Overview
IEC 60079-32-2:2015 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on the testing methods related to electrostatic hazards in explosive atmospheres. This part of the IEC 60079 series provides essential test methods to control and evaluate risks of ignition and electrostatic shock hazards caused by static electricity. It is applicable to both electrical and non-electrical machinery and equipment used in potentially explosive environments.
The standard offers detailed procedures on measuring equipment and product properties such as surface resistance, earth leakage resistance, powder resistivity, liquid conductivity, capacitance, and the evaluation of incendivity of provoked discharges. It supports risk assessments and development of product standards designed to minimize static electricity hazards.
Key Topics
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Test Methods for Static Electricity Control
IEC 60079-32-2 details standard procedures for testing various parameters critical to ensuring electrostatic safety, including:
- Surface resistance and resistivity
- Volume resistivity and leakage resistance
- Powder resistivity and liquid conductivity
- Capacitance and transferred charge assessments
- Charge decay and breakdown voltage measurements
- Ignition tests for evaluating incendivity from discharges
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Risk Assessment Guidance
The standard is intended as a foundation for conducting electrostatic hazard risk assessments in explosive environments to identify potential ignition sources.
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Integration with IEC 60079 Series
IEC 60079-32-2 is designed to complement existing equipment and product standards within the IEC 60079 series, providing the latest knowledge on electrostatics testing techniques. It clarifies application conflicts with IEC 60079-0 concerning test climates and requirements.
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Test Sample Preparation and Reporting
Procedures include detailed guidelines on apparatus setup, test sample selection, step-by-step testing methods, acceptance criteria, and reporting requirements to maintain consistency and reliability of results.
Applications
IEC 60079-32-2:2015 is vital for industries where explosive atmospheres may be present and electrostatic hazards need to be controlled, including:
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Oil and Gas Industry
Testing equipment and materials used in refineries, petrochemical plants, and distribution facilities to prevent ignition from static discharges.
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Chemical and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Ensuring safe operation of non-electrical machinery and powder handling equipment where static charge buildup is a significant risk.
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Mining and Bulk Material Handling
Evaluating footwear, gloves, and equipment used in environments with combustible dust and gases to reduce electrostatic ignition chances.
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Electrical Equipment Design and Certification
Guiding manufacturers on compliance with international electrostatic safety requirements as part of equipment certification processes.
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Product Family Standards Development
Assisting standards developers in preparing dedicated product standards focusing on electrostatic hazard tests specific to different machine types or processes.
Related Standards
IEC 60079-32-2:2015 should be used in conjunction with related standards in the IEC 60079 series for comprehensive explosive atmosphere protection:
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IEC 60079-0: Explosive Atmospheres - Equipment - General Requirements
Fundamental requirements for electrical equipment in explosive atmospheres.
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IEC 60079-32-1: Electrostatics Hazards - Part 32-1: Basic Principles and Methods
Covers the basic principles, hazards, and risk assessment techniques related to static electricity.
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IEC 60079-14: Electrical Installations Design and Installation
Addresses requirements for electrical installation safety in hazardous areas.
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IEC 60079-10: Classification of Hazardous Areas
Guidelines for the identification and classification of explosive atmospheres.
Conclusion
IEC 60079-32-2:2015 is an authoritative guide for professionals seeking reliable test methods to evaluate and control electrostatic hazards in explosive atmospheres. By following the standard, manufacturers, engineers, and safety experts can effectively design, assess, and certify equipment to minimize ignition risks posed by static electricity. Its detailed, standardized testing procedures promote safety, compliance, and industry best practices in environments prone to ignition hazards from electrostatic discharges.
