Interesting facts on the subject of "explosion protection

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  • What are the potentially explosive atmospheres?

    Ex areas, also called potentially explosive areas or explosive zones, are defined by so-called Ex zones. These zones indicate how high the risk of an explosive atmosphere is in a certain area. Ex zones are classified according to international standards and directives, the best known being the ATEX directives (ATmosphères EXplosibles) for Europe and the NEC/CEC codes (National Electrical Code/Canadian Electrical Code) for North America. The following are the basic Ex zones:

    1. **Zone 0 (Gas)**: A zone in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a mixture of gases is present continuously or for long periods of time. There is a high risk of explosion in this zone.

    2. **Zone 1 (gas)**: A place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture of gases is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally.

    3. **Zone 2 (gas)**: A zone in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a mixture of gases is unlikely to occur in normal operation and, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only.

    4. **Zone 20 (dust)**: A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of dust clouds is present continuously or for long periods. This may occur in environments where dust is present in large quantities.

    5. **Zone 21 (dust)**: A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of dust is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally.

    6. **Zone 22 (dust)**: A zone in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a dust cloud is unlikely to occur in normal operation and, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only.

    It is important to note that exact classifications and standards may vary by region and industry. Selection of explosion-proof equipment and sensors, including laser distance sensors, should be made with consideration of these zones and the specific hazards and requirements of the environment.

  • What is the difference between Ex-i and Ex-d protection?

    Ex-i and Ex-d protection are two types of explosion protection. The difference between them lies in the way they prevent an explosion. Ex-i protection (intrinsic safety) is a method in which electrical equipment is designed so that it cannot produce sparks that could cause an explosion. Ex-d protection (flameproof enclosure) is a method in which electrical equipment is placed in an enclosure designed to prevent an explosion. Both methods are designed to prevent an explosion, but they do so in different ways.