Explosion-proof bullet cameras provide fixed-direction, long-range surveillance in Zone 1 / Division 1 and Zone 2 / Division 2 hazardous locations where a stationary field of view covers the required monitoring area continuously. The cylindrical form factor of an explosion-proof bullet camera allows easy directional aiming during installation and typically accommodates longer focal-length lenses than dome housings, making bullet cameras the preferred choice for perimeter surveillance, pipeline right-of-way monitoring, and long-range entry point coverage in classified areas.

Fixed vs Motorized Varifocal Explosion-proof bullet cameras

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Explosion-proof bullet cameras are available in two optical configurations, each suited to different installation scenarios:

Fixed focal length: A single, fixed lens (typically 6 mm, 8 mm, or 12 mm) provides a fixed field of view optimized for a specific installation geometry. Fixed-focal explosion-proof bullet cameras are the lowest cost option and require no camera access during normal operation after initial setup. Best for well-defined coverage zones where the field of view will not need adjustment.
Motorized varifocal: Motorized zoom lens (typically 2.8-12 mm, 5-50 mm, or longer) allows remote adjustment of zoom level and focus through the IP camera management interface, without physically opening the classified area enclosure. This is the preferred option for installations where coverage requirements may evolve, or where precise zoom setting is needed after installation in a classified area (avoiding the need for a hot-work permit just to adjust a lens).

Key Specifications for Explosion-proof bullet cameras

Sensor resolution: 2 MP (1080p Full HD) is the standard specification; 4 MP and 4K (8 MP) sensors are available for applications requiring license plate capture or facial identification at extended ranges.
IR illumination range: Integrated IR in explosion-proof bullet camera housings provides 30-100 m night vision range depending on IR array power (limited by Ex certification energy constraints). For longer ranges, pair with a separate explosion-proof IR floodlight.
Lens focal length range: For perimeter surveillance, 8-50 mm varifocal lenses cover installation distances from 10 m to 150+ m. Longer focal length lenses (50-200 mm) are available for pipeline and critical point monitoring at extended distances.
IP rating: IP66 minimum for outdoor classified area use; IP67 for washdown environments.
Temperature range: Standard -20°C to +55°C; extended -40°C to +65°C for arctic and tropical environments.
Video compression: H.265 (HEVC) compression reduces storage and bandwidth requirements by up to 50% compared to H.264 without sacrificing image quality.
PoE or 24V AC power: Most explosion-proof bullet cameras accept PoE (IEEE 802.3af/at) or 24V AC/DC for flexible installation without separate power runs in classified areas.

Mounting Options for Explosion-proof bullet cameras

The cylindrical explosion-proof bullet camera housing accommodates multiple mounting configurations depending on installation point:

Wall bracket mounting (most common): adjustable horizontal and vertical aim, direct wall or structural steel attachment
Pipe mount: clamp-on mount for pipe rack installation at refineries and petrochemical plants
Junction box mount: integral Ex-certified junction box with the camera, simplifying wiring in classified areas
Pendant mount: ceiling suspension for indoor process area coverage where overhead cable runs are practical

Applications for Explosion-proof bullet cameras

Explosion-proof bullet cameras excel in applications where a fixed field of view is the correct specification:

Perimeter fenceline monitoring at refineries, chemical plants, and LNG terminals
Pipeline right-of-way monitoring in rural hazardous area locations
Gate and entry point surveillance at tank farms and bulk liquid terminals
Loading arm and hose connection monitoring at jetties and truck loading racks
Process equipment monitoring (pumps, compressors, heat exchangers) from a fixed installation point
Offshore platform wellhead and manifold area surveillance

Veilux Explosion-proof bullet cameras

Veilux explosion-proof bullet cameras are available in fixed and motorized varifocal lens configurations with 2 MP to 4K resolution, in ATEX/IECEx Zone 1 and UL Class I Division 1 certified Ex d enclosures. All models include integrated IR illumination and IP66/67 rating in aluminum or 316L stainless-steel housings. Our explosion-proof PTZ cameras complement bullet camera installations for facilities requiring both fixed coverage zones and operator-adjustable directional surveillance. Pair with explosion-proof LED lighting to extend coverage into darker process areas. Request a specification sheet and ATEX/UL certificates for your classified area camera project.

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Explosion-Proof Bullet Camera FAQ

What is the maximum IR range on your explosion-proof bullet cameras?

Veilux explosion-proof bullet cameras with integrated IR illumination provide effective night vision range of 30 m to 100 m depending on the IR array configuration. The IR power available is limited by the explosion-proof certification energy constraints. For surveillance distances beyond 100 m, a separately mounted explosion-proof IR floodlight (Ex-certified) can extend the effective range to 200 m or more when paired with a high-sensitivity camera sensor.

Are motorized varifocal lens options available?

Yes. Veilux explosion-proof bullet cameras are available in both fixed focal length and motorized varifocal configurations. Motorized varifocal models (typically 2.8-12 mm, 5-50 mm, or longer ranges) allow remote zoom and focus adjustment through the camera’s web interface or VMS without opening the classified enclosure or requiring a hot-work permit. This is the preferred configuration for installations where the final field of view needs to be adjusted after installation or where coverage requirements may evolve.

What resolutions are available for explosion-proof bullet cameras?

Veilux explosion-proof bullet cameras are available in 2 MP (1080p Full HD), 4 MP, and 4K (8 MP) sensor configurations. For most industrial perimeter and process area surveillance applications, 2 MP provides sufficient resolution. 4 MP and 4K models are specified where license plate recognition, facial identification at distance, or forensic detail is required. Higher resolution models have larger file sizes and higher storage/bandwidth requirements — see the CCTV Storage Calculator to estimate your storage needs.

Can explosion-proof bullet cameras be pole-mounted?

Yes. Veilux provides pole mount adapters compatible with standard 60-76 mm outer diameter steel poles, as well as pipe clamp mounts for 2″ to 4″ pipe rack installations common in refineries and petrochemical facilities. Wall bracket mounting is also standard. All mounting hardware is supplied in 316L stainless steel for corrosive environment compatibility. Mounting accessories are specified to the camera’s weight rating and applicable wind load requirements.

Do explosion-proof bullet cameras support H.265 compression?

Yes. All current Veilux explosion-proof camera models support H.265/HEVC and H.264/AVC compression. H.265 reduces storage and bandwidth requirements by approximately 50% compared to H.264 at equivalent image quality. Smart compression variants (H.265+, H.264+) apply adaptive bitrate encoding to reduce storage further — by 60-80% vs. standard H.264 in low-activity scenes — and are recommended for most industrial surveillance applications.

Related Resources

IEC 60079-1 (flameproof enclosures Ex d) governs explosion-proof bullet camera housing construction and testing. Visit IEC.ch for the current standard.

For regulatory standards on explosion-proof bullet camera, refer to the OSHA hazardous location standards and NFPA 70 National Electrical Code.

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