Overview
WEG hazardous area AC electric motors are purpose-built for environments where explosive gases, vapours or combustible dust are present. The range covers flameproof (Ex db), increased safety (Ex eb) and dust ignition proof protection types, certified to IECEx and ATEX standards for installation in Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 21 and Zone 22 classified areas. NEMA explosion proof versions carrying UL and CSA approvals are also available for Class I Division 1 and Class II Division 1 locations.
The motors are constructed with a robust cast iron frame in sizes from IEC 63 to 315S/M, delivering output from 0.18 kW through to 800 kW at voltages up to 1100 V. Multivoltage capability across 218–242 / 380–420 / 655–690 V makes them adaptable to a broad range of supply configurations. All units are totally enclosed fan cooled and rated from IP55 through to IP66.
Key Features
The WEG hazardous area range includes the W22Xdb flameproof and W22Xeb increased safety motor lines, both engineered to meet stringent international certification requirements. Temperature class ratings span T3 through to T6, covering gas groups I and IIC(B). Thermostat protection is fitted as standard and every motor undergoes routine factory testing before dispatch to confirm compliance with the relevant explosion protection standard.
Mounting flexibility is a particular strength of the range. Removable feet and flanges allow field-configurable arrangement across B3, B5, B35 and V1 positions, while the terminal box can be mounted on the side or top to suit cable entry requirements. The motors are designed for variable speed drive (VSD/VVVF) operation, which is essential in process-driven hazardous area installations where speed regulation is common.
For applications requiring premium efficiency in hazardous zones, the W23 Sync+ line extends the offering with IE5/IE6 rated motors up to 1,250 kW, suitable for Zone 2 and Class I Division 2 environments.
Common Applications
WEG hazardous area motors are widely specified across oil and gas production, chemical and petrochemical processing, mining and mineral handling, food processing, grain storage and pharmaceutical manufacturing. They are equally suited to paint and coating facilities, solvent handling areas, wastewater treatment plants with classified zones, and any industrial site where potentially explosive atmospheres are present during normal operation or under fault conditions.
Certification And Compliance
The range holds IECEx, ATEX, UL and CSA certifications along with Australian AusEx approvals. Increased safety models comply with Ex e requirements, while flameproof models meet Ex db standards. Dust ignition proof versions are certified to the relevant Australian and international standards for combustible dust environments. Specific certificate numbers and scope details are available on request.
Selection Considerations
Selecting a hazardous area motor requires careful attention to the area classification (zone or division), gas group, temperature class, ambient conditions and duty requirements. The correct protection type — flameproof, increased safety, dust ignition proof or non-sparking — must be matched to the specific hazardous area classification documented in the site’s area classification drawings. Where VSD operation is required, confirm that the motor and drive combination maintains the relevant certification requirements. Modifications to mounting, shaft arrangement and terminal configuration can be made to satisfy individual project specifications.
Support And Enquiries
Motordrives Australia supplies the WEG hazardous area motor range with stock held in warehouses across Australia. Our team can assist with motor selection against your area classification, certification verification, mounting configuration, VSD compatibility and delivery scheduling. For sizing assistance or a formal quotation, contact us with your application details.
