Explosionproof JBs in Class I Div 2?

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greenspark1

Senior Member
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New England
Hello,
I am accustomed to seeing all explosionproof fittings/JBs in a class I area. However reading the Code NEC 501.10(B)(4) says that boxes and fittings don't have to be explosionproof, subject to 501.105, 501.115, and 501.150. My situation is that I'm running conduit in a Div 2 area to some control devices- temperature transmitters, flow transmitters, etc. I'll have a number of JBs in the conduit run for pull points, Ts, etc. It looks like these do not need to be explosionproof, but this just feels wrong. Any help/guidance?
 
what kind of junction boxes are you talking about?

like a sheet metal box?

is there anything other than wires and splices in them?
 
Your real problem in Class I, Division 2 with sheet metal boxes is found in Section 501.30(A). They can still be used, but bonding them properly can be a problem. Threaded conduit bodies are generally preferable.
 
rbalex said:
Your real problem in Class I, Division 2 with sheet metal boxes is found in Section 501.30(A). They can still be used, but bonding them properly can be a problem. Threaded conduit bodies are generally preferable.
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Hmmmm, good point. This is LV controls wiring but I guess the Code doesn't differentiate. Bonding jumpers still might be cheaper than explosionproof JBs.
So yes, standard sheetmetal JBs are allowed?
 
I may have misunderstood your OP. Did you mean 4" x 4" or 4' x 4' boxes?

In either case, sheet metal is acceptable in Division 2.
 
Hmmmm, yes I would love to use conduit bodies. Unfortunately we may need to make splices. I found what I need, threaded non explosionproof here. I've never seen or used them before, but they look good. What a journey :)
 
Those would be fine.

With the modest additional requirements of Section 314.16(C), conduit bodies are fine too - and probably more cost effective.

If you intend to do a lot of classified location design, you might consider reviewing the Process Industry Practices website.
 
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