How to choose the right explosion-safe floodlight for my environment?

Selecting the right explosion-proof floodlight is crucial to ensuring workplace safety in areas with explosion hazards. In doing so, it is important to consider several aspects, such as the specific ATEX/ IECEx zone, the type of explosive atmosphere (gas or dust), and required certifications and protection methods.
Follow these steps to choose the appropriate explosion-proof floodlight:

1. Determine the ATEX zone.
The first step is to identify the appropriate ATEX zone, based on the presence of explosive gases or dust in the environment. Zones are classified as follows:

• For gas environments:
  • Zone 0: Explosive atmosphere is always or almost always present;
  • Zone 1: Explosive atmosphere is likely under normal conditions;
  • Zone 2: Explosive atmosphere is unlikely but may occur briefly.
• For dust environments:
  • Zone 20: Dust is always or continuously present in explosive concentrations;
  • Zone 21: Dust may be present in explosive concentrations under normal conditions;
  • Zone 22: Dust is unlikely but may be present in explosive concentrations for a short period of time.

2. Choose the right protection for the ATEX zone.
Explosion-proof lighting is certified for use in specific zones. It is very important to select the right protection method, tailored to the zone in which the lighting will be placed. The most common protection methods are:

• Ex d (pressure protected): Suitable for gas environments where the lighting can safely withstand an explosion within the enclosure;
• Ex e (increased safety): For situations where extra protection is needed against sparks or overheating, often used in gas environments;
• Ex p (overpressure protection): Lighting is placed under overpressure to prevent the entry of explosive substances;
• Ex n (normal operation): For environments where the probability of an explosive atmosphere is low but may be present.

Depending on the zone (e.g., Zone 1 or Zone 2), choose the appropriate protection method.

3. Check the temperature class
The temperature class of an Explosion-proof floodlight is essential to prevent the lighting from being an ignition source in an explosive atmosphere. This class indicates the maximum surface temperature of the lamp, which must always be lower than the ignition temperature of the gases or substances present.
The temperature classes are:

• T1: Max. 450°C
• T2: Max. 300°C
• T3: Max. 200°C
• T4: Max. 135°C
• T5: Max. 100°C
• T6: Max. 85°C

Choose a temperature class appropriate for the substances in your environment (e.g., T6 for environments with gases or vapors that ignite quickly).

4. Pay attention to the protection rating (IP rating).
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates how well the lighting is protected from dust and water. The IP rating consists of two digits:

• The first digit (0-6) indicates protection against dust;
• The second digit (0-9) gives the protection against water.

A minimum IP65 is required for ATEX environments, which means the lighting is completely dustproof and resistant to water jets.

5. Choose the right wattage and mounting options
Our ATEX Floodlights are available in a variety of wattages and can be mounted in different ways depending on the environment and type of installation. Make sure the lights have the correct wattage to evenly illuminate the area and are suitable for the installation conditions (e.g., wall mount, ceiling mount, etc.).

6. Check certifications and standards
Always check the lighting's ATEX/ IECEx certifications. Lighting must comply with relevant ATEX/ IECEx standards, such as:

• Ex II 2 G: Suitable for gas environments (zones 1 and 2);
• Ex II 2 D: Suitable for dust environments (zones 21 and 22).

Ensure that the lighting is approved by an accredited body and complies with European directives (e.g. ATEX 2014/34/EU).

Summary

To choose the right explosion-proof floodlight:

1. Determine the ATEX zone (gas or dust) and associated risks;
2. Choose the appropriate protection method (Ex d, Ex e, Ex p, etc.) for the zone;
3. Check the temperature class of the lighting;
4. Ensure proper IP rating for protection against dust and water;
5. Check wattage and mounting options;
6. Always check the lighting's ATEX certifications and standards.

By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that you choose the right explosion-proof floodlight for a safe workplace in hazardous areas.
If you are interested in our ATEX range, check out our selection here.
If you want to know more about ATEX lighting in general, read our blog here.

Need advice?

Choosing the right ATEX lighting depends on your specific situation and wishes. Ask our lighting consultants for advice. They will gladly advise you without any obligation and can answer all your questions.

You can reach us in many ways:

Calling via +31 (0)85 - 0060455
Whatsapping via +31 (0)85 - 0060455
E-mail via sales@vocare-ledlight.com
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Feel free to contact us and we will be happy to tell you more about the possibilities.