About ATEX
What is ATEX?
Atex stands for ATmosphere EXplosible which is defined as a mixture consisting of air and flammable substances in the form of gas, vapour, mist or dust and has the potential to either explode or catch fire.
This definition has been defined in the European guideline for locations with the threat of explosions. Examples of companies that operate in a working environment with explosive substances are oil platforms, certain mines or power plants.
The guideline mentioned above defines the requirements that a mobile device intended for use in ATEX environments must meet in order to comply with European standards. This ensures that the product can obtain the valuable CE marking. The CE marking confirms that a product meets the requirements set out by European legislation.
ATEX locations must be classified into different zones. This classification depends on two factors. First, it is important to determine whether the risk involves a gas explosion or a dust explosion. Second, the classification is based on how frequently an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur.
ATEX zones
Present for long periods/permanently (more than 1000h per year)
Present occasionally (between 10h and 1000h per year)
Present accidentally (less than 10h per year)
Gas explosion danger
Zone 0
Zone 1
Zone 2
Dust explosion danger
Zone 20
Zone 21
Zone 22
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Bcom Technology supplies rugged smartphones and tablets that are ATEX-certified for Zone 1 and Zone 21. This means the devices can be safely used in areas with combustible gases as well as areas with combustible dust.
Atex Zone 1
ATEX Equipment Category 2G – Designed to be safe during normal operation and foreseeable malfunctions. This category applies to locations where an explosive atmosphere, consisting of a mixture of air and flammable substances, may be present.
Atex Zone 2
ATEX Equipment Category 3G – Safe under normal operation only A place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of flammable substances in the form of gas or vapour.
Atex Zone 21
A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally (from 0,1hrs to 10hrs/365d).
Atex Zone 22
A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period.
Types of protection
Explosion-Proof Enclosure – Its function is to contain any potential explosion within the enclosure, preventing it from escaping into the surrounding atmosphere through flame paths.
Specialized in ATEX certified mobile devices classified as ATEX zone 1 and zone 21. Work smarter in harsh environments.