The presence of ageing explosion-protected (Ex) electrical equipment in hazardous areas related to potentially explosive atmospheres, onshore and offshore, causes serious concern for those responsible for its operation and maintenance. This publication illustrates and highlights four main modes of degradation that lead to eventual failure of Ex electrical equipment to meet certification requirements and possible catastrophic failure:
This publication does not give recommendations as to the frequency of inspections for ageing Ex equipment, but acknowledges that the frequency and degree of inspection will depend on a number of factors, including the age of the equipment and severity of environmental conditions.
The investigation for this publication was carried out by Intertek Testing and Certification Ltd. on behalf of the EI's Electrical Committee to report on ageing Ex electrical equipment.
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