ATEX & IECEx Zones & Equipment
ATEX & IECEx Zones & Equipment
An atmosphere can become potentially explosive when it contains dangerous levels of flammable gases, mists or dusts.
If a source of ignition is then introduced, combustion can occur.
The risk of explosion can be reduced by preventing the release or build-up of flammable substances and by eliminating sources of ignition.
However first we need to understand if or how long an explosive atmosphere could be present.
This is where zones are introduced and in general this is based on historical information as per;
The following table shows Zones in relation to ATEX safety categories that equipment is required to meet to ensure the correct level of protection is applied within a potentially explosive atmosphere;
The following table shows Gas Sub Groups for surface industries, their example/typical substance in relation to which “gas areas” they are suitable for use;
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