Definition

The Lower Explosive Limit is the minimum concentration of a flammable or combustible gas or vapor in the air below which it will not ignite or explode when exposed to a source of ignition. It represents the lower boundary for the presence of a potentially explosive atmosphere. Below the LEL, there is insufficient fuel to sustain combustion. The LEL is a critical parameter for assessing the safety of potentially hazardous environments, such as those in industrial settings.