Appleton :: A Closer Look at the Increased Safety (Ex e) Control Station
The 1996 CEC® gives plant managers a choice between Division and Zone classification systems for hazardous locations. Before choosing a system, electrical designers should fully assess the impact on equipment types and costs - particularly when it comes to IEC vs. CEC control stations (and, by association, Ex e vs. standard wiring terminals).
"What's the basic difference between IEC and CEC control stations?"
Depending on the Division, CEC-style control stations incorporate arcing devices in an explosionproof enclosure - or a non-explosionproof enclosure if the devices are factory sealed. IEC-style Ex e (Increased Safety) control stations contain factory-sealed devices with spring-loaded wiring terminals meeting international standards.
"OK. So, which are applicable where?"
In general, the following guidelines apply:
- Division 1 applications require explosionproof enclosures.
- Division 2 applications allow approved, factory-sealed devices in non-explosionproof enclosures.
- Zone 1 areas allow either explosionproof devices or factory-sealed devices that meet both the CEC and International Ex e standards.
- Zone 2 areas accept either Division 1 and 2 or Zone 1 control stations.
"Which are the most common?"
On average, 3-5% of areas are classified Division 1 or Zone 1, and 95-97% qualify as Division 2 or Zone 2. The CEC allows approved Division 1 and 2 equipment to be used respectively in Zone 1 or 2 areas, but does not allow equipment approved only for Zone classifications to be used in areas classified as Divisions.
"Anything else to bear in mind?"
All hazardous equipment used in the United States - including products designed to IEC standards - must meet the basic, ordinary-location requirements outlined in the CEC and related standards.
For more information about these highly complex issues and which classification system might be best for your plant, contact Appleton.
Faced With CEC® and IEC Control Station Jobs?
Simplify – With UniCode®-Style Div. 2 Contender®.
Domestic and international control station installations are simpler than ever - thanks to the new UniCode®-style Div.
2 Contender® from Appleton.
For starters, a single UniCode-style Div. 2 Contender station applies to both CEC and IEC jobs, for simpler specifications, maintenance routines, and inventory management. Beyond that, you'll also appreciate how other Contender features can simplify your worklife:
More Durability
Our all-aluminum control station meets CSA 4 and 4X; an aluminum cover/iron back box model meets CSA 4.
Both exceed the CSA 3R rating of Crouse-Hinds® Division 1 enclosure. An internal gasket is fully protected from UV light,
ice, and corrosives for a lasting seal. And a glass jewel with silicone elastomer fill protects the 100,000-hour LED pilot
lights from moisture and impact.
More Flexibility
Choose from a wide variety of selector switches, pushbuttons, and pilot lights. You can also choose from
single gang, two gang, or two-gang tandem configurations.
Interchangeability
UniCode Contender control stations are UL Classified to interchange with Crouse-Hinds® EDS back boxes,
giving you the option of adding a feature-rich cover without changing out your plant's existing boxes.
To learn how UniCode-style
Contender control stations can simplify your control station jobs here and around the world contact
Appleton.
- IEC or CEC?
- Shedding Some Light on Ex n Lighting
- A Closer Look at the Increased Safety (Ex e) Control Station
- Can You 'Mix' Zones and Divisions
- CSA vs. IP: What's the Difference?
- Appleton/ATX IEC Hazardous Locations Reference Guide
