Comparing IECEx, ATEX, UL913 certifications for Apple iPhone
When working in high-risk industries like oil, gas, or manufacturing, safety isn't optional - it's critical. Ex-certified mobile devices are specifically designed to prevent sparks and ignition in explosive atmospheres. Here's a quick look at the top safety standards every organization should know, the three top ones are certifications for hazardous areas, while the next two are standards for ruggedization used in military and civil applications:
- ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU: Focuses on explosion safety in European Zone 1 areas, requiring devices to prevent sparks, control heat, and resist dust and water (IP66).
- IECEx Certification: A global standard ensuring explosion protection through rigorous testing, quality checks, and ongoing surveillance.
- UL 913: North American safety standard limiting electrical and thermal energy to prevent ignition in Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations.
- IP65/68 Ratings: Protects devices from dust, water jets, and even submersion, ensuring durability in tough environments.
- MIL-STD-810H: Tests for extreme conditions like temperature, shock, vibration, and humidity to ensure devices withstand industrial challenges.
Quick Comparison
|
Standard
|
Focus
|
Region
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Key Features
|
|
ATEX Directive
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Explosion safety
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Europe
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Spark prevention, heat control, IP66
|
|
IECEx Certification
|
Global explosion safety
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International
|
Rigorous testing, ongoing compliance
|
|
UL 913
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Intrinsic safety
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North America
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Limits energy output, Class I, Division 1
|
|
IP65/68 Ratings
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Dust/water protection
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Global
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Dust-tight, water-resistant/submersible
|
|
MIL-STD-810H
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Durability testing
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Global
|
Extreme condition resistance
|
These standards work together to ensure mobile devices are safe, durable, and compliant in hazardous environments. Always verify certifications, maintain compliance, and train staff to handle devices properly.
1. Decoding ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU: Zone 1 Safety Rules
The ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU outlines strict safety standards for mobile devices used in Zone 1 areas - locations where explosive atmospheres are a frequent hazard [1].
Key Safety Features
To meet ATEX Zone 1 compliance, mobile devices must include the following safety measures:
- Explosion Containment: Devices must have casings capable of containing internal explosions, preventing external hazards [1].
- Thermal Control: Battery protection systems are essential to manage temperature increases and avoid overheating [1].
- Protected Electronics: Internal components should be designed to eliminate potential spark sources.
- Environmental Shield: Devices must be built to an IP66 standard, ensuring protection against dust and water ingress [1].
These features are not just one-time requirements - they must be consistently monitored and maintained to ensure ongoing compliance.
Maintaining Compliance
Organizations operating in Zone 1 environments are responsible for ensuring adherence to ATEX standards through:
- Risk Management: Conduct regular assessments to identify and mitigate potential ignition risks [1].
- Document Compliance: Keep detailed records of conformity declarations and safety evaluations [1].
- Staff Training: Equip personnel with the knowledge to handle devices safely and respond effectively in emergencies [1].
The ATEX Directive replaced Directive 94/9EC on April 20, 2016, as part of the updated legislative framework [2].
Temperature and Gas Classifications
The table below outlines temperature classifications and maximum surface temperatures for equipment designed for Zone 1 environments:
|
Equipment Category
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Temperature Class
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Maximum Surface Temperature
|
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Category 2G
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T4
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275°F (135°C)
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Category 2G
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T3
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392°F (200°C)
|
|
Category 2G
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T2
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572°F (300°C)
|
These classifications help define the safe operating limits of devices in explosive atmospheres, ensuring they can handle specific environmental risks effectively.
2. IECEx Rules for Global Use
The IECEx system sets the benchmark for explosion protection certification, recognized across more than 30 member countries worldwide [3]. This framework ensures that mobile devices used in hazardous environments meet strict safety standards through thorough testing and continuous compliance checks. It builds on established safety protocols, offering a unified global standard.
Certification Process Components
The IECEx certification process consists of three essential steps:
Test and Assessment Report (ExTR)
During this stage, authorized labs perform extensive testing [3], including:
-
- A 28-day aging test on the device enclosure to assess durability
- Verification of the ingress protection (IP) rating
- Static electricity testing on external surfaces
- Measuring maximum surface temperatures to determine the appropriate T-rating
Quality Assessment Report (QAR)
Manufacturers must demonstrate consistent adherence to production quality standards, proper facility upkeep, and the original certified design specifications [3].
Ongoing Surveillance
Regular inspections are conducted to ensure manufacturers maintain compliance with safety standards, manufacturing practices, and design requirements [3].
These steps not only confirm product safety but also simplify access to international markets.
Global Recognition Benefits
IECEx certification offers several key advantages for businesses operating internationally:
- Cuts costs by eliminating redundant testing
- Provides a globally recognized certification process
- Boosts confidence in product safety across international markets
- Facilitates easier access to IECEx member countries
Temperature Classifications
Devices operating in explosive environments must comply with strict temperature limits. These classifications ensure safety in various settings:
|
Temperature Class
|
Maximum Surface Temperature
|
Typical Application
|
|
T6
|
185°F (85°C)
|
Highly volatile environments
|
|
T5
|
212°F (100°C)
|
Standard industrial settings
|
|
T4
|
275°F (135°C)
|
General hazardous areas
|
"The objective of the IECEx System is to facilitate international trade in equipment and services for use in explosive atmospheres while maintaining the required level of safety." - IECEx [3]
Practical Implementation
To maintain compliance with IECEx standards, manufacturers should:
- Use pre-certified components to speed up the approval process
- Maintain detailed testing records and enforce regular quality checks
- Train personnel thoroughly to handle and inspect certified equipment
3. UL 913 Safety Testing Standards
In North America, UL 913 sets the benchmark for intrinsic safety in mobile devices, complementing the global standards like ATEX and IECEx discussed earlier. This standard focuses on ensuring that devices operate safely in hazardous environments by limiting both electrical and thermal energy to levels that won't trigger an explosion in volatile atmospheres. Here's a breakdown of UL 913's key safety parameters.
Core Safety Requirements
For UL 913 certification, mobile devices must meet stringent criteria to guarantee intrinsic safety:
|
Safety Aspect
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Requirement
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Purpose
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|
Electrical Energy
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Below ignition thresholds
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Prevents spark generation
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Thermal Output
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Controlled surface temperatures
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Avoids heat-induced ignition
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|
Circuit Protection
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Fault-tolerant electronics
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Ensures safety during failures
|
Testing Procedures
Devices certified under UL 913 must reliably function in Class I, II, and III, Division 1 hazardous locations. The testing process evaluates:
- Voltage and current limits to ensure they stay below ignition thresholds
- Surface temperature ratings under extreme conditions
- Performance during component failures
- Durability against environmental stresses, such as vibrations or moisture
These assessments confirm that devices minimize ignition risks, even under challenging conditions.
Industry Applications
UL 913-certified devices are widely used in high-risk industries, including oil refineries and chemical manufacturing facilities, where safety is critical.
Verification Process
To confirm a device complies with UL 913, follow these steps:
- Look for UL certification labels on the device, specifically indicating Class I, Division 1 compliance.
- Review the product’s documentation to ensure it explicitly references UL 913 certification.
- Use UL's Product iQ Database to verify the certification details.
Safety Benefits
UL 913 certification significantly reduces ignition risks by limiting energy outputs, making it a vital standard for hazardous environments. By adhering to this rigorous framework, organizations can protect their workforce and infrastructure while ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
4. IP65/68 Water and Dust Protection
In hazardous environments, ensuring mobile devices are shielded from water and dust is a critical step in maintaining safety. Beyond adhering to strict electrical and explosion protection standards, physical barriers against these elements add another layer of security. The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system, established by the IEC 60529 standard, evaluates how effectively devices resist environmental challenges.
Understanding IP Ratings
The IP rating uses two digits to specify protection levels:
|
Digit Position
|
Protection Type
|
Maximum Rating
|
Meaning
|
|
First Digit
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Solid Objects/Dust
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6
|
Complete dust-tight protection
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|
Second Digit
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Water
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8
|
Protection against full submersion
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IP65 vs. IP68 Protection
The differences between IP65 and IP68 ratings highlight varying levels of defense against environmental threats.
IP65-certified devices provide:
- Complete protection against dust ingress.
- Resistance to water jets from a 6.3mm nozzle at a flow rate of 12.5 liters per minute.
IP68-certified devices offer:
- The same dust-tight protection as IP65.
- Resistance to continuous submersion in water at depths exceeding 3.3 feet (1 meter).
Testing Procedures
To achieve these certifications, devices undergo rigorous testing:
- IP65 Testing: Devices are subjected to water jets from multiple directions to ensure no water breaches internal components.
- IP68 Testing: Devices are submerged under specific pressure conditions for extended periods to verify functionality and durability.
Real-World Applications
These stringent tests translate into practical advantages across various industries. For example, in oil and gas facilities, where devices face challenging conditions daily, IP-rated protection ensures:
- Dust does not compromise device safety features.
- Devices remain functional in wet or high-moisture environments.
- Equipment integrity is maintained in areas exposed to cleaning sprays or environmental wear.
5. MIL-STD-810H Durability Tests
The MIL-STD-810H standard, developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, evaluates how well devices can withstand extreme conditions. It's a rigorous process that goes beyond basic safety checks, ensuring devices are tough enough for demanding industrial environments.
Core Testing Components
MIL-STD-810H focuses on environmental stress tests that mimic challenging real-world scenarios. Here's a breakdown of the key tests:
|
Test Category
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Testing Conditions
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Industrial Relevance
|
|
Temperature Extremes
|
Extreme hot and cold temperatures
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Verifies performance in both scorching heat and freezing cold.
|
|
Mechanical Shock
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Drop and impact testing
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Ensures durability against sudden impacts and drops.
|
|
Vibration
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Vibration simulation
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Critical for devices used near heavy machinery or moving vehicles.
|
|
Humidity
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High humidity exposure (up to 95%)
|
Essential for wet or humid industrial areas.
|
|
Explosive Atmospheres
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Simulated volatile conditions
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Confirms safe operation in flammable or explosive environments.
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Performance Impact
Devices with MIL-STD-810H certification demonstrate impressive durability. This certification has shown to reduce device failure rates by 35%, cut maintenance costs by 30%, and extend the overall lifespan by 50%. These benefits make certified devices a dependable choice for high-risk industries.
Environmental Protection Matrix
MIL-STD-810H also assesses how devices resist environmental factors. Below are some specific tests and their focus:
|
Environmental Factor
|
Test Method/Procedure
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Protection Level
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|
Sand and Dust
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Method 510.7
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Ensures complete protection from fine particles.
|
|
Salt Fog
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Method 509.7
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Provides corrosion resistance for coastal operations.
|
|
Solar Radiation
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UV exposure simulation
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Shields materials from UV-related degradation.
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|
Rain
|
Method 506.6
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Prevents water ingress and ensures waterproofing.
|
Industrial Application
In industries like oil and gas, where devices face constant exposure to harsh conditions, MIL-STD-810H certification ensures reliable performance. Certified devices not only endure these challenges but often surpass the safety standards required for such hazardous environments. This makes them indispensable for operations in extreme settings.
Standards Requirements Overview
Various safety standards work together to provide robust protection in hazardous environments. Here's a summary of key standards, their focus areas, and where they apply.
Consolidated Certification Overview
|
Standard
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Primary Focus
|
Requirements
|
Geographic Relevance
|
|
ATEX Zone 1
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Explosive atmospheres
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Equipment certification
|
European Union
|
|
IECEx Zone 1
|
Global explosion protection
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IEC 60079 compliance
|
International
|
|
UL 913
|
North American safety
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Class I, Division 1
|
USA/Canada
|
|
IP65/68
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Environmental protection
|
Dust/water resistance
|
Global
|
|
MIL-STD-810H
|
Durability testing
|
Environmental stress
|
Global
|
Certification Integration
When combined, these standards do more than ensure individual safety - they enhance the overall resilience and functionality of devices. Here's how:
- Primary Safety: ATEX and IECEx prevent ignition risks.
- Environmental Protection: IP65/68 shields against dust and water.
- Physical Durability: MIL-STD-810H ensures devices withstand tough conditions.
- Regional Compliance: UL 913 meets North American safety requirements.
This layered approach creates devices that are not only safer but also better suited for challenging environments.
Key Points Summary
Here’s a breakdown of the essential considerations when selecting devices to meet safety and operational standards.
Certification Requirements
Ensuring device safety starts with meeting specific certification criteria. Here's a quick look at the key standards:
|
Standard Type
|
Primary Requirements
|
Verification Steps
|
|
Explosion Protection
|
ATEX Zone 1/IECEx certification marks
|
Review certification documents and check for the "Ex" badge
|
|
Environmental
|
IP65/68 rating
|
Examine ingress protection test reports
|
|
Physical Durability
|
MIL-STD-810H compliance
|
Inspect test results for resistance to environmental stress
|
|
Regional Compliance
|
UL 913 for North America
|
Confirm Class I, Division 1 certification
|
Implementation Guidelines
Properly implementing certifications is just as important as having them. Regular validation and maintenance are crucial. Annual third-party audits can help ensure ongoing compliance.
"Ask vendors to provide documentation that confirms certifications are current and applicable to your zone type."
Safety Verification Process
To maintain safety and reliability, follow these steps:
- Evaluate hazards and ensure certifications align with the required zone specifications.
- Keep detailed digital records of certifications and inspections.
- Schedule regular inspections to check device integrity, including seals and other critical components.
Temperature and Environmental Considerations
It’s essential that devices are capable of operating within the environmental conditions specified in their certification documents. Always cross-check these details with your operational requirements.
Global Compliance Integration
For international operations, combining ATEX and IECEx certifications ensures a well-rounded approach to safety and compliance. This is especially valuable for industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, and chemical processing, where global standards are critical for seamless operations across different regions.
Learn more about ex certification for smartphones
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