ATEX Filters
The ATEX directive consists of two EU directives describing what equipment and work environment is allowed in an environment with an explosive atmosphere. ATEX derives its name from the French title of the 94/9/EC directive: Appareils destinés à être utilisés en ATmosphères EXplosives.
Statistics show that filters are involved in the second highest percentage of dust explosions that occur in industrial applications including pharmaceutical, chemicals, metal, food, plastics, coal and wood.
In July 2003, the new ATEX Directive 94/9/EC (ATEX 95) was implemented Europe-wide to eliminate the possibility of explosions related to equipment used in potentially explosive gaseous or dusty environments.
Solberg became one of the first to be certified to service those industries in need of compliance with this directive.
Under the ATEX directive, Solberg’s certification includes the following: to manufacture and supply any type of inlet filter silencers, inlet filters, inlet vacuum filters, integrated liquid separators/vacuum filters and air/oil separation filters. Solberg was registered by the TUV Rheinland Group under Ref-N 968/Ex-Ab 557/04 as of 29 November 2004.
Filter Housing
Filter housing parameters constructed of conductive materials- Grounding terminals on housing Conductive o-rings and gaskets
Testing and Documentation
Each filter assembly and filter element is individually tested for conductivity - A point to point resistance test is performed
- Filter housings are approved at 1000 ohms or less
- In process inspections and a final inspection is performed
Each filter is assigned a serial number for easy traceability Documentation is recorded and is available upon request.
Filter Element
There are many aspects involved in providing an ATEX certified filter element. Much of a filter element’s components are made from naturally non-conductive material . Solberg has developed materials and design parameters that enables the filter element to be certified. -Each filter element is individually tested for conductivity
-Filter media tested under EN 13463 and EN 1127 standards.
-Custom conductive gaskets and adhesive
-Stainless steel endcaps, wirescreen and expanded metal support
-Multiple independent means of protection integrated within filter element design
-Currently approved media types for inlet filter silencers and inlet vacuum filters
-Polyester: 99+% efficient to 5 microns
-Paper: 99+% efficient to 2 microns
-“Z” Series, Polyester: 99.9% efficient to 1 micron
-PTFE Special: 99.97% efficient with non-clinging characteristics
Applications and Equipment
- Food Industries Vacuum Pumps & Systems – Rotary Vane, Screw, Piston
- Blowers - Side Channel & Roots
- Inquires Encouraged
Features and Specifications
- ATEX certified housing construction
- All housings have an electrical conductive path between grounding terminal and housing cover
- All gaskets and o-rings are electrically conductive
- All filter elements have been designed and constructed to be electrically conductive
- Durable zinc plated carbon steel housings
- Heavy duty T bolts or industrial strength v-band for easy maintenance
- Positive engagement o-ring seal system
- Inlet/outlet 1/4” taps for gauges
-Temp (continuous):min –15°F max 220°F
Inlet Vacuum Filters
- Vacuum level: Typ. 1x10-3 mmHg (1.3x10-3 mbar)
- Large dirt holding capacity
- Filter change out differential: 10”-15” H2O over initial delta p
Discharge Air/Oil Separation Filters
- Minimum 99.97% D.O.P. on 0.3 micron particles
- Large oil holding capacity
- 10 PSIG proof pressure
- 1/4” drain tap Options (Inquiries Encouraged)
See also
Video