ATEX control cabinets for hazardous areas
- In accordance with ATEX 114
- Explosion-proof design
- Tested & documented
ATEX control cabinets Zone 1/21 for explosion-proof applications
A ATEX control cabinet for Zone 1 or Zone 21 is designed for use in environments where gas or dust explosion hazards are present. Think of petrochemistry, offshore, silos or the food industry. For these zones, strict regulations apply from the ATEX 114 directive and international standard IEC 60079. The design, choice of materials and execution of cable transits must meet specific safety requirements to minimize explosion risks. Engineers and purchasers working on projects in these sectors look for reliable solutions that can be proven to conform to the correct zone classification and pass inspections without problems.
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What are ATEX control cabinets Zone 1/21?
An ATEX control cabinet is a control cabinet or panel designed specifically for use in explosive environments. Different zones are distinguished within the ATEX Directive, including Zone 1 (gas explosion hazard) and Zone 21 (dust explosion hazard). In these environments, even a small ignition source can lead to an explosion. Therefore, control cabinets must meet very strict requirements in terms of design, material selection and sealing.
For engineers and purchasers, this means that a cabinet must not only be electrically correctly constructed, but must also demonstrably comply with the safety regulations of ATEX 114 (2014/34/EU) and the international standard IEC 60079. This ensures that the installation can operate safely and is immediately approved during inspections.
Important standards and guidelines
ATEX 114 (2014/34/EU)
The ATEX 114 directive is the European regulation for equipment used in explosive environments. For control cabinets, this means that design, assembly and marking must be carried out in accordance with this directive. Important to emphasize: it is about “conforming to ATEX 114” and not a loose claim of “ATEX certified product”. The purpose of this directive is to create uniformity within the EU and ensure the safety of installations.
IEC 60079
In addition to ATEX, reference is often made to the international standard IEC 60079, which is the worldwide standard for explosion-proof installations. This standard provides technical details on construction, temperature classes, IP protection and permitted materials. For companies operating internationally, IEC 60079 is an important complement to the European ATEX directive.
Zone classification and meaning
Understanding zoning is essential for correct design.
- Zone 1: an environment where gas explosion hazards are likely during normal operation. Examples: petrochemical plants, gas compressor stations, offshore platforms.
- Zone 21: an environment where dust explosion hazards are present during normal operation. Examples: silos, bulk handling, food production (flour, sugar, powders).
The difference between gas and dust zones directly affects the choice of materials, seals and internal components of the control box.
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Applications in industry
ATEX control cabinets Zone 1 and 21 are widely used in industries where safety is vital.
- Petrochemicals and oil & gas: for pumping systems, compressors and process control.
- Offshore and marine: in drilling rigs, ships and maritime installations.
- Food & bulk handling: for silos, conveyors and mixing plants where dust accumulation may occur.
- Chemical industry: at reactors and mixing systems where flammable vapors or substances are released.
In all these sectors, it is crucial that the control cabinet is not only robust, but also demonstrably explosion-proof according to applicable standards.
Benefits of ATEX control cabinets
Applying ATEX-compliant control cabinets offers several advantages:
- Safety: protection against ignition sources in explosive environments.
- Reliability: robust design and materials that can withstand harsh conditions.
- International acceptance: compliance with ATEX 114 and IEC 60079 makes export easier.
- Efficient inspections: approved faster by regulators thanks to clear marking and documentation.
- Future-proof: suitable for a variety of applications in sectors with stringent safety requirements.
The process from design to commissioning
Realizing an ATEX control cabinet starts with a careful design. In EPLAN Pro Panel, the cabinet is built virtually, including choice of materials, IP protection and cable entries. During this stage, zone classification and the technical requirements of ATEX 114 and IEC 60079 are taken into account.
In the construction phase, the cabinet is assembled from suitable materials such as stainless steel, aluminum or polyester, and fitted with explosion-proof glands, gaskets and seals. All internal wiring is carried out in accordance with NEN 60204-1, ensuring electrical safety.
The cabinet is then subjected to a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) to verify correct construction and wiring. Installation is followed by the Site Acceptance Test (SAT), where the cabinet is tested in the actual operating environment. Finally, all documentation is provided, including markings and schematics, so that the cabinet can be demonstrably used in accordance with ATEX.
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With Gerbin Control as your partner, you benefit from several specific advantages. We strive for reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and offer electrical components that meet the highest standards. In addition, we combine flexibility with competitive pricing, increase the efficiency of your systems and machines, and have an international network and UL/CSA certification.
Gerbin Control as your partner for ATEX control cabinets
Designing and building ATEX control cabinets for Zone 1 and Zone 21 requires in-depth knowledge of the applicable standards and the specific risks in explosive environments. Companies operating in petrochemicals, offshore or food & bulk handling need cabinets that are not only robust, but also demonstrably compliant with ATEX 114 (2014/34/EU) and IEC 60079. However, for many organizations it is a challenge to fully translate this into a practical and safe design.
Gerbin Control combines expertise in panel construction and hardware engineering with years of experience in applying international guidelines. We design our control cabinets in EPLAN Pro Panel, use only suitable materials and perform strict checks during the construction phase. Then FAT and SAT tests ensure that the cabinets function safely, both in the workshop and in the final operating environment.
With Gerbin Control, you choose a partner that puts safety, quality and reliability first. Our solutions can be used in a variety of sectors and offer the assurance that your installation will be approved immediately during inspections. Contact us today for advice or a no-obligation quote.
Frequently asked questions about ATEX control cabinets
What is the difference between Zone 1 and Zone 21?
Zone 1 refers to an environment where gas explosion hazards are likely to be present during normal operation, such as in petrochemical plants or offshore platforms. Zone 21 deals with dust explosion hazards, such as in silos or food production where flour or powder may be released. The type of explosion risk directly determines the requirements for material selection, sealing and construction of the cabinet.
What materials are used for ATEX control cabinets?
Depending on the application, stainless steel, aluminum or polyester are often used. These materials are robust and resistant to corrosion, high temperatures and external influences. The choice depends on zoning and environmental factors, such as moisture, chemicals or mechanical stress.
How does a cabinet comply with ATEX 114?
A cabinet complies with ATEX 114 (2014/34/EU) if design, choice of materials, cable entries and markings have been carried out in accordance with the directive. This must be demonstrated through documentation, test results and inspections. It is therefore a process from design to completion, not just a product label.
What role does IEC 60079 play in explosion-proof cabinets?
IEC 60079 is the international standard that describes the technical details for explosion-proof installations. This standard complements ATEX by providing guidelines for things such as temperature classes, construction requirements, IP protection and seals. For international projects, IEC 60079 is often the reference alongside the European ATEX directive.
What are typical applications of Zone 1/21 control cabinets?
Zone 1 control cabinets are often used in petrochemical plants, oil and gas platforms and marine environments. Zone 21 cabinets are mainly found in bulk and food production, where dust accumulation can lead to explosion hazards. In both cases, these are industries where reliability and safety are top priorities.
