ATEX stands for “Atmosphères Explosibles”, the French term for explosive atmospheres.In industrial settings, ATEX refers to a set of European regulations governing the use of equipment in environments with explosion hazards.These regulations define safety requirements to prevent the ignition of gases, vapors, or combustible dusts.
The European Union has introduced two main directives:
These directives are mandatory in all EU countries.
As of January 23, 2024, the new edition of standard CEI EN IEC 60079-10-1:2021 has come into force, replacing the previous 2016 edition. This standard concerns the classification of areas with explosion risks due to the presence of gas.Key updates include revised procedures for determining the size of hazardous zones and updates to classification criteria.It is important to note that previous CEI guides 31-35 and 31-56 were repealed without replacement as of October 14, 2018.Therefore, the new CEI EN IEC 60079-10-1:2021 standard is now the current reference for gas explosion risk area classification.
An ATEX temperature probe is a certified device for measuring temperature in potentially explosive environments.
These probes are designed to prevent sparks, overheating, or any factors that could trigger an explosion.
ATEX probes are used in environments with potential explosion hazards, such as:
ATEX probes must feature specific markings that indicate:
Many ATEX probes offer IP65 or higher protection ratings, ensuring resistance to dust and water. Some include explosion-proof die-cast aluminium connection heads.
ATEX probes are made from materials resistant to high temperatures and chemical agents, such as:
To ensure the effectiveness and safety of ATEX probes, it is essential to perform:
Using ATEX probes ensures:
ATEX thermocouples are temperature sensors suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, where plant safety is essential.
Based on the generation of voltage between two dissimilar metals subjected to a temperature difference, they provide fast response and are ideal for measurements in harsh or high-temperature environments.
To comply with ATEX regulations, they must be constructed with materials, insulation, and connection systems that prevent the ignition of sparks or high surface temperatures.
ATEX RTDs, such as Pt100 and Pt1000, are designed to ensure precise temperature measurements even in explosion-risk areas.Their ATEX certification allows use in potentially explosive atmospheres typical of chemical, petrochemical, or flammable gas and dust storage facilities.In addition to their precision and long-term stability, ATEX RTDs are constructed with safety measures that prevent ignition of flames or sparks, complying with European directives for hazardous areas.
ATEX temperature transmitters are designed for operation in explosion-risk zones, where high reliability and safety are required.They convert signals from RTDs or thermocouples into standard analog signals such as 4-20 mA, enabling data transmission to control systems.ATEX certification ensures that both internal and external electronic components are designed to prevent ignition risks, even in the presence of flammable gases or dusts.
ATEX probes can be integrated with certified accessories, including:
ATEX temperature probes play a crucial role in the safe and reliable monitoring of industrial processes in potentially explosive environments.
Selecting the right devices requires careful evaluation of operational conditions and applicable regulations.
To ensure regulatory compliance and operational safety, it is essential to choose temperature probes with appropriate certifications for the specific environment in which they will be used.Only in this way can correct plant operation be ensured, minimizing risks associated with explosive atmospheres and protecting both people and infrastructure.
