Offshore oil and gas rigs are among the most demanding environments in the world for computing systems. These platforms contain drilling systems, production modules, and fuel skids that can release flammable gases and vapors. Regulators classify certain areas of a rig as hazardous locations according to the type and frequency of flammable vapors or gases present. In these zones, even a small spark could trigger a catastrophic explosion.
Any computer installed in these zones must comply with strict safety standards. In North America, a class/division system is primarily utilized. Class I areas involve flammable gases or vapors, with Division 1 indicating that such hazards are present during normal operation and Division 2 meaning they are only likely under abnormal conditions.
Computing and control systems are typically located in Class I, Division 2 areas. On an offshore oil rig, these areas commonly include spaces adjacent to production equipment. Even exterior decks and ventilation intakes may be classified as Division 2, since drifting vapors can occasionally accumulate there.
In these environments, computer systems must be either intrinsically safe, explosion-proof, or installed within purged or pressurized enclosures. Every component must be tested and certified, and temperatures must remain below the ignition point of the gases present.
Due to the harsh marine environment, these systems must also withstand salt spray, constant vibration, and high humidity.
To meet these requirements, ARISTA Corporation, a leading provider of thin client and panel PC solutions for the oil and gas industry, offers a wide range of panel PCs and thin clients, certified for Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations.
These units feature explosion-proof designs and are built with NEMA 4X stainless steel enclosures. IP65+ protection ratings provide robust defense against water, corrosion, and other harsh environmental conditions. The Panel PCs are installed with a Windows operating system, and the high-resolution touch screens can be manipulated by operators wearing industrial gloves.
The company also provides fanless thin client models for hazardous environments. ARISTA’s Class I, Division 2 certified Thin Clients are engineered with 316L stainless steel enclosures and IP66/NEMA 4X protection.
For more information, contact ARISTA Corporation at (510) 226-1800; on the web: https://www.aristaipc.com/; e-mail sales@goarista.com; or write to 48460 Lakeview Boulevard, Fremont, CA 94538.