ATEX actuated valves for EU projects: buyer checklist
An ATEX requirement applies to the equipment package installed in a classified atmosphere. Buyers need to define the zone and substance data, then verify every electrical and mechanical component in the assembled valve package.
TAZ Engineering & Export Team · · 11 min
Provide the area-classification basis
State zone, gas or dust group, required equipment category and protection concept, temperature class or maximum surface temperature, ambient range and installation location. The supplier should not infer these values from the process fluid alone.
Distinguish internal process containment from the external potentially explosive atmosphere. The hazardous medium inside the pipe does not by itself define the surrounding area.
Review the complete actuator package
Check actuator, motor, terminal enclosure, local station, solenoids, positioner, limit switches, heater, cable glands and connectors. Each component and the final assembly must fit the declared conditions.
A certificate for the motor alone does not establish package compliance. Verify interfaces, wiring, permitted combinations and any special conditions of use.
Control temperature and non-electrical risks
Consider motor heating, gearbox surfaces, sun exposure, process temperature and operating frequency. Confirm that the certified ambient range covers the site.
Mechanical ignition risks, static electricity, impact and friction may require assessment depending on the equipment and conformity route. Antistatic features should be defined separately from electrical certification.
Close documentation before shipment
Require certificates, declarations, marking details, instructions and the package wiring diagram in the project language and format. Compare nameplates with the approved datasheet.
Record serial numbers and settings after factory functional testing. Installation must follow the certified cable-entry, earthing and maintenance instructions.
Checklist
- zone and gas or dust group
- equipment category
- temperature class
- ambient range
- process temperature
- complete accessory list
- cable glands and entries
- special conditions of use
- marking and declarations
- functional test and serial record