The PILOT EX

High-end HMI for cleanrooms, GMP, and safe use in explosion-prone areas.

The PILOT EX: specially developed for the requirements in the pharmaceutical industry.

In many pharmaceutical and biotechnological production environments, two worlds collide: the highest hygiene standards in cleanroom zones and areas where explosive atmospheres can develop – for example, due to solvents, combustible dusts, or process gases. For this demanding combination, the PILOT from Systec & Solutions has now been developed also as the PILOT EX variant. The system is not only hygienically optimized and ergonomically designed for use in cleanrooms, but it is also intended for operation in explosion hazard areas. Thus, the PILOT EX offers a reliable operating platform that safely covers both hygiene-critical applications and work areas with ATEX/ IECEx and HazLoc relevant risks.

Ready for use in explosion hazard areas

The PILOT EX and its associated components, such as the KEYBOARD EX, are suitable for use in Zone 2 + 22 (ATEX/IECEx) as well as Class I, Division 2 and Class II, Division 2 (NEC 500) and Class I, Zone 2, and Class II, Zone 22 (NEC 505). The ATEX/IECEx certification has already been obtained, while the HazLoc approval is currently in the certification process. This significantly expands the scope of application of the HMI: it is suitable not only for hygiene-critical production zones but also for work environments where flammable gases, vapors, or dusts may occur.

For operators, this design offers a high level of operational safety, as the EX variant is based on the same proven platform as the standard models. This facilitates integration into existing systems and enables a continuous system architecture without additional interfaces or special solutions. At the same time, maximum flexibility is achieved because control concepts, accessories, and process workflows remain largely identical.

Particularly in areas such as solvent rooms, weighing stations, technical supply corridors, or filling and packaging zones with ATEX/IECEx requirements, the PILOT EX opens up additional application possibilities. For operation in explosion hazard areas, coordinated accessories are available in appropriately adapted scope, ensuring that the HMI with its associated workstation integrates safely and in compliance with standards into various production environments.

Hygienic design for cleanroom and GMP

The PILOT was specifically developed for use in sterile and hygiene-critical production areas in cleanrooms and combines robust technology with a well-thought-out hygiene concept. The compact, frameless housing made of electropolished stainless steel (1.4404/316L) meets the IP67 protection class, making it resistant to intensive cleaning and disinfection processes. Its smooth surface without dirt traps allows residues to be removed quickly and reliably – a crucial advantage for GMP-compliant work environments.

The large, seamless touchscreen is optionally available in 18.5" (PILOT 318) or 23.8" (PILOT 324). The display features optical bonding without film, ensuring high stability, clear presentation, and low reflection. For non-EX versions, an optional PET protective film is available.

Integrated into the screen are capacitive function keys, which are particularly advantageous in cleanroom operation: they enable reliable operation even with gloves and are easy to clean, as there are no mechanical transitions. Functions include Power ON/OFF, a cleaning mode, and a freely assignable button that can be individually adapted to the respective work process. This ensures that key control actions are always quickly and securely accessible – without the risk of accidental inputs during cleaning.

With its combination of precise hygienic design, ergonomic control philosophy, and flexible technical equipment, the PILOT forms a future-proof platform for modern production processes. Whether in strictly regulated cleanrooms, GMP-critical areas, or sensitive zones with potentially explosive atmospheres – the HMI impresses with reliability, robustness, and an operator experience that is consistently focused on safety and efficiency.

Thus, the PILOT and the PILOT EX not only set standards in cleanroom technology but also lay the foundation for seamless, digitized, and standards-compliant workflows in various production environments. Operators can rely on the PILOT solutions – today, tomorrow, and increasingly in complex industrial scenarios.