Safety Performance of Explosion Proof Crane

Explosion Proof Crane Overview

Ensuring safety is critical in workplaces where flammable materials or explosive atmospheres are present. That’s where explosion-proof cranes come into play. These specially designed cranes are designed to minimize the risk of ignition, protect workers and prevent catastrophic events.

Explosion Proof Overhead Crane is a double girder overhead crane with Explosion Proof Electric Hoist as lifting mechanism. Explosion proof crane technology is mature and reliable, with simple structure, small appearance, light weight, easy installation, use and maintenance. The working power supply of explosion-proof crane is three-phase AC, rated frequency 50HZ, rated voltage 380V, working environment temperature is -20～40℃, and the relative humidity shall not exceed 50% when working indoors at 40℃. The altitude of the installation and use of explosion-proof crane shall not exceed 2000m. Explosion-proof crane is mainly suitable for maintenance and loading and unloading work in mechanical workshops, warehouses, material yards and hydropower stations of various sizes.

High Safety Performance of Explosion Proof Cranes

Explosion proof bridge cranes have high safety performance and can meet the use requirements of different industries and scenarios.

Explosion-proof design: Explosion-proof cranes adopt special explosion-proof design and manufacturing technology, which can be used safely in flammable and explosive environments, effectively avoiding the risk of explosion or fire caused by equipment failure or accidents.
High-strength components: Explosion-proof cranes fully consider safety and reliability in design, and use high-strength steel and advanced manufacturing technology to ensure that the equipment has good stability and durability during use.
Explosion-proof device: Explosion-proof cranes use a variety of safety protection devices, such as overload protection and non-contact protection, which effectively ensure the safety of operators.
Remote Control operation: Explosion-proof bridge cranes are usually equipped with wireless remote controls, which can be operated away from the equipment, making the operation more convenient and safe.
Energy saving: Explosion-proof cranes use energy-saving technology, which can effectively reduce energy consumption, and at the same time cooperate with advanced control systems to achieve efficient and energy-saving operations.
Excellent electrical system: Explosion-proof cranes have excellent electrical systems, which can achieve accurate positioning and handling, and can maintain working conditions in harsh environments.

Understanding Explosion Hazards in Overhead Crane Applications

Explosive atmospheres can occur in a variety of industrial settings, including:

Oil and gas refineries: These facilities handle highly flammable liquids and gases, creating a constant risk of ignition.
Chemical plants: The production of certain chemicals can produce explosive vapors or dusts.
Paint and varnish production: The solvents used in these processes are highly flammable and can easily form explosive mixtures with air.
Grain handling facilities: Grains such as wheat produce dust that can explode under certain conditions.

In these environments, even a small spark can cause a devastating explosion. That’s why using ordinary cranes poses a significant threat. Their electrical components, hot surfaces, and friction points can all be potential ignition sources.

Design Details of Explosion Proof Cranes

Explosion-proof cranes address these issues by combining specialized design elements and material selection. Here are some of the key features that contribute to their safety performance:

Fireproof enclosures: Critical electrical components, such as motors and switchgear, are enclosed in rugged enclosures designed to withstand internal explosions without letting flames escape. These enclosures are typically made of heavy-duty materials such as cast iron or steel.
Enhanced safety (Ex e): This approach focuses on preventing sparks from the electrical system itself. Techniques employed include using non-sparking materials, minimizing arc potential, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Intrinsically safe (IS): This strategy limits the amount of electrical energy available in a circuit so that it cannot ignite flammable gases, even under fault conditions.
Non-sparking materials: Components such as brakes, pulleys, and wheels are made of materials that minimize the risk of sparks during operation. Brass, bronze, and specially designed composite materials are commonly used.
Static dissipative: Explosion-proof cranes are typically equipped with a grounding system that effectively dissipates static electricity buildup, preventing sparks.
Temperature Control: Hot surfaces within the crane are minimized or strategically placed to avoid exceeding safe operating temperatures that could ignite flammable materials.

How to safely operate an explosion-proof crane?

Pre-operation inspection: Before each use, an explosion-proof crane should be thoroughly inspected to ensure that all parts are in good working order, show no signs of damage, and that all safety features are functioning properly.
Qualified operators: Only trained and certified operators who understand the specific hazards of the environment and the proper operation of explosion-proof cranes are allowed to operate them.
Proper lifting techniques: Following safe lifting practices helps prevent overloading explosion-proof cranes and creating unstable conditions that could cause equipment failure or sparks.
Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance ensures that the explosion-proof features of the crane remain effective. This includes replacing worn components, checking electrical integrity, and verifying the functionality of safety devices.
Use in designated areas: Explosion-proof cranes should only be used in the specific hazardous areas for which they are rated. Each area has a different degree of explosion risk, and the crane’s design needs to match that risk profile.

Unique Benefits of Explosion-Proof Cranes

Reduce Explosion Risk: The main benefit is that explosion-proof cranes minimize explosion risks, protecting workers, property, and the surrounding environment.
Improve operational efficiency: When used properly, explosion-proof cranes can help maintain efficient material handling operations in hazardous areas without compromising safety.
Comply with regulations: Using certified explosion-proof cranes ensures compliance with relevant safety regulations and standards.

Other Considerations for Explosion Proof Crane Use

Risk assessment: Before using an explosion-proof crane in a specific hazardous environment, a comprehensive risk assessment should be conducted. This assessment helps determine the specific needs and appropriate safety features required for the crane.
Maintenance personnel training: Operators and maintenance personnel need to be trained on the specific requirements and safety procedures for explosion-proof cranes. This ensures that crane maintenance activities are performed safely and effectively.
Record keeping: Keeping detailed records of inspections and maintenance of explosion-proof cranes is essential to ensure continuous improvement in safe use.

Come and Get a Free Inquiry

Our Yuantai Crane Company has been exporting overhead cranes, gantry cranes, jib cranes and electric hoists to the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries as well as countries around the world for more than ten years. We have very rich experience and a green crane manufacturing industry chain. contact us to get free crane solutions and free quotations, and look forward to our friendly cooperation!