This document provides specific requirements for process sealing between electrical systems and flammable or combustible process fluids where a failure could allow the migration of process fluids directly into the electrical system. Examples of this type of seal include diaphragm seals, thermowells, and pump seals. The requirements of this document are not meant to apply to electrical conduit and cable seals as addressed in ANSI/NFPA 70 : 2002 Section 501.5 (C) and 505.16 (D).

Requirements for basic electrical safety and explosion protection are not addressed by this document, but may apply to equipment under investigation. The secondary effects of leakage to the environment are not addressed by this document.

Purpose

The purpose of this document is to provide construction and performance requirements for devices that incorporate process seals to eliminate the need for the additional sealing requirements included in ANSI/NFPA 70 : 2002 Sections 501.5(F)(3) and 505.16(E)(3)