ATEX

ATEX es una directiva de certificación de seguridad extremadamente importante. Deriva del término francés “ATmosphères EXplosibles,” y se refiere a la directiva de la Unión Europea que regula equipos y sistemas de protección destinados a su uso en atmósferas potencialmente explosivas.

Un freno industrial estándar puede convertirse en fuente de ignición durante su operación a través de los siguientes mecanismos:

Electrical sparks: Electrical sparks may be generated at the terminals of electromagnetic coils, switches, or internal circuits.
Mechanical sparks: Friction or impact between moving components may generate sparks.
High-temperature surfaces: Prolonged braking or high-frequency operation can elevate the brake’s surface temperature, potentially exceeding the auto-ignition point of surrounding explosive gases or dust.
Therefore, in hazardous areas containing flammable gases, vapors, mists, or combustible dust—such as chemical plants, oil rigs, mines, paint shops, and flour mills—ATEX-certified explosion-proof brakes must be used.

Un freno certificado por ATEX está especialmente diseñado y rigurosamente probado para asegurar que no pueda servir como fuente de ignición. Las características clave incluyen:

Flameproof Enclosure (‘Ex d’): Electrical components capable of generating sparks (e.g., electromagnetic coils) are fully sealed within a robust enclosure. Even if an internal explosion occurs, the enclosure withstands pressure and prevents flame propagation to the external environment.
Temperature Class Control (‘T’ rating): The brake’s design and material selection ensure that even under worst-case operating conditions, its maximum surface temperature remains well below its certified T-class rating (e.g., T4 rating requires maximum surface temperature not exceeding 135°C), thereby preventing ignition of surrounding materials.
Dust Ignition Protection (Protection by Enclosure, ‘Ex t’): For dusty environments, the enclosure features a high degree of dust sealing (IP rating) to prevent combustible dust from entering the interior, while also controlling surface temperatures.