ATEX Zone 2 is an industrial classification for areas where explosive gas/vapor atmospheres are unlikely during normal operation but might occur for short periods due to accidental releases, requiring equipment with lower, but still significant, ignition protection (like Category 3G equipment) for safety in hazardous environments. It’s a step down in risk from Zone 1 (likely during normal operation) and Zone 0 (continuous presence), but still needs certified equipment to prevent sparks or heat from causing an explosion.
| Explosive Material | ATEX Zone | Frequency of Explosive Atmosphere | Required ATEX Equipment Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas, Vapour, or Mist | Zone 0 | Continuously, for long periods, or frequently | Category 1G |
| Gas, Vapour, or Mist | Zone 1 | Likely to occur occasionally in normal operation | Category 2G (Minimum) |
| Gas, Vapour, or Mist | Zone 2 | Not likely to occur in normal operation, and if it does, only for a short period | Category 3G (Minimum) |
| Combustible Dust | Zone 20 | Continuously, for long periods, or frequently | Category 1D |
| Combustible Dust | Zone 21 | Likely to occur occasionally in normal operation | Category 2D (Minimum) |
| Combustible Dust | Zone 22 | Not likely to occur in normal operation, and if it does, only for a short period | Category 3D (Minimum) |
Maple Systems offers ATEX Zone 2 certified panel PC computer systems for oil rig operations in hazardous locations.