Explosion-protected wall sockets

Paul Boughton

Crouse-Hinds has launched a new range of explosion-protected wall sockets with integrated protection devices that enable local, customised protection of the connected electrical equipment. This prevents fault tripping as a result of long cable lengths, reduces distances to the protective device if it trips, and allows the equipment to be switched on again quickly once the fault has been eliminated.

The new Ex-wall sockets with integrated RCD/MCB (RCBO) protection from Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds Division are protected by an IP66 plastic (GRP) enclosure and are suitable for installation in hazardous gas areas (Zone 1 & 2) and hazardous dust areas (Zone 21 & 22).

For extra protection in hazardous gas and hazardous dust environments, explosion-protected wall sockets can be fitted with local protection devices in the form of a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCD) or Miniature Current Circuit Breaker (MCB). 

In the event of a fault with the connected equipment, the function of the RCD/MCB socket is to protect personnel from serious injuries due to electric shocks. With a built-in protection device, the feed line and the end unit can be protected individually to suit the required load. Individual work areas can be isolated while maintenance is carried out. In the event of a fault, only the area affected is switched off – all other areas remain fully functional. Individual areas can also be switched off manually and safeguarded from being switched on accidentally by using a safety padlock.

The integrated RCD/MCB protection devices can be accessed easily at any time by using the actuating flap/cover. With a tripping current of 10-500mA, in the event of a fault with the connected equipment, the RCD/MCB device protects personnel from serious injuries due to electric shocks.

The Ex-wall sockets are available in three enclosure sizes with rated currents of 16A and 32A and rated voltages from 24V up to 400V. Permissible ambient temperatures are from -20°C to +40°C.