Flameproof Enclosures

The flameproof (Ex d) technique, known as explosion proof in the USA and Canada, prevents an internal explosion propagating to the external atmosphere. Hazardous area equipment is surrounded by a strong enclosure, which can withstand internal explosions without igniting the external atmosphere.

This technique, which has been in use for over 80 years, allows high power levels but has the disadvantage that the enclosures are heavy and expensive and must not be opened without first disconnecting the electrical circuit or obtaining a 'gas-free certificate' for the relevant plant area.

An internal explosion can escape from the enclosure via flanges or threads that ‘cool’ the explosive gases before they enter the hazardous area, thus preventing an external explosion.

Expo supplies flameproof enclosures for use in protecting small switchgear and instrumentation, motors, generators and lamps.

We offer a comprehensive range of European certified flameproof boxes available. Accessories include windows, push buttons, switches and rotary switches. Certification allows a wide variety of electrical equipment to be installed.

The European Standard for Flameproof box is EN 50018. Equipment designed to this concept is suitable for use in Category 2, Zone 1 and Category 3, Zone 2 hazardous locations.