A&D EK-300EP Intrinsically Safe Precision Balance (IECEx, ATEX, FM/CSA Certified)

Overview

The A&D EK-300EP is an intrinsically safe precision balance engineered for accurate mass measurement in hazardous environments where flammable gases, vapors, or dusts may be present. Designed and manufactured in Japan by A&D Company, Ltd.—a globally recognized leader in metrological instrumentation—the EK-300EP operates on the principle of electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC), ensuring stable, drift-free weighing performance under variable ambient conditions. Its 300 g maximum capacity and 0.01 g readability meet routine analytical and quality control requirements in chemical synthesis labs, pharmaceutical cleanrooms, paint & coating formulation facilities, and petrochemical sampling stations. The balance’s intrinsic safety architecture eliminates ignition risk by limiting electrical energy below the minimum ignition energy (MIE) threshold for Group IIB gas atmospheres (e.g., acetone, ethanol, propane) and ensures surface temperature remains below T3 (≤200 °C) under fault conditions—fully compliant with IEC 60079-0, IEC 60079-11, and EN 60079-11 standards.

Key Features

• Intrinsically safe design certified to IECEx Ex ia IIB T3 Ga and ATEX II 1G Ex ia IIB T3 Ga—suitable for Zone 0/20 and Zone 1/21 classified areas.
• EMFC sensor technology delivering high reproducibility (≤ ±0.01 g repeatability) and long-term stability without mechanical wear.
• Compact, lightweight chassis (approx. 1.2 kg) with ergonomic low-profile footprint—ideal for mobile lab carts, fume hood integration, or field-deployed hazardous area workstations.
• High-visibility 16 mm LCD display with adjustable contrast; optimized for gloved operation and low-light industrial settings.
• Washable 304 stainless steel weighing pan (120 mm × 120 mm) resistant to corrosion from solvents, acids, and cleaning agents—supports GLP-compliant hygiene protocols.
• Four AA battery operation with intelligent power management enabling up to 250 hours of continuous use; no external power supply required—eliminates conduit routing and grounding complications in classified zones.
• Eight selectable weighing units (g, oz, ct, dwt, tl, ozt, lb, GN) and configurable auto-zero tracking for dynamic process weighing applications.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The EK-300EP accommodates a broad range of sample forms—including powders, granules, liquids in tared containers, and small solid components—without compromising safety integrity. Its sealed enclosure (IP54-rated against dust and water splashes) and non-sparking construction prevent ingress of combustible particulates. All internal electronics are encapsulated per IEC 60079-18 requirements. The device complies with ISO/IEC 17025 calibration traceability frameworks when used with NIST-traceable external weights. It supports audit-ready documentation practices aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when integrated with compliant data logging systems) and meets essential requirements of EU Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX) and ANSI/ISA-12.12.01 (FM/CSA).

Software & Data Management

While the EK-300EP operates as a standalone instrument, its RS-232 interface enables seamless connection to laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic lab notebooks (ELN), or custom SCADA platforms. ASCII-based output protocol supports real-time weight streaming, time-stamped event logging (tare, zero, print), and configurable delimiter formatting. When paired with A&D’s optional AD-1687 printer or third-party serial-to-USB adapters, users can generate GMP-compliant hardcopy records with operator ID, timestamp, and environmental metadata. Firmware updates are performed via proprietary A&D utility software, ensuring continued alignment with evolving intrinsic safety certification mandates.

Applications

• Weighing reagents and intermediates in API manufacturing suites operating under OSHA 1910.119 Process Safety Management (PSM) guidelines.
• Batch verification of catalysts and additives in polymerization reactors classified as Class I, Division 1 (NEC 500) or Zone 1 (IEC 60079-10-1).
• Quality assurance testing of solvent-based adhesives, inks, and coatings in printing and packaging facilities.
• Field calibration and verification of flow meters and pressure transmitters in offshore oil & gas metering skids.
• Environmental sampling labs handling volatile organic compounds (VOCs) per EPA Method 8260/8270 compliance workflows.

FAQ

Is the EK-300EP suitable for Zone 0 environments?

Yes—it carries IECEx Ex ia IIB T3 Ga and ATEX II 1G Ex ia IIB T3 Ga certifications, authorizing use in Zone 0 (gas) and Zone 20 (dust) locations where explosive atmospheres are continuously present.
Does it support internal calibration?

No—the EK-300EP requires external calibration using Class F1 or better weights; this design enhances intrinsic safety by eliminating motorized calibration mechanisms.
Can the balance be mounted on a vibration-isolated surface in a production line?

Yes—its compact form factor and low center of gravity allow secure mounting on anti-vibration pads or stainless steel workbenches without affecting metrological performance.
What is the temperature operating range?

The specified ambient operating range is –10 °C to +40 °C at ≤85% RH non-condensing, validated per IEC 60079-26 for equipment used in explosive atmospheres.
How is firmware validated for regulatory compliance?

A&D maintains full configuration management records per ISO 9001 and IEC 61508, with firmware revisions documented in the Declaration of Conformity and available upon request for audit purposes.