Danem Test & Certificate provides Ex i testing and assessment services for manufacturers of electrical equipment and associated apparatus used in hazardous areas. Intrinsic safety is widely applied where limiting electrical and thermal energy is the most practical way to control ignition risks.
We support clients from early feasibility reviews through assessment planning, documentation checks, and technical evaluations. Our work is tailored to the product architecture, intended installation, and target marking, helping manufacturers identify compliance gaps early and avoid redesign loops late in the project.
From the outset, we align the testing and assessment scope, expected timelines, and required evidence. This creates a predictable path from design review to clear technical outputs suitable for certification.
What Is Intrinsic Safety Testing (Ex i)?
Intrinsic safety testing (Ex i) focuses on verifying that electrical circuits are energy-limited so they cannot ignite an explosive atmosphere, even under defined fault conditions. Ex i assessment typically includes circuit evaluation, component verification, thermal considerations, and confirmation of safety parameters used for installation.
Testing and evaluation are commonly performed against internationally recognized requirements such as IEC/EN 60079-11, and the results influence circuit limits, component selection, safety margins, and documentation used for conformity assessment and marking.
Typical Ex i products include sensors and transmitters, measurement and control devices, portable and battery-powered equipment, interfaces, and associated apparatus intended for hazardous area installations.
Ex i Testing Process
Our Ex i testing process is structured to keep requirements clear and avoid unnecessary iterations.
1. Technical review and scope definition
We review the product concept, intended marking (Ex ia / Ex ib), installation conditions, and applicable requirements to define the assessment scope.
3. Testing and verification (as applicable)
We review the product design and intended application to identify applicable IECEx standards, protection concepts, and certification requirements.
2. Documentation and circuit assessment
We evaluate schematics, component ratings, safety parameters, and thermal considerations, confirming how the intrinsic safety concept is implemented.
4. Reporting and certification support
and technical file preparation.
Planning an Ex i Project?
Align your testing scope, documentation, and timelines from the start with independent Ex i evaluation tailored to your product architecture.
What information should we prepare before starting an Ex i assessment?
Provide schematics, BOM/component datasheets, layout details (if relevant), intended marking level, power supply/interface details, and installation/use conditions. Early clarity on barriers/associated apparatus and field wiring assumptions helps define the correct scope.
What are the most common issues that delay Ex i approval?
Typical blockers include incomplete component evidence, unclear safety parameter definitions, thermal limits not justified, and mismatches between documentation and the actual build. Early document readiness checks significantly reduce rework.
Can you assess both “associated apparatus” and field devices under Ex i?
Often yes, if variants are part of a defined family and the differences can be technically justified within the test plan. The final approach depends on how changes affect critical features such as joints, volume, materials, and fasteners.
How do product variations affect Ex i testing (e.g., different power options or component changes)?
The number of samples depends on the enclosure design, size, intended marking, and the required test scope. We confirm sample quantity and configurations during the initial technical review to avoid delays.
Can Ex i evaluation start before the design is final?
In many cases, yes. Ex d test evidence can support both routes when the applicable standards and test scope align. The exact acceptance depends on the certification pathway and the documentation package used for conformity assessment.