass. Accommodates various power supply requirements; it is available in multiple configurations of 12V, 24V, 36V, 110V, 220V, 230V, and 240V AC.
+ Temperature Range: Furthermore, it is Suitable for diverse industrial settings; ambient temperatures range from -20˚C to +40˚C.
+ High Protection Rating: Moreover, the high protection rating IP66 protects from dust and powerful water jets. So, it is suitable for harsh environments.
Applications
The BAK51-ⅡE is commonly used in industries such as:
- Chemical Processing: It is used for observing processes while monitoring reactions in closed reactors.
- Oil and Gas: Furthermore, it is used in servicing and inspecting storage tanks and pipelines of oil and gas. So, this work is done safely by BAK51-IIE
- Pharmaceutical and Food Processing: This is used in pharmaceutical and food processing vessels to maintain cleanliness and integrity.
- Brewing and Fermentation: During fermentation in the tanks, processes can be observed through the BAK51-IIE.
4) Typical Applications
Combustion-proof sight glass lights serve some of the most challenging industrial applications. Let’s look at some typical applications of explosion-proof sight glass lights:
Chemical Reactors
The Chemical reactors are vessels which contain flammable or highly volatile substances. These substances can ignite at any moment due to a spark. So, explosion-proof lighting is necessary for safety. Through these sight windows, you can easily check the chemical reactors without opening them.
Petroleum Storage Tanks and Pipelines
In Oil and gas plants, there is more chances of danger of an explosion or fire outbreak. There are flammable automobiles or gas present in storage tanks and pipelines. So, for the safe operation, explosion-proof sight glasses are used to examine the petroleum storage tanks and pipelines.
Well, if you examine the condition of tanks and pipelines early, you will remain safe from any danger.
Pharmaceutical and Food Processing Vessels
Moreover, explosion-proof sight glass light is also used in pharmaceutical and food processing vessels. These industries need more care about cleanliness and precision, so the sight glass light is used here.
The point of appreciation is that operators can check the processes without risking contamination using explosion-proof sight glass lights. Furthermore, moisture and cleaning agents present in the environment do not stop the performance of these lights. So, explosion-proof sight glass performs well even in these areas.
Fermentation and Brewing Tanks
Brewing tanks are sealed systems that require temperature, pressure and hygiene control. So, explosion-proof lights allow observation of fermentation processes through the sight glass window. They can monitor colour, foam or bubbles without opening the tank or influencing the brew.
High Pressure / High Temperature Equipment
Do you know? Some tanks and vessels operate at very high temperatures or pressures. In these situations, it may not be safe to open the equipment for inspection. For these cases, explosion-proof sight glass light is used to check carefully the tank processes. No hesitation in saying that these powerful, designed lights provide sight under all conditions.
5) Benefits of Using Explosion-Proof Sight Glass Lights
Explosion-proof sight glass lights have a wide range of benefits throughout the industry. They make work safer, easier, and more efficient. So, let’s dive into the benefits of using an explosion-proof sight glass light.
+ Safety First: The biggest benefit is safety. These lights are manufactured to eliminate the possibility of dangerous sparks or flames in hazardous surroundings. Thus, this enhances the safety and reduces the risk of fires and accidents.
+ Clear Visibility: Visibility is essential for examining the processes. So, for clear visibility to inspect any process, an explosion-proof sight glass light is the best option to choose. It gives a view inside the tank or vessels without opening of tank or vessels.
+ Durability and Reliability: There is another benefit of using explosion-proof sight glass lights; they are resistant to corrosion and heat. It is because these sight glass lights are made up of aluminium and stainless steel
+ Energy Efficiency: Most importantly, the explosion-proof sight glass light uses an LED bulb. LED bulbs consume less power than traditional bulbs. So, these save energy and save cost as well.
+ Easy Installation and Maintenance: The installation and maintenance of this sight glass light is very easy. It is because the sight glass light is directly mounted onto the sight windows. Moreover, its design is very simple; the LED lasts longer and needs fewer replacements.
6) How to Choose the Right Model
Selecting an explosive-proof sight glass light requires critical attention and identification of the hazardous zone of work. Yes, the selection affects visibility, safety, and performance. So, now let’s discuss how to choose the right model.
Evaluate the Zone Settings
When you are selecting an explosive-proof light, you should ensure the set zone matches the type of gas present. For instance, is it zone 1 or 2 which indicates a gas hazard or zone 21 and 22 which indicate a dust hazard? Every zone has different lighting requirements, so choose the sight glass light carefully.
Evaluate the Light Source
Most modern sight glass lights use LED lights due to their low maintenance and long lifespan. So does the explosive-proof sight glass light use LED lights, or do they require special halogen bulbs in case of other needs? Moreover, you should consider and choose the appropriate power supply alongside the lighting demand.
Examine The Lamp Body and Materials
The lamp body should be tough and durable. So, you should look for materials such as aluminium alloy or stainless steel, as they do not corrode or are not impacted by heat. The glass cover must be of hardened and strong material to protect the bulb while aiding in the clarity of light emitted.
Consider Mounting Options
Most importantly, you should consider the Installation of the light. Some models have a clamp, brackets or a flange mount. Pick one that is compatible with your equipment and ensures a simple approach to installation and maintenance.
Review Protecting Ratings
Keep in mind, you should check the IP rating of the explosion-proof sight glass light or more specifically, a high IP rating like IP65 or IP66. In industrial spaces, the lamp must be shielded from dust and water.
Evaluate Voltage and Temperature Range
It’s also important to evaluate the voltage and temperature range of the explosion-proof sight glass light according to the environment where it is to be used.
7) Conclusion
We can confidently say that explosion-proof sight glass lights are most important for maintaining safety and sight within dangerous areas of industry. They safeguard personnel, enhance operational supervision, and provide durability. Moreover, selecting the proper model requires evaluating the particular safety needs and requirements.
One of the most trusted and reliable options available is the Hexlon BAK51-IIE Explosion-proof Sight Glass Light. This product is durable and provides high protective and illuminative functions essential for safe and continuous industrial operations. Invest in buying good-quality lighting and get remarkable results! You can contact Hexlon right now by clicking here.
