Electrically actuated valves for gas compression installations located in potentially explosive atmospheres

Abstract

Using electric energy in a potentially explosive atmosphere raises several problems that must be solved when designing, manufacturing and during the operation of electric equipment. Their approach requires special attention, considering the multiple technical, economical and labour safety aspects. The ingress protection for the electrical part of the valves is ensured by the capsulation assembly, comprising the protection measures applied for preventing the ignition of the surrounding atmosphere. The labyrinth seal through which the gas flow passes is designed so as to confine a potential ignition inside actuator’s flameproof enclosure. Numerical simulations were conducted for determining the combustion behaviour and the optimum width and geometry of the labyrinth canals.