Your comprehensive guide to explosion proof air conditioners
In environments where flammable gases, vapors, or dust create a risk of explosion, standard electrical equipment is a significant hazard. A simple spark from a conventional air conditioner can lead to catastrophic events. That’s where our specialized range of explosion proof air conditioners comes in. Engineered for safety and reliability, these units are designed to operate flawlessly in the most demanding and hazardous locations, ensuring your people, processes, and assets are protected.
Our explosion proof AC units provide effective climate control without compromising on safety, making them an essential component for any facility handling combustible materials.
What makes an air conditioner “explosion proof”?
An air conditioner is classified as explosion proof (or ‘Ex’) when it has been specifically designed and constructed to prevent it from igniting the surrounding atmosphere. This is achieved through several key principles:
- Contained explosions: The electrical enclosures are built to withstand an internal explosion from flammable gases or dust that may have entered. The enclosure prevents the internal spark or explosion from propagating into the wider hazardous environment.
- Spark prevention: All components, such as motors, compressors, thermostats, and wiring, are modified or sealed to eliminate the risk of creating an electrical spark.
- Surface temperature control: The unit is designed to ensure that its external surface temperature never reaches the auto-ignition temperature of the specific hazardous substances present in the area.
Every unit in our collection is rigorously tested and certified by internationally recognized standards to guarantee its safety and performance.
Understanding key certifications: ATEX & IECEx
When selecting an explosion proof air conditioner, understanding the certifications is crucial. These standards define the level of protection a unit offers and where it can be safely installed.
- ATEX certification: A mandatory requirement for all equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres within the European Union. ATEX directives classify hazardous areas into Zones (for gases/vapors) and ensure equipment meets strict safety standards for those specific zones (e.g., Zone 1, Zone 2).
- IECEx certification: An international certification system that provides a globally recognized mark of conformity. IECEx facilitates the international trade of equipment for use in hazardous areas, ensuring a consistent level of safety worldwide.
We offer units certified under both schemes, ensuring global compliance and the highest level of safety for your operations.
Applications and industries we serve
Explosion proof HVAC systems are critical in a wide range of industries where safety cannot be compromised. Our air conditioners are trusted by clients in sectors such as:
- Oil & gas: Onshore and offshore drilling rigs, refineries, and processing plants.
- Chemical manufacturing: Facilities producing or storing volatile chemicals.
- Petrochemical plants: Environments with flammable hydrocarbons.
- Pharmaceuticals: Laboratories and production areas with flammable solvents.
- Paint booths & storage: Locations with high concentrations of flammable fumes.
- Battery rooms: Areas where hydrogen gas can accumulate during charging cycles.
- Wastewater treatment plants: Facilities where methane and other gases are present.
Choosing the right type of explosion proof AC unit
Our extensive portfolio includes various types of air conditioners, converted for safe use in hazardous locations. We have a solution to match your specific spatial and cooling requirements.
- Explosion proof split systems: Offering powerful and efficient cooling with the flexibility of separating the indoor and outdoor units. Ideal for control rooms, analyzer shelters, and office cabins.
- Explosion proof window units: A compact and robust all-in-one solution that is easy to install in external walls or windows. Perfect for smaller cabins, storage rooms, or temporary structures.
- Explosion proof wall-mounted units: Similar to split systems, these provide efficient cooling for specific rooms without requiring significant structural modifications.
Find your compliant cooling solution today
Selecting the correct explosion proof air conditioner is a critical decision that impacts the safety and efficiency of your entire operation. Our team of experts is ready to help you navigate the complexities of certifications, classifications, and technical specifications.
Browse our selection of ATEX and IECEx certified products above or contact us today for a consultation. Let us help you find the safest and most effective climate control solution for your hazardous environment.
