Glossary · Automation fundamentals, platforms and components
Explosion protection
Also known as: Ex protection, Hazardous area protection
German: Explosionsschutz
In safety engineering, explosion protection covers the measures that prevent explosions in potentially explosive atmospheres of gas, vapor or dust, or limit their effects. It includes avoiding explosive atmospheres, avoiding ignition sources and using equipment with suitable types of protection.
- Automation components
- Standards
- Process industry
In one sentence
Explosion protection covers measures that prevent or limit explosions in gas or dust atmospheres, including suitable Ex-rated equipment.
Example
A pump in a solvent area classed as Zone 1 is fitted with a motor in flameproof enclosure (Ex d) that is marked for this zone and gas group.
Explained in context
Context cards connect this term with others to answer one question. Also in British English and German.
How it applies
- Engineering: Areas are classified into zones based on the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere. Equipment is selected by zone, gas or dust group and temperature class. Types of protection include flameproof enclosure, increased safety and intrinsic safety, specified in the IEC 60079 series. In the EU, the ATEX directives apply.
- Maintenance: Work in hazardous areas needs permits, suitable tools and qualified staff; repairs must preserve the type of protection.
- Documentation: Instructions for Ex equipment must include the marking, conditions of use and special installation and maintenance requirements. Keep the explosion protection document and the zone drawings under change control; in Germany the update duty comes from § 6 of the GefStoffV.
Explosion protection vs. explosion hazard
An Explosion hazard is the potential source of harm. Explosion protection is the set of measures against it. Ex-rated equipment is one element; it does not make an installation safe without correct zoning, installation, inspection and operation.