Bond-Rite self-testing grounding clamps receive IECEX approval

July 1, 2012
The intrinsically safe, Bond-Rite self-testing static grounding clamps from Newson Gale are designed to establish and continuously verify safe low-resistance

The intrinsically safe, Bond-Rite self-testing static grounding clamps from Newson Gale are designed to establish and continuously verify safe low-resistance static grounding and bonding in hazardous area conditions.

There are more than 10,000 Bond Rite Clamps in use worldwide. Now including IECEX approvals, they are ideal for use in a greater variety of other operations involving flammable liquid vapor, gas, and combustible dust handling environments.

In use, the clamp's tungsten carbide teeth readily contact a metal surface to establish a connection to ground — even in the presence of insulating coatings, oxidation, corrosion or excessive contact resistance. Then a pulsing green LED indicator assures the user that a low-resistance bond to ground continues to exists, confirming not only a positive clamp connection but also an uninterrupted path to ground through the bonding cable.

While retaining the original patented Bond-Rite design features, the clamps have recently achieved upgraded hazardous area certification to comply with the latest applicable sections of IEC 60079. As a result, they can be used in global markets where the IECEX scheme is recognized. This is in addition to existing approvals according to ATEX (European) and NEC (North American) hazardous area standards. The clamp is suitable for use in all IEC/ATEX Gas and Dust Zones (0, 1, 2 and 20, 21, 22) as well as NEC Hazardous Location Classes I, II, III, and Divisions 1 and 2.

As part of the updated certification, the unit has been tested and approved for a wider ambient temperature range from -40° to +60° C (-40° to +160° F). This enhanced rating, coupled with its IP65 and NEMA4X ingress and environmental protection, increases the range of applications where the Bond-Rite clamp may be used, both indoors and out. Also, the long-life lithium battery power source means installation is simple, requiring no exterior power supply connection.

For additional information, visit www.newson-gale.com.