Industrial switches are divided into several different classes and divisions, which can help determine the hazardous locations in which they can successfully operate. Classifications are determined by the North American Division system. While the division indicates the probability that a flammable material exists in a quantity necessary to generate an explosion or fire, the class indicates the type of hazardous material involved. Below, we will discuss what Class 1 Division 2 devices are and their common applications.

Division 2 Meaning

As previously touched on, the division of a device refers to the likelihood that a certain flammable material is present in a combustible concentration. A Division 2 classification indicates that a device is designed for operation in a location where under normal operating conditions flammable materials aren’t expected to be present in ignitable quantities. However, the flammable materials may accidentally exist in the location as a result of being handled, processed, or used in the area.

Class 1 Meaning

The class indicates the type of hazardous material that may be present in a given location. A Class 1 designation suggests that a device is designed to operate in the presence of flammable or combustible gases, liquids, or vapors in quantities sufficient to produce an explosion or fire.

Class 1 Division 2 Meaning

Class 1 Division 2 industrial devices are essential for building robust networks in extreme environments. Common applications for Class 1 Division 2 devices include connecting networks in hazardous environments such as chemical plants, paint factories, glue factories, oil rigs, and oil pipelines. Such application environments may include concentrations of gases, vapors, or liquids that are either confined or ventilated to keep them in non ignitable quantities.

Antaira’s Class 1 Division 2 Devices

Antaira Technologies features a broad selection of Class 1 Division 2 certified industrial networking devices. In addition to Class 1 Division 2 certified industrial Ethernet switches, we also offer innovative C1D2 media converters as well as other industrial devices such as industrial access points, wireless routers, and SFP modules. To learn more about our rugged networking devices for use in hazardous application environments, contact us today.