This International Standard specifies the explosion protection requirements for the design, construction, assessment and information for use (maintenance, repair, marking) of equipment that may be an individual item or form an assembly. This includes machinery and components placed on the market by a single supplier for use in mines susceptible to explosive atmospheres of firedamp and/or combustible dust. The standard atmospheric conditions (relating to the explosion characteristics of the atmosphere) under which it may be assumed that equipment can be operated are: - temperature -20 °C to +60 °C; - pressure 80 kPa (0,8 bar) to 110 kPa (1,1 bar); and - air with normal oxygen content, typically 21 % v/v. This International Standard applies for equipment and components according to EPL Mb to be used in explosive atmospheres containing firedamp and/or combustible dust. NOTE In some countries, there might be differences according to the classification, e.g. Mb is similar to category M2 in the European Union. It is necessary to take account of external conditions to the equipment which may affect the hazard and the resultant protection measures. These measures may include ventilation, gas detection or gas drainage. This International also deals with the prevention of ignitions of explosive atmospheres caused by burning (or smouldering) of combustible material such as fabric fibres, plastic ”O” - rings, rubber seals, lubricating oils or greases used in the construction of the equipment if such items could be an ignition source. For example, the mechanical failure of rotating shaft bearings can result in frictional heating that ignites its plastic cage, plastic seal or lubricating grease. Requirements and test procedures for flameproof motor enclosures and flame arresters in the intake and exhaust system are not part of this International Standard. Detailed requirements and test procedures for the fire protection of conveyer belts are not part of this International Standard.
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