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anti static valves as explosion proof

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gguliye

Industrial
Apr 17, 2019
115
Hi All,
my question is not exactly about PSV, but valves in general
I have a ball valve that is anti-static by design and anti-static means that we have electrical continuity between stem ball and body. So it is clear that the explosion can not happen from the internals of the valve, for that to happen, electricity should spark from rubber to ball or somewhere else which is eliminated by anti-static design
, however, my question is
Can the valve's body be the source of ignition if its electricity becomes in contact with the surrounding explosive atmosphere? Should I choose an explosion-proof valve here?
PS. valve is Fire Safe,

 
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Why do you think the valve's body would be electrified or electrically charged?

Is the valve automatically actuated? If so, everything should be rated for the area's electrical classification.

If it is a manual valve and it is electrically bonded to its inlet/outlet piping then there is no reason to think the valve could be a source of ignition.
 
so in this case, the customer should be responsible for the proper electrical grounding of pipes. am I right?
regards,
 
Please read "NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code" with an eye towards bonding of liquid fuel pipes.
Insulating fluids like fuel oil when moving and rubbing on the piping transporting them can develop a "Bulk Charge". To prevent the bulk charge from creating a hazard around the piping, it must be bonded and earthed. An anti static valve is a necessary but not sufficient component of a properly bonded and earthed system. If you are using plastic pipe or rubber hose, electrical bonding is even more important.
Please note, while this is a subject dealing with charges and electrons, it is not in the scope of the electric code. So it is not correct to call this grounding.
 
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