ATEX
Safe and efficient material handling in explosive environments with ATEX approved vacuum conveyors from Piab
When working in potentially explosive environments, ATEX certification is not just a formality - it's a necessity. ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles) is the EU directive that sets requirements for equipment used in areas with explosive atmospheres. Piab vacuum conveyors are designed with full compliance with the ATEX directives, ensuring reliable, safe and efficient handling of powders and granules. This makes them ideal for engineers and operators in the food, pharma and chemical industries who want to minimise risk and maximise operational safety.
Piab's commitment to safety and legislation.
Since 2004, Piab has been a leading supplier of ATEX-certified equipment, including vacuum conveyors and machines. Our solutions are designed for the safe transport of dry powders and granules that have the potential to form explosive dust clouds. All ATEX-approved equipment is certified by third-party organisations and meets the strictest safety standards. With over 300 different configurations, we offer customised solutions for different needs.
Key features of Piab's ATEX-certified equipment
Anti-static materials
All seals, rubber parts and major plastic components are available in anti-static materials, preventing static electricity and minimising the risk of sparks and ignition.
Complete system design
Our ATEX machines come with integrated components such as vacuum pumps*, filters, inlet modules and bottom valves - a complete solution for hazardous environments.
* Vacuum conveyors with ejector pumps are ATEX approved. Mechanical pumps are not.
Industry applications
Pharmaceutical and chemical industry
When refuelling reactors in explosive environments, automatic and safe handling is essential. Piab's piFLOW®p and piFLOW®t conveyors are ATEX certified and ideal for these tasks - they are closed systems and therefore do not create danger zones during operation.
Explosion risk in the food industry
In the food industry, handling ingredients such as sugar, starch, stabilisers, dextrin and flour can pose a significant explosion risk. With Piab vacuum conveyors, this risk is effectively eliminated.
A typical example: Ingredients are emptied from a bagging station and fed via a vacuum conveyor to a vertical mixer with a flour mixture. The mixture is then transported to an auger dosing unit - all without dust and without risk of explosion.
Our piFLOW®fc series is ideal for this type of application, offering a hygienic, dust-free and ATEX-approved solution that also meets the strict standards of the food industry.
Safe transport in the cosmetics industry
The cosmetics industry places high demands on precision and safety when handling additives such as organic thickeners, vitamin powders and sunscreens. This is where piFLOW®i and piFLOW®f from Piab are the ideal choice - they ensure gentle and efficient transport of sensitive materials without contamination.
At the same time, these vacuum conveyors are also used in the chemical industry for handling waxes, plastic powders, organic fillers, cellulose fibres and gas-filled lightweight materials - perfect for dispersing and mixing processes.
Piab in cleanroom
When installing equipment in cleanrooms, it is crucial to eliminate any risk of ignition. Piab vacuum conveyors - such as piFLOW® units - are designed with this in mind and meet the strictest ATEX requirements.
In the example shown, a piFLOW® unit fills a container (hopper). Piab ejector pumps are ATEX approved and can also be mounted externally for increased flexibility and safety. The inside of the conveyor is approved for Zone 20 or 0, while the outside is suitable for Zone 21 or 1. This ensures a holistic solution for explosive environments - even in sensitive cleanroom applications.
ATEX - Basic knowledge and certification
What is an ATEX certification?
ATEX certification is a legal requirement for equipment used in areas with a risk of explosive atmospheres. This includes environments where dust, gas, vapour or mist can form explosive mixtures. ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU defines the essential health and safety requirements for both mechanical and non-electrical equipment in hazardous zones.
Zones and equipment categories in ATEX
ATEX certification divides areas into zones based on the probability and duration of explosive atmospheres. At the same time, requirements are set for the protection level of the equipment. Piab vacuum conveyors are approved for both dust and gas zones and can also handle hybrid environmentswhere explosive mixtures of dust and gas occur - for example when transporting metal powders or pharmaceutical substances in certain gas types.
Overview of dust and dust & gas ATEX zones shown on the Piab piFLOWp 33 vacuum conveyor
Dust Zones (ATEX Dust Zones)
Zone 20: Explosive atmosphere is present frequently or constantly.
Zone 21: Explosive atmosphere may occur occasionally during normal operation.
Zone 22Explosive atmosphere is not likely during normal operation, but may occur for short periods.
Gas and combination zones (ATEX Dust & Gas Zones)
Zone 0: Explosive atmosphere is present frequently or constantly.
Zone 1: Explosive atmosphere may occur occasionally during normal operation.
Zone 2Explosive atmosphere is not likely during normal operation, but may occur for short periods.
