Maximum safety in potentially explosive atmospheres
In numerous industries, from the chemical and petrochemical industries to food processing and power generation, there is a risk of explosion due to flammable gases, vapors or dusts. In order to minimize risks, the European ATEX directive stipulates safety requirements for systems and all fittings used in potentially explosive atmospheres.
What does ATEX mean?
The ATEX guideline 2014/34/EU regulates the requirements for valves that are used in potentially explosive atmospheres. It ensures that these devices are not a source of ignition and therefore guarantee safe operation in critical environments. Companies operating in such areas must only use ATEX-compliant valves in order to comply with safety regulations and avoid interruptions to operations.
ATEX divides potentially explosive atmospheres into different zones in order to categorize the risk and frequency of explosive atmospheres. For example, for gases, zone 0 describes an area in which an explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods of time. Zone 1, on the other hand, describes an area in which an explosive atmosphere may occasionally occur under normal operating conditions. Zone 2 comprises areas in which an explosive atmosphere occurs only rarely and usually only for a short time.
Advantages of GEFA butterfly valves according to ATEX 2014/34/EU
The ATEX-certified butterfly valves in the K and HG series have been specially developed for safe use in potentially explosive atmospheres. They offer a number of advantages:
Reliable safety: Developed and certified in accordance with ATEX requirements for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Easy maintenance: Intelligent designs allow seals and components to be replaced quickly, reducing downtime.
Long service life: Robust materials and high-quality workmanship minimize wear and increase service life.
Optimum sealing: Prevents the escape of media to ensure safe working in hazardous environments.
Application areas for ATEX butterfly valves
In many industries, ATEX-certified butterfly valves are essential to ensure safety in potentially explosive environments. GEFA offers customized solutions that are specifically tailored to the requirements of these industries:
Chemical and petrochemical industry
Safe handling of chemicals, solvents and flammable liquids in refineries and chemical production plants.
Oil and gas industry
Applications on production platforms (onshore and offshore), in pipelines, tank farms and refineries.
Pharmaceutical industry
Processing of medicines and active ingredients with explosive gases or dusts.
Power generation
Use in biogas plants, hydrogen production and power plants.
Food industry
Dust explosion protection in the processing of flour, sugar and spices and for alcohol vapors in distilleries and breweries.
Recycling and waste industry
Disposal facilities for chemicals and combustible waste and recycling of metals, plastics and electronics.
Paint and coatings industry
Protection during the production and processing of solvents and flammable substances.
Summary
With the ATEX butterfly valves of the K and HG series, GEFA provides reliable, durable and safe solutions for potentially explosive environments. Companies benefit from maximum safety, ease of maintenance and optimum performance in demanding industrial applications.