Explosion Proof Purging Pressurisation Panels
Purging and pressurisation (Ex p) is the preferred protection technique for electrical equipment that cannot be made intrinsically flameproof particularly large control panels, VFDs, PLCs, analyser systems, and computer equipment that must operate in Zone 1 or Zone 2 classified areas. Team Switchgear and Control LLC designs, manufactures, and tests Ex p purging and pressurisation panel assemblies from our Dubai facility, certified to IEC 60079-2, ATEX, and IECEx standards.
Scroll
Purge System Types and Application
| Type | Internal Zone Reduction | On Pressure Loss | Typical Application |
| Type X | Zone 1 → Non-hazardous | Auto de-energise | VFDs, analysers with ignition sources in Zone 1 |
| Type Y | Zone 1 → Zone 2 | Alarm only | PLCs, safe area electronics in Zone 1 |
| Type Z | Zone 2 → Non-hazardous | Alarm only | Standard equipment in Zone 2 |
What We Include in Every Ex p System
- ATEX/IECEx certified purge controller (BARTEC or Pepperl+Fuchs) pre-purge sequence, pressure monitoring, alarm/trip outputs
- Certified Ex p enclosure aluminium, stainless steel, or GRP with precision door sealing
- Clean instrument air inlet with filter/regulator and solenoid valve
- Internal cooling arrangement fan forced or heat exchanger depending on heat load
- Remote alarm and trip outputs (potential-free contacts) for DCS/SCADA interface
- Internal lighting, maintenance socket, and door switch interlock
- Pressure relief valve and pressure relief vent with Ex d rated outlet
- Complete commissioning package pre-purge test, pressure decay test, and controller calibration records
What pressure level is maintained in an Ex p panel?
The minimum overpressure required by IEC 60079-2 is 0.5 mbar above the surrounding atmosphere. In practice, most systems are set to maintain 5–15 mbar overpressure to provide a comfortable safety margin above the minimum setpoint and account for minor leakage through cable glands and door seals. The specific setpoint is determined during commissioning and recorded in the purge test certificate.
Is clean instrument air always required, or can nitrogen be used?
Both clean instrument air (CIA) and nitrogen (N2) can be used as the purging medium, depending on the application. CIA is more common as it is typically available across Oil & Gas facilities from the instrument air header. Nitrogen is preferred for applications where the internal equipment is sensitive to moisture or oxygen such as some analyser systems or battery rooms. We design the purge system to accept whichever medium is specified by the client or available at the installation location.