In today's industrial landscape, the safety of people, machines and systems plays a crucial role. Understanding and compliance with the ATEX guidelines are of central importance, particularly in an explosive areas. But what are the ATEX guidelines and how do they affect industrial measurement and control technology?
In this guide, you will learn everything important about the ATEX certification, ATEX guidelines and ATEX labeling as well as the associated aspects of explosion protection.
What is ATEX?
ATEX is the abbreviation for "atmosphere explosive" and refers to the regulations that ensure security in areas with explosive atmospheres. The ATEX guidelines are divided into two main areas: the ATEX directive 2014/34/EU and the ATEX operating directive 1999/92/EC. While the first refers to the conformity of devices that are used in explosive areas, the second aims to secure the protection of employees in such environments.
ATEX certification and labeling
ATEX certification is required for each device and machine according to the ATEX guidelines that are to be used in explosive areas. The ATEX labeling on a product confirms that it corresponds to strict security standards. This labeling is not only important for the legal conformity, but also for the safety of the employees.
ATEX labeling in detail
The ATEX labeling according to the ATEX guidelines provides users important information about the suitability of a product for use in explosive atmospheres. The labeling consists of several key information that is broken down as follows:
- Ex-symbol: The ex-symbol indicates that the product is suitable for use in explosive areas.
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Device group: According to ATEX, a distinction is made between two device groups in ATEX certification:
- Group I: If equipment that is used in underground areas of mining and potentially confronted with explosive atmospheres that can be caused by gases, vapors or dusts.
- Group II: In accordance with the ATEX, guidelines that are used in all other areas outside the mining refers to devices, including chemical, petrochemical and other industries.
- Category: The category (e.g. 1, 2 or 3) indicates in which ATEX zones the device can be used. CAT 1 is designed for zone 0, 1 and 2, while CAT 2 can only be used in zones 1, 2 or CAT 3 in zone 2.
- Explosion protection type: Here it is stated how the device offers protection against explosions, e.g. B. by increased security (ex) or pressure equalization (ex p).
- Temperature class: This provides information about the maximum permitted surface temperature of the device, which is crucial for the fact that no ignition spark is created.
- Serial number: This enables the device to be traceable.
An example of a complete ATEX labeling according to the ATEX guidelines could look like this: Ex II 2 g ex EB IIC T4 GB, whereby each component provides specific information about the safety features of the device.
For practical application and to help you identify the ATEX labels, we provide you with an ATEX labeling poster free of charge. This poster offers a clear overview of the various ATEX guideline-compliant labeling features as well as their meaning and ATEX classifications. Interested parties can either download the poster directly from our website or have our contact form sent free of charge.
Safety of simple electrical equipment according to ATEX guidelines
A special feature in the correct use of explosion-protected devices represent simple electrical equipment in the type of self-safety in accordance with the ATEX directive 2014/34/EU. These devices are designed in such a way that they avoid potential ignition sources in explosive areas.
According to the standard EN 60079-11: 2012, simple electrical equipment may not contain internal power storage such as batteries and should only be connected to an energy source. These ATEX guidelines minimize the risk of sparking or hot surfaces in the circuits used.
A category 3 moderator can also be used in Zone 1 if it is connected to suitable safety measures such as Zener barriers. Exactly this current ATEX guideline is used in the type of flow sensors of the type F3 ex, F3 EX SIL1 and F3 EX SIL2that you can use in connection with the supplied Zener barriers in zones 1 and 2.
More information on the topic provides, among other things, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Braunschweig.
Importance of the ATEX labeling for companies
The ATEX labeling according to the ATEX guidelines plays a crucial role in product safety. Machines and systems that do not meet these requirements must not be used in areas at risk of explosion. These categorizations help companies select the right products and thus ensure the safety of employees and operating processes.
When selecting the measurement and control technology, it is therefore absolutely necessary to familiarize yourself in advance with the exact requirements of the ATEX guidelines. Vote here with the person responsible for explosion protection according to ATEX in your company.
At Seikom Electronic, we offer you a wide range of ATEX-certified measurement and control technology, which is also optionally available with additional sil-classification. Our products not only guarantee the highest quality, but also maximum security in their operating processes, as they are based on the ATEX guidelines. Find out more about our offer and improve security in your company through our reliable solutions.
