Explosion-proof devices for safety in your business
Of course, we know that every company, every environment and every process places different demands on explosion-protected devices. For this reason, our range includes ATEX products designed for zones 1 and 2 with a high exposure to gases, mists and vapors, as well as variants developed in accordance with ATEX directives for zones 21 and 22, which are used in dust environments.
Meet the highest standards with explosion-protected devices from SEIKOM Electronic:
- Greater safety in potentially explosive environments thanks to expertise and experience with ATEX products
- Effective protection for workers thanks to reliable technologies
- Certified and labeled quality devices that comply with all guidelines
- Quality "Made in Germany" and continuous further development
Take a look around our online store and see our professional selection of explosion-protected devices for yourself. We would also be happy to advise you personally.
Modern ATEX devices from measurement and control technology experts
Did you know that we at SEIKOM Electronic have over 30 years of extensive expertise in the field of innovative measurement and control technology technology? Whether ATEX devices, devices for flow monitoring (Link), flow measurement (Link) or differential pressure (Link) and pressure transmitterswe already have more than 10,000 satisfied customers and have been working for a long time with well-known companies that set the highest standards. When it comes to quality assurance, you can rely not only on our expertise, but also on the verifiable confirmation of TÜV Nord. Many of our appliances are tested annually as part of a production monitoring process and receive the TÜV type certificate.
As one of the leading suppliers of ATEX products, we are your reliable partner when it comes to safety, progress and efficiency. In addition, we always strive to present innovative solutions that not only meet the latest technological standards, but also comply with the strict ATEX directives for explosion-proof operation. Whether it is flowmeters for hazardous areas or Zener barriers, our aim is to offer products that more than meet your expectations.
Our comprehensive services also play a central role. We take the time to discuss your concerns in person and are also available to answer any questions you may have after purchasing your ATEX devices. Fast order processing is a matter of course for us. This means you receive your delivery quickly and can use the explosion-protected device immediately. We always keep a large stock of ATEX-certified devices in stock.
What are the requirements for ATEX devices?
If air, an ignition source and flammable gases, mists or vapors or combustible dust come together in an environment, there is a very high risk of explosion. To protect environments and people working in such high-risk environments, ATEX devices have been developed that are designed to reduce the risk of explosion due to their special design. Strict safety standards are therefore required, all of which must be met.
The so-called ATEX directives of the European Union form the framework for this. They are divided into the ATEX operating directive (ATEX 137) and the ATEX product directive (ATEX 114). Anyone who manufactures explosion-protected devices must have them certified in accordance with the ATEX Product Directive before placing them on the market. This is to ensure that all electrical and mechanical components do not generate sparks or hot surfaces that could contribute to an explosion as a source of ignition. Appropriate labeling is mandatory.
In accordance with the ATEX operating directive, employers are obliged to implement and document appropriate safety measures. This also includes training and safety checks. We would also be happy to support you in this area.
Certified ATEX devices can be recognized by the "Ex" sticker.
In addition, ATEX-certified devices are divided into zones and device categories that meet specific safety requirements. You will find a detailed overview of these below.
Why are explosion-proof devices so important?
As already briefly mentioned, explosion-proof devices are essential if you want to minimize the risk of explosions in potentially explosive atmospheres. This affects both the working environment and the health of your workforce. In addition, you may be able to comply with legal regulations such as the ATEX directive, which requires explosion-proof equipment in hazardous areas. Think about occupational health and safety here too.
How do ATEX devices create a high level of safety? They are designed so that all electrical components are sealed in such a way that even in the event of a fault, no sparks or excessive heat can escape from the inside to the outside. In some cases, flame-retardant materials and special alloys are used in production, which can withstand considerably high pressure that is not released even in an emergency.
Where are ATEX articles used?
In general, all areas in which a hazardous explosive atmosphere consisting of air, flammable gases, vapors, mists or dusts prevails are equipped with explosion-proof devices. The decisive factor is the measured quantity of the substances. ATEX products are therefore also divided into three explosion protection zones, which helps you to find the right solution for your business.
The degree of risk is assessed on the basis of frequency and duration of occurrence:
Zone 0/20: A potentially explosive atmosphere occurs continuously, for long periods or frequently.
Zone 1/21: An explosive atmosphere occasionally occurs during normal operation.
Zone 2/22: During normal operation, a hazardous, potentially explosive atmosphere occurs only rarely or for a short time.
Some industries are predestined for ATEX products and are among the largest customers. These include the oil and gas industry, mining and chemical processing plants as well as processing plants, paint and varnish factories, waste water treatment plants and the pharmaceutical industry, to name but a few.
Which ATEX device meets your requirements?
Explosion-protected devices must fit seamlessly into your environment and meet the relevant requirements. It is therefore important that you make a well-informed and informed choice. Always pay attention to the explosion protection mark and check the following conditions that we have compiled for you.
1. zones
In the first step, define the zone in which your explosion-protected devices are to be used. Zones 0, 1 and 2 apply for gases and vapors and zones 20, 21 and 22 for dusts. Evaluate your environments based on measured values with regard to the explosive atmosphere or dust atmosphere. Be sure to seek advice from a competent expert.
2. device groups
The ATEX directive divides products into two device groups: Group I for use in mines and Group IIforall other potentially explosive atmospheres. Within these groups, there are equipment categories M1 and M2 for Group I, 1, 2 and 3 for Group II, which define the safety requirements based on the probability of an explosive atmosphere occurring.
The more likely the presence of such an atmosphere, the higher the safety requirements for the appliances.
Category 1 devices must meet a very high level of safety and are intended for areas in which explosive atmospheres occur continuously or frequently, as in zones 0 and 20. Category 2 devices are intended for areas in which explosive atmospheres occur occasionally, as in zones 1 and 21, while category 3 devices can be used in areas in which the occurrence is rare and short-lived, as in zones 2 and 22.
Example: For use in zone 1, you need a category 2G device (G for gases).
3. protection class
The protection class of an ATEX device determines its design. The aim here is to prevent the ingress of explosive gases or dusts and to avoid ignition sources.
The most common types of protection include
- flameproof enclosure (Ex d), in which a robust housing absorbs internal explosions without allowing them to escape.
- increased safety (Ex e), which prevents sparks and high temperatures through additional measures.
- intrinsic safety (Ex i), in which the electrical energy is limited so that no ignitable sparks or temperatures are generated.
- encapsulation (Ex m), in which electrical components are embedded in encapsulating compound to isolate ignition sources.
- protection by enclosure (Ex t), which prevents the ingress of dust and limits the surface temperature.
When selecting the appropriate type of protection, the type of explosive atmosphere, i.e. whether gas or dust is present, as well as the ambient conditions such as humidity, temperature and mechanical stress and the type of device (electrical or mechanical) should be taken into account.
4. ambient temperature
The temperature class specifies the maximum surface temperature of an explosion-protected appliance and must not exceed the ignition temperature of the flammable substances present. To determine the appropriate temperature class, proceed as follows:
Identify the ignition temperature of the explosive substances in your work area. This information can be found in safety data sheets or technical documents.
Compare the ignition temperature with the ATEX temperature classes:
T1: ≤ 450 °C
T2: ≤ 300 °C
T3: ≤ 200 °C
T4: ≤ 135 °C
T5: ≤ 100 °C
T6: ≤ 85 °C
Select a temperature class that is below the ignition temperature of the substance.
Example: Gasoline has an ignition temperature of around 280 °C. Therefore, the required temperature class T3 or lower is suitable, as T3 allows a maximum surface temperature of 200 °C.
5. labeling
The marking of explosion-protected devices follows a fixed scheme to clearly define the suitability and protection class of the device for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
The information relevant for labeling includes
- Ex symbol
- Device group
- Device category
- Explosion group
- Type of protection
- Temperature class
In addition, other minimum information such as the trade name and address of the manufacturer, the CE marking and number, the designation of the series, type and year of manufacture and the batch or serial number must be on the product.
We have compiled a compact overview of how to correctly label Ex-certified products. You can download this free of charge or we will be happy to send it to you free of charge.
Here at SEIKOM Electronic you will find high-quality ATEX products, such as our flow monitors for ATEX zones 1 and 2you will definitely find what you are looking for. You can also take a look at our many other product categories and supplement your purchase of explosion-protected devices with technically sophisticated measurement and control technology.
