Heralded as a world first, the Evolution ExD camera range has been designed specifically for operation in potentially explosive locations, as well as harsh and hazardous environmental conditions, such as on an oil rig or gas production facility.

For example, traditional surveillance cameras have been used on oil rigs for years, but according to the company they have never had 360-degree cameras enabling total situational awareness in hazardous areas. The challenge in providing the very best 360-degree imaging, has always been the design of the dome and Oncam Grandeye have taken the extra steps to ensure the dome matches the lens perfectly.

There are always risks associated with electrical devices because gases and sparks emitted on the rigs can trigger an initial explosion, which in turn may lead to further catastrophic explosions across the platform.

David Cawley, global product manager at Oncam Grandeye, said, “This solution is the next step in the evolution of surveillance in hazardous areas.

“Our 360-degree, explosion-proof designed camera system will change the way surveillance is managed in these areas by providing total situational awareness” says Cawley.

“It is the first 360-degree, explosion-proof designed camera on the market and can be deployed in areas such as pipe racks, valve and pump rooms and engine/battery rooms. But it’s not just oil rigs that this camera system has been designed for, it can be used in any hazardous environment and situation.”

Oncam Grandeye’s explosion-proof housing has been awarded the ExD-certified logo for electrical appliances used in the oil and gas industry.

ExD certification is well known within the oil and gas industry, and means that the external enclosure of flameproof equipment is designed to withstand internal or external explosions. Sparks emitted can cause major explosions if they come into contact with flammable gases or liquids.

The casing is made of lightweight stainless steel that is well suited for use within offshore and onshore environments. The camera and housing come pre-configured, so no configuration is required to plug and play and it is available with single mode and multi-mode convertors.