Explosion-proof requirements for vertical distribution boxes in Ukraine

Vertical distribution boxes in Ukraine must comply with ATEX, IECEx, and national Technical Regulation standards for use in explosive atmospheres, with certification based on zone classification and equipment category.Regulatory FrameworkIn Ukraine, equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres must comply with the Technical Regulation of equipment and protective systems for explosive atmospheres, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 1055 (2016) and aligned with ATEX and IECEx standards . Compliance ensures safety in industries such as chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, and power generation . Equipment is categorized by protection level:Category 1 / M1: Very high protection, suitable for Zone 0 or Zone 20 (continuous explosive atmosphere)Category 2 / M2: High protection, suitable for Zone 1 or Zone 21 (likely explosive atmosphere)Category 3: Normal protection, suitable for Zone 2 or Zone 22 (rare explosive atmosphere)Zone ClassificationVertical distribution boxes must be selected according to the hazardous area zone:Gas zones: Zone 1 (frequent), Zone 2 (occasional)Dust zones: Zone 21 (frequent), Zone 22 (occasional) The Ex d (flameproof) and Ex tb (dust protection by enclosure) types are commonly used for vertical distribution boxes in these zones .Material and Construction RequirementsEnclosure materials: Copper-free aluminum, stainless steel, or glass-fiber reinforced polyester (GRP) for corrosion resistance and durability Ingress protection: Minimum IP66, with options for IP66/67 depending on environmental conditions Temperature range: Designed to operate in extreme temperatures, sometimes as low as -60°C Earthing and potential equalization: Integrated earthing plates or PE/PA bars to ensure safety and reduce wiring complexity Cable entry: Polyamide or metal cable glands with threaded entries to maintain explosion-proof integrity Certification and Conformity AssessmentBefore installation, vertical distribution boxes must undergo mandatory certification in Ukraine:Documentation review: Technical files, drawings, and specifications are submitted to a Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) such as TECKO Laboratory testing: Verification of flameproof integrity, ingress protection, and electrical safety Issuance of certificate: Confirms compliance with Ukrainian Technical Regulation, ATEX, and IECEx standards Modules for conformity assessment depend on equipment category:Category 1 / M1: Modules B, D, F, GCategory 2 / M2: Modules B, C, D, F, G Certified equipment receives the Ex marking (stylized Ex in a hexagon) indicating suitability for explosive atmospheres .Practical ConsiderationsVertical DIN rail design: Reduces terminal count and allows smaller enclosures while maintaining safe cable bending space Modular design: Enables customization of terminal layout, cable entry, and earthing to meet specific site requirements Maintenance: Flameproof enclosures simplify inspection and replacement without compromising explosion protection By following these requirements, vertical distribution boxes in Ukraine can be safely installed and legally operated in hazardous areas, ensuring compliance with national and international explosion-proof standards.