Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

Status
Not open for further replies.
G

gbayzath

Member
Is there anything in the NEC concerning the use of fiber optic light (solid core light pipe used as an indicator) in a Class 1 division 1 atmosphere. The light source would be contained in a control panel located outside the Class 1 division 1 area.
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

Not that I'm aware of. The light pipe wouldn't be an electrical device, so I don't know how the NEC would apply. I don't see any problem with using one of these in a haz. location. Whats your concern?

Steve
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

Seems like a really good application of fiber optic lighting. I would like to hear if there are any problems with it in your condition but seems OK to me.
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

Originally posted by hbendillo:
Seems like a really good application of fiber optic lighting. I would like to hear if there are any problems with it in your condition but seems OK to me.
Click to expand...
We are designing a spray booth filter change light system using pressure differential switches and indicator lights. It seemed to me that fiber optic would be the choice in this application.
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

The restrictions specific to optical fiber cables are only to "type." See 770.53(D). Section 500.8(E) is rather vague with respect to the application you described, so review 501.5(A)&(D) carefully.

In general, optical fiber cables permitted by 770.53(D) are compliant with 501.5(D)(3). But check this carefully.
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

Just my opinion, but I don't think 770 applies to this type of "light pipe". I really wouldn't consider it the same type of "fiber optic cable" that 770 refers to. And I don't think it would have any conductors as refered to in 500.8(E).

Of course, your AHJ may think otherwise.

Steve
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

770.4 Optical Fiber Cables.
Optical fiber cables transmit light for control, signaling, and communications through an optical fiber.
Click to expand...
If it quacks like a duck... :D

Actually what is at issue is that you have made a reasonable review of the affect of the installation and could address such issues as energy levels, potential gas migration, flame paths, etc.

[ June 11, 2004, 11:56 AM: Message edited by: rbalex ]
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

770.4 Optical Fiber Cables.
Optical fiber cables transmit light for control, signaling, and communications through an optical fiber.
Click to expand...
It's the "control, signaling or communications" part I'm not sure about. The purpose of a solid core light pipe is to provide light. It is really just a solid piece of plastic(?) hose. Can the NEC regulate plastic hoses or set requirements for their installation? Maybe so, but it seems odd.
:)
Steve

[ June 11, 2004, 04:06 PM: Message edited by: steve66 ]
 
Re: Fiber Optic light in Class 1 Div 1

This is a great opportunity for me to learn something. My basic design background is E&C rather than A&E and my decorative lighting knowledge is just about zero.

I confess I was totally unfamiliar with the term ?glass pipe.? I?ve seen them, of course, but I didn?t know a specific term for them. What I read at 3M?s website indicated they are ?lined.? Does that mean they have a tubular construction? I couldn?t quite tell from the illustration. What gbaytath described was ?solid core.?

An open core would have a tremendous impact in a Classified location, especially Division 1. (See 501.5 FPN No. 2)

If they fall under 410-411 they would still have to meet the requirements 501.9.

[ June 11, 2004, 06:17 PM: Message edited by: rbalex ]
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top