Explosion proof bulkhead light in marine lighting applications: marine lighting to fix the program

Introduction: the special challenges of marine lighting and Explosion proof bulkhead light core value

Ships as a long-term in high humidity, high salt spray, flammable and explosive gas environment special operating platform, the lighting equipment safety requirements are extremely demanding. According to statistics, about 18% of the world’s ship fire accidents and electrical equipment failure, and Explosion proof bulkhead light with its explosion-proof, waterproof, corrosion-resistant features, into a guarantee of crew safety and ship operation continuity of the fundamental equipment.

In this paper, we will explore the Explosion proof bulkhead light in the ship lighting technology advantages, application scenarios and future momentum for the industry to supply professional reference.

First, why must ships choose explosion-proof lights? Environmental risks and regulatory requirements

1.1 Ship explosion risk in high-risk areas

Ship engine room, cargo hold, fuel storage area and other areas are always exposed to Class I Division 1 [flammable gas persistence] environment. Traditional lamps and lanterns in the high temperature or arc action probably ignite oil and gas mixtures, and Explosion proof bulkhead light approved ** explosion-proof [Ex d] or increased safety [Ex e] ** structural design, the internal sparks and the external environment to isolate, to ensure that the surface temperature is lower than the ignition point of the gas [such as T6 grade ≤ 85 ℃].

1.2 Mandatory requirements of international maritime regulations

SOLAS Convention: the hazardous area of the ship must be used by ATEX or IECEx certified explosion-proof equipment. DNV-GL guidelines: clear lamps and lanterns need to have IP68 protection level to resist seawater erosion, and approval of the salt spray test for more than 2,000 hours. Not up to standard equipment will not be able to approve the classification society audit, resulting in ships can not be allowed to sail.

Segundo, Explosion proof bulkhead light technology breakthrough: five advantages empowering marine lighting

2.1 Anti-corrosion and waterproof design

Die-casting aluminum alloy shell + tempered glass lampshade: combined with surface electrostatic spray process, approved ISO 9227 salt spray test, life expectancy of more than 8 years [Case: a cargo ship in the North Sea lighting system transformation]. Dual lampshade structure: the inner explosion-proof transparent cover combined with the outer waterproof cover, even if the inner cover is ruptured, the outer layer can still maintain the protective function to avoid secondary accidents.

2.2 Intelligent air pressure balance and heat dissipation technology

Air pressure balancing component: Approve the elastic sealing ring to regulate the air pressure inside and outside the lamp shell to prevent the lampshade from blowing up due to the sudden rise of temperature. Heat dissipation fin design: Adopting heat-conducting materials and air convection structure, it reduces the working temperature of the lamps and lanterns by 30% and extends the life of the LED light source to 100,000 hours.

2.3 Emergency Lighting and Intelligent Management

180-minute emergency range: Built-in lithium battery module, automatic switching when the main power supply fails, to protect the fundamental area lighting [such as escape routes]. IOT remote monitoring: Approve DALI 2.0 system to monitor the status of lamps and lanterns in real time, warn of failure and improve energy consumption.

Third. Ship Explosion proof bulkhead light selection guide: the fundamental parameters and scene adaptation

3.1 Explosion-proof grade and protection standard matching

Cabin and Fuel tanks: Risk class Class I Div 1, recommended explosion-proof lamps Ex d IIC T6 / IP68

Deck and living quarters: Risk class Class I Div 2, recommended explosion-proof lamps Ex e IIB T4 / IP66

Cargo compartments (chemical tankers): Risk class Zone 1 Ex tD A21, recommended explosion-protected lamps IP68 T80°C

3.2 Optical design and energy efficiency improvement

Wide-angle light distribution [120°×60°]: covering narrow cabin space, eliminating lighting blind zones 2. low-glare design [UGR<19]: reducing visual fatigue of the crew and improving operational safety.

Fourth, installation and maintenance: to protect the explosion-proof lights long-lasting operation of the core strategy

4.1 Professional installation specifications

Sealed conduit and grounding: using explosion-proof flexible tube [CMP grade] connection, grounding resistance should be <0.1Ω to prevent static electricity accumulation. Waterproof venting valve: add venting holes and water-blocking ring in the luminaire shell to balance the air pressure and prevent seawater from seeping in at the same time.

4.2 Predictive Maintenance Program

LoRaWAN sensor monitoring: real-time collection of temperature and humidity data, 14 days advance warning of capacitor aging risk.

Modularized quick-disassembly design: complete the replacement of the lampshade within 5 minutes, reducing the ship’s downtime for maintenance.

Fifth. Case Study: How Explosion proof bulkhead light can enhance the ship’s operational efficiency

Renovation project of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier in Northern Europe

Background: The original lighting system had an annual failure rate of 15%, which led to many failed safety inspections.

Solution: Replaced with 220 LED Explosion proof bulkhead light [Ex d IIC T6/IP68], integrated intelligent control system.

Results: 45% reduction in energy consumption, annual savings of more than 60,000 U.S. dollars in electricity costs; maintenance costs reduced by 70%, approved DNV-GL annual certification.

Sixth, the future momentum: explosion-proof lights intelligent and green transformation

Digital twin technology: approved 3D modeling simulation lamps and lanterns in extreme sea conditions performance, improved design.

Photovoltaic – energy storage systems: explosion-proof lights for off-grid areas to reduce reliance on diesel generators [Case: a cruise ship deck lighting retrofit].

Recyclable material application: aluminum alloy shell recycling rate of 98%, in line with IMO 2025 environmental regulations.

Conclusion: the core value of choosing a professional explosion-proof light supplier

As an approved ATEX, IECEx double certified ship explosion-proof lights manufacturer, Amasly Lighting That has supplied customized lighting solutions for many ships around the world.

Our products cover the full range of explosion-proof, safety-enhanced and non-sparking types, with the help of DALI intelligent control and emergency function integration. Contact us today for a guide to compliant design and cost improvement.