Almeco manufactures several products, including axial fans in accordance with the ATEX Directive. This means: in accordance with economical Directive 2014/34/EU. ATEX stands for Atmosphères Explosives (Fr).
Directive 2014/34/EU, often called ATEX 114, applies to all manufactures of equipment (and protective systems) intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. In addition, there is also the Directive 1999/9/EG, also known as ATEX 153. This applies to workplaces where people work in potentially explosive atmospheres. The numbers 114 and 153 correspond with the articles from the Treaty establishing the European Community.
In a company where explosive atmospheres can appear, the risks must be evaluated and documented in accordance with Directive 1999/9/EG. Such a company must draw up an 'Explosion protection document' which contains, among other things, a plan showing the different zones.
When equipment (and protective systems) must be placed within explosive atmosphere zones (zone 0, 1, 2, 20, 21 & 22), these will need to be built in accordance with Directive 2014/34/EU.
Notes:
- A directive must be observed by all member states of the European Union
- One may use European standards to prove conformity with the essential requirements of a directive
- So: being a fan manufacturer, one is not obliged to use the standard EN 14986 "Design of fans working in potentially explosive atmospheres", but by using it within its limits, a presumption of conformity can be made
Zone 0 | A place in which | an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of flammable substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist | is present continuously or for long periods or frequently |
Zone 1 | is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally | ||
Zone 2 | is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only | ||
Zone 20 | An explosive atmophere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air | is present continuously or for long periods or frequently | |
Zone 21 | is likely to occur in normal operation occassionally | ||
Zone 22 | is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only |