Flammability of common gases
Flammable gases are a critical consideration in many analyzer projects—especially when systems are installed in hazardous areas. Gases like hydrogen, methane, ethylene, and carbon monoxide pose an ignition risk that must be managed carefully to ensure safety and compliance.
Analyzer shelters are often located in classified zones such as Zone 1 or Zone 2 (ATEX/IECEx), or Class I Div 1 or 2 (NEC/NFPA). In these environments, selecting the right protection method—like purge and pressurization (Ex p)—is essential.
We’ve made it easier to understand the risks by compiling a helpful reference chart that outlines the flammability characteristics of common gases. You can view it here:
Gas Type |
GAS |
FLAMMABLE LIMITS |
|---|---|---|
Non-flammable(Asphyxiant)
|
Argon (Ar) Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Helium (He) Nitrogen (N2) |
N/A N/A N/A N/A |
Toxic / Corrosive |
Chlorine (Cl2) Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) |
N/A N/A |
Flammable
|
Hydrogen (H2) Methane (CH4) Ethane (C2H6) Propane (C3H8) Butane (C4H10) Pentane (C5H12) Carbon Monoxide (CO) Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) Ammonia (NH3) |
4% to 77% 4.4% to 17% 2.4% to 12.5% 1.7% to 10.9% 1.4% to 9.5% 1.5% to 7.8% 10.9% to 74% 3.9% to 45.5% 15.4% to 33.6% |
Oxidizer(Supports combustion)
|
Nitric oxide (NO) Nitrous oxide (N2O) Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) Oxygen (O2) |
N/A N/A N/A N/A |
If you’re working on an analyzer project in a hazardous area, we can help you design a compliant, efficient, and safe solution from the start.