Explosion proof area light in the drilling platform lighting applications

Introduction: the special challenges of drilling platform lighting and Explosion proof area light is important

In offshore oil drilling platforms such as high-risk operating environment, Explosion proof area light are not only the cornerstone equipment, but also to protect personnel safety and production continuity of the core elements.

According to statistics, about 23% of the world’s industrial explosions and electrical equipment spark-related [Source: International Explosion Protection Association], and drilling platforms due to the presence of natural gas, hydrogen sulfide and other flammable and explosive gases, explosion-proof lighting system requires the highest level of performance.

In this paper, we will deeply analyze how Explosion proof area light to approve technological innovation to deal with the pain points of drilling platform lighting, and for the selection, installation and supply of professional advocacy.

First, why do drilling platforms have to use explosion-proof lights? Core scenarios and regulations analysis

1.1 Explosion risk in high-risk environments

Drilling platforms operating areas [such as drilling platforms, wellheads, oil and gas treatment areas] are always exposed to Class I Division 1 [flammable gases continue to exist], Division 2 [gases occasionally exist] in explosive environments. Once the traditional lamps and lanterns produce arc or surface high temperature, it is very easy to ignite the gas mixture.

Explosion proof area lamp to handle the program: approved explosion-proof [Ex d] or increased safety [Ex e] structural design, physical isolation of the internal sparks and the external environment, to ensure that the surface temperature is lower than the ignition point of the gas [such as the surface of the Explosion proof area lamp of the T6 level ≤ 85 ℃].

1.2 International explosion-proof certification system requirements

ATEX certification [EU]: mandatory equipment approval 94/9/EC Directive test

IECEx certification [International]: covering 80% of the world’s energy projects procurement guidelines

NEC 500/505 [North America]: Classification of hazardous areas

Without the approval of the above certification lamps and lanterns can not enter the mainstream rig supply chain, and Explosion proof area light need to be supplied with complete certification documents to meet the EPC general contractor audit.

Second, Explosion proof area light technology breakthrough: six advantages to empower the drilling platform

2.1 Corrosion-resistant materials: to cope with the harsh marine environment

Die-casting aluminum shell + tempered glass lampshade: approved ISO 9227 salt spray test 2000 hours IP68 protection level: to resist the impact of waves and salt spray infiltration [Case: a platform in the North Sea, the life of the lamps and lanterns increased to 8 years].

2.2 Intelligent dimming and energy management

Microwave sensor + light sensing linkage: automatic power reduction in unoccupied areas, energy saving 40% DALI 2.0 control system: centralized monitoring of the status of each Explosion proof area light, reducing inspection costs.

2.3 Maintenance-free design to reduce OPEX

COB integrated light source: life expectancy of 100,000 hours [traditional sodium lamps only 20,000 hours] Quick-open structure: 5 minutes to complete maintenance, compared with traditional Explosion proof area light to reduce downtime by 70%!

Thrid, Explosion proof area lamp selection guide: match the rig needs the fundamental parameters

3.1 Explosion-proof grade selection matrix

Drilling deck: gas type methane, propane, claim the explosion-proof grade Ex d IIC T6

Oil and gas treatment module: gas type hydrogen sulfide, Ex de IIC T4

Living area corridor: gas type non-hazardous area, claiming the explosion-proof class Ex tb IIIB T135°C

3.2 Optical design points

Anti-glare UGR<19: control the screen reflection in the drilling operation room 120° wide-angle light distribution: cover the derrick three-dimensional operation space

Fourth. Installation and maintenance: maximize the effectiveness of Explosion proof area light practical strategies

4.1 Explosion-proof electrical system integration specifications

Conduit sealing: the use of CMP level explosion-proof flexible tube grounding resistance <0.1Ω: to prevent static electricity accumulation [Norway NORSOK guidelines].

4.2 Predictive maintenance program

LoRaWAN sensor: real-time monitoring of lamps and lanterns temperature, humidity data, big data platform warning: 14 days in advance to identify the risk of aging capacitance.

Fifth. Case study: how Explosion proof area light can improve the operation index of drilling platforms

Gulf of Mexico deepwater platform renovation project

Background: the original lighting system annual failure rate of 12%, triggering three production suspension program: replacement of 278 LED Explosion proof area light [Ex d IIC T6/IP68] results: annual energy consumption reduced by 52,000 [electricity costs 52,000 [electricity costs 0.15/kWh] maintenance costs decreased by 67% to obtain the API RP 14F compliance certification

Sixth, the future momentum: Explosion proof area light intelligent and sustainable development

Digital twin technology: in the virtual platform to simulate the Explosion proof area lamp failure scenarios photovoltaic hybrid power supply: Explosion proof area light in off-grid areas + solar panel system recyclable materials: aluminum substrate recycling rate of 98% [in line with ISO 14021].

Conclusion: choose professional Explosion proof area lamp supplier core value

As an approved ATEX, IECEx dual-certified industrial Explosion proof area lamp manufacturer, Amasly Lighting has supplied customized lighting solutions for many offshore drilling platforms around the world. Our team of COMPEX-certified engineers can provide a full cycle of services from hazardous area zoning and luminaire selection to intelligent operation and maintenance.

Contact us today to find out how we can approve a compliant and efficient lighting system to reduce safety risks on your platform.