Guide to Choosing the Best Explosion-protected Junction Box

Selecting and selecting the best explosion-proof junction box for your business can be a tedious and complex process, and we are here to help. There is no indication that the quality of an explosion-proof junction box can be determined by visual inspection alone, and for new buyers such as yourself, immediately identifying the best explosion-proof junction box can be confusing. Don't worry, we're here to make your life easier with the following guide.

1. Know your business

Firstly, a clear understanding of your business will help you narrow down and speed up your search. Identifying the area in which your business operates will allow you to focus on finding the right explosion-proof junction box. This will make the selection process easier, as you won't have to consider explosion-proof junction boxes that don't fit your zone requirements.

There are 3 zones used to classify each type of hazardous area. Zone 0 is used to describe areas that are permanently exposed to flammable gases. Zone 1 is an area that may be exposed to explosive gases during normal operation and Zone 2 is classified as an area where explosive gases are extremely unlikely to occur. So a thorough understanding of your business and its operations can speed up the search process, saving you and your company valuable time and resources.

2.Protection class

Ex 'd' junction boxes are also known as explosion-proof junction boxes. Ex 'd' or flameproof means that the junction box must be made to 'flameproof' standards. A flameproof junction box is capable of containing any explosion within its enclosure and any escaping sparks or flames will be cooled by the 'flame', thereby reducing any risk of damage that could lead to further ignition of the explosive atmosphere in the area and further combustion.

IIB+H2 Explosion-proof Terminal Box MAMX-07

On the other hand, the Ex 'e' terminal boxes are manufactured according to the 'Increased Safety' standard. This means that the Ex 'e' junction box design does not permit the generation of currents, sparks or temperatures that could ignite an explosive atmosphere around the junction box. Ex 'e' junction boxes are therefore considered to be explosion-proof, but are not certified for fire safety.

Ex 'd' and Ex 'e' junction boxes can be operated in zones 1 and 2. However, only the Ex 'd' junction box can withstand and contain an internal explosion. It is therefore fair to say that the Ex 'd' junction box provides a higher level of protection than the Ex 'e' junction box.

3. Explosion protection certification

In order to obtain Ex certification, the junction box must be accompanied by an ATEX or IECEX certificate. This certificate indicates that the junction box has undergone several rounds of rigorous testing resulting in explosion protection certification. A junction box without an ATEX or IECEX certificate can put your entire business at risk if an explosion occurs in the workplace. Therefore, ensuring that your junction box is officially certified as explosion-proof by one of these certification bodies is a top priority for you.

4. Plan your budget

Because Ex 'd' junction boxes offer better protection, they are usually more expensive than Ex 'e' junction boxes. This is because the material used to make the Ex 'd' junction boxes usually has to be injection moulded, which can be a costly process. Therefore, if you are on a tight budget, buying an Ex 'e' junction box may be a more viable option for your business.

Planning your budget in advance may also allow you to make bulk purchases, which can often result in small discounts from the manufacturer/supplier.

5. Get to know the supplier

Direct contact with the manufacturer's sales or production team is a quick and effective way to clear up any confusion. By talking directly to a MAM employee, you can judge for yourself our experience and expertise in the field of junction boxes. It is not unreasonable to conduct a quick check or audit of the company that manufactures your explosion-proof distribution boxes to ensure that you are buying a tested and quality product.

Ultimately, it is your responsibility to buy the best explosion-proof junction box for your business, and you should do the necessary research before making your final decision. However, it is always good when manufacturers simplify the buying process by giving you easy access to information.