In today's industrial landscape, the safety of people, machines and systems plays a crucial role. Particularly in potentially explosive atmospheres, understanding and complying with the ATEX directives is of central importance. But what are the ATEX directives and how do they affect industrial measurement and control technology?
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about ATEX certification, ATEX directives and ATEX marking as well as the associated aspects of explosion protection.
What is ATEX?
ATEX is the abbreviation for "Atmosphères Explosibles" and refers to the regulations that ensure safety in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres. The ATEX directives are divided into two main areas: the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and the ATEX Operating Directive 1999/92/EC. While the first relates to the conformity of equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres, the second aims to ensure the protection of workers in such environments.
ATEX certification and labeling
ATEX certification is required in accordance with the ATEX directives for every device and machine that is to be used in potentially explosive atmospheres. The ATEX marking on a product confirms that it complies with strict safety standards. This marking is not only important for legal compliance, but also for the safety of employees.
ATEX marking in detail
The ATEX marking according to the ATEX directives provides users with important information about the suitability of a product for use in explosive atmospheres. The marking consists of several key pieces of information, which are broken down as follows:
- Ex symbol: The Ex symbol indicates that the product is suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
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Device group: ATEX certification distinguishes between two device groups according to the ATEX directives:
- Group I: Includes equipment used in underground mining areas that are potentially exposed to explosive atmospheres caused by gases, vapors or dusts.
- Group II: In accordance with the ATEX directives, refers to equipment used in all other areas outside mining, including the chemical, petrochemical and other industries.
- Category: The category (e.g. 1, 2 or 3) indicates the ATEX zones in which the device may be used. Cat 1 is designed for zones 0, 1 and 2, while Cat 2 may only be used in zones 1 and 2 and Cat 3 only in zone 2.
- Explosion protection type: This indicates how the device provides protection against explosions, e.g. through increased safety (Ex e) or pressure equalization (Ex p).
- Temperature class: This provides information about the maximum permitted surface temperature of the appliance, which is crucial for ensuring that no ignition spark occurs.
- Serial number: This enables the device to be traced.
An example of a complete ATEX marking according to the ATEX directives could look like this: Ex II 2 G Ex eb IIC T4 Gb, with each component giving specific information about the safety features of the device.
For practical use and to help you identify the ATEX markings, we provide you with an ATEX marking poster free of charge. This poster provides a clear overview of the various ATEX directive-compliant labeling features as well as their meaning and ATEX classifications. Interested parties can either download the poster directly from our website or have it sent to them free of charge using our contact form.
Safety of simple electrical equipment in accordance with ATEX directives
A special feature of the correct use of explosion-protected devices is simple electrical equipment with intrinsic safety type of protection in accordance with the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU. These devices are designed to avoid potential ignition sources in potentially explosive atmospheres.
According to the EN 60079-11:2012 standard, simple electrical equipment must not contain internal power storage devices such as batteries and should only be connected to one power source. These ATEX guidelines minimize the risk of sparks or hot surfaces in the circuits used.
Category 3 equipment can therefore also be used in Zone 1 if it is connected to suitable safety measures such as Zener barriers. It is precisely this current ATEX directive that applies to F3 Ex, F3 Ex SIL1 and F3 Ex SIL2 flow sensors, which you can use in zones 1 and 2 in conjunction with the Zener barriers supplied.
Further information on this topic is provided by the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Braunschweig, among others.
Importance of ATEX marking for companies
ATEX marking in accordance with the ATEX directives plays a decisive role in product safety. Machines and systems that do not meet these requirements must not be used in potentially explosive atmospheres. These categorizations help companies to select the right products and thus ensure the safety of employees and operational processes.
When selecting measurement and control technology, it is therefore essential to familiarize yourself with the exact requirements of the ATEX directives in advance. Consult with the person responsible for explosion protection in accordance with ATEX in your company.
At SEIKOM Electronic, we offer you a wide range of ATEX-certified measurement and control technology, which is optionally available with additional SIL classification. Our products not only guarantee the highest quality, but also maximum safety in your operating processes, as they are based on the ATEX directives. Find out more about our range and improve safety in your company with our reliable solutions.
