Explosion-proof electrical and mechanical devices may only be brought to market if they meet the EU directive 94/9/EU and the so-called ATEX-100a Directive and are accordingly certified. This also applies to sensors in explosion hazard areas. Baluff is introducing a complete line of ATEX-conformal inductive sensors for hazardous areas.
For general applications in explosion hazard areas the tubular D6.5 x 30, M8 x 30, M12 x 45, M18 x 45, M30 x 50 sensors as well as two 40 x 40 x 66 mm block-style models are available.
The ATEX approved series of NAMUR sensors with a II 2G rating is available for standard applications in Zone 1, ie, in an explosive atmosphere at normal pressure. The sensors are used in conjunction with a safety barrier located outside the hazardous area, which limits power for the sensor interface. Balluff carries two of such switching amplifiers from Bartec for a supply voltage of 120 or 230 V.
New for hydraulic applications in potentially explosive areas is a series of oil pressure rated sensors with an "n' rating for Zone 2. These sensors are made of stainless steel. A special sealing technique provides hydraulic fluid pressure resistance to 500 bar. The sensors are also IP68 protected. Sensors in this series feature a "standard' PNP interface. Also offered for hydraulic applications are oil pressure-resistant NAMUR sensors for Zone 1 with an Ex II 2G EEx ia IIC T6 rating. With a housing size of M12 x 1 the assured switching distance is 1.2 mm. Balluff offers these sensors with the old as well as the new NAMUR-conformal pin configuration.
