Can standard industrial computing or networking devices be used in oil and gas environments? No. Standard devices are generally not suitable for hazardous oil and gas environments. Many upstream and downstream facilities contain flammable gases, vapours, and combustible dust, which create a risk of ignition. To operate safely in these areas, equipment must be ATEX or Class 1 Division 2 (C1D2) certified, ensuring it is designed to prevent sparks, overheating, or other ignition sources. Certified industrial computers, networking switches, and communication devices allow operators to deploy reliable computing and connectivity infrastructure directly within hazardous locations while meeting strict safety regulations.
What is the difference between ATEX and Class 1 Division 2 (C1D2) certification? ATEX and Class 1 Division 2 are hazardous-area certifications used for industrial equipment in explosive environments, including oil and gas facilities.ATEX is the European directive governing equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres. It defines safety requirements for devices such as industrial computers, HMIs, networking switches, and communication systems deployed in hazardous area.Class 1 Division 2 is a North American classification that applies to environments where flammable gases or vapours may be present under abnormal operating conditions, such as equipment failures or leaks.
What is the difference between ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2 compliance? Zone 1 refers to the classification of hazardous areas where explosive atmospheres are most likely to be present during normal operations. This includes flammable gases, vapours or mists, commonly found in oil and gas environments. It is crucial that the equipment deployed on Zone 1 sites is engineered to prevent ignition, ensuring systems maintain operational efficiency and safety in mission-critical operations.Zone 2 refers to the classification of hazardous areas where explosive atmospheres are not likely, but could occur briefly during normal operations in the event of a spill or gas leak. Common in gas plants, these areas require equipment which is designed to prevent or mitigate ignition sources, should flammable substances be unexpectedly released.
What applications require ATEX Zone 2 or C1D2 certified computing and networking equipment? ATEX Zone 2 and C1D2 certified systems are typically used in offshore drilling platforms, wellhead automation systems, compressor packages, tank farms and storage terminals, vapour recovery units, chemical dosing and process control systems, SCADA, and remote monitoring installations. In these areas, hazardous-area certified devices enable operators to deploy computing power and connectivity closer to field equipment. This reduces cabling complexity while improving real-time monitoring, automation, and operational efficiency.
How does Impulse Embedded support ATEX Zone 2 and C1D2 projects? We provide certified industrial computing and networking equipment solutions, supporting system integrators, OEMs, and engineering companies working within the oil and gas sector. Our team can supply ATEX and C1D2 certified panel PCs, embedded computers, displays, and industrial networking equipment, configured with the required memory, storage, operating system, and connectivity options. Systems are assembled and tested in our UK facility, with documentation packs and certification labelling aligned with your project requirements. Our technical specialists can also help you design and integrate custom embedded computers, custom touchscreen HMIs, and industrial control panels built to your exact specification. Contact our team today to discuss your requirements.