First it’s important to understand where they’re used and why. Hazardous locations are defined as a building or area where fire or explosion hazards may exist due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, liquids, combustible dust, or ignitable fibers.
An explosion proof valve utilizes thick metal components that surround the coil, this will contain the explosion and ensure that any escaping gases are cooled below the ignition temperature of the surrounding atmosphere. All explosion proof valves have an "E" in front of their model number.