ATEX fans and Explosive Environments

What is often misunderstood is what exactly is a ‘potentially explosive environment’, and where would you actually need an ATEX fan, compared to a fan not designed for these sorts of applications. Firstly, explosive atmospheres can be occur in environments where there are flammable gases, mists or vapours, or combustible dusts. With enough of one of these substances mixed with sufficient oxygen in the air, the result is potentially explosive, needing nothing more than the spark from an electric motor or closing switch to cause an explosion. The costs associated to such an occurrence can cause not only significant damage, but also serious injuries, or loss of life. Therefore, the need to prevent releases of certain dangerous substances which can create explosive atmospheres and the need to prevent sources of ignition, are two important ways to reduce the risk. This can be done by using the correct equipment and understanding the dangers and regulations associated. Equipment used in ATEX zoned areas is required to be suitably certified for use the that particular category of zone. Likewise fans used for moving air or for pneumatic conveyance of powers are no different and also need to be certified.