Did you know that many of our load cells , evaluation units , and junction boxes are also optionally available for use in explosion-proof areas? Explosion protection is a crucial factor for industrial weighing systems in potentially explosive atmospheres today. But what exactly constitutes a hazardous area?
What is a danger zone?
A hazard zone is an area where a mixture of air and flammable substances – such as gas, vapors, mists, or dust – may be present, which can ignite explosively if triggered. Such ignitions can be caused by chemical reactions, sparks, or electromagnetic radiation.
The risk zones are classified according to the frequency and type of explosive atmosphere:
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Zones 0, 1, 2 – for gases and vapors
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Zones 20, 21, 22 – for combustible dust
ATEX, AREX and explosion protection – what's behind them?
ATEX (“ATmosphère EXplosible”) is EU Directive 2014/34/EU for equipment and protective systems used in potentially explosive atmospheres. In Germany, this directive is implemented through the Explosion Protection Products Ordinance (11th ProdSV). Equipment requires CE and Ex markings as well as a declaration of conformity.
In everyday language in German-speaking countries, the term AREX is frequently used, referring to ATEX/Ex protection. For load cells and complete weighing systems, it is crucial that both mechanical and electrical ignition sources are avoided – whether from sparks, heat, or impacts.
Explosion protection zones and equipment categories
Areas at risk of explosion are divided into zones:
Gases/vapors:
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Zone 0: permanently explosive atmosphere
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Zone 1: Occasionally explosive atmosphere
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Zone 2: rare/explosive atmosphere
Dust:
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Zone 20: permanently hazardous dust atmosphere
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Zone 21: occasionally
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Zone 22: rare
The ATEX equipment categories depend on the zone:
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Category 1 → Zone 0/20
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Category 2 → Zone 1/21
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Category 3 → Zone 2/22
A weighing system in Zone 1 or 21 therefore requires at least Category 2 Ex components.
Explosion-proof load cells – safety down to the last detail
Load cells for potentially explosive atmospheres are ATEX-tested and marked with the Ex symbol. They are designed to prevent sparks or excessive heating in the event of a fault – for example, through limited electrical power or secure enclosure.
Typical markings:
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Equipment group and zone (gas or dust)
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Device category
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Protection class (e.g. intrinsically safe “Ex i” or flameproof enclosure “Ex d”)
For North American markets, there are comparable certifications to FM that meet similar requirements.
Explosion protection for the entire weighing system
A complete weighing system includes load cells , a junction box or terminal box , and evaluation units . All components must be suitable for the respective hazardous area. Intrinsically safe signal barriers (Ex-i) are often used to ensure that only limited energy is present in the Ex zone.
Installation, shielding, grounding, cable routing, and operating instructions are also part of explosion protection. ATEX conformity is invalid without correct installation and maintenance.
Your partner for explosion-proof weighing technology
We offer load cells , evaluation units , and junction boxes suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Our products meet the requirements of the ATEX/AREX directives and guarantee reliable and safe measurements – even under extreme conditions.
Explosion-proof components are essential when operating scales or weighing systems in hazardous areas. From load cells and terminal boxes to evaluation units – we have the right solutions for your requirements.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation or request your quote directly for your weighing system in hazardous areas .