What is the maximum distance from a Zone 0 location where seals shall be provided for conduits?

The maximum distance from a Zone 0 location where seals must be provided for conduits is 10 feet. This requirement is rooted in safety regulations aimed at mitigating the risk of hazardous materials escaping from an area where they are present in a gaseous or vapor form. Zone 0 indicates an area in which explosive gases are present continuously or for long periods, thus necessitating stringent control measures.

Seals are critical because they prevent the migration of flammable or toxic gases into electrical equipment, reducing the risk of ignition and ensuring safe operation. The 10-foot guideline effectively balances safety and practicality, ensuring that sealed areas are close enough to the hazardous location to restrict gas flow while allowing enough room for installation and maintenance of electrical equipment.

Adhering to this maximum distance helps maintain the safety integrity of installations in hazardous zones, aligning with industry standards and codes such as the National Electrical Code (NEC) and international standards relating to hazardous locations.