Ex 16A / 32A / 63A / 125A explosion-proof sockets

Ex-rated explosion-proof sockets with a mechanical lock

The customer’s problem

Accidentally removing the plug from the socket whilst electricity is flowing may cause an electric arc. In an atmosphere containing flammable gases, vapours or dust, the arc may act as a source of ignition.

Solution

HSP1P******W-SCT sockets are fitted with a mechanical lock that prevents the plug from being removed whilst the circuit remains live.

For the 16 A and 32 A versions:

• the plug is inserted into the socket,
• Turning the plug triggers the internal switch,
• the plug remains locked in the operating position,
• It can only be removed once it has been turned to the ‘off’ position.

For the 63 A and 125 A variants:

• the plug is inserted into the socket,
• the power is switched on using a knob on the housing,
• the mechanism prevents the plug from being removed,
• The plug is only released once the knob has been turned to the ‘off’ position.

Benefits for the user

• reducing the risk of disconnection under load,
• protection against the formation of a dangerous electric arc,
• ensuring the correct sequence of operations,
• a lower risk of damage to the contacts,
• greater operator safety.

Ex-rated industrial sockets with built-in circuit breaker

The customer’s problem

In standard sockets, the plug may be connected to the contacts whilst the circuit is live. The operator cannot always be certain whether current is flowing through the contacts at the moment the plug is inserted or removed.

Solution

The **HSP1P******W-SCT sockets feature a built-in circuit breaker linked to the locking mechanism.

In the 16 A and 32 A versions, the switch is operated by turning the plug. Simply inserting the plug does not switch the circuit on. In the 63 A and 125 A versions, switching on and off is carried out using a separate rotary knob on the socket cover. In both cases, the position of the control element determines the state of the socket and whether the plug can be removed.

Benefits for the user

• controlled power-up,
• no need to use a separate switch directly next to the socket,
• intuitive operation,
• limiting the number of live-line operations.

The built-in socket circuit breaker is not a substitute for installation safety measures. The circuit should be fitted with appropriately selected short-circuit and overload protection.

Ex sockets with protection against the plug being removed whilst under load

The customer’s problem

The operator may attempt to disconnect the device without first switching off the power supply. This leads to faster wear of the contacts, arcing and an increased risk of ignition of an explosive atmosphere.

Solution

The design of the HSP1P******W-SCT sockets means that the ability to remove the plug is mechanically dependent on the position of the switch.

The plug may only be disconnected once the circuit has been switched off:

• by turning the plug to the ‘off’ position on the 16 A and 32 A versions,
• by turning the knob to the ‘off’ position on the 63 A and 125 A models.

Benefits for the user

Safety does not depend solely on the operator behaving correctly. The design of the machine physically prevents dangerous operations from being carried out.

How can electrical equipment be safely connected in an Ex zone?

Before connecting the device, check that the socket and plug are compatible in terms of:

• rated current,
• voltages,
• the number and arrangement of contacts,
• markings indicating explosion-proof construction,
• temperature conditions,
• the diameter and cross-section of the cable.

16 A and 32 A versions

• Make sure the socket is switched off.
• Insert the correct plug.
• Block the call.
• Turn the plug to the ‘on’ position.
• When you have finished using the appliance, turn the plug to the ‘off’ position.
• Release the lock and remove the plug.
• Close the protective cover on the socket.

Models 63 A and 125 A

• Make sure the knob is in the ‘off’ position.
• Insert the correct plug.
• Block the call.
• Turn the knob on the housing to the ‘on’ position.
• When you have finished working, turn the knob to the ‘off’ position.
• Release the lock and remove the plug.
• Close the protective cover.

Sockets for explosive gas and dust atmospheres

The customer’s problem

A plant may contain both areas at risk of gas and vapour explosions and areas where combustible dusts pose a hazard. The use of separate systems of equipment complicates the design and maintenance of the installation.

Solution

HSP1P******W-SCT sockets are designed for use in:

• Zones 1 and 2 where there is a risk of explosion from gases, vapours and mists,
• Zones 21 and 22, where there is a risk of explosion from combustible dust and fibres.

Series explosion-proof designation:

II 2G Ex db eb IIC T6…T4 Gb
II 2D Ex tb IIIC T80°C Db

The equipment can be selected for gases in groups IIA, IIB and IIC, and for dusts in groups IIIA, IIIB and IIIC.

Benefits for the user

• the possibility of standardising equipment in different parts of the plant,
• simpler spare parts management,
• limiting the number of different plug-in systems,
• easier training for maintenance staff.

Ex-rated sockets for chemical plants and refineries

The customer’s problem

In chemical and petrochemical plants and refineries, electrical equipment is simultaneously exposed to explosive atmospheres, moisture, corrosive vapours, temperature fluctuations and heavy-duty operation.

Solution

HSP1P******W-SCT sockets connect:

• explosion-proof design for gases and dusts,
• a casing made of glass-fibre-reinforced BMC (GRP variant),
• IP66 protection rating,
• ageing- and temperature-resistant silicone seals,
• a mechanical plug lock,
• built-in switch,
• a wide operating temperature range.

Typical applications

• power supply for portable service equipment,
• maintenance bays,
• technological equipment,
• pumps and agitators,
• heaters,
• measuring instruments,
• auxiliary systems,
• equipment used during maintenance shutdowns.

ATEX sockets for portable and service equipment

The customer’s problem

Portable devices are connected and disconnected repeatedly. This increases the risk of operator error, wear and tear on the contacts, and the cable becoming disconnected during operation.

Solution

The HSP1P******W-SCT sockets enable the safe power supply of compatible portable devices in Ex zones.

Mechanical lock:

• stabilises the connection,
• prevents the plug from being pulled out accidentally,
• forces the circuit to be switched off before disconnection,
• reduces the risk of an electric arc forming.

The self-cleaning design of the contact sleeves helps to remove some of the deposits from the contact surfaces whilst the connection is being made.

The solution can be used, amongst other things, to power:

• portable pumps,
• fans,
• measuring instruments,
• renovation equipment,
• Ex-rated units and process equipment,
• mobile service vehicles.

Explosion-proof sockets with a current rating of up to 125 A

The website shows typical versions of the HSP1P******W-SCT sockets for currents of:

• 16 A / 32 A / 63 A / 125 A.

Depending on the installation requirements, we can also supply the following variants:

• 10 A / 20 A / 25 A / 30 A / 50 A / 60 A / 100 A / 115 A.

This makes it possible to select a solution suitable for both small service units and much more powerful receivers.

Available contact configurations

• 2P,
• 3P – 2P + PE,
• 3P – 1P + N + PE,
• 4P – 3P + PE,
• 4P – 3P + PE + NO,
• 5P – 3P + N + PE,
• 5P – 3P + N + PE + NO.

An auxiliary NO contact can be used, amongst other things, for signalling, control or monitoring the connection status. Its availability depends on the specific current rating and version.

The sockets are available in versions designed for alternating currents up to 690 V AC and direct currents up to 250 V DC.

Protection against the accidental use of the wrong plug

The customer’s problem

A single installation may contain sockets with different voltages, rated currents and intended uses. Connecting a device incorrectly may result in damage to the appliance or pose a hazard.

Solution

The HSP1P******W-SCT system employs several levels of security.

Colour-coding for voltage

The colour of the socket and plug components helps you to quickly identify the voltage range. This reduces the risk of connecting the appliance to a circuit with incorrect specifications.

The colour is for guidance only. Always check the rating data before making a connection.

Protection against connecting components with different current ratings

The mechanical design of sockets and plugs with different rated currents prevents them from being connected accidentally. A plug designed for a different current rating will not fit into the socket.

Protection against the connection of a standard non-Ex plug

The design of the socket prevents the connection of a standard non-Ex industrial plug. This reduces the risk of accidentally using equipment that is not intended for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere.

Benefits for the user

• a lower risk of voltage errors,
• it is not possible to connect components with incompatible currents,
• a safeguard against the use of a standard industrial plug,
• easier identification of circuits by operators.

How do you choose an explosion-proof socket to match a plug?

The selection process should begin by determining the specifications of the device to be powered.

1. Rated current

The rated current of the socket and plug must correspond to the specifications of the circuit and the load. Typical ratings include 16 A, 32 A, 63 A and 125 A.

2. Voltage

You should check the device’s rated voltage and the colour coding of the system. The colour alone is no substitute for checking the rating plate.

3. Number and arrangement of contacts

It should be determined whether the installation requires:

• two contacts,
• two terminals and the PE,
• phase, neutral and PE conductors,
• three-phase and PE,
• three phases, the neutral conductor and the PE conductor,
• an additional NO auxiliary contact.

4. Type of Ex zone

The device’s marking must correspond to the classification of the installation site, the gas or dust group, and the required temperature class.

5. Ambient temperature

The maximum permissible temperature depends on the specific variant, the current, the cable cross-section and the temperature class.

6. Cable

The following should be taken into account:

• core cross-section,
• the outer diameter of the cable,
• the number of cores,
• temperature resistance of the insulation,
• type of gland,
• the need to use a reinforced or non-reinforced cable.

7. How to use

The following design difference should be taken into account:

• 16 A and 32 A – activated by turning the plug,
• 63 A and 125 A – operated by a knob on the housing.

IP66 explosion-proof sockets for outdoor use

The customer’s problem

Equipment installed outdoors is exposed to rain, snow, dust, damp, condensation and fluctuating temperatures.

Solution

HSP1P******W-SCT sockets offer an IP66 protection rating. The housing and sealing components protect the interior from dust and powerful jets of water.

Silicone seals are resistant to:

• low temperatures,
• a high temperature,
• ageing,
• changing weather conditions.

Once the plug has been removed, the socket must be covered with a protective cap. The degree of protection of the entire installation also depends on the correct selection and fitting of cable glands and end caps.

Benefits for the user

• suitable for outdoor installation,
• protection against dust and water,
• minimising the impact of weather conditions on electrical connections,
• a lower risk of moisture getting inside.

IP66 does not mean that the device is intended for permanent immersion or that water may be directed into an open socket.

Ex sockets resistant to corrosion and low temperatures

The customer’s problem

In outdoor, marine, chemical and process installations, equipment may be exposed to low temperatures, moisture and corrosive substances.

Solution

The socket housing is made of glass-fibre-reinforced, antistatic BMC polyester resin.

The material ensures:

• resistance to typical corrosion of metal casings,
• high mechanical strength,
• thermal stability,
• good insulating properties,
• suitable for use in demanding industrial environments.

The minimum operating temperature for this series is -45°C. The maximum permissible temperature depends on the specific model and may be up to +65°C.

Benefits for the user

• suitable for use in outdoor installations,
• suitable for use in cold climates and unheated buildings,
• reducing problems associated with corrosion of the housing,
• longer service life in harsh environments.

Self-cleaning contact sleeves

The customer’s problem

Dust, deposits and contaminants on the contacts can increase the resistance of the connection, cause overheating and compromise the reliability of the power supply.

Solution

The contact sleeves used in **HSP1P******W-SCT sockets feature sliding elements. When mated with a plug, the contact surfaces are mechanically cleaned.

Benefits for the user

• a more stable electrical connection,
• reducing the build-up of deposits,
• a lower risk of developing resistance,
• greater reliability when connecting repeatedly.

The self-cleaning function is no substitute for regular inspections and maintenance.

Two cable entry points to make installation easier

Depending on the size and rated current of the **HSP1P******W-SCT socket, it may have two threaded cable entry holes:

• 2 × M20 or 2 × M25 for the smallest sockets,
• 2 × M25 for selected 10–20 A sockets,
• 2 × M32 or 2 × M40 for 20–32 A sockets,
• 2 × M50 for 50–63 A sockets,
• 2 × M63 for 100–125 A sockets.

The two entry points make it easier to adjust the direction in which the cables are routed and may allow for through-wiring. Any unused openings are sealed with suitable, certified Ex-rated blind plugs.