ATEX - Learn about explosion safety in hazardous environments
ATEX, which stands for "Atmosphere Explosibles", is a central concept in industrial safety, especially in environments where there is a risk of explosion due to the presence of combustible substances such as gases, dust or vapours. Here we go through what ATEX means, why it is important and how you can ensure that your equipment and workplaces meet the requirements.
Blog KnowledgeWhat is ATEX?
ATEX consists of two main directives from the EU:
ATEX product directive (2014/34/EU):
ATEX workplace directive (1999/92/EC):
This directive is aimed at employers, and establishes minimum requirements for safety in workplaces with explosive environments. Employers must identify and assess explosion risks and take the necessary measures to minimise these risks.
Why is ATEX important?
Explosions in industrial environments can cause serious damage to both people and property. In sectors where combustible substances are handled, such as the chemical industry, food production, hydrogen storage or pharmaceutical manufacturing, it is crucial to have robust systems to prevent and manage explosion risks. ATEX ensures that both equipment and work processes are designed to minimise these risks and create a safe working environment.
Classification of zones
A central part of the ATEX regulations is the classification of potentially explosive areas, or "zones". The zone classification is used to identify and assess the risks that an explosive atmosphere can form in a workplace. This is important to ensure that the correct equipment and safety measures are used in each specific environment. By understanding and applying zoning, you can minimise the risk of explosions and create a safer work environment.
Zones for gas and vapour environments
Within ATEX, areas where gases and vapours can create an explosive atmosphere are divided into three main zones: Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2. These zones are based on how often and for how long the explosive atmosphere can be expected to occur.
Zone 0
An area where an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture of air and combustible substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist occurs continuously, for long periods or frequently.
Example : The inside of a tank or container where flammable liquids are stored and there is a constant presence of vapours.
Zone 1
An area where an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur during normal operation.
Example : Immediate surroundings of tanks, valves, or other areas where flammable liquids are handled and it is common for vapours to be released during normal operation.
Zone 2
An area where an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur during normal operation, and if it does, it is only of short duration.
Example : Areas around pipelines or other installations where there can only be emissions of flammable gases or vapors in exceptional cases, such as in the event of an accidental leak.
Zones for dusty atmospheres
For areas where dust can create an explosive atmosphere, a similar zone classification is applied: Zone 20, Zone 21 and Zone 22. These zones are defined based on the frequency and duration of the presence of an explosive dust cloud.
Zone 20
Area where an explosive dust atmosphere occurs continuously, for long periods or frequently.
Example : Inside silos, dust collectors or other enclosed spaces where combustible dust is constantly present in sufficient quantity to form an explosive atmosphere.
Zone 21
Area where an explosive dust atmosphere is likely to occur during normal operation.
Example : Immediate surroundings around machines that grind, transport or process combustible material where dust can easily be released.
Zone 22
Area where an explosive dust atmosphere does not normally occur, and if it does, it is short lived.
Example : Areas where dust only collects under irregular conditions, for example near ventilation systems or in areas where dust can settle and only temporarily swirl up.
ATEX Marking: What Does It Mean?
The ATEX marking plays a key role in certifying that products used in explosive atmospheres are compliant with the EU ATEX directive, ensuring their safety. In this guide, we will explain how to interpret the ATEX marking on a product to determine its suitability for your particular environment.
Let’s take a closer look at an example of the ATEX marking and break down what each component represents:
How to read the ATEX label:
Group (II):
I: For mines.
II: For explosive environments other than mines.
In our example, "II" indicates that the product is intended for use in industrial environments outside of mines
Category (2):
1: Very high level of protection (suitable for zone 0 or 20).
2: High level of protection (suitable for zone 1 or 21).
3: Normal protection level (suitable for zone 2 or 22).
Here "2" indicates that the product has a high level of protection and can be used in zone 1 or 21.
Explosion class (G):
G: For gas explosive atmospheres.
D: For dust explosive atmospheres.
"G" means that the product is intended for gas explosive environments.
Protection method (Ex d):
d: Explosion-proof enclosure.
e: Increased protection.
i: Intrinsically safe.
"Ex d" indicates that the product uses explosion-proof enclosure as a protection method.
Properly understanding the ATEX marking on a product is vital to verify its suitability for use in explosive environments. By decoding each element of the label, you can make well-informed decisions about your equipment, ensuring the safety of your workplace.
Gas group (IIB):
IIA: Less dangerous gases, such as propane.IIB: Medium-hazardous gases, such as ethylene.
IIC: Very dangerous gases, such as hydrogen.
"IIB" indicates that the product can be used with medium hazardous gases.
Temperature class (T4):
T1: Max surface temperature ≤ 450 °C.T2: Max surface temperature ≤ 300 °C.
T3: Max surface temperature ≤ 200 °C.
T4: Max surface temperature ≤ 135 °C.
T5: Max surface temperature ≤ 100 °C.
T6: Max surface temperature ≤ 85 °C.
"T4" means that the product has a maximum surface temperature of 135 °C during normal operation.
Equipment Protection Level EPL (Equipment Protection Level) (Gb):
Ga: Very high level, suitable for zone 0.Gb: High level, suitable for zone 1.
Gc: Normal level, suitable for zone 2.
"Gb" indicates that the product is intended for zone 1 with high security level.
Global Standards
Explosion protection standards are critical for safeguarding environments where there is a risk of explosion from flammable gases, vapours, or dust. While these standards share the same goal, they can vary by region due to different historical backgrounds, local safety regulations, and industry-specific requirements. Below are some of the key global standards:
Our range of ATEX rated components
In line with our dedication to safety and quality, we provide ATEX-certified components designed specifically for use in explosive environments. Our equipment undergoes rigorous testing and meets the stringent requirements of the ATEX directive, ensuring its safe operation in high-risk explosion areas. For more details about our ATEX products or assistance in selecting the right components, feel free to reach out to us anytime.
