GFI, GFCI or nothing...for Analytical instrument with wa

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chemquest

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I am a chemist who is reviewing a manual and soon to be installing a new piece of instrumentation. The instrument in question has a contained loop of water, pressurized air and of course is run by electricity. The question has arisen, is there a need for GFI, GFCI or nothing? Where do I find this out?

Details of the instrument:
110-260VAC
50-60 Hz
Max 2000W
Voltage will be transformed to 220 using internal transformer.
A surge protector protects the system against peaks in voltage.

The water in side the system is not completely closed as it is the humidity supply to a relative humidity control unit for a carefully controlled gas source.

Is this the proper place to ask this sort of question? I am in charge of maintaining the integrity of the manual while changing the English from a second language to a first...correct all the nuances of the language. In turn, a question was raised about the need for
GFI or GFCI.

Thank you.
 
Re: GFI, GFCI or nothing...for Analytical instrument with wa

I don't see that the NEC would require a gfci on such a piece of equipment. Generally the NEC does not deal directly with equipment but rather with premises wiring systems.

It would not hurt your equipment to be powered through a gfci, and it would be marginally safer. How much safer is an unknowable thing.
 
Re: GFI, GFCI or nothing...for Analytical instrument with wa

Most apparatus and equipment requires a listing. The provisions of that listing would indicate if gfci protection is required. I would start with UL.
 
Re: GFI, GFCI or nothing...for Analytical instrument with wa

I agree with Bryan, that the listing and installation instructions are the first place to look for this answer. It is good to see your concern.

Something to think about:
Coffee pots and other appliances contain open water in container within the appliance and generally do not require GFCI protection. Maybe your piece of equipment is similar in nature.
 
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