ATEX Manual – PFA User Manuel

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive guidelines for the safe operation, installation, and maintenance of devices certified for use in explosive atmospheres under the ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU). It is designed to ensure that all personnel involved in the handling and usage of this equipment are fully aware of their obligations under the latest regulatory requirements and safety protocols.

ATEX, derived from the French “ATmosphères EXplosibles,” governs the design, manufacture, and use of equipment in environments where explosive gases, vapors, or dusts may be present. This document also incorporates updates and best practices based on the latest revisions of the ATEX standards and technological innovations.

Scope of the Document

This manual applies to all equipment classified under the PFA analysis framework and certified for use in potentially explosive environments. It covers the operational principles, safety precautions, and technical specifications required to maintain Ex-proof certification for both Group I (mining) and Group II (surface) equipment.

Latest Additions and Amendments

In this edition, several critical updates have been incorporated in alignment with the latest revisions of the EN and IEC standards applicable to ATEX-rated equipment:

1. Temperature Classifications (T-Class Updates):

   • Expanded sections on temperature class management (T1-T6), with specific guidelines for managing surface temperatures in environments with increasingly stringent thermal safety requirements.
   • New protocols for testing and certifying devices operating with more diverse and complex explosive atmospheres, including green gases like hydrogen and hydrogen/natural gas blends.

2. IEC 60079-0 (Explosive Atmospheres):

   • Integration of the latest IEC 60079-0 standard, which governs the general requirements for the construction and testing of electrical equipment used in explosive atmospheres. This includes updated electrical connection guidelines, safety factor calculations, and material durability specifications for Ex-proof enclosures.

3. Loose Connections and Induction Heating Mitigation:

   • New methodologies have been added to handle the risks associated with loose electrical connections and the potential for induction heating in Ex environments. These methods are crucial to ensuring compliance with both EN 60079-14 (electrical installations in hazardous areas) and EN 60079-31 (dust ignition protection by enclosure).

4. Maintenance and Inspection Guidelines:

   • Expanded inspection procedures for mechanical equipment, with emphasis on the prevention of overheating due to friction, improper alignment, or worn components. These procedures align with the latest updates to EN 60079-17 (electrical installations maintenance in hazardous areas).

5. Hydrogen Safety Considerations:

   • Inclusion of specific sections related to the detection, monitoring, and control of hydrogen as a flammable gas, in line with the increasing use of green hydrogen in energy and industrial applications. These guidelines reflect the latest industry standards for integrating hydrogen sensors into Ex-proof environments.

Compliance with European Regulations

All personnel are required to adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined in this manual to ensure compliance with the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, as well as the complementary Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC where applicable. The manual also incorporates requirements from the ISO 80079-36 and 37 standards, relating to non-electrical equipment in explosive atmospheres.

Roles and Responsibilities

The responsibilities of equipment manufacturers, operators, and maintenance personnel are detailed in this manual. Manufacturers must ensure that all products meet ATEX certification requirements, while operators are responsible for ensuring safe installation, operation, and ongoing compliance with site-specific ATEX regulations.

Conclusion

This manual serves as a critical resource for ensuring that ATEX-certified equipment is operated and maintained safely and effectively. By adhering to the principles outlined here and staying informed of the latest developments in ATEX standards, we aim to safeguard personnel, equipment, and the environment from the risks posed by explosive atmospheres.