ATEXExbehuizingen

ATEXExbehuizingen are explosion-protected enclosures used to house electrical equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres, in line with the ATEX directive and European standards. They are designed to prevent ignition of surrounding gas, vapor or dust by containing energy released inside the enclosure and by limiting surface temperatures or sparks that could ignite the environment.

The protection concepts commonly implemented in Ex-behuizingen include flameproof enclosures (Ex d), increased safety (Ex e), intrinsic safety (Ex i), non-sparking or resistive concepts (Ex n), and dust-ignition protection (Ex t or Ex tb). Each concept defines how the enclosure manages electrical energy, mechanical strength, and environmental factors to maintain safe conditions. Enclosures are marked with Ex symbols indicating the protection concept, the relevant gas or dust group, temperature class, and equipment category. Typical markings may include information about II 2G or II 2D, Ex d or Ex e, a temperature rating, and Gb or Db for equipment protection levels.

Construction and materials vary, but Ex-behuizingen are usually made of robust metals such as aluminum or stainless steel and are equipped with seals, gaskets, and Ex-rated cable glands. They are designed to withstand specified IP ingress protections and environmental conditions, including humidity, dust, and corrosion. The enclosure must maintain its protective function under fault conditions, and any aperture or gland is selected to preserve the integrity of the protection concept.

Certification and maintenance are essential. Ex-behuizingen must undergo conformity assessment by a notified body under ATEX (and often EN 60079 standards), with possible IECEx certification as an international alternative. Regular inspection of seals, gaskets, and fittings, and avoidance of modifications that could compromise protection, are required. They find use in oil and gas, chemical processing, mining, and other industries with hazardous atmospheres.