A revolutionary personal computer for use in explosion hazard areas will be available on the global market from September.

This is the first time the complete functions and powers of Pentium PC chip technology will be used in a hazardous area, without constant maintenance from supporting devices. Chemical, pharmaceutical and petrochemical companies are expected to be among the biggest beneficiaries of the new technology.

The explosion-protected PC has been developed by a German company Bartec which specialises in the manufacture of explosion-protected electric and electronic components. It will be distributed in Ireland by Clane-based company, Flomeaco.

According to Flomeaco managing director, Mr Rudi Wolf: "This technology is a major breakthrough for companies wishing to use industrial software in areas open to explosive threat. It will generate significant savings over maintenance and running costs of older technology."

Any area where an electrical process might produce sparks leading to an explosive reaction with particles in the air is described as an ex zone. Previously a PC could only be operated in these areas by creating an over pressure of air in a metal enclosure surrounding the PC.

The new system removes the need for compressed air connections providing a much more flexible system with considerable cost savings.

The interior of the Ex PC has been constructed to ensure flames do not escape out of the aluminium casing in the event of an explosion.

reducing the airspace for possible gas entry. If an explosion occurs the filling material acts as a buffer to prevent any external damage.

This week Flomeaco held seminars in Dublin and Cork to demonstrate the capabilities of the new Ex PC to existing and potential clients from the chemical, pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries.

According to Mr Wolf the new PC is not likely to be much more expensive than the older purged product retained in a pressurised enclosure which usually costs between £10,000 and £12,000.