Steute's new Ex ES 97 command devices bring flexible, direct integration to hazardous zones 1 and 21 without compromising on durability or compactness.
Operating machinery in explosive environments demands equipment that is both rugged and adaptable. The latest series of Ex command devices from steute's Controltec business division addresses both requirements, offering engineers a practical new option for integrating controls directly into machine and plant enclosures within Ex zones 1 and 21.
The Ex ES 97 series builds on the foundations of the Ex 97 series of position switches, a product line already well established in complex application fields and particularly proven in explosive zones. Its dimensions conform to EN 50047, meaning it slots into existing design specifications without requiring significant re-engineering of control panel layouts or mounting configurations.
At the heart of this series is a switching system designed for reliability under pressure. The slow action mechanism features one normally closed and one normally open contact, with a positive break NC contact that ensures safety even under fault conditions. This combination makes the system extremely robust and durable, qualities that matter enormously in environments where equipment failure is not simply an inconvenience but a genuine hazard.
One of the more thoughtful design decisions is the separate terminal compartment, rated to ignition protection class Ex e. This allows flexible cable connections to be made directly inside the terminal compartment of the command device itself, rather than routing through external junction boxes or additional enclosures. In practice, this simplifies installation and reduces the number of potential failure points in the wiring chain.
Compactness further eases integration. With an installation diameter of just 22.5 mm, these command devices can be fitted into surrounding structures where space is at a premium. For engineers working on densely packed control panels or retrofitting older installations, that small footprint makes a tangible difference.
The new Ex command devices are initially available in three versions: a push button, a latching selector, and a standards-compliant emergency stop button. All variants carry certification for use in Ex zones 1 and 21, covering both gas and dust explosive atmospheres. For applications requiring different actuator configurations, additional variants are available on request, giving engineers room to tailor solutions to specific operational needs.
This latest series fits neatly into the broader steute Controltec portfolio of command devices for explosive zones. Until now, users had two main options: the Ex 14 series with a connecting cable, and the Ex BF 80 housed in a robust plastic enclosure with a terminal compartment. The Ex ES 97 adds a third path, one that prioritises compact direct integration without sacrificing the connection flexibility that industrial environments demand.
For plants operating in hazardous atmospheres, having more options is never a bad thing. The ability to choose between cable-connected, enclosure-based, and now compact terminal-compartment designs means engineers can match the device to the installation rather than compromising the other way around. As industrial environments grow more complex and safety standards continue to tighten, that kind of flexibility is not a luxury but a requirement.
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