Intrinsically Safe Scales
Intrinsically safe scales are specialized weighing instruments designed and certified to be used in hazardous environments where the presence of flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts poses a risk. These scales are crucial for industries where safety is paramount, and traditional scales may pose an ignition hazard. Intrinsically safe scales are constructed with specific design features and materials to prevent the generation of sparks or excessive heat that could ignite flammable substances. They often incorporate enclosures to protect components and ensure that any potential electrical or thermal energy is below the level required to ignite hazardous atmospheres. Intrinsically safe scales are often accredited with various certifications and approvals that help businesses comply with safety standards and regulations specific to hazardous environments. The most common approvals and certifications are:
ATEX Certification: Certification according to Atmosphères Explosibles (ATEX) standards, which are European regulations for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres.
IECEx Certification: The International Electrotechnical Commission's (IEC) certification system for explosive atmospheres, is recognized globally and ensures compliance with international standards.
FM Approval: FM Global is globally recognized, providing manufacturers and users with confidence that the intrinsically safe scales meet international safety standards.
UL Certification: In the United States, scales may be certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for intrinsic safety, ensuring they meet specific safety standards.
Intrinsically safe scales are used in the oil and gas sector, where explosive atmospheres are prevalent during refining and transportation activities. In chemical and paint processing plants, where flammable substances are handled, these scales are depended on for weighing materials in hazardous environments. In pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, where the production of certain substances involves the use of flammable materials, intrinsically safe scales ensure safe and accurate weighing processes. Any industrial setting with classified hazardous areas, such as zones defined by ATEX or similar classifications, may require the use of intrinsically safe scales to comply with safety regulations.
