New approach in electrical drives at risk of explosive atmospheres

This paper discusses the risks of ignition sources which may appear due to the utilisation of electrical drives in areas at risk of explosive atmospheres. The main goal is to present the traditional approach to mitigation of those risks, as well as to identify its disadvantages. The option to introduce technical diagnostics in the field of explosion protection presents the central part of this paper which discusses the use of technical diagnostics based on the voltage pulse response analysis and cage rotor bars conductivity measurement on induction motor as a reliable tool for detection of ignition sources. Detection of faults which cannot be identified using the traditional approach tools was analysed. Based on the research results the new approach is suggested which allows for the overall and reliable assessment of the explosion protection properties of the motor during its longtime service. Recognition of the need to timely identify induction motor faults in electrical drives, as potential sources of ignition of explosive atmosphere, is the essential conclusion and contribution of this research.