Description

In many industries, the manufacture, processing, transport or storage of combustible materials results in the creation or release of gases, vapors or mist into the environment. Other processes create combustible dust. An explosive atmosphere can form in conjunction with the oxygen in the air, resulting in an explosion if ignited.

Particularly in areas such as the chemical and petrochemical industries, the transport of crude oil and natural gas, the mining industry, milling (e.g. grain and granular solids) and many other branches of industry e.g textile industry or sewage plants protective measures have to  be taken to minimize the risk of an explosion. Hazardous areas are therefor divided into zones. Division into zones depends on the chronological and geographical probability of the presence of a hazardous, potentially explosive atmosphere. Corresponding to the definition of zones devices have to be certified for operation in Ex-zones.

Simatic HMI Panel PC Ex and Simatic HMI Thin Client Ex can be used directly in hazardous zones 1/21 and 2/22 without the need for special measures such as complex and expensive enclosures or additional certification processes. Furthermore the units are capable of withstanding considerable vibrations and shocks and have been certified for use in shipbuilding.

In addition the new SIMATIC HMI Comfort Panels can be used in ExZone 2 hazardous areas without additional housings.