Global Hazardous Area Drive Systems

China Explosion Proof Electric Motor Manufacturers & Companies

Delivering certified ATEX, IECEx, and UL high-voltage, low-voltage, and variable frequency explosion-proof asynchronous and synchronous electric motors for heavy industries worldwide.

Whitepaper: Engineering Safety in Hazardous Environments

In hazardous environments—where flammable gases, vapor mists, or combustible dust clouds reside—the mechanical and electrical design of motor drives is crucial. Shaanxi Nanfang Motor Technology Co., Ltd, as the key authorized partner of Wolong Electric Drive Group Co., Ltd, delivers a robust range of flameproof, increased safety, and positive pressure motors. Our systems satisfy the highest demands of modern industries including petrochemical complexes, chemical refineries, LNG ships, coal operations, and emerging hydrogen infrastructure.

Modern explosion-proof systems represent a fusion of advanced metallurgy, thermal modeling, and electromagnetic optimization. Rather than simply enclosing active parts, modern systems feature precise flameproof path geometries (flame paths) designed to cool escaping combustion gases below the ignition threshold of surrounding elements. With efficiency standards migrating towards IE4 and IE5 levels globally, the technological integration of permanent magnet drives and high-voltage VFD systems ensures optimal energy reduction and exceptional plant safety.

Technical Roadmaps & Future Outlook

The industry is transitioning toward integrated cyber-physical powertrains. Dynamic magnetic field regulation and IIoT vibration diagnostics allow industrial plants to achieve predictive safety measures. Utilizing advanced thermal insulation systems such as mica-glass matrices and VPI methods, modern motors achieve Class H ratings, maintaining running safety under high overload states and variable frequency current spikes.

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Global Manufacturing Factories
3+
Global R&D Research Centers
58+
Export Destinations Worldwide
32+
Global Design Patents Owned

A Century of Engineering: The Wolong Global Brand Strategy

By combining European manufacturing traditions with China's production capacity, Wolong has integrated some of the world's most historic names in rotating machines.

Global Growth and Strategic Acquisitions

1984 - 2002

Founded as a specialized producer in Shangyu, China. Successfully listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange in 2002 (code SH600580), launching its global expansion.

2011 (ATB & Schorch Acquisition)

Acquired 97.94% of the Austrian ATB Group (ATB motor), integrating Laurence Scott's low starting current machinery and Morley's heavy-duty coal mining drive units. Schorch also joined, bringing premium German industrial technology.

2015 (Nanyang Explosion-Proof / CNE)

Strategic acquisition of Nanyang Explosion-proof Group (CNE), China's premier testing and manufacturing base for flameproof machinery, integrating major applications in nuclear power and heavy chemical processing.

2018 (GE Industrial Motors Segment)

Acquired the commercial and industrial motor division of General Electric (GE), gaining advanced NEMA frame designs, North American distribution networks, and deep technological expertise.

Wolong Factory History Production History Engineering History
Acquisition ATB Schorch Motor Factory Crompton Motors
ELI Vibration OLI Nanyang Explosion Proof GE Industrial Motors

Technical Anatomy & Critical Components

Examine the internal mechanical and electromagnetic designs that enable reliable motor performance in zone-classified industrial environments.

Explosion proof motor rotor design

Advanced Rotor Technology

Our rotors feature a robust squirrel-cage design optimized for high torque-to-inertia ratios. Centrifugal aluminum casting and high-pressure die-casting techniques ensure consistent fill in the laminations, eliminating internal voids. For heavy-duty industrial or variable-speed systems, copper bar rotors with silver-brazed connections provide reduced electrical losses and exceptional thermal resistance. In high-speed configurations, custom steel alloy retaining rings prevent centrifugal distortion of the rotor structure.

Electric motor stator VPI insulation

Precision-Wound Stators & VPI Treatment

The stator windings employ high-grade magnetic wire insulated with multi-layer polyester film and glass-fiber matrices. Using Vacuum Pressure Impregnation (VPI), moisture and micro-voids are eliminated, and the resin cure is optimized. This treatment delivers high dielectric strength, exceptional moisture protection, and a structurally unified winding pack resistant to mechanical vibrations and transient voltage spikes.

Cast iron motor frame structure

High-Strength Cast Iron/Steel Frame

Utilizing multi-physics digital design models, the frame geometry is engineered for maximum stiffness and thermal efficiency. The rugged cast iron casing features optimized external cooling fins to maximize natural convective transfer while minimizing resonant frequencies. Internal flameproof paths are precision machined to control combustion clearances under extreme internal pressure conditions, satisfying ATEX/IECEx flameproof standards.

Low noise fan hood and cooling system

Acoustically Optimized Fan Hood Systems

Equipped with low-noise unidirectional or bidirectional fans, the ventilation assembly features integrated air guides and protective grilles. By utilizing sound-dampening insulation panels and optimizing the air entry pathways, acoustic levels are minimized while maintaining high volumetric airflow over the cooling fins. The hood holds an IP22 rating, preventing entry of larger particles while shielding the rotating parts.

Global Regulatory Compliance & Certifications

Operating in international markets requires rigorous testing and regional safety certifications. Our explosion-proof products conform to the essential directives of the global markets.

Nemko ATEX Certification

Nemko / ATEX

CSA Certificate

CSA

CE Mark

CE

CCC Certification

CCC

SABS Certificate

SABS

TestSafe Coal Mine certification

TESTSAFE

Harmonized IECEx & ATEX Directives

Compliance with standard IEC/EN 60079 series forms the core of our technical designs. From Ex d (flameproof), Ex e (increased safety), Ex p (purged/pressurized), to Ex t (dust ignition protection), our design configurations are verified by international testing bodies. This allows seamless integration of our electrical drives in chemical refineries, offshore facilities, and processing sites across Europe and Asia.

Regional Markets: UL, NEMA, & SABS

For the North American industrial sector, our motors are constructed using standardized NEMA dimensions and tested under UL 1004 standards for electrical machinery safety. In the southern hemisphere, our SABS and TestSafe credentials support high-capacity coal mining operations, demonstrating safe operation under wet, dusty, and mechanically demanding conditions.

China Factory 4.0: Production Efficiency & Supply Chain Resilience

Operating from highly automated plants across Shaanxi, Henan (Nanyang), and Zhejiang, our manufacturing centers integrate digitized casting, machining, winding, and load testing processes. By applying Factory 4.0 standards, we maintain tight structural tolerances on flameproof flame path surfaces, dynamic balancing, and electrical characteristics.

This scale of manufacturing offers key benefits to our partners:

  • Consistent Quality Controls: Fully automated VPI systems and precision robotic wrapping machines ensure winding integrity across high production volumes.
  • Integrated Supply Chain: In-house steel casting, component machining, and winding copper production reduce manufacturing cycle times and mitigate supply chain bottlenecks.
  • Testing Capabilities: Dynamic load testing bays accommodate motors up to 10MW, enabling full performance and load testing before dispatch.
Automated CNC Motor Machining VPI Impregnation Tank Area
Winding Process Area Motor Assembly Line

Macro-Industry Integrated Solutions

We supply customized explosion-proof motor systems tailored to the specific requirements of major heavy industries.

Oil, Gas & Petrochemicals

High-voltage YBBP and positive pressure (Ex p) motors power large pipeline pumps, process compressors, and mud pumps. Built to resist chemical attack, marine environments, and high starting torques, these motors operate continuously under hazardous classifications.

Mining & Aggregates

Designed for mine conveyors, coal cutters, and ventilation fans, our mining motors feature high structural safety margins. Dust-tight designs (Ex tb) prevent the ingress of fine coal dust, while heavy-duty cast construction protects against mechanical impact.

Marine & Offshore Engineering

Equipped with marine-grade coatings, specialized shaft seals, and anti-condensation heating elements. Certified by DNV, ABS, and Lloyd's, these electric motors operate reliably in humid, saline marine environments on offshore platforms and LNG vessels.

Technical Customization & Quality Control

Our engineering team works directly with global procurement managers to review technical specifications, ensuring that insulation, frame sizes, and electrical profiles align with application requirements.

Motor quality testing bench Dynamic rotor balancing equipment VPI vacuum pump monitoring Final motor assembly check

Advanced Testing Laboratories

Every motor undergoing export processing is tested in our factory diagnostics center. In addition to standard stator resistance and winding tests, we run full load simulations, thermal heat-run tests, and digital vibration analysis. Under ATEX and IECEx audit requirements, we verify flamepath clearances, terminal box sealing, and bearing insulation limits to prevent stray currents.

Custom Modifications & Retrofits

Recognizing that industrial facilities often require specific replacement physical layouts, we provide custom motor designs. This includes special shaft extensions, custom foot dimensions, PT100 temperature monitoring sensors, bearing RTDs, and space heaters to prevent moisture condensation during shut-downs.

Global Procurement & TCO Optimization

Evaluating electric motors based only on the initial purchase price can misrepresent the total cost of ownership (TCO). Up to 95% of an electric motor's life-cycle cost is tied directly to electricity consumption. Our IE4 and IE5 variable-frequency motors are designed to help reduce operating energy costs.

Key steps for optimizing motor procurement:

  • Efficiency Selection: Upgrading from IE3 to IE4 can significantly reduce energy losses in continuous operations (such as refining or mining fans).
  • VFD Compatibility: Matching YBBPX and WEBP3 series motors with optimized variable frequency drives reduces active load losses under fluctuating industrial demands.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Installing OLI Ex vibration sensors allows for automated monitoring, reducing unplanned downtime.

Logistics, Customs, and Export Support

We manage the documentation required for seamless international delivery:

  • Customs declarations & HS Code classification support (HS Code 8501).
  • Heavy-duty sea export packaging (vacuum-sealed heat-shrink wrap with reinforced wooden crating).
  • Comprehensive testing certifications matched to individual motor serial numbers.

Technical Q&A: Explosion-Proof Motors

Review detailed technical answers regarding safety classifications, installation, and operation in hazardous industrial environments.

What is the difference between Ex d, Ex e, and Ex p protection types?

Ex d (Flameproof): The motor casing is designed to contain an internal explosion without propagating it to the surrounding atmosphere. Flamepaths cool escaping gases.
Ex e (Increased Safety): Design features are implemented to prevent electrical arcs, sparks, or hot surfaces on internal or external components under normal or specified abnormal conditions.
Ex p (Pressurized): An inert gas or clean air is maintained inside the motor casing at a pressure higher than the external atmosphere, preventing the ingress of flammable gases.

How do IECEx and ATEX explosion-proof certifications differ?

ATEX is a mandatory European Union directive (Directive 2014/34/EU) required for products sold within the EU. IECEx is a voluntary, global certification system designed to harmonize standards internationally. Both use the same basic safety standards (IEC/EN 60079 series), but ATEX requires specific EU mark labels, whereas IECEx is accepted directly in many international jurisdictions.

What is the significance of the "T Class" (T1-T6) temperature rating?

The temperature class defines the maximum outer surface temperature the motor can reach under any operating conditions. For example, a T4-rated motor will not exceed 135°C, making it suitable for environments containing gases with ignition points above 135°C. Lower temperature ratings (like T6, which limits surface temperature to 85°C) require more strict thermal controls.

Why is VPI (Vacuum Pressure Impregnation) critical for high-voltage motors?

VPI uses a combination of vacuum and pressure cycles to replace air voids within the stator insulation with high-grade resin. This creates a solid, moisture-resistant insulation structure that improves dielectric strength, heat transfer, and mechanical resistance to winding movement during starting currents.

Can normal industrial variable frequency drives (VFDs) run explosion-proof motors?

Yes, but the combination of the VFD and the explosion-proof motor must be certified for safe operation. VFDs introduce high-frequency voltage spikes and cause extra thermal load at lower operating speeds. The motor must be designed with adequate insulation and thermal reserves (such as our YBBP or YBBPX variable frequency series) and have integrated thermal protection devices connected to the drive shutdown circuits.