The importance of ease of repair is often underestimated.
Most users pay attention to when buying:
- Performance & Functionality
- Certification for Zone 1 or Zone 2
- Display size, camera, battery life
But what is often overlooked is the type of protection used – and whether the device can be repaired at all.
Comparison: types of protection & repair options
| ignition protection type | Description | Repair possible? | remark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ex m (encapsulation) | Electronics completely encapsulated in resin | ❌ No | Display broken or defective socket = write-off |
| Ex q (encapsulation) | components embedded in quartz sand | ⚠ Partially | Difficult to repair, but possible with some devices |
| Ex i (intrinsic safety) | Energy so limited that no ignition can occur | ✅ Yes. | Components are interchangeable and very easy to maintain. |
| Ex d (flameproof enclosure) | Explosion remains enclosed in the pressure-resistant housing | ✅ Yes. | devices are usually heavy and bulky |
Ex m encapsulation: total loss due to small defect
This type of protection is often used in portable Ex-smartphones, radios and scanners.
Advantages:
- Compact design
- High protection against ignition sources
Disadvantages:
- No repair possible.
- Battery, socket or display not replaceable
- Defects usually lead to total write-offs.
Ex q – Encapsulation: Limited maintainability
In the case of sand encapsulation, hazardous components are completely embedded in quartz sand.
Advantages:
- Protection from sparks and hot surfaces
- Partially modular design possible
Disadvantages:
- Repairs can usually only be carried out by the manufacturer
- limited interchangeability
Ex i – Intrinsic safety: Easy to repair and lightweight
The intrinsically safe ignition protection type limits the energy in the circuit to such an extent that no ignition can occur even in the event of a fault.
This means that light and maintenance-friendly devices can be used in zones 0, 1 and 2.
Advantages:
- Devices are repairable
- Battery, display and jacks often replaceable
- Particularly useful for measuring and communication devices
Disadvantages:
- Increased development effort – intrinsic safety must be taken into account at the design stage
💡 Conclusion: For many applications in ATEX zones, Ex i is the ideal combination of safety, ease of use and maintainability.
Ex d – Flameproof enclosure: Possible, but cumbersome
Ex d is also used occasionally in portable devices, such as special cameras.
The technology is safe, but usually involves compromises in terms of weight and handling.
Advantages:
- Non-ATEX-certified technology can also be used.
- High protection for zone 1
Disadvantages:
- Devices are heavy, large and unwieldy
- Operation in a potentially explosive atmosphere only with the housing closed
Conclusion
When buying portable ex-devices, it is not only the certification that counts – but also how suitable the device is for everyday use and whether it can be repaired in an emergency.
Particularly for high-priced devices, the choice of the type of protection can determine whether investment protection is provided or electronic waste is produced.
🔍 Our tip: Ask specifically about the type of protection and its impact on ease of repair before you decide on a product.
💬 Not sure which to choose? Talk to us – we will be happy to help you find the right Ex device for your application.