Placement of electrical components

Electronic control enclosures as well as other electrical equipment are best placed at a lower level, and away from gas generating units, process lines and storage containers. This is because hydrogen rises rapidly away from the ground and normally disperses quite quickly. Such placement is, however, not a substitute for appropriate enclosures since a slight breeze or draft can blow a hydrogen emission sideways and/or downwards, even when adequate ventilation has been provided for the gas to escape upwards and not collect. 

The control unit can also be isolated from the hazardous area with an appropriate barrier according to code. To understand the appropriate placement of electronic and electrical equipment in hazardous locations, review The NFPA s National Electrical Code, referred to as NFPA 70. Articles 500-516 are particularly relevant. 

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