In environments with dust or flammable gases, there is a risk of explosions. Electronic equipment used in these conditions must comply with strict explosion safety requirements. These requirements are laid down in ATEX 114, a European directive that sets standards for equipment in explosive atmospheres.
Explosion-proof products, also called Ex-proof, are essential in sectors such as offshore, shipping, mining, and the chemical and petrochemical industries. Equipment in these environments must operate safely without risk of ignition. To ensure this, various techniques are applied:
- Intrinsic safety: the maximum energy content is limited to a level where sparks cannot occur. This requires precise limitation of capacitive and inductive components, depending on the supply voltage and current.
- Shielding: electronics can be potted or housed in a robust, gas-tight enclosure maintained under positive pressure. This enclosure must withstand an internal explosion without endangering the surroundings.
Products complying with the ATEX 114 directive are marked with the Ex-logo, certifying them for use in explosive zones. The directive applies to a wide range of equipment, from industrial machinery to small measurement and control systems.
Expertise in ATEX-certified designs
Since the late 1990s, HedoN has developed ATEX-certified electronic products, focusing strongly on the offshore market. Designing electronics for explosive environments requires deep knowledge of regulations, material selection, and product testing. Thanks to years of experience and collaboration with international certification bodies and partners, we deliver reliable and innovative explosion-proof solutions.
Certification is complex and demands expertise in identifying and eliminating spark and ignition risks, designing according to ATEX guidelines, such as limiting voltage over a small number of larger capacitors, and implementing strict quality control during production. Only by carefully managing these aspects can we guarantee the highest safety standards for every component of the product.
One of HedoN’s latest ATEX-certified products is the Measurement Amplifier (MPA) for Huisman Equipment. This device is used in cranes to measure forces in mechanical installations via strain gauges on a hollow shaft. Achieving intrinsic safety was a technical challenge and was accomplished by:
- A maximum system capacitance (including 100 meters of cable) of approximately 600 nF.
- Voltage limitation over capacitors using fail-safe components.
- Compliance with strict EMC standards and certification by Lloyd’s Register.
Developing electronics for explosive environments?
Are you seeking a reliable partner for the development of explosion-proof electronics? Contact us at +31 (0)15 275 55 55 or fill out our contact form.