ATEXATEX Atmosphere Classification

ATEX is a term commonly used in potentially explosive atmospheres. An explosive atmosphere is defined as a mixture of flammable substances in the form of gases, vapours or dusts which may ignite in the form of an explosion if exposed to an ignition source.

Since 2003, European directives have made it mandatory to use ATEX certified enclosures and equipment in potentially explosive areas. This complies with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).

Explosion proof enclosure: Ex da, db or dc

Explosion proof equipment is an enclosure that contains equipment/components that can ignite an explosive gas atmosphere. An explosion proof enclosure must:

Suppress internal explosions without deforming the enclosure (withstand explosion pressure)

Guarantee that ignition does not spread to the surrounding atmosphere

External temperature is below the atmospheric auto-ignition temperature