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Related Articles - What happens when a PLC fails during production? - What is a programmable logic controller and how does it work? - What is the difference between industrial automation and robotics? - How do PLCs connect to IoT platforms? - What does a PLC actually do? Can PLCs be used in hazardous or explosive environments? Yes - but only with the right certifications. Discover which PLCs, protection methods, and installation rules apply in explosive environments. Categories: Process IT Icon Plus - https://conet.nl/news/process-it/can-plcs-be-used-in-hazardous-or-explosive-environments / Yes, PLCs can be used in hazardous or explosive environments, but only when they are specifically certified and configured for that purpose. Standard off-the-shelf PLCs are not suitable for use in areas where flammable gases, vapors, dusts, or explosive atmospheres may be present. The right combination of certification, protection method, and installation practice determines whether a PLC can operate safely in these conditions. This article walks through the key questions engineers and plant managers face when specifying PLCs for hazardous locations. Hazardous areas are classified into zones based on the likelihood and duration of an explosive atmosphere being present. For gases and vapors, the classification works as follows: - Zone 0: An explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods - Zone 1: An explosive atmosphere is likely to occur during normal operation - Zone 2: An explosive atmosphere is not likely during normal operation, but may occur occasionally For combustible dusts, equivalent classifications apply under Zone 20, 21, and 22. The zone classification directly determines which protection methods and equipment certifications are required. Any electrical device installed in or near these zones must be evaluated against the specific hazard present, whether that is a flammable solvent in a chemical plant, natura...