Industrial Networks For Harsh Environments And Potentially Explosive Atmospheres

Exloc Instruments are bridging a gap in the field of safe automation applications with network components that have been developed specifically for Ex and Hazardous areas.

When using Ethernet-enabled end devices in an Ex area, safe and reliable network technology is vital and the compact network switches and media converters we offer from PRIMATION Systemtechnik make it possible to lay both (Read More) copper and fibre-optic cables in ATEX Zone 1 areas.

Transmission distances of up to 550m (multimode) and 2km (single mode) enable remote plant sections to connect to a central control system. The network devices have integrated, intrinsically safe optical interfaces in the form of FO transceivers.

Utilising a bandwidth of 1 Gbit, there is sufficient capacity to also transfer signals from high resolution cameras or full HD terminals. The devices are designed for use in temperature ranges from -40 °C to +80 °C and are extremely reliable, with an MTBF time of over 2,000,000 hours.

An aluminium version is available for Gas Zone 1 and Dust Zone 21, and a stainless steel version is available for use in Zone Mining M2.

There are some distinct advantages to using fibre-optic cables in the Ex areas including long distance
data transmission and minimum noise susceptibility from electromagnetic fields.

However, transmission systems themselves also conceal risks as when FO cable networks are used in an Ex area, it’s essential to guarantee that an explosive atmosphere cannot be ignited under
any circumstances. Danger can often arise due to excessive output on optical ports on standard switches.

To prevent this, PRIMATION uses special, certified transceiver modules which are connected upstream of the standard switches, thus limiting the energy.

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