Explosion Proof Air Conditioners

Ex-Machinery specializes in converting high-quality HVAC systems into explosion-safe air conditioners designed for operation in hazardous and potentially explosive environments. These systems are certified for use in Zone 2 / Zone 22 areas and are engineered to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term performance in demanding industrial conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions – Explosion-Proof Air Conditioners

What is an explosion-proof air conditioner?
An explosion-proof air conditioner is a specially engineered HVAC system designed for use in hazardous and potentially explosive environments. These units are modified and certified to prevent ignition of flammable gases or dust and are typically compliant with ATEX Zone 2 and Zone 22 requirements.

Where are explosion-proof air conditioners used?
Explosion-proof air conditioners are commonly used in:
Oil & gas facilities
Chemical and petrochemical plants
Offshore platforms and marine vessels
Battery rooms and energy storage areas
Control rooms and analyzer shelters
Refineries, fuel storage, and hazardous warehouses

Which ATEX zones require explosion-proof air conditioning?
Explosion-proof air conditioners are primarily used in:
ATEX Zone 2 (Gas) – where explosive gas atmospheres are not expected during normal operation but may occur occasionally
ATEX Zone 22 (Dust) – where combustible dust may be present occasionally

Can explosion-proof air conditioners be used in high ambient temperatures?
Yes. Certain explosion-proof air conditioners are specifically designed for high ambient temperatures up to 52°C and even 55°C, making them ideal for GCC, Middle East, desert, and offshore environments where standard HVAC systems may fail.

Do explosion-proof air conditioners support 24/7 operation?
Yes. Many explosion-proof air conditioners are designed for 24/7 continuous duty, especially models used in analyzer rooms, battery rooms, and control shelters where maintaining stable temperature is critical at all times.

What certifications should an explosion-proof air conditioner have?
A certified explosion-proof air conditioner should comply with:
ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU
Relevant EN IEC 60079 standards
Certification should clearly indicate suitability for the intended gas or dust zone.

Are explosion-proof air conditioners different from standard industrial air conditioners?
Yes. Unlike standard industrial air conditioners, explosion-proof air conditioners undergo special modifications, including:
Spark-free electrical components
Surface temperature control
Certified enclosures and protection methods
These modifications ensure safe operation in hazardous areas.

Can explosion-proof air conditioners provide both cooling and heating?
Yes. Most explosion-proof air conditioners are designed to provide both cooling and heating, allowing stable climate control during extreme daytime heat and cooler night temperatures, especially in desert and offshore environments.

What types of indoor units are available for explosion-proof air conditioners?
Explosion-proof air conditioners are available with multiple indoor unit options, including:
Wall-mounted units
Ceiling-suspended units
Cassette units
Ducted units
Availability depends on the selected model and application.

Can explosion-proof air conditioners be connected to BMS or DCS systems?
Yes. Many explosion-proof air conditioners can be integrated with Building Management Systems (BMS) or Distributed Control Systems (DCS) for centralized monitoring and control, subject to project requirements.

Is it possible to install only part of the system in a hazardous area?
Yes. Explosion-proof air conditioners offer flexible configurations, such as:
Indoor unit in hazardous area with outdoor unit in safe area
Indoor unit in safe area with outdoor unit in hazardous area
Both indoor and outdoor units certified for hazardous areas

How do I select the right explosion-proof air conditioner for my application?
Selecting the right explosion-proof air conditioner depends on several factors, including:
ATEX zone classification
Ambient temperature conditions
Cooling and heating load
Continuous duty requirements
Installation location and space

A detailed technical evaluation is recommended before final selection.