How to choose an ATEX enclosure: 6 questions to ask

You can’t choose an enclosure for an explosive atmosphere from a catalogue alone. Here are the six questions our experts ask with every request.

1. In which zone will the enclosure be installed?

The zone (0, 1, 2 for gases, 20, 21, 22 for dusts) determines the required equipment category. Our enclosures cover zones 1, 2, 21 and 22. ATEX zones

2. Which gas or dust?

The gas group (IIA, IIB, IIC) and the auto-ignition temperature set the equipment’s group and temperature class. Hydrogen requires IIB+H2 or IIC equipment. Gas groups

3. What will the enclosure contain?

Terminals only: an Ex e enclosure is enough. Contactors, circuit breakers or relays: generally an Ex d enclosure. Certified push buttons and switches: an Ex e enclosure may be suitable. Ex d or Ex e?

4. In what environment?

Outdoors, sea spray, chemicals, cleaning: the material matters as much as the type of protection. Polyester, aluminium alloy, cast iron or 316L stainless steel? 316L stainless steel enclosures

5. What ambient temperatures?

−20 °C / +40 °C as standard. Beyond that, options are available depending on the range: down to −55 °C / up to +60 °C for BAS-P, BAS-A and BAS-I Ex e enclosures (−40 °C / +60 °C for the BAS-P9 lighting switch), down to −50 °C / up to +60 °C for CAS IIB+H2 enclosures, down to −60 °C / up to +80 °C for EJB, EJC and GUB enclosures.

6. For which country?

ATEX in Europe, IECEx internationally, INMETRO in Brazil, UL/CSA in North America, TR CU in Eurasia. International certifications

Have the answers? Request your study. Not sure? Our experts will help you answer them.