Precision and safety are essential in industrial environments, especially in chemical plants and oil refineries. Weighing operations are common in these locations, and standard equipment won’t cut it. To achieve a balance between precision and safety, you’ll need to use intrinsically safe industrial scales. What are intrinsically safe industrial scales, and how do they function? This guide will break it down for you.
What Does “Intrinsically Safe” Mean?
The term “intrinsically safe” refers to equipment that prevents explosions or fires in hazardous areas. Intrinsically safe systems limit electrical and thermal energy to prevent ignition when flammable gases, vapors, or combustible materials are present. This means operations can proceed safely, even in high-risk environments.
Applications of intrinsically safe scales include the following:
- Oil and gas facilities
- Chemical manufacturing plants
- Pharmaceuticals
- Mining operations
- Paint and solvent production
These scales undergo tests to verify their performance in hazardous conditions. This includes spark ignition testing, thermal analysis, and simulation of worst-case electrical faults. The goal is to confirm that the device will not become a source of ignition, even during malfunction.
Intrinsically safe scales should comply with industry standards set by the IEC System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres (IECEx). These standards verify compliance with global safety requirements for explosive atmospheres. Factory Mutual (FM) certifies equipment for use in hazardous locations in North America. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) tests for safe operation under fault conditions, ensuring the device cannot ignite surrounding gases or vapors.
Features of Intrinsically Safe Scales
To handle extreme environments, intrinsically safe industrial scales come with specialized features. These features distinguish intrinsically safe scales from standard industrial weight scales.
- An explosion-proof design that eliminates ignition sources
- Rugged construction to withstand harsh industrial conditions
- Offers highly accurate measurements even in sensitive or dangerous settings
- Operates using minimal electrical energy to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Making the Right Choice
Now that you understand what intrinsically safe industrial scales are, it’s time to think about the best option for your team. First, consider the necessary safety certifications for your location. Leading manufacturers offer scales that meet globally recognized standards and come with features tailored to specific industrial needs.
At Prime USA Scales, we provide a range of equipment to suit the demands of any industrial setting. Every order also comes with fast and free shipping within the continental USA. Plus, our customer support team is always ready to assist you in making the ideal choice for your application.
Why Invest?
If you’re working in hazardous environments, ignoring the importance of intrinsic safety could lead to devastating consequences. Incorporating intrinsically safe industrial scales into your operations is a proactive step toward creating a safer workplace.
To explore industrial weight scales that align with your safety requirements, visit Prime USA Scales today. Choose equipment engineered for safety and precision, and ensure your workplace remains both productive and secure!