ATEX
ATEX stands for ATmosphère EXplosible: an explosive atmosphere. ATEX locations are places where an explosion can occur due to atmospheric conditions. According to the ATEX 137 directive (1992/92/EC), employers have been required since July 1, 2006, to draw up and maintain an explosion protection document. This document is part of the risk assessment and evaluation (RI&E) and includes, among other things, a hazard zone classification of a workplace with an explosive atmosphere.
How do I prevent an explosion?
Three factors are needed for an explosion: fuel (combustible dust, gas), oxygen (air), and an ignition source (electrical or mechanical). Combustible materials can become explosively hazardous when combined with oxygen. The moment when the material develops into an explosive mixture depends on the dust/oxygen ratio and is unique for each combustible material. Within this, we distinguish a minimum and a maximum mixture ratio; the lower explosion level (LEL) and the upper explosion level (UEL). When the minimum mixture ratio is reached, one spark is enough to activate the explosion development.
The above gives food for thought. How is the explosive safety in the production environment actually? What are your obligations? And what tools can you use? Fortunately, you can significantly reduce the risk of hazardous situations by efficiently and directly extracting combustible substances. This can lead to a less severe hazard zone classification or even the complete elimination of a hazard zone indication.
Custom Solutions
Feel free to call us enthusiasts in our field, because driven as we are, our standard solutions always end up being tailor-made. From filtration and ventilation to meticulous dus extraction, we go to the extent of removing even the finest dust particles down to the last micrometer from the air.