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The SOLO PRO+ ExZ1 explosion-proof pipe inspection camera is an advanced inspection solution engineered specifically for safe and effective operations in potentially explosive environments. Certified to stringent ATEX Zone 1 standards, this system ensures uncompromising safety, enabling detailed assessments in hazardous locations.
Compact, portable, and ruggedly designed, this intrinsically safe pipe camera integrates seamlessly into field operations. It delivers professional-grade quality, reliability, and accuracy, ensuring that inspections can be conducted with precision and confidence in the most challenging conditions.
Compact, portable, and ruggedly designed, this intrinsically safe pipe camera integrates seamlessly into field operations. It delivers professional-grade quality, reliability, and accuracy, ensuring that inspections can be conducted with precision and confidence in the most challenging conditions.
EXPLOSION-PROOF PIPE CAMERA SoloPRO+ ExZ1
SoloPRO+ ExZ1 Key Features
Designed for optimal performance in hazardous environments. Flexibly configurable to meet diverse inspection needs, while strictly adhering to ATEX Zone 1/IECEx safety protocols.
ATEX Zone 1 Certification
Full compliance for petro-chem, gas and confined-space jobs in highly explosive environments.
Pan & Rotate and Self-leveling Cameras
Two interchangeable camera heads for different applications. Presurizable with Nitrogen to ensure safe operation in explosive atmospheres.
Up to 330ft. (100m) Working Length
Powder-coated tubular steel frames. Industrial grade push rods with the ATEX Zone 1 certified camera connector to ensure the camera is securely connected to the rod.
Enhanced Pipeline Inspection
Capture every detail of the inspection process with standard and advanced options, which include distance sensor; diameter, defect, and object measurement.
The Explosion-Proof Pipe Inspection Cameras SOLOPro+ ExZ1 consist of a control unit, a cable reel with push rod, and a camera head.
Control Unit CCU210-ExZ1
Explosion Proof Pipe Camera Control Unit with ATEX Zone 1 Override Key Switch
- Certified to Control the Proteus ATEX Zone 1 SoloPRO+ Pipe Cameras for Potentially Explosive Atmospheres.
- Override Key Switch to Cut off Power Supply If the System Detects ATEX Uncompliant.
- Pre-installed ProPIPE+ and WinCan Software.
- 8” TFT LCD (800 x 600 pixels) Sunlight Viewable Display.
- Integral Joysticks for Pan/Tilt Camera Control.
- Ergonomic Soft-touch Keypad.
- Adjust the Frequency of the Sonde (33kHz, 512Hz, or 640Hz).
- Hot Keys.
- Image/Video Recording, Organizing, and Sharing via WiFi or USB Port.
- Inspection Report Generation with Pipe Graph, Defects, Material, Location & Pipe Size.
- Up to 6 Hrs of Autonomous Work.
+ Full Specifications
Battery: Lithium-Ion 6 hours
Charging: Mains Power (100-240 Vac) or vehicle power (12 or 24 VDC) using supplied adaptors
Display: 8” TFT LCD (800 x 600 pixels) Sunlight viewable
Keyboard: Full QWERTY style membrane keyboard with arrow keys for navigation and a separate joystick for camera control
Video Recording: MPEG4 (WinCan compatible)
Image Capture: JPEG (live or from recorded video)
Text Overlay: 16-page (selectable text and colors)
Internal Memory: 32GB (expandable to 128GB)
External Media: SDHC and USB 2.0 Memory Stick
Language Support: Multiple
Connections: Power and Cable Reel
Environmental Rating: IP54
Weight: 3.85kg (8.5 lb)
Dimensions: 435mm x 250mm x 140mm
Override Lock: When the key is set to ATEX Mode, the ATEX-Z1 noncompliance power cut-off is activated. Should the system identify ATEX noncompliance, the power supply to the inspection equipment will be disconnected.
Charging: Mains Power (100-240 Vac) or vehicle power (12 or 24 VDC) using supplied adaptors
Display: 8” TFT LCD (800 x 600 pixels) Sunlight viewable
Keyboard: Full QWERTY style membrane keyboard with arrow keys for navigation and a separate joystick for camera control
Video Recording: MPEG4 (WinCan compatible)
Image Capture: JPEG (live or from recorded video)
Text Overlay: 16-page (selectable text and colors)
Internal Memory: 32GB (expandable to 128GB)
External Media: SDHC and USB 2.0 Memory Stick
Language Support: Multiple
Connections: Power and Cable Reel
Environmental Rating: IP54
Weight: 3.85kg (8.5 lb)
Dimensions: 435mm x 250mm x 140mm
Override Lock: When the key is set to ATEX Mode, the ATEX-Z1 noncompliance power cut-off is activated. Should the system identify ATEX noncompliance, the power supply to the inspection equipment will be disconnected.
ExZ1 Cable Reels
Push Rod Reels with ATEX Zone 1 Camera Connector
- ATEX Zone 1 Camera Connector Certified for Hazardous Locations.
- Welded Tubular Steel Construction.
- Integrated Rod Roller for Smooth Paying-out and Rewinding.
- Integrated Footage Counter.
- Multi-frequency Sonde*.
- Three Push Rod Lengths: 130, 200, 330ft.
- Manual Friction Brake.
+ Full Specifications
Light System Reel
Explosion Proof: High-grade Push Rod with ATEX Zone 1 Camera Connector
Construction: Tubular Welded Steel
Finish: Powder Coated
Distance Counter Units: Feet, Metres
Controls: Friction Brake
Cable Length: 130', 200', 330' (40m, 60m, 100m)
*Multi-frequency Sonde (33kHz, 512Hz, and 640Hz) for CAM025EX
Cable strength: 1,102 lbs (500kg)
Reel Weight: 33 lbs (15kg), 44 lbs (20kg), 66 lbs (30kg)
Explosion Proof: High-grade Push Rod with ATEX Zone 1 Camera Connector
Construction: Tubular Welded Steel
Finish: Powder Coated
Distance Counter Units: Feet, Metres
Controls: Friction Brake
Cable Length: 130', 200', 330' (40m, 60m, 100m)
*Multi-frequency Sonde (33kHz, 512Hz, and 640Hz) for CAM025EX
Cable strength: 1,102 lbs (500kg)
Reel Weight: 33 lbs (15kg), 44 lbs (20kg), 66 lbs (30kg)
ExZ1 Camera Heads
ATEX ExZ1 CAM025 Self-leveling
- ATEX Zone 1 Explosion Proof Camera Head
- Axial Camera with a Self-leveling Sensor
- Scratch Resistant Sapphire Glass
- Nitrogen Pressurized for Explosive Environments
- Waterproof up to 1 bar (14.50psi)
ATEX ExZ1 CAM026L Pan, Tilt, Laser
- ATEX Zone 1 Explosion Proof Camera Head
- Continuous 360° Rotation and +/-135° Pan
- Accurate Pipe Diameter, Defect, and Object Measurement
- Nitrogen Pressurized for Explosive Environments
- Waterproof up to 1 bar (14.50psi)
+ Full Specifications
ExZ1 CAM025 Self-leveling Camera Head
ATEX Zone 1 Certified for Hazardous Locations
Pipe Diameter Inspection Range: 2" and up
Effective Pixels: 512x582
Camera Sensor: 470 HTVL
Sensitivity: <1.0 Lux
Aperture/Field of view: F2.5 / 75°
Maximum Illumination Intensity: 12.5k Lux at 150mm
Pressure Depth Rating: 1 bar (14.50psi)
Dimensions: 10.7" x 1.7" x 1.7" (271 x 41 x 41mm)
Weight: 1.37 lbs (620g)
ExZ1 CAM026L Pan, Tilt, Laser Camera Head
ATEX Zone 1 Certified for Hazardous Locations
Pipe Diameter Measurement Range: 90 - 600mm
DSP (Digital Signal Processor): Yes
Aligned Laser Spacing: 25mm
Camera Sensor: 470 HTVL
Sensitivity: <1.0 Lux
Aperture/Field of view: F2.5/75°
Maximum Illumination Intensity: 12.5k Lux at 150mm
Pressure Depth Rating: 1 bar (14.50psi)
Dimensions: 5.2" x 2.9" x 2.9" (132 x 73 x 73mm)
Weight 1.9 lbs (865g)
ATEX Zone 1 Certified for Hazardous Locations
Pipe Diameter Inspection Range: 2" and up
Effective Pixels: 512x582
Camera Sensor: 470 HTVL
Sensitivity: <1.0 Lux
Aperture/Field of view: F2.5 / 75°
Maximum Illumination Intensity: 12.5k Lux at 150mm
Pressure Depth Rating: 1 bar (14.50psi)
Dimensions: 10.7" x 1.7" x 1.7" (271 x 41 x 41mm)
Weight: 1.37 lbs (620g)
ExZ1 CAM026L Pan, Tilt, Laser Camera Head
ATEX Zone 1 Certified for Hazardous Locations
Pipe Diameter Measurement Range: 90 - 600mm
DSP (Digital Signal Processor): Yes
Aligned Laser Spacing: 25mm
Camera Sensor: 470 HTVL
Sensitivity: <1.0 Lux
Aperture/Field of view: F2.5/75°
Maximum Illumination Intensity: 12.5k Lux at 150mm
Pressure Depth Rating: 1 bar (14.50psi)
Dimensions: 5.2" x 2.9" x 2.9" (132 x 73 x 73mm)
Weight 1.9 lbs (865g)
Fiberscope.net is an authorized dealer of the MiniCam Explosion Proof Pipe Inspection Cameras SoloPRO+ ExZ1
Stay Safe. Stay compliant.
The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ Explosion-proof pipe camera delivers uncompromising safety without sacrificing the professional-grade
performance.
Contact our technical specialists today to discuss your requirements and discover how this camera can enhance your operational safety and inspection capabilities.
performance.
Contact our technical specialists today to discuss your requirements and discover how this camera can enhance your operational safety and inspection capabilities.
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Questions and Answers
- What are the key differences between intrinsically safe (Ex I) and explosion-proof (Ex d) pipe inspection equipment?Both explosion-proof and intrinsically safe pipe-inspection robots comply with ATEX Zone 1 regulations, yet they operate on different safety principles.
An intrinsically safe (Ex i) robot ensures that every circuit operates at such low voltage and current that it can never spark or reach a surface temperature capable of igniting surrounding gas. With their electronics running on milliamps, these systems typically can not provide sufficient illumination and image quality in the inspection area.
On the other hand, explosion-proof (Ex d) pipe inspection systems take a different approach. They allow for higher-powered motors, batteries, and lighting, but these components are securely sealed inside a rugged metal enclosure featuring threaded joints or flame paths. If an internal ignition occurs, the housing contains the pressure and cools the hot gases, preventing anything from escaping into the atmosphere.
In practice, if your priorities are maximum lighting, better image quality, high-torque, and heavy-duty durability, then an explosion-proof crawler would better suit your needs. Both protection concepts comply fully with ATEX Zone 1; the right choice depends on your needs and requirements. - Which UL standard provides an equivalent level of protection to ATEX Zone 1 certification?The closest direct match to ATEX Zone 1 is a piece of equipment that is UL-listed for Class 1, Division 1 (C1D1)—or, under the newer harmonised scheme, UL Class 1, Zone 1. Class I tells inspectors that the hazard is a flammable gas or vapour. At the same time, Division 1 / Zone 1 means that an ignitable atmosphere will likely be present during normal operation, which is exactly the condition ATEX defines for Zone 1.
- How does the explosion proof ExZ1 SOLO PRO+ system ensure continuous operation in hazardous environments?The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ explosion-proof pipe camera incorporates multiple redundant safety systems to ensure reliable and continuous operation while maintaining absolute safety in potentially explosive atmospheres. Key mechanisms include:
ATEX Override Key: Provides immediate power cutoff upon detecting any safety non-compliances, acting as a fail-safe to prevent operation outside the certified parameters.
Robust Enclosure Design: Utilizes threaded joints and flame paths that contain any internal pressure and cool hot gases, preventing them from escaping into the external atmosphere. This allows for higher-powered components while maintaining intrinsically safe external conditions.
Nitrogen Camera Pressurization: Maintains positive pressure within critical components, preventing the ingress of potentially explosive gases and providing an additional layer of safety.
Modular Design: Enables rapid component replacement and maintenance without compromising safety certification.
1 bar Camera Waterproof: Protects against dust and water ingress. Crucial for reliable operation in harsh industrial environments. - To maintain compliance, what are the required inspection intervals for ATEX Zone 1-certified explosion-proof pipe cameras?The adherence to required inspection intervals for ATEX Zone 1-certified explosion-proof pipe cameras is essential for ensuring compliance and maintaining safety standards. Under ATEX and IEC regulations, inspections are integral to the lifecycle management of the equipment rather than a singular requirement. For pipe inspection cameras designated for use in Class I, Zone 1 (C1Z1) and Class I, Division 1 (C1D1) environments, the subsequent inspection guidelines must be diligently followed:
Before the initial deployment, a comprehensive inspection conducted by a qualified explosion safety (Ex) technician is imperative. This initial evaluation guarantees that the camera’s protection concept, markings, and installation fully conform to the Explosion Protection Document pertinent to the specific operational site. As per EN/IEC 60079-14, this initial inspection must be documented and formally approved before the equipment is utilized in any Zone 1 hazardous location.
Since pipe cameras are classified as movable electrical equipment, IEC 60079-17 stipulates that a detailed close inspection should occur at intervals not exceeding twelve months. Moreover, operators must conduct a brief visual inspection before each use in hazardous environments. Shorter inspection intervals may be necessary if the equipment is frequently accessed, operated under adverse conditions, or has undergone significant maintenance.
In conclusion, it is vital to document a thorough inspection before initial deployment, perform user visual inspections each time the camera is utilized in hazardous areas, and schedule comprehensive inspections at least once annually. A biannual inspection is strongly advised unless a qualified Ex specialist formally approves a different schedule, supported by an adequate risk assessment. - Is it permissible for any repair facility to service ATEX Zone 1-certified explosion-proof pipe inspection cameras, or are such repairs required to be performed exclusively by accredited Ex service centers?General repair facilities cannot service ExZ1 SoloPRO+ explosion-proof pipe cameras without risking their ATEX certification. Any repairs, overhauls, or modifications that affect the explosion protection features must only be performed by service centers that comply with IEC 60079-19 and operate under a documented Ex-quality management system.
In the event that an unauthorized workshop opens the Ex d enclosure, replaces components such as glands, or modifies Ex i boards without the requisite controls, the equipment's protection status is invalidated. As a result, the camera loses its ATEX certification until it undergoes re-testing and recertification by an accredited notified body. Furthermore, equipment usage in Zone-classified environments may be prohibited, as dictated by the facility’s permit-to-work protocol or insurance requirements.
Field service activities are strictly limited to low-risk tasks explicitly authorized by the manufacturer’s instructions. These tasks must receive approval and documentation from a CompEx-qualified technician. Any repairs that affect flame paths, encapsulation, or intrinsic safety barriers must be conducted exclusively by an Ex-compliant service center.
In conclusion, unauthorized disassembly or servicing of the ExZ1 SoloPRO+ camera, coiler, control unit, or other components is prohibited. Only Minicam-certified authorized service centers are qualified to perform internal examinations, repairs, or servicing on ATEX-certified equipment. Unauthorized servicing not only invalidates warranties but also results in the immediate revocation of ATEX compliance certification.
Do you have any questions?
The System Full Description
The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ ATEX Certified explosion-proof pipe camera represents an advanced pipeline inspection solution meticulously engineered for safe and effective operations in the most challenging and potentially explosive environments. Certified to the rigorous ATEX Zone 1 standards, this intrinsically safe pipe camera delivers unparalleled safety alongside the professional-grade quality, reliability, and accuracy that industrial operators demand for critical infrastructure assessment.
Designed for portability and ruggedness, the ExZ1 SoloPRO+ system seamlessly integrates into field operations across a wide spectrum of hazardous locations. These include, but are not limited to, the oil and gas, petrochemical, mining, food processing, power generation, and waste management industries. This explosion-proof pipe inspection camera fuses cutting-edge technology and proven safety protocols, making it an indispensable tool for conducting thorough, efficient, and secure pipe inspections in environments where the risk of explosion is a constant concern.
With its ATEX approval, this pipe inspection system significantly simplifies and enhances the safety of working in Zone 1 and other explosion-risk environments, offering a superior alternative to methods that might introduce risk. Operators gain a clear view into unknown pipeline conditions without the danger of electronic devices triggering explosive atmospheres.
The system's capabilities extend to inspecting pipes ranging from as small as 2" and up to over 24" in diameter, with options for expanding capabilities to even larger diameters through specialized accessories.
At the heart of the system is the ATEX-certified ExZ1 CCU210 control unit, which serves as the operational command center. It offers superior control through an ergonomic full QWERTY keyboard and a dedicated joystick for precise camera manipulation. The 8" TFT LCD sunlight-readable display ensures clear imaging, even in bright outdoor conditions. Integrated ProPIPE+ and WinCan software are key to streamlining inspection processes, enabling immediate image and video capture, advanced report generation, and seamless data management via WiFi connectivity and USB/SDHC media support.
A critical safety feature is the built-in ATEX override key, which immediately cuts power upon detecting any safety non-compliances, ensuring unmatched operational safety in hazardous environments.
The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ has multiple coiler options, including 130 ft, 200ft, and 330ft configurations. These coilers provide exceptional cable management solutions. They feature high-grade push rods with tough, durable outer sheaths, manufactured to perform reliably in harsh pipeline conditions. Integrated rod rollers protect the cable during deployment and retrieval. An integrated footage counter provides precise distance tracking, which is essential for accurate defect location. At the same time, water-resistant camera connectors house the multi-frequency sonde systems with selectable frequencies of 33Hz, 512Hz, and 640Hz, allowing for precise location tracking.
Operators can choose from two explosion-proof camera heads, including the CAM025EX Self-Leveling Axial camera and the CAM026LEX Pan, Rotate & Laser camera. These advanced camera systems are nitrogen-pressurized, ATEX Zone 1 certified, and waterproof up to 1 bar, ensuring reliable operation in extreme environments. The CAM026LEX camera head precisely measures pipe diameters, defects, and objects, maintaining the optical excellence required for detailed condition assessment and reporting.
The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to six hours of uninterrupted inspection capabilities in remote locations, significantly boosting field productivity.
The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ explosion-proof pipe inspection camera is a testament to cutting-edge technology combined with intrinsically safe design. It is an indispensable tool for thorough, efficient, and secure pipe survey in hazardous, explosion-prone environments where safety is not just a priority but an absolute necessity.
Note: SoloPRO+ ExZ1 pipe inspection camera is a specially ordered product. Conditions apply. Call for details.
Designed for portability and ruggedness, the ExZ1 SoloPRO+ system seamlessly integrates into field operations across a wide spectrum of hazardous locations. These include, but are not limited to, the oil and gas, petrochemical, mining, food processing, power generation, and waste management industries. This explosion-proof pipe inspection camera fuses cutting-edge technology and proven safety protocols, making it an indispensable tool for conducting thorough, efficient, and secure pipe inspections in environments where the risk of explosion is a constant concern.
With its ATEX approval, this pipe inspection system significantly simplifies and enhances the safety of working in Zone 1 and other explosion-risk environments, offering a superior alternative to methods that might introduce risk. Operators gain a clear view into unknown pipeline conditions without the danger of electronic devices triggering explosive atmospheres.
The system's capabilities extend to inspecting pipes ranging from as small as 2" and up to over 24" in diameter, with options for expanding capabilities to even larger diameters through specialized accessories.
At the heart of the system is the ATEX-certified ExZ1 CCU210 control unit, which serves as the operational command center. It offers superior control through an ergonomic full QWERTY keyboard and a dedicated joystick for precise camera manipulation. The 8" TFT LCD sunlight-readable display ensures clear imaging, even in bright outdoor conditions. Integrated ProPIPE+ and WinCan software are key to streamlining inspection processes, enabling immediate image and video capture, advanced report generation, and seamless data management via WiFi connectivity and USB/SDHC media support.
A critical safety feature is the built-in ATEX override key, which immediately cuts power upon detecting any safety non-compliances, ensuring unmatched operational safety in hazardous environments.
The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ has multiple coiler options, including 130 ft, 200ft, and 330ft configurations. These coilers provide exceptional cable management solutions. They feature high-grade push rods with tough, durable outer sheaths, manufactured to perform reliably in harsh pipeline conditions. Integrated rod rollers protect the cable during deployment and retrieval. An integrated footage counter provides precise distance tracking, which is essential for accurate defect location. At the same time, water-resistant camera connectors house the multi-frequency sonde systems with selectable frequencies of 33Hz, 512Hz, and 640Hz, allowing for precise location tracking.
Operators can choose from two explosion-proof camera heads, including the CAM025EX Self-Leveling Axial camera and the CAM026LEX Pan, Rotate & Laser camera. These advanced camera systems are nitrogen-pressurized, ATEX Zone 1 certified, and waterproof up to 1 bar, ensuring reliable operation in extreme environments. The CAM026LEX camera head precisely measures pipe diameters, defects, and objects, maintaining the optical excellence required for detailed condition assessment and reporting.
The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to six hours of uninterrupted inspection capabilities in remote locations, significantly boosting field productivity.
The ExZ1 SoloPRO+ explosion-proof pipe inspection camera is a testament to cutting-edge technology combined with intrinsically safe design. It is an indispensable tool for thorough, efficient, and secure pipe survey in hazardous, explosion-prone environments where safety is not just a priority but an absolute necessity.
Note: SoloPRO+ ExZ1 pipe inspection camera is a specially ordered product. Conditions apply. Call for details.
Explosive Atmosphere and Visual Inspection
Explosive Environments & ATEX Zone 1—Key Concepts
What qualifies as a “hazardous location”?
Any area where flammable gases, vapours, liquids, dusts, or fibres could mix with air and find an ignition source is deemed hazardous. Typical culprits include gasoline, paint thinners, naturally occurring hydrocarbons, decomposing organic matter, and similar substances. When oxygen, fuel, and an ignition source coexist, fire or explosion is possible.
Our explosion-proof pipe inspection robots are certified for ATEX Zone 1 service (IECEx analogue of Class I, Division 1 in North America, as defined by NFPA 70 / NEC). No pipe-inspection robot on today’s market is rated for ATEX Zone 0 or carries full intrinsic-safety approval, so users must confirm the classification of every work site before deployment.
What does “explosion-proof” actually mean?
Under NFPA 70 (NEC) the term describes an enclosure built to contain an internal ignition and prevent flames, sparks or hot gases from reaching the surrounding atmosphere. It is not designed to survive an external blast; instead, it stops a small internal event from becoming a large external disaster.
Explosion-proof apparatus must also respect the installation's temperature code - its surface temperature in normal service may never exceed the ignition point of ambient gases or dusts.
North American classification system (Class / Division)
Class I – Flammable gases or vapours may exist.
Class II – Combustible or conductive dust is present.
Class III – Easily ignitable fibres or flyings are present.
CI D1 Hazard is present under normal conditions.
CI D2 Hazard appears only under abnormal or infrequent conditions.
Equipment approved for CI D1 is automatically acceptable in CI D2 areas of the same class, gas group and temperature rating.
International (Zone) classification now adopted by the US & Canada
Zone 0 – Explosive atmosphere continuously or for > 1,000 h/yr.
Zone 1 – Explosive atmosphere likely in normal operation (≈ 10–1,000 h/yr).
Zone 2 – Explosive atmosphere unlikely or only for < 10 h/yr.
ATEX Zone 1, therefore, matches Class I, Division 1 for gas hazards.
Explosion-proof equipment, being the highest gas-hazard category, can always be installed where Division 2 or Zone 2 standards apply, provided the gas group and temperature class match.
Sources for further reference
National Fire Protection Association NFPA / NEC (NFPA 70, ANSI/NFPA 70)
ATEX Directives ATEX Directives 2014/34/EU & 1999/92/EC
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) UL / CSA
Know your site’s classification first; then select equipment, such as the Proteus™ ExZ1 pipe inspection crawler, whose protection concept, gas group, and temperature code fully align with that classification.
What qualifies as a “hazardous location”?
Any area where flammable gases, vapours, liquids, dusts, or fibres could mix with air and find an ignition source is deemed hazardous. Typical culprits include gasoline, paint thinners, naturally occurring hydrocarbons, decomposing organic matter, and similar substances. When oxygen, fuel, and an ignition source coexist, fire or explosion is possible.
Our explosion-proof pipe inspection robots are certified for ATEX Zone 1 service (IECEx analogue of Class I, Division 1 in North America, as defined by NFPA 70 / NEC). No pipe-inspection robot on today’s market is rated for ATEX Zone 0 or carries full intrinsic-safety approval, so users must confirm the classification of every work site before deployment.
What does “explosion-proof” actually mean?
Under NFPA 70 (NEC) the term describes an enclosure built to contain an internal ignition and prevent flames, sparks or hot gases from reaching the surrounding atmosphere. It is not designed to survive an external blast; instead, it stops a small internal event from becoming a large external disaster.
Explosion-proof apparatus must also respect the installation's temperature code - its surface temperature in normal service may never exceed the ignition point of ambient gases or dusts.
North American classification system (Class / Division)
Class I – Flammable gases or vapours may exist.
Class II – Combustible or conductive dust is present.
Class III – Easily ignitable fibres or flyings are present.
CI D1 Hazard is present under normal conditions.
CI D2 Hazard appears only under abnormal or infrequent conditions.
Equipment approved for CI D1 is automatically acceptable in CI D2 areas of the same class, gas group and temperature rating.
International (Zone) classification now adopted by the US & Canada
Zone 0 – Explosive atmosphere continuously or for > 1,000 h/yr.
Zone 1 – Explosive atmosphere likely in normal operation (≈ 10–1,000 h/yr).
Zone 2 – Explosive atmosphere unlikely or only for < 10 h/yr.
ATEX Zone 1, therefore, matches Class I, Division 1 for gas hazards.
Explosion-proof equipment, being the highest gas-hazard category, can always be installed where Division 2 or Zone 2 standards apply, provided the gas group and temperature class match.
Sources for further reference
National Fire Protection Association NFPA / NEC (NFPA 70, ANSI/NFPA 70)
ATEX Directives ATEX Directives 2014/34/EU & 1999/92/EC
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) UL / CSA
Know your site’s classification first; then select equipment, such as the Proteus™ ExZ1 pipe inspection crawler, whose protection concept, gas group, and temperature code fully align with that classification.
How do explosion-proof pipe inspection cameras contribute to safety and efficiency in hazardous industrial environments?
Explosion-proof pipe inspection cameras are engineered to safely examine pipelines located in potentially explosive atmospheres, such as ATEX Zone 1 and UL CI D1 areas. These advanced inspection devices feature critical components encapsulated within protective casings. Such specialized enclosures prevent internal sparks or heat from igniting flammable materials in hazardous environments. By eliminating the need for human inspectors to enter risky or confined spaces, these cameras significantly enhance worker safety, facilitate more efficient and frequent inspections, and deliver clear visual insights, improving overall operational reliability and performance across various industries.
-
Oil and gas
Explosion-proof pipe cameras enable safe and rapid inspection of offshore and onshore pipelines, significantly reducing the need for costly preparation like nitrogen purging or hot-work permits while proactively identifying maintenance needs. -
Petrochemical & Refining
Facilitates accurate visual assessments of complex piping systems and flare stacks, ensures the safe handling of hazardous chemicals and gases, and aids compliance with stringent safety standards. -
Power generation
Intrinsically safe pipe inspection cameras are essential for examining critical infrastructure like fuel and gas pipelines, hydrogen cooling systems, and condensate return lines, effectively preventing corrosion-related failures and costly plant downtimes. -
Wastewater & Utilities
Critical for inspecting digester-gas systems, biogas collection networks, and sewer force mains where methane and hydrogen sulfide concentrations pose explosion risks. These inspections help prevent environmental releases and ensure system integrity. -
Food & Beverage Production
Examines starch, sugar, and flour transfer lines—locations prone to combustible dust explosions—without contaminating product or violating hygienic standards, supporting preventive maintenance. -
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Allows safe visual inspection of pipelines and processing equipment in areas prone to combustible dust or organic solvent hazards, maintaining continuous operations and compliance with safety regulations. -
Mining & Mineral Processing
In mining operations, ATEX Zone 1 pipe cameras offer secure remote inspection capabilities for pipelines and ventilation ducts in environments with elevated methane levels or combustible dust. These cameras mitigate safety risks and enable timely maintenance interventions. -
Waste management
Examines landfill-gas collection headers, anaerobic-digester piping, and solvent-recovery lines in recycling facilities where methane, VOCs, or dust can ignite, supporting safe maintenance and regulatory compliance without halting processing lines.
Need advice? Ask our technical consultants who know the subject. They will answer your questions and help to scout out the best inspection solution for your application.
