I am a new member to this site and have a question that often comes up on oil and gas production sites.  When a compressor is located on one of these sites it is often in what is classed as a Class 1, Group D, Div II location which calls for elimination of potential sparking sources.  Is it possible to locate a spark ignited gas engine in a classified area and still comply with the applicable US codes?  This has also been a  problem in locating compressors on offshore platforms where the entire platform is classified.  In the past, ignition systems with shielded secondary wiring were often used but I'm not sure that this meets the code requirements.  On most of the new engines the ignition coil connects directly to the spark plug so there is really no secondary, high voltage wiring.  What is considered acceptable practice when a compressor with a spark ignited engine is located in a classified area/check valve?

On many production sites, available space may be limited which prevents the compressor from being located a long distance from any potential sources of explosive mixture.

Many gas engine manufacturers can provide engines that can operate in these areas.  Newer technology puts the ignition transformer under the valve cover, with an extender connecting it to the spark plug instead of a lead wire.

Most of the systems I worked on were listed by CSA, you can check with their website.

Part of my question is "do shielded ignition systems fully comply with Class 1, Grp D, DivII area classifications"?  Reason for asking is that I have seen photos of gas engines with shielded ignitions operating at night where you can clearly see a "corona" or blue haze around the secondary wiring that could be considered a source of ignition.

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