Table of contents
- What is ATEX certification?
- What is an ATEX certificate?
- What role does the ATEX certification office play?
- ATEX identification: Explanation of the components
- What is ATEX/CE marking?
- What does ATEX certification cost?
- How does ATEX certification work?
- Typical devices with ATEX certification
- ATEX certificates in industry-practical examples
What is ATEX certification?
The ATEX certification is an EU directive that regulates devices and protection systems for use in areas at risk of explosion. The goal: maximum security for people and the environment. The term "ATEX" is derived from "Atmosphere Explosion".
The most important guidelines:
- ATEX 2014/34/EU: For device manufacturers (formerly: ATEX 95)
- ATEX 1999/92/EC: For operators and work environments (formerly: ATEX 137)
What is an ATEX certificate?
A ATEX certificate confirms that a device meets the requirements of the ATEX guidelines and securely in Ex-zones may be used. It is particularly compulsory for category 1 and 2 devices if they are operated in gas or dust atmospheres.
What role does the ATEX certification office play?
One ATEX certification body (also "notified body") checks the conformity of a product with the ATEX requirements. Only accredited areas may issue these certificates. You lead:
- Product tests,
- Documentation tests and
- Monitoring audits.
ATEX identification: Explanation of the components
The ATEX identification On one device consists of several elements:
Example:
Ex II 2 g ex db iib T4 GB
- II = Device group II (industry)
- 2 = Category (high level of safety)
- G = Gas atmosphere
- Ex = Explosion protection
- DB = Type of of the foster protection
- Iib = Gas group
- T4 = Temperature class
- GB = Device protection level
The difference in the ATEX identification inside and outside, e.g. B. for engines or control cabinets. On the subject of ATEX marking we have for you clear poster created.
What is ATEX/CE marking?
ATEX and CE marking confused or summarized. Both different functions fulfill:
- CE marking ATEX: Confirms compliance with all relevant EU guidelines, including the ATEX directive.
- ATEX CE marking: A combination on the type shield indicates that the device is ATEX-relevant and is also CE-compliant.
Manufacturers are obliged to ATEX CE marking to document particularly carefully.
What does ATEX certification cost?
The Cost of ATEX certification Vary depending on the device type, complexity and certification body. As a rule, they are between:
- 8.000 € – 10.000 € For simple devices
- 10.000 € – 50.000 € For complex systems
There are also costs for the creation of the documentation, regular audits and any post -certifications.
How does ATEX certification work?
- Analysis of zones and application
- Selection of the appropriate type
- Construction and selection of materials
- Technical documentation
- Examination by ATEX certification body
- CE marking and exhibition of the ATEX certificate
Typical devices with ATEX certification
- Flow and sensors
- Temperature and Pressure sensor
- Switching devices and engines
- Lighting solutions For ex-zones
ATEX certificates in industry-practical examples
Many industries need certified devices:
- Chemical industry
- Pharmaceutical production
- Food industry with dust development
- Painting companies (EN 1539)
