Counterfeit ATEX-certified equipment is flooding industrial supply chains, putting workers and businesses at serious risk of explosions, injuries — and even death.

ATEX certification is essential for explosive environments in Europe, but it is only valid if verified through official channels. Terry McDonald, Technical Sales Manager at Thorne & Derrick International says businesses should take steps to reduce the risk.

 “As businesses, it’s natural to seek the best price for a product, but this is where unscrupulous distributors and manufacturers are callously risking lives. There are a number of checks that procurement and purchasing departments can and should do to prevent purchasing a falsely ATEX certified product,” said Terry.

ATEX-certified equipment is specifically designed for use in explosive atmospheres — environments where flammable gases, vapours, mists or combustible dusts may be present. Genuine ATEX products undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure they meet stringent European safety standards. However, counterfeit versions bypass these checks entirely, often masquerading as certified and flameproof equipment.

Fake equipment lacks proper design and safety controls, increasing the risk of sparks or overheating that could trigger explosions in hazardous environments.

Beyond the immediate threat to life and limb, such incidents can cause major disruptions to operations, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. Tragically, industrial explosions contribute to over 16 incidents per day globally and resulting in approximately 380,000 fatalities annually due to industrial accidents.

There are steps businesses can take to mitigate the risk:

• Verify Certification: Always cross-check product certifications with the relevant authorising body. For ATEX equipment, this involves confirming documentation through official EU notified bodies.
• Use Official Channels: Purchase equipment exclusively through reputable suppliers who can provide full traceability and certification documentation.
• Stay Informed: The EU Safety Gate system provides a public database of recalled products. Checking this portal regularly can help identify known counterfeit or unsafe items.
• Raise Awareness: Educate procurement teams and site managers about the risks associated with non-compliant equipment and the importance of due diligence.

The rise of fake ATEX equipment is more than just a supply chain issue, with lives and livelihoods at stake, companies must prioritise safety over savings and take proactive steps to ensure every piece of equipment entering hazardous environments is fully compliant and certified.

As Thorne & Derrick mark their 40th anniversary, its team are proud to keep delivering safe, fully certified equipment worldwide, where compromising on safety is never an option.

Thorne & Derrick | UK & Exports | Electrical Process Instrumentation Eqpt.

German world market leader for intrinsically safe mobile devices expands local presence in key UK market

Lauda-Koenigshofen, 05. August 2025. i.safe MOBILE GmbH announced the successful acquisition of 100% of shares in Exloc Instruments UK Ltd, effective 1st July 2025. This strategic acquisition reinforces the company's commitment to strengthening its presence in the UK market.

The acquisition of Exloc Instruments UK Ltd, an established distributor of ATEX certified equipment and hazardous area solutions, provides i.safe MOBILE with enhanced local market access and direct customer relationships in one of Europe's most important industrial markets. For customers, nothing changes: Exloc Instruments UK Ltd will continue to operate under the same name with all current team members remaining in their positions. An important priority for i.safe MOBILE is to maintain this seamless continuity, preserving the established operational structure of Exloc Instruments UK and the valuable customer base built up over the years.

"This acquisition represents a decisive moment in our international expansion strategy," said Martin Haaf, CEO of i.safe MOBILE GmbH. "The UK market is important for our growth plans, and Exloc Instruments UK brings us established customer relationships and deep local market expertise. We see tremendous potential for further market development through this enhanced local presence."

Andrew Tither, Managing Director of Exloc Instruments UK Ltd, commented: "Joining the i.safe MOBILE family represents an exciting new chapter for Exloc Instruments UK. Our customers can expect the same dedicated support they've always received, now backed by i.safe MOBILE's innovative technology solutions and global expertise."

By combining i.safe MOBILE's innovative device technology with Exloc's established UK market presence, the partnership is positioned to capture significant growth opportunities in the expanding market for intrinsically safe and rugged mobile communication.

The integration will focus on combining the strengths of both organisations whilst maintaining the personalised service approach that has made Exloc Instruments UK successful in the market. Customers can expect enhanced product offerings, improved technical support, and continued commitment to meeting the demanding requirements of hazardous area applications.

www.isafe-mobile.com

In data centres, uptime is crucial. Uninterrupted operation is essential for all critical services. A key factor in maintaining this, often underestimated, is a standardized and reliable identification system for all infrastructure components. Discover how a leading automotive manufacturer revolutionized their operations and minimized risks by implementing a robust identification system. Learn how Brady's innovative labeling solutions delivered clearer infrastructure, fewer errors, and rock-solid reliability.

In data centres, uptime is crucial. Uninterrupted operation is essential for all critical services. A key factor in maintaining this, often underestimated, is a standardized and reliable identification system for all infrastructure components. Discover how a leading automotive manufacturer revolutionized their operations and minimized risks by implementing a robust identification system. Learn how Brady's innovative labeling solutions delivered clearer infrastructure, fewer errors, and rock-solid reliability.

 The Challenge: Reducing Downtime Risks

Datacentre professionals constantly aim for high service levels. A significant risk to continuous operation is human error, particularly disconnecting the wrong cable. The complexity of modern datacentres, with dense cabling, makes this risk higher. To minimize the risks of incorrect cable disconnection, clear, reliable, and consistently applied labels for racks, servers, and cables are vital.

The Solution: Durable Labels and Efficient Processes

One of important automotive manufacturer recently addressed this by implementing a comprehensive identification approach. They used industrial-grade labels designed for datacentre demands. These labels, like Brady's B-425, B-427, and B-461, use specially developed materials and adhesives, ensuring they stay attached even to curved surfaces like UTP cables.

Beyond the labels, the solution included advanced design and printing capabilities. Brady Workstation label design apps let technicians create and customize labels easily from various devices. For on-site printing, the handheld M610 Label Printer is practical. For larger volumes, the BradyPrinter i7100 Industrial Label Printer provides efficient batch printing.

 Crucially, the implementation included on-site consulting to help standardize labels and support the datacentre's overall identification strategy. This ensured the new labeling system integrated smoothly with existing operations.

Results: Preventing Errors and Enhancing Uptime

Brady labels and identification solutions have delivered clear benefits. By ensuring labels remain securely attached, the risk of cable patching mistakes has significantly decreased. This directly contributes to improved datacentre uptime and service levels. Additionally, the streamlined process for designing, printing, and applying labels has made standardization practical and easy to implement.

In an industry where uptime is crucial, a reliable identification system is not just good practice; it's one of the fundamental elements of operational resilience.

Discover how Brady can optimize your data centre's uptime. Find out more about dedicated identification and labelling solutions for datacenters >>

Ready to enhance your datacentre's reliability? Speak with a Brady expert to discuss your data centre's specific needs.

Brady Corporation

www.brady.co.uk

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Challenge: Reducing Downtime Risks

Datacentre professionals constantly aim for high service levels. A significant risk to continuous operation is human error, particularly disconnecting the wrong cable. The complexity of modern datacentres, with dense cabling, makes this risk higher. To minimize the risks of incorrect cable disconnection, clear, reliable, and consistently applied labels for racks, servers, and cables are vital.

The Solution: Durable Labels and Efficient Processes

One of important automotive manufacturer recently addressed this by implementing a comprehensive identification approach. They used industrial-grade labels designed for datacentre demands. These labels, like Brady's B-425, B-427, and B-461, use specially developed materials and adhesives, ensuring they stay attached even to curved surfaces like UTP cables.

Beyond the labels, the solution included advanced design and printing capabilities. Brady Workstation label design apps let technicians create and customize labels easily from various devices. For on-site printing, the handheld M610 Label Printer is practical. For larger volumes, the BradyPrinter i7100 Industrial Label Printer provides efficient batch printing.

Crucially, the implementation included on-site consulting to help standardize labels and support the datacentre's overall identification strategy. This ensured the new labeling system integrated smoothly with existing operations.

Results: Preventing Errors and Enhancing Uptime

Brady labels and identification solutions have delivered clear benefits. By ensuring labels remain securely attached, the risk of cable patching mistakes has significantly decreased. This directly contributes to improved datacentre uptime and service levels. Additionally, the streamlined process for designing, printing, and applying labels has made standardization practical and easy to implement.

In an industry where uptime is crucial, a reliable identification system is not just good practice; it's one of the fundamental elements of operational resilience.

Discover how Brady can optimize your data centre's uptime. Find out more about dedicated identification and labelling solutions for datacenters >>

Ready to enhance your datacentre's reliability? Speak with a Brady expert to discuss your data centre's specific needs.

Brady Corporation

www.brady.co.uk

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Leading PR and marketing agency, Clear B2B, has announced the appointment of Allyson Higgins as its new Managing Director, marking the start of an exciting new growth chapter for the agency.

 Established 35 years ago, Clear B2B is a specialist in business-to-business communications, delivering PR and marketing services to major UK and international brands across key target sectors – aerospace and defence, construction and built environment, and automotive.

Ally, who first joined the agency in 2010 as an Account Manager, has steadily risen through the ranks, holding a Director role for the past four years. Her appointment to Managing Director is testament to her commitment, talent, and clear-sighted leadership. In her new role, she will drive Clear B2B’s strategic vision and lead the agency into its next phase of growth and transformation.

With over two decades of industry experience, Ally is highly respected for her deep expertise in PR and media relations, as well as her ability to inspire teams and build lasting client relationships. She brings a rare combination of strategic insight and creative energy that has consistently delivered meaningful results for both clients and the business.

“I’m incredibly excited to be taking on this role,” she commented. “Clear has been an integral part of my professional journey, and I’m immensely proud of everything we’ve achieved. We have an exceptional team, a powerful track record in delivering results for global clients, and a laser focus on the B2B sectors where we excel. I’m looking forward to a really exciting future.

In addition, Director Chris Wall will take on an expanded role, leading the agency’s creative output across all client work. With over 15 years’ experience delivering standout campaigns, Chris brings a deep understanding of how to blend strategic thinking with bold, imaginative execution. His new remit will see him working closely with teams across the agency to elevate creative standards, inspire fresh thinking, and ensure Clear B2B continues to deliver distinctive, award-winning work that drives real impact for clients.

Julie Clare, Chief Executive of Clear B2B, added:

“I’m absolutely thrilled for Ally and Chris. Their dedication, professionalism, and passion have made a huge impact to Clear over the years. Ally’s promotion is so well deserved, she’s the ideal person to lead the agency into its next phase. Clear B2B has grown into something very special - with passionate people and world-class clients - and I’m excited for what lies ahead.”

www.clear2b.com

The BSIF Height Safety Special Interest Group (BSIF HSG) offers an overview of the new Personal Fall Protection Equipment Standard, BS 8681, and outlines its implications for the industry and those it impacts.

Fall protection equipment plays a crucial role in safeguarding workers from the risks associated with working at height, which remains one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and injuries in the UK. The use of proper fall protection systems, combined with rigorous training and adherence to safety standards, is essential in mitigating these dangers.

The introduction of the new British Standard, BS 8681, marks a significant step forward in this area. Officially titled "BS 8681 - Personal fall protection equipment – Anchor systems – Specification for provider competence", this Standard sets out clear guidelines for the industry, emphasising competence and safety across all aspects of fall protection systems. By focusing on the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience required at every stage of fall protection—from design to installation, inspection, and training – BS 8681 aims to enhance safety and reduce the high number of accidents and fatalities associated with working at height.

A complement to BS 7883

BS 8681 has been designed to work in tandem with the existing BS 7883 standard, which focuses on the technical aspects of designing, installing, and inspecting personal fall protection anchor systems. While BS 7883 addresses the hardware and structural integrity of these systems, BS 8681 broadens the focus to include the competence of all professionals involved.

This new Standard emphasises that every person in the "safety chain"—from system designers to installers, inspectors, and trainers—must have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to ensure that fall protection systems are safe and effective.

Competence and responsibility

One of the key objectives of BS 8681 is to raise the competence levels across the industry. The Standard aims to ensure that those involved in the design, installation, and inspection of fall protection systems are thoroughly qualified. 

For instance, System Designers, whose role was first introduced in BS 7883, must ensure that the systems they design are not only compliant with safety standards but also fit for purpose throughout their operational life. This includes considering factors such as safe construction, use, rescue, and inspection.

BSIF HSG member Elizabeth Rickard of Spring Structural Ltd comments: "BS 8681 is a promising step forward in addressing industry challenges, particularly in the realm of personal fall protection systems. Generally, it takes two years to train a System Designer to simply provide the pertinent information. 

"Given my experience in training system designers over that two-year period, BS 8681 could significantly streamline onboarding by offering a clearer framework for competence. It also has the potential to improve collaboration with other stakeholders by establishing shared expectations. Furthermore, by ensuring that upstream information is more reliable and standardised, it can help reduce both rework and risk throughout the design and implementation process."

BSIF HSG member Harvey Dun of Time Consulting adds: "BS 8681 is a good start to assist in setting the benchmark of competency for people involved in the fall protection industry. 

 Dun explains: "The Standard provides the purchasers of products and services, often referred to as the duty holder, with guidance check lists to confirm the provider they engage is suitably competent. These checklists may be adopted by Safety Schemes in procurement (SSIP) when assessing those providers operating in the fall protection industry."

 Manufacturing and testing

Manufacturers also play a crucial role under BS 8681. The Standard provides clear guidelines on the necessary steps to ensure that anchor devices and other components meet stringent safety requirements. This involves rigorous testing, certification, and documentation to guarantee that these products can withstand the demands of real-world use in high-risk environments.

Training and qualifications

Training and competency are central themes in BS 8681. The Standard supports the development of qualifications, such as the Level 3 apprenticeship and NVQ Level 3 for permanent fall arrest technicians, which is part of a broader effort to professionalise the industry. This initiative, driven by BSIF HSG, aims to close the skills gap and ensure that all workers in the fall protection industry are equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience to perform their roles effectively.

BSIF HSG member, John Hynes of Autumnal Services Ltd, comments: "Formal, sector-specific qualifications, such as the NVQ Level-3 for installers, should raise the quality of installers and inspectors.  And the introduction of BS8681 will make it clear to Duty Holders and others that there are minimum acceptable competency levels."

Inspection and auditing

BS 8681 emphasises the importance of thorough inspection and auditing processes to maintain the integrity of fall protection systems. Inspectors must be highly skilled and knowledgeable, capable of identifying potential hazards that could compromise safety. Regular audits, both internal and external, are recommended to ensure ongoing compliance with the Standard, thereby ensuring that systems remain safe throughout their operational life.

A positive impact on the industry

The introduction of BS 8681 is expected to have a profoundly positive impact on the fall protection industry. By setting higher standards for competence and safety, it aims to drive a cultural shift towards greater accountability and professionalism. Duty holders can now have greater confidence that they are working with competent professionals who can deliver safe, compliant, and effective fall protection systems. 

BSIF HSG member Ben Haughton of Ocean Technical Safety Services Ltd comments: "The fall protection industry is entering a new era; with the publication of BS 8681and the support of BSIF, professional competency standards within the industry are going to be raised and in turn, greatly improve worker safety."

Hynes adds: "There will be a period where these new expectations and requirements are a challenge to our sector, but in the long term, they are completely reasonable and readily achievable, and they should lead to a significant improvement in the quality of design, installation and record keeping we see for fall protection systems."

Dun concludes: "My message to the companies and people who procure installation, inspection and consultancy services is to use BS8681 as part of the tools available in their due diligence process of selecting competent contractors."

To view the BSIF's overview of BS 7883, designed to help the understanding of best practice for those designing, installing, maintaining and inspecting anchor devices and systems, visit: www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org

The BSIF (HSG) has produced a webinar that brings together industry experts to discuss the requirements of providers within the industry. The webinar is available via the following link:- BS 8681:2024 Personal fall protection equipment – BSIF HSG Webinar – BSIF Height Safety Group.

For more information: https://www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org/

AirBench Ltd are pleased to announce the release of their new tramp oil skimmer system; PFOS.

PFOS is a mobile unit designed to clean oil from most machine tool sumps in around 2 hours. Cleaner coolant results in reduced contamination and odour; less maintenance for other systems; less wear; and less oil smoke; it helps create the better working environment we all want.

PFOS

Profluid Tramp Oil Separator

AirBench PFOS is a mobile oil separator designed to remove oil contamination from coolant.

Oil-contaminated cooling water has many harmful effects, on health, product quality, machine life as well as on life-time and disposal costs of coolant. The pro-fluid oil separator is mobile and can be taken from one machine to the other; requiring only a compressed air supply to operate.

This separator cleans your machine sump in less than 2 hours and is suitable for lathes, milling machines and grinding machines.

• Clean, optimised coolant
• Remove or reduce coolant smells
• Prevent coolant related health problems
• Reduce corrosion
• Reduce wear on machine parts and tooling
• Reduce bacterial growth
• Reduce oil smoke inside workshop

Contact us today for a demonstration!

The unit runs from a compressed air supply so is easily set up for use; it can also be installed centrally, with coolant pipes to each machine.

On site demonstrations are available – contact AirBench Ltd for more details or visit

www.airbench.com/pfos.

Gas Detection Cameras for a Safer, Cleaner Future The pressure is on. With the EU Methane Regulation (2024/1787) now in effect, energy producers across Europe are under increased scrutiny to detect and repair methane leaks across their operations.

The goal? To ensure the prevention of the avoidable release of methane into the atmosphere and drive down emissions across the entire fossil fuel supply chain, both within the EU and globally.

At FLIR, we're here to help you meet these evolving standards safely, efficiently, and with confidence through our advanced G-Series Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras: the FLIR Gx320, G620, and Gx620.

Next-Generation Gas Detection, Built for Compliance The FLIR G-Series is engineered to make gas leak detection faster, safer, and more accurate than ever before. Whether you're monitoring a refinery, offshore platform, or gas processing plant, these cooled OGI cameras deliver pinpoint precision when detecting methane, hydrocarbons, and over 400 volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Key Advantages of the G-Series: • Type 1 Leak Sensitivity: Detect leaks as small as 17 g/hr • In-Camera Quantification: Instantly measure leak size and type; no additional tools required. • Scan Smarter, Not Harder: Survey areas up to 9x faster than traditional gas sniffers • High-Resolution Thermal Imaging: Up to 640 × 480 IR resolution for clearer, more accurate visuals • Enhanced Thermal Contrast: Improve gas cloud visibility with precise temperature differentiation Engineered for Real-World Challenges Gas detection doesn't happen in perfect lab conditions; it takes place in rugged, potentially hazardous environments. That's why the G-Series is designed with durability and flexibility in mind: • Certified for Hazardous Locations:

Approved for Class 1, Division 2 or Zone 2 • ATEX-Compliant: Gx320 and Gx620 meet European standards for explosive atmospheres • Ergonomic Design: Lightweight body and rotating 4-inch LCD touchscreen for easy inspections in tight or high-up areas 1/2 Compliance Made Easy The new methane regulation mandates more than detection; it demands proof. FLIR G-Series cameras are built to streamline documentation and simplify compliance workflows. G-Series Compliance Features: • Multi-REC Mode:

Record both infrared and visible spectrum video at the same time • On-Camera Annotation: Highlight leak sources, record voice notes, and tag important data on the fly • Cloud Storage with FLIR Ignite: Automatically upload images and videos from the field • Smart Connectivity: Sync with tablets and mobile devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth® for instant data transfer and reporting Be Ready. Stay Compliant. Protect What Matters. FLIR G-Series OGI cameras aren't just tools; they're a complete solution for tackling methane emissions while supporting your compliance goals, improving operational safety, and avoiding regulatory penalties. See how the FLIR Gx320, G620 or Gx620 can transform your gas detection programme. Book a Demonstration Today

www.flir.com

The newly released EEMUA 250 (Edition 1), ‘Guide to the Management of Pressure Equipment Defined-life Repairs’, supports users in managing defined-life repairs by offering guidance on when to shut down pressure equipment versus applying a temporary repair. It highlights risk-based decision-making, life cycle considerations, and strategies for maintenance and inspection, especially where existing industry guidance on repair duration, extension, or conversion is limited.

In the event of an actionable inspection finding, an in-service leak or in-service damage, users typically must decide on whether to install a defined life repair or shutdown and install a permanent repair. The purpose of EEMUA 250 is to provide an overview with respect to the life cycle management of defined-life repairs. It provides guidance for users to consider when deciding if it is safer to shutdown and perform a permanent repair as well as providing key points to consider when selecting a defined-life repair, assessing the risks and when developing their maintenance, inspection, and replacement strategies post installation.

The primary function of a defined-life repair is to allow the system to return to or remain in service with limited interruption to production until a planned permanent repair can be installed. Although there is industry guidance available on the selection of defined-life repairs (e.g. ASME PCC-2, ISO 24817 and EI composite repair guidance), at the time of publication there was limited known industry guidance covering the life cycle management of defined-life repairs, for example:

•             How long can a defined-life repair remain in service?

•             How to extend the life of a defined-life repair?

•             How to make a defined-life repair permanent?

Each company’s organisational structure will vary in terms of maintenance, engineering, and inspection departments. As such, it is the responsibility of the user or pressure equipment owner to determine the strategy for defined-life repairs within their organisation. The strategy should be endorsed by the relevant technical authority for the company. EEMUA 250 advises that a risk-based approach is adopted to allow flexibility in application of defined-life repairs to the relevant situations, to ensure correct prioritisation based on the overall repair life cycle, and to ensure that the selected defined-life repair does not adversely affect the safe operation of the system.

It is expected that the reader has a basic competency in static equipment design and as such the level of detail has been set appropriately.

EEMUA 250 was developed by engineers who work in the power generation, chemical production, and oil and gas sectors. Although originally targeted for static pressure equipment, it is recognised that the publication may be applicable to a range of other industries, such as shipping, mining, steel, nuclear, water and wastewater, and food and beverages. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure specific details relating to their industry are considered when applying the guidance from EEMUA 250.

EEMUA 250 is available to purchase directly from EEMUA.

Another Speedor Storm has been installed at the height of one more summer storm to hit the UK. The storm was a challenge given the size of the door and the power of the wind at the time of the installation of the Speedor Storm. 

The successful installation underlines the professionalism of the Hart team which performed superbly given the strength of the wind at the time.    

Hart Door System’s wind-resistant, high-speed Speedor Storm, is ready for business be it a factory, warehouse, storage facility or any kind of plant operation that has one or more large external openings which must be opened frequently for people and traffic.

With wind resistance available up to ‘wind class 5’, as defined by DIN EN 12424, in the closed position this high-speed door is ready for openings to a maximum 8 metres width or height subject to 48 square metres.

The ability to withstand substantial wind pressure means major entrances open/close automatically so avoiding a less than optimal working environment and the escape of heated air.

Speedor Storm is designed specifically to help with several areas of business notably productivity – because entering and leaving a building can be done rapidly  which creates a better environment in which to work. The  high-speed operation means there are no unnecessary open periods.

By delivering maintenance of temperature and environment and by door preventing penetration by wind born debris there can also be a saving on the substantial cost of heating – important as the cost of energy shows little sign of improving. 

Made in the UK at Hart’s Newcastle factory, from where its teams of engineers are available throughout the UK, not just for the installation of Speedor Storms but for reliable servicing and maintenance thereafter. 

Speedor Storm’s strength and wind resistance comes from its multi-layer PVC and textile, both long-lasting and tear-resistant and its inbuilt horizontal curtain braces and no external cumbersome and noisy external wind bars.

There is a colour choice as well as ‘a with or without vision panel ’ which combine to deliver a good appearance, operational effectiveness and a performance product.

Speedor Storm is in particular demand from waste processing plants and renewable energy facilities such as Anaerobic Digestion (AD) plants that produce energy from waste. The ability to limit the escape of odour and noise and prevent pests entering is highly valued by such companies. Speedor Storm’s have also proved to be a great asset for ports, notably for grain tipping bays.

Safety features are of course paramount, and here they include a state of the art safety light curtain, anti-fall protection and sensors to activate the door. There is a range of operating methods that include hands free, floor loops, radar, photo beam, radio operation, movement sensors, handheld or vehicle-mounted radio transmitters,  or simple push button and pull cords.

The automatic operation can be set to include or exclude pedestrians as desired. If warning lights or klaxons are required, these can be incorporated in a complete door system and control panel which are designed for any conceivable need including integration into a Building Management System if necessary. This is delivered via its unique guide system in combination with other carefully designed features.

Roll on the Autumn storms.

www.hartdoors.com

Replacing an explosion-proof size 1000 motor at short notice is an ambitious task. For the German family-run company Menzel Elektromotoren, it was a chance to prove once again its extensive expertise in the design, manufacture and certification of explosion-proof motors. A plastics producer had to replace an existing extruder motor with ignition protection type Ex d (flameproof encapsulation) very urgently. Menzel and the client found that a motor with the ignition protection type Ex ec (increased safety) would satisfy the current hazardous zone requirements. The motor manufacturer selected a suitable three-phase squirrel-cage motor from its extensive stock, individually adapting it for the drive task and the installation site. The project hinged on upgrading the motor for zone 2 hazardous areas with potentially explosive gas atmospheres and getting it the necessary ATEX certification. Menzel’s officially certified in-house experts labeled the motor II 3G Ex ec IIC T4 Gc. The new motor with a lower shaft height at 630 mm was brought up to the center height of the old motor by means of a welded base. Since the new motor has four winding systems instead of the two of the old one, Menzel also made electrical modifications for operation on the existing frequency converter.

Caption: Fasttrack customization and certification for hazardous areas – the extruder motor is now already in use and the customer is satisfied

The project exposes the existing supply gap for explosion-proof motors in large sizes: the few existing suppliers can only offer building a motor from scratch – with the corresponding months-long delivery times. Menzel stands out from the competition with its large stock inventory and ability to configure and adapt stock electric motors in-house for hazardous areas and certify them according to the latest ATEX directives. In this instance, only two weeks passed from order placement to installation at the customer’s site. The customer came to Berlin for testing and acceptance and praised Menzel’s flexibility.

More about motors with ignition protection type Ex ec (increased safety) for zone 2 or 22 hazardous areas with gas or dust atmospheres: https://www.menzel-motors.com/ex-na/