Explosion Proof Solution (ATEX areas)
Where there is a danger of fire or explosion, safe equipment has to be chosen suited to the type of zone where it has to be installed. Such hazardous areas are characterized by the presence of gas, vapor, mist or dust that mixed with air make the atmosphere potentially explosive. In Europe the reference norm that rules the subject is the ATEX Directive 94/9/CE "Equipment and production systems for use in potentially explosive atmospheres", which has been compulsory since March 1st 1994.
The directive gives a classification of the hazardous areas and takes into account all potential sources of ignition of any nature, both electric and non electric, that can generate a risk of explosion. An explosion can be started not only by the electric installment but also by non electric components, such as hot surfaces, sparks caused by hits, materials friction, etc.
Hence, such types of equipment must use adaptations, techniques and materials which eliminate the risk of fire or explosion caused by arcs, sparks or high temperatures in the potentially dangerous environment in which they are installed. Equipment that comply with ATEX Directive 94/9/CE are marked CE and with the specific EX in the hexagon (explosion protection) followed by other symbols as shown in the sample tag below, referred to enclosures for electric panels. We have explosion-proof (ATEX) solutions for all our range of products.
