ATEX Zone 1 IIB

The European Union (EU) Zone 1, IIB classification plays a crucial role in the ATEX directive framework, setting standards for equipment and protective systems in potentially explosive atmospheres. This classification specifically targets manufacturers, engineers, and safety professionals designing, producing, or operating equipment within hazardous environments.

The ATEX directive, originating from the French "ATmosphères EXplosibles," categorizes environments into several zones based on the frequency and duration of explosive atmospheres' occurrences. Zone 1 defines areas where a mixture of air and flammable substances, gas, vapor, or mist, occasionally occurs during regular operation. This zone presents a lower risk than Zone 0, where explosive atmospheres exist continuously or for long periods, but a higher risk than Zone 2, where such atmospheres are unlikely during regular operation.

Within this context, the IIB classification addresses the specific types of gases or vapors that may be present. It dictates the necessary construction and testing standards for equipment to ensure safety. The gas groups are classified based on the gases' minimum ignition energy, with Group IIB covering gases like ethylene, which have higher minimum ignition energies than those in Group IIA (like propane) but lower than those in Group IIC (like hydrogen or acetylene).

Equipment designed for use in Zone 1 and IIB areas must prevent ignition sources, even under fault conditions, from igniting the specified explosive mixtures. This requires careful design to avoid electrical arcs, control surface temperatures, and seal parts that could release explosive gases.

Manufacturers and operators must ensure equipment meets essential health and safety requirements and undergo proper conformity assessment procedures. They must also provide equipment bearing the CE marking and the Ex symbol, indicating ATEX compliance. Additionally, they should include specific zone and group markings—in this case, Zone 1 and Group IIB—to demonstrate the equipment's suitability for the intended hazardous environment.

The Zone 1, IIB classification underscores the commitment to safety by mandating that equipment and protective systems are adequately designed and tested for safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres. Adhering to the ATEX directive, particularly within Zone 1, IIB classification parameters, is not merely a regulatory requirement but a critical component of risk management in industries handling flammable substances. Compliance ensures the protection of lives and property by minimizing the risk of ignition in hazardous environments.

Analynk is a company that offers a range of enclosures and antennas designed to provide a secure and safe environment for wireless access points in hazardous locations. With Analynk enclosures, you can quickly deploy popular access point models such as Aruba/HP, Cisco, Meraki, and others in ATEX Zone 1, IIB atmospheres. If you're concerned about the safety and security of your access points in hazardous locations, then Analynk's enclosures are the perfect solution. You can contact Analynk today to learn more about their hazardous area access point enclosures and how they can help you keep your wireless network secure even in the most challenging environments.

Analynk Wireless
(614) 755-5091
https://analynk.com

Enhance Your Network Safety with Analynk Wireless's ATEX Zone 1 IIB Certified Access Point Enclosures

Analynk Wireless, LLC proudly announces fully certified ATEX Zone 1 IIB enclosures for the most popular access points.

ATEX Zone 1, IIB is a European Union classification for areas with potentially explosive atmospheres under the ATEX directives. This classification is crucial for designing and using equipment safely in these environments to prevent ignition.

Analynk enclosures and antennas provide a safe and secure environment for your wireless access points in hazardous locations. With Analynk enclosures, you can deploy your Aruba/HP, Cisco, Meraki, and others in ATEX Zone 1, IIB atmospheres. Contact Analynk today to learn more about our hazardous area access point enclosures.

Analynk Wireless
(614) 755-5091
https://analynk.com

Analynk: Leading the Way in Hazardous Area Enclosures for Top Wireless Brands

In the world of industrial wireless communication, safety and reliability are paramount. Analynk, LLC has emerged as the premier manufacturer of hazardous area enclosures, specifically designed for wireless access points from some of the most renowned brands in the industry, including Cisco, Hewlett-Packard, Aruba, Meraki, Aerohive, Fortinet, and Motorola.

A Commitment to Safety and Compatibility

Analynk's expertise lies in creating robust enclosures that ensure the safe operation of wireless access points in environments where standard enclosures are unsuitable. This is particularly crucial in industries with high risk of explosive atmospheres or other hazardous conditions, such as in chemical plants, oil and gas facilities, and other similar settings.

What sets Analynk apart is their meticulous attention to compatibility. Their enclosures house and protect wireless access points from leading brands like Cisco and Hewlett-Packard, ensuring that these devices can operate safely even in the most challenging environments. This focus on compatibility extends to other top brands like Aruba, Meraki, Aerohive, Fortinet, and Motorola, making Analynk a a preferred solution for industrial organizations looking for reliable wireless communication in hazardous areas.

Innovative Design and Quality Assurance

Analynk's enclosures are more than just protective cases; they result from innovative engineering that considers the unique needs of hazardous environments. Each enclosure prevents dust and moisture ingress while maintaining the optimal operating conditions for the wireless access points and includes considerations for temperature control, connectivity, and ease of maintenance.

Quality assurance is another cornerstone of Analynk's approach. Every enclosure undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the highest safety standards for hazardous area equipment. This commitment to quality and safety has earned Analynk a reputation as the trusted manufacturer of choice for industrial organizations worldwide.

A Responsive and Customer-Centric Approach

Understanding that each industrial setup has unique challenges, Analynk offers a customer-centric approach. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and provide customized solutions that fit perfectly within their operational framework. This level of responsiveness and flexibility makes Analynk stand out in the market.

Future-Proofing Industrial Wireless Communication

As wireless technology continues to evolve, Analynk is committed to staying ahead of the curve. Their R&D team continuously works on improving and innovating their product line to accommodate the latest advancements in wireless technology. This forward-thinking approach ensures that clients investing in Analynk's enclosures are future-proofing their industrial wireless communication needs.

In an era where industrial wireless communication is becoming increasingly complex and essential, Analynk, LLC stands out as a beacon of reliability and innovation. Their specialized hazardous area enclosures for top brands like Cisco, Hewlett-Packard, Aruba, Meraki, Aerohive, Fortinet, and Motorola are not just products but essential components that ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency in challenging industrial environments. As the premier manufacturer in this niche, Analynk continues to set the standard for quality and innovation in industrial wireless communication.

Access Points in Industrial Settings

An access point (AP) is a device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi. It interfaces between wireless clients and the wired LAN (Local Area Network). Access points are essentially the wireless equivalent of an Ethernet hub or switch, granting multiple devices access to the network.

In industry and manufacturing facilities, an access point (AP) provides wireless connectivity to a wired network, enabling seamless communication across large areas. These APs handle a high density of devices, withstand harsh environmental conditions, and offer enhanced security features. They support mobile workers, integrate wireless industrial equipment, facilitate real-time data collection and monitoring, and ensure safety through connected sensors and alarms. The strategic placement of APs provides consistent network coverage, allowing for efficient and uninterrupted operations in the facility.

The rapid evolution of technology in industrial settings has necessitated a corresponding advancement in network infrastructure. Wireless access points are at the heart of this transformation, which have become pivotal in ensuring high-performance connectivity and backward compatibility with legacy systems. Industrial facilities often house diverse equipment, ranging from older machines with limited connectivity options to state-of-the-art devices with advanced wireless capabilities. This mix presents a unique challenge: providing a network that caters to the needs of both old and new devices without compromising on speed, reliability, or security.

Dual-band access points have emerged as the solution to this problem. By operating on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, they offer the flexibility of supporting older devices that may only recognize the 2.4 GHz band while still providing the faster and less congested 5 GHz band for newer, more capable devices. This dual-band capability ensures that industrial settings don't have to choose between performance and compatibility; they can achieve both. Moreover, with the increasing reliance on real-time data analytics, cloud-based applications, and remote monitoring in modern industry, the role of access points in delivering consistent and high-speed connectivity has never been more crucial. Their ability to bridge the gap between the old and the new ensures that industries can transition into the future without leaving the past behind.

Analynk Wireless specializes in producing enclosures for wireless access points suited for hazardous environments. Their enclosures come with certified components, inclusive of antennas, mountings, entry points, cables, and energy sources. Their diverse product range is compatible with numerous wireless access point brands, such as Aruba/HP, Cisco, Meraki, Meru, Motorola, and Symbol.

Analynk Wireless
(614) 755-5091
https://analynk.com

AP632 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosure for Aerohive AP1130

The AP632 is designed to house the Aerohive AP1130 dual band access point for use in hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, antennas and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure includes four of our proprietary explosion proof CTX series antennas.

Ratings: 

• Class I, Division 1, Groups, C & D 

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

Industry 4.0 and Hazardous Environments: How Wireless Access Point Enclosures Ensure Safe Data Transmission

Industry 4.0, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is a term used to describe the integration of smart technologies into the manufacturing and industrial sectors. This revolution includes big data analytics, automation, robotics, and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies to create smarter, more efficient, and more connected industrial systems.

In many industrial environments, there can be hazardous areas with a risk of fire or explosion due to flammable gases, vapors, dust, or fibers. Classification of the sites is according to their risk level, and special precautions are critical when deploying electronic equipment in these areas to prevent the risk of ignition. One important aspect of Industry 4.0 is the ability to collect and transmit data wirelessly, which requires deploying wireless access points within the industrial environment, including in hazardous areas.

The solution to safely deploying wireless access points in hazardous areas is to use specially-designed enclosures engineered to prevent ignition. These enclosures are "hazardous area wireless access point enclosures" and meet specific safety standards for hazardous locations. Several key factors make these enclosures suitable for use in hazardous areas:

• Explosion-proof design: These enclosures contain an internal explosion and prevent it from spreading to the surrounding environment. They are constructed from robust materials that can withstand the pressures generated by an internal explosion.
• Ingress protection: The enclosures are designed to prevent the ingress of dust, water, and other contaminants, which is essential for ensuring the reliable operation of the wireless access point and for preventing the buildup of flammable dust within the enclosure.
• Temperature regulation: The enclosures often include features to regulate the internal temperature, such as heat sinks, cooling fans, or air conditioning units, which are important for preventing the wireless access point from overheating and potentially becoming an ignition source.
• Intrinsically safe components: Some enclosures are designed to accommodate intrinsically safe components, which operate at energy levels below the threshold required for ignition, and provide an additional layer of safety when deploying wireless access points in hazardous areas.
• Certification: Hazardous area enclosures are typically certified by recognized testing organizations to confirm that they meet the relevant safety standards for use in hazardous areas. The certification process involves rigorous testing to ensure the enclosures can safely perform in real-world hazardous environments.

In Industry 4.0 applications, these enclosures are used to safely deploy wireless access points within hazardous areas, enabling the collection and transmission of data from sensors, actuators, and other devices within the industrial environment., helpful for real-time monitoring, process control, predictive maintenance, and other Industry 4.0 applications that rely on the availability of timely and accurate data. By using hazardous area enclosures, industrial facilities can take advantage of the benefits of Industry 4.0 while maintaining high safety in their operations.

Analynk Wireless

(614) 755-5091

https://analynk.com

Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosures for Safety, Reliability, Convenience and Cost Savings

Industrial wireless networks are a much-needed solution for hazardous areas where wired connections are impossible. Wireless networks are also an ideal choice for temporary or mobile applications.

Industrial Wireless Networking is a newer technology quickly becoming the standard for companies that need to transmit data wirelessly in hazardous areas. Industrial wireless networks are gaining traction in hazardous areas with distinct advantages over hard wiring. However, some disadvantages make it less desirable than hard wiring.

Industrial wireless networks are a cost-effective solution to provide reliable, secure, and fast internet access in hazardous areas. In recent years, the demand for industrial networks increased with the increasing popularity of IoT (Internet of Things). This industrial network segment is seeing a surge in demand as more instruments and supervisory control systems connect their devices to the Internet.

Wireless has been a solution to many challenges faced in industrial networking, from remote locations to temporary installations, with the convenience of mobility and reduced installation costs.  

An access point is a device that establishes a wireless local area network, often known as a WLAN. An access point uses Ethernet to connect to a wired router, switch, or hub and broadcasts a WiFi signal to a specific region of a building or plant. However, a significant challenge remains: how to prevent access points from causing ignition and protect the access point against harsh environmental conditions? 

Hazardous Access Point Enclosures are enclosures used to protect wireless access points in hazardous areas. They provide safety to the wireless network equipment and the people who work in the area.

Some of the hazards that might be present in a hazardous area include combustible gases, oxygen-rich atmospheres, and flammable dusts. These hazards can cause a fire or explosion if they come into contact with an open flame, spark, or heat source.

To ensure that access point devices can operate reliably in hazardous environments such as oil rigs or chemical plants, they need protection from combustible gases, dust particles, and corrosive chemicals.

The need for Hazardous Access Point Enclosures is increasing daily due to new wireless network technology and are a requirement for all access points operating in hazardous industrial areas. These enclosures protect the access points from dangerous areas and environments. They have various features to ensure the environment is protected and secure for the personnel working in the area.

Some of these features include:

• Compliance with international standards
• Resistance to extreme temperatures
• Permits installation in any location within a hazardous area
• Protection against dust and water ingress

Industrial wireless networks have a lot of benefits over hard wiring. The lack of wires makes installing and moving around in hazardous areas easy. In addition, you can eliminate the cost and hassle of having to replace or repair wires if they break or get cut. Access points are critical components of industrial networks, and Hazardous Area Enclosures are an essential safety measure for access point manufacturers when applying their products in these settings.

Analynk AP628 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosure for Aruba AP-574

The AP628 is designed to house the Aruba AP-574 dual band access point for use in hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for  Class I, Division 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, antennas and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure utilizes our proprietary ex-plosion proof CTX series of antennas, six dual band 2.4GHz/5GHz are included.  

Ratings: 

• Class I, Division 1, Groups, C & D 

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information:

AP628-N4 (NEMA 4 option)

AP628-ATEX (ATEX Zone 1 option)

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

Analynk AP434-U6 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosure for Fortinet FortiAP-432F or FortiAP-U432F (6 Antennas)

The AP434-U6 is designed to house the Fortinet FortiAP-432F or FortiAP-U432F (when six an-tennas are used) dual band access points for use in the hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. Also included are six of our pro-prietary explosion proof CTX series dual band (2.4GHz/5GHz) antennas. The access point is not included.

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information:

• AP434 –U6
• AP434-U6-N4 (NEMA 4X)
• AP434-U6-ATEX (ATEX Zone 1)

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

The Analynk AP627 Explosion Proof Access Point Enclosure For Aruba AP-534

The Analynk AP627 is designed to house the Aruba AP-534 dual band access point for use in hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, antennas and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure utilizes our proprietary explosion proof CTX series of antennas, four dual band 2.4GHz/5GHz are included.

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information: 

• AP627 
• AP627-N4 (NEMA 4 option) 
• AP627-ATEX (ATEX Zone 1 option)

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091.

The Analynk AP433 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosure for Cisco C9130AXE

The AP433 is designed to house the Cisco C9130AXE dual band access point for use in the hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hard-ware, DART cable, and mounting plate are in-cluded to make installation of the access point quick and easy. Also included are eight of our proprietary explosion proof CTX series dual band (2.4GHz/5GHz) antennas. The access point is not included.

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information: 

• AP433  
• AP433-N4 (NEMA 4X)
• AP433-ATEX (ATEX Zone 1)

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

Hardened Wireless Access Point Enclosures for Application in Explosive Atmospheres

When air, vapor, mist, or dust – alone or in combination – are present in settings where it or they can ignite under specified operating parameters, a potentially explosive environment occurs. "Hazardous" or "classified" areas or sites have a potentially explosive atmosphere. 

In potentially explosive situations, high-quality Wi-Fi access installations for chemical, defense, flight line, food processing, fueling, mining, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical applications are typical. These applications require the best available Wi-Fi performance in the roughest settings, whether for device telemetry, network access, site-to-site connectivity, or unified communications. Local and international laws have been put in place to reduce the risk of running networks and IIoT devices in potentially explosive environments. 

Chemical plants, refineries, oil and gas platforms, mining operations, grain processing, and plastics manufacturing all require hazardous area wireless access point enclosures designed and certified for usage in these environments. By preventing tampering, vandalism, and theft, these enclosures also give your wireless access point an extra layer of security. Because the expense of purchasing and installing an explosion-proof enclosure can be anywhere between 4 and 20 times the cost of the access point it is supposed to protect, using an external enclosure is the most realistic solution for quickly evolving wireless technology. It's much less expensive to replace the access point while keeping the protective enclosure intact than replacing the enclosure entirely with each technology upgrade.

Industrial wireless access point enclosures designed for Class 1, Division 1, Hazardous Locations, Groups C & D, ATEX Zone 1, and are available for an ever-increasing range of standard access points.

Analynk access point enclosures house specific wireless access points from various manufacturers, making installation simple. Every model comes with UL-listed explosion-proof antennas, mounting brackets custom-tailored for the access point equipment, and RF cables for connecting the antennas. Penetrations in enclosures correspond with the specified access point. Designs accommodate a variety of access points from Symbol, Cisco, Meru, Aruba, HP, and Motorola, with more models added regularly to accommodate additional wireless access points. 

The Analynk website contains a list of all wireless access point devices and their companion enclosures. If an access point you want to use isn't on the list, contact Analynk. They may accommodate your requirement with a minor modification to an existing product. 

Analynk Wireless is a company that specializes in industrial wireless communications. Analynk welcomes your wireless communication challenges, so get in touch and share your specifications.

The Analynk AP432 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Enclosure for the Cisco C9120AXE Access Point

The AP432 is designed to house the Cisco 9120AXE dual band access point for use in hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, antennas and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure includes four of our proprietary explosion proof 2.4GHz/5Gz CTX series antennas.

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information: 

• AP432 Class I, Div 1 Groups, C & D
• AP432-N4 (NEMA 4 option)
• AP432-ATEX (ATEX Zone 1 option)

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

Comprehensive Listing of Hazardous Area Enclosures for Commercially Available Wireless Access Points

Markets such as pharmaceutical, chemical, petrochemical, water treatment, refinery, oil platform, storage depot, and mining applications benefit from wireless network implementation. The robust feature set of commercial access points provides significant benefits but typically lacks the construction and approvals for hazardous environments. Specially designed instrument enclosures accommodate these access points and allow these feature-rich, widely available products in hazardous industrial areas. 

Analynk manufactures hazardous area access point enclosures designed for these access points. The enclosures are rated Class I, Division 1, and 2 locations, Groups A, B, C, & D and ATEX Zone 1 and 2 areas. 

The following is a listing of commonly used wireless access points and matching access point enclosures, with links to the specification sheets.

• AP400 for the Cisco AP1262N & AP3502E
• AP402 for the Hewlett Packard J9621
• AP406 for the Cisco 3602E
• AP407 for the Cisco 2602E
• AP409 for the Cisco 2702E
• AP410 for the Cisco 3702E
• AP411 for the Meraki MR72/MR74
• AP412 for the Cisco 2802E
• AP413 for the Cisco 3802E
• AP415 for the Cisco MR53
• AP417 for the Cisco AIR-AP1562E
• AP419 for the Cisco Meraki MR84
• AP420 for the Cisco Meraki MR42E
• AP422 for the Cisco 1852E
• AP423 for the Meraki MR46E
• AP424 for the Meraki MR86
• AP426 for the Fortinet FAP-223
• AP431 for the Cisco C9115AXE
• AP427 for Ubiquiti UAP-AC-M
• AP600 for the Aruba AP92
• AP603 for the Aruba AP-124
• AP605 for the Aruba AP-104
• AP607 for the Aruba AP-224
• AP608 for the Meru AP-1020e
• AP610 for the Aruba AP-204 and IAP-204
• AP616 for the Aruba AP-228 and AP-318
• AP617 for the Aruba AP-274 and AP-374
• AP619 for the Aruba AP-324
• AP620 for the Motorola/Zebra AP-7532
• AP621 for the Aruba AP-214
• AP622 for the Aruba AP-304
• AP623 for the Aruba AP-314
• AP624 for the Aruba AP-334
• AP626 for Aruba AP-514

Analynk Wireless
(614) 755-5091

Analynk AP420 Explosion Proof Access Point Enclosure For Meraki/Cisco MR42E

The AP420 is a hazardous area enclosure designed to house the Meraki/Cisco MR42E dual band access point.The enclosure and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure includes five hazardous area 2.4GHz/5GHz antennas, the MR42E is not included.

Ratings: Class I, Div 1 Groups, C & D, ATEX Zone 1 optional

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information:

• AP420
• AP420-N4 (NEMA 4 rating)
• AP420-ATEX

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

Analynk AP626 Explosion Proof Access Point Enclosure For Aruba AP-514

The Analynk AP626 is a hazardous area enclosure designed to house the Aruba AP-514 dual band access point. The enclosure and antennas are rated for Class 1, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure includes four of our patented hazardous area 2.4GHz/5GHz antennas, the AP-514 is not included.

Ratings: Class I, Div 1 Groups, C & D
ATEX Zone 1 optional

Applications:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Oil refineries
• Oil & Gas Platforms
• Chemical Plants

Ordering information:

• AP626
• AP626-N4 (NEMA 4 rating)
• AP626-ATEX

For more information call Analynk at 614-755-5091 or visit this web page.

An Excellent White Paper for Understanding Wireless Networking in Hazardous Areas

A potentially explosive atmosphere exists when a gas, vapor, mist, or dust, alone or in combination, occurs in situations where it may ignite under specific conditions. A "hazardous" or "classified" area are places with highly combustible atmospheres that are potentially explosive.

Local and international regulations exist to minimize the risk posed in explosive atmospheres by the energy contained in and required by operating networks and IoT products. A gradual harmonization of these regulations continues to be structured and defined by the IEC and European and US standards.

Industry associations and standards bodies continue to work together to resolve classifying explosive materials and establish standards for the safe operation of networking equipment and IIoT (Industrial Things Internet) products in hazardous areas. Because different organizations perform the work in other areas, understanding which criteria are applicable under different conditions can be difficult.

Aruba Networks has been at the forefront of wireless networking in industrial environments. Their white paper entitled "BUILT TO BLAST: Industrial Internet of Things Hazardous Environment Infrastructure" discusses the various types of dangers, criteria, and conditions that need to be considered before deploying wireless network infrastructure in explosive environments. You can download the white paper here.

The growth of connected industrial IoT devices moves in unison with initiatives to improve operations, maximize efficiency, allow better inventory management, and enhance plant safety. Understanding the unique requirements of wireless networking and communications in hazardous areas is critical. If you have questions about applying wireless networking and instrumentation in hazardous areas, feel free to contact Analynk Wireless. Check out their website at https://analynk.com for contact information.

The Economic Argument of Using Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosures

 

Many chemical, food processing, refining, mining, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical applications need high-performance Wi-Fi access in potentially explosive environments. Whether it's device telemetry, network access, site-to-site networking, or unified communications, these applications demand the highest Wi-Fi performance possible in the harshest environments. 

Some Wi-Fi access points are designed for direct use in explosive conditions without an external protective enclosure. Others are intended for use in non-explosive environments and controlled within a specialized housing specified for that use. The former approach is cost-effective when the underlying technology that drives the equipment is developed, reliable, and unlikely to need an upgrade for years; IoT velocity, positioning, pressure, and temperature sensors fall into that class. 

The latter solution – using an outer enclosure – is the most realistic as the underlying wireless technology is rapidly evolving. That's because an explosion-proof enclosure's purchase and installation costs can reflect 4 to 20 times the access point's price. Swapping the access point out, leaving the protective enclosure intact, is significantly less costly than installing a brand new enclosure for some technology upgrades. 

The Wi-Fi industry has changed from 802.11n to 802.11ac Wave 1 to 802.11ac Wave 2 in under ten years. Just as no consumer will purchase a new truck based on a 10-year-old design, nor will they consider installing technology-based 802.11n access points from 2007. They will at least use 802.11ac Wave 1, particularly in industrial environments, due to the outstanding multipath performance of 802.11ac in metal presence. 

Using standard amortization rates, a consumer wanting to keep up-to-date with the new Wi-Fi technology will upgrade equipment approximately once every four years. If we believe that an access point designed for harsh environments has a list price of $1,500, and with the related Class 1 Division 2 enclosure may list for $3,500. The installation alone (excluding the set-up and commissioning of access points) costs $2,500. In this scenario, buyers can save $4,500 for each access point technology switch when mounting in a hazardous area access point enclosure.

For more information about hazardous area wireless access point enclosures, contact Analynk by calling (614) 755-5091 or visit their website at https://analynk.com.

The Analynk AP427 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosure for Ubiquiti UAP-AC-M

THE AP427 HAZARDOUS AREA ENCLOSURE HOUSES THE UBIQUITI UAP-AC-M DUAL BAND ACCESS POINT FOR USE IN THE HAZARDOUS AREAS. 

The AP427 is designed to house the Ubiquiti UAP-AC-M dual band access point for use in hazardous areas. The enclosure, all hardware, and antennas are rated for Class I, Div 1, groups C & D Hazardous Locations. All hardware, mounting plate, antennas and RF cables are provided to make installation of the access point quick and easy. The enclosure utilizes our proprietary explosion proof CTX series of antennas, two dual band 2.4GHz/5GHz are included.

For more information, contact Analynk Wireless.
(614) 755-5091

The Analynk AP419 Dual-Band Hazardous Area Access Point Enclosure for Cisco Meraki MR84 Access Point

The AP419 hazardous area enclosure houses the Cisco Meraki MR84 dual band access point for use in the hazardous areas. 

The AP419 hazardous area enclosure houses the Cisco MR84 dual band access point for use in the hazardous areas. The enclosure and antennas are designed for use in Class I, Division 1 group C & D areas. All hardware, mounting plate, antennas and RF cables are provided to make installation quick and easy. The enclosure utilizes our proprietary explosion proof CTX series of antennas and includes four 2.4GHz/5GHz dual band antennas. The access point is not included with the enclosure.

For more information, contact Analynk Wireless.
(614) 755-5091