In this blog, we’ll help you understand flameproof panels – from key design principles to their applications across industrial zones to enhance safety and compliance.
Let’s Begin!
Industrial settings may pose several hazards to the working staff and assets. One can face volatile gases, dust, vapours and other chemicals. The situation becomes dire if a short circuit happens, which may lead to fire and explosion. So, you will find flameproof control panels in such an industrial setting. These control panels ensure safety and compliance while operating machinery in risky surroundings.
Design Principles of Flameproof Panels
Flameproof panels are essentially switchboards designed for industries with volatile and hazardous substances. Flameproof panels follow a few critical design principles to ensure safety and reliability:
- Explosion Containment
These panels can contain internal explosions and stop them from spreading. They can withstand extreme temperatures, and circuit breakers will cut the power supply if the panels become too hot. Additionally, these panels have tight machine paths to cool down the hot gas before exiting.
- Robust Materials Used
Materials like cast aluminium or steel are used to make the panels. Hence, explosion-proof panels don’t ignite or corrode easily.
- Enclosure Seals and Cable Entry
They have certified flameproof cable glands and sealing systems so that no hazardous gas enters the enclosure.
- Compliance with Standards
Made to comply with global safety standards:
- IEC 60079-1 “Ex d” for flameproof design.
- ATEX (EU), IECEx (Global), PESO(Índia)
Read More: Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Flameproof Control Panels
Applications Across Industry Zones:
Industries have diverse regions with different risks. So, these hazardous regions are divided into zones. There are three types of zones based on the amount of inflammable gases or vapours present for how long. Out of these zones, Zone 0 is the most hazardous while Zone 3 is the least.
Zone 0
This zone has explosive gases or vapours constantly present, hence the environment here is the most perilous one. One needs to set up Flameproof plc panels with the best level of safety (Ex ia or Ex s containers).
Zone 1
When explosive gases aren’t always present, such areas are Zone 1. Opt for panels for Zone 1, which can be Ex d, Ex ib, Ex e, Ex p, Ex s, Ex o, Ex m, Ex q and Zone 0 equipment.
Zone 2
This zone demands the least care as the explosive materials are rarely present or can be foreseen. One can choose Flameproof control panels for Zone 2, like Ex n or Ex N, and also the equipment for Zone 0 or Zone 1.
Clean Rooms
These are special areas used in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Clean rooms must follow flameproof protocols along with hygiene standards.
You May Find This Blog Important: Flameproof Zones
Related Flameproof Products:
Flameproof panels are part of a broader hazard control ecosystem that includes:
- Junction Boxes: These are safe enclosures for wire endings. They maintain the integrity of wires across the joints.
- PLC Panels: These panels are used to automate machines in risk-prone areas. They include purge and pressure enclosures.
- Control Stations: They supply power to various machinery. They house push buttons, selector switches, and indicators.
- Cable Glands & Conduits: Help to maintain flameproof integrity at entry points.
- Distribution Panels & MCCs: Power control units in hazardous areas.
Check Out This Detailed Guide: A Comprehensive Guide on Flameproof Control Stations
Importance of Compliance and Certification
Industries have to follow several compliances and certifications. Not meeting these compliances can lead to legal implications and even penalties. On the other hand, following the protocols imparts several benefits. First, it boosts the safety of the people working in unsafe environments. It shows how responsible and concerned any organisation is towards its crew members.
Further, it also helps to keep the system running without the need for repairs and replacements. It can also reduce the adverse effects on the environment.
Conclusion
Flameproof panels are vital for maintaining fire safety in any risky industrial setting. These panels can not only contain explosions and fire but also prevent them from spreading. This equipment can make the industrial premises a safer place to work. So, take a step towards transforming your work area by investing in flameproof panels. Built for demanding applications, Flameproof panels from Bharat Flameproof offers the safety, control, and dependability essential in explosive-prone environments.
FAQs
Explosion-proof panels can contain internal explosions. But flameproof panels can stop internal explosions from reaching the outside.
Yes, but only if explicitly certified for Zone 0. For most use cases, installations are recommended in Zones 1 and 2 to simplify design and reduce costs.
Flame paths in a flameproof panel allow the gases to cool down during the path before coming out.
Do checks every 3–6 months are recommended. Look for any damage to panels, joints, seals, flame paths, and cable glands.
