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Can PLCs be used in hazardous or explosive environments?
Yes - but only with the right certifications. Discover which PLCs, protection methods, and installation rules apply in explosive environments.
Categories: Process IT
- https://conet.nl/news/process-it/can-plcs-be-used-in-hazardous-or-explosive-environments/
Yes, PLCs can be used in hazardous or explosive environments, but only when they are specifically certified and configured for that purpose. Standard off-the-shelf PLCs are not suitable for use in areas where flammable gases, vapors, dusts, or explosive atmospheres may be present. The right combination of certification, protection method, and installation practice determines whether a PLC can operate safely in these conditions. This article walks through the key questions engineers and plant managers face when specifying PLCs for hazardous locations.
For combustible dusts, equivalent classifications apply under Zone 20, 21, and 22. The zone classification directly determines which protection methods and equipment certifications are required. Any electrical device installed in or near these zones must be evaluated against the specific hazard present, whether that is a flammable solvent in a chemical plant, natural gas in an oil and gas facility, or flour dust in a food processing environment. What certifications do PLCs need for hazardous area use?
PLCs intended for use in hazardous areas must carry recognized explosion protection certifications that confirm the equipment has been independently tested and approved for use in specific zone classifications. In Europe, the primary certification framework is ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles), gove...