ATEX Manufacturing – In this article, we take a look at what ATEX is, and why manufacturing ATEX-certified equipment should be completed by those with a high level of understanding and experience in ATEX.
ATEX is a set of European directives created to ensure the safety of equipment, systems, and work practices in potentially explosive atmospheres, commonly found in industries dealing with flammable gases, vapours, mists, and combustible dust. The name ATEX comes from the French phrase “ATmosphères EXplosibles” and refers to two primary directives: the Workplace Directive (1999/92/EC), which aims to protect workers, and the Equipment Directive (2014/34/EU), which governs the design and certification of equipment used in hazardous environments.
What is ATEX?
ATEX classifies hazardous locations into specific zones based on the frequency and duration of explosive atmospheres. For gases and vapours, zones include:
- Zone 0: explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods,
- Zone 1: present occasionally,
- Zone 2: rarely present and only for short periods.
For dust, the equivalent zones are Zone 20, 21, and 22. Equipment must meet stringent safety standards indicated by ATEX markings and rating codes, demonstrating suitability for use in each zone.
Importance of ATEX in Explosive Atmospheres
ATEX compliance is crucial for mitigating risks in workplaces where explosive atmospheres may arise. These environments are found notably in oil and gas, chemical, pharmaceutical, food production, and mining industries. If ATEX-certified equipment is not used, there’s a risk that machinery could introduce ignition sources, transforming a hazardous but manageable condition into a catastrophic explosion.
ATEX manufacturing requires designing equipment with explosion-proof enclosures, anti-static properties, and spark-resistant materials. It also imposes responsibilities on employers to classify work areas (zones), select appropriate ATEX-rated equipment, and train staff for safe operation. Such measures drastically reduce workplace accidents, fatal explosions, injuries, property damage, and legal liability.
ATAC Subcontract work for ATEX Manufacturing
ATAC has many years of experience manufacturing ATEX-certified equipment for its physical property analysers. We have been doing it for decades, and have a wealth of in-house expertise and know-how in ATEX manufacturing.
In short, we can manufacture ATEX equipment on a subcontract basis for your business. We have the in-house manufacturing capabilities, and the highly-trained staff, waiting to interpret your needs – to manufacture ATEX-certified equipment for your company.
For more information, call our ATEX manufacturing team by emailing sales@atacgroup.com or by phoning +44 (0)1380 818411. Alternatively, click the link below to learn more about our ATEX sub-contract capabilities.
