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In industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation, safety is critical. These sectors face extreme conditions, volatile substances, and high pressures, making advanced pressure monitoring essential. Intrinsically safe pressure transmitters play a pivotal role in maintaining safety by providing precise, real-time monitoring in hazardous settings.

Pressure transmitters continuously track pressure levels, offering early detection of anomalies. For instance, in oil and gas applications, models like the GS4200 detect pressure spikes before they escalate into leaks or explosions. This early intervention reduces risks, downtime, and repair costs.

These devices often integrate with Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) to automate emergency responses. When thresholds are exceeded, trigger safety mechanisms, such as shutting down equipment or venting pressure, providing rapid, reliable action in critical moments.

By enabling remote monitoring, pressure transmitters also minimise the need for workers to enter hazardous areas, reducing exposure to toxic gases, high temperatures, or explosive atmospheres, improving workplace safety.

Compliance with stringent regulations, such as those set by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), is another benefit. ATEX and IECEx-certified models ensure adherence to safety standards while demonstrating a commitment to operational integrity.

Designed to handle the toughest environments, transmitters like the corrosion-resistant PR3110 and high-pressure HP1000 maintain reliability under extreme conditions. They also protect the environment by detecting leaks early, preventing the release of harmful substances.

Investing in advanced pressure transmitters is a smart step for any organisation, enhancing safety, reducing risks, and safeguarding the environment.

Explore ESI Technology’s ATEX and IECEx-certified hazardous area pressure transmitters at https://esi-tec.com/product-application/hazardous-area-pressure-transmitters/

New: Slim Lightweight Design

Atexxo Manufacturing has released the Apple iPhone 15 which is global certified and suitable for use in Zone 1 Gas IIC and Zone 21 Dust IIIC hazardous locations. The explosion proof iPhones are originally manufactured by Apple then converted and certified according to the ATEX directives and IECEx standards by Atexxo Manufacturing. This makes the ATEX/IECEx Smartphones suited for safe use in gas/vapour Zone 1 and dust Zone 21 hazardous areas. Sim-card can be installed by the end-user themselves. The devices are suited for Apple’s DEP (open) Business Manager Program.

The ATEX/IECEx iPhone 15 comes with an aluminum case finish. The ATEX/IECEx Zone 1/21 iPhones are suitable for use in extreme demanding environments. They are available in 128gb, 256gb and 512gb versions.
Wireless charging is possible with the use of the original Apple magsafe charger. Beside safe use as a smartphone, all versions are excellent for use as an explosion proof camera or RFID scanner. For Middle East countries, versions with blocked cameras are available.

Explosion safety level:

       II 2G; II 2D

Ex db IIC T4 Gb
Ex tb IIIC T135°C Db

Features:

- 64Gb or 256 Gb of 512 Gb

- Self Sim-Card Installation or eSim

- Wireless charging with original Apple Magsafe

- Continuous Apple IOS Software Updates

- Suited for Apple DEP (open) Business Manager Program

- Global certified (ATEX, IECEx)

Typical Applications:

- Connected fieldworker
- Digital twins

- Industry 4.0

- Pharmacy
- Petro Chemical plants

- Offshore platforms

For more information please contact our sales department

www.atexxo.com
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+31(0)186601299

Enerpac announces the RC-Trio hydraulic cylinders range featuring a enhanced durability bearing system and hybrid spring-return system for up to 3x faster retraction. The general purpose RC-Trio range is the latest evolution of the Enerpac RC-Series cylinders; the company’s most popular cylinder and used every day in thousands of engineering and construction projects.

Durability
The driving force of the Enerpac RC-Trio cylinder range is the new Trio bearing system. The system includes up to four high-performance wear bands, offering increased resistance to damage, reduced bearing load, and longer cylinder lifespan. The hardened composite material of these bands increases bearing surface area for greater side load resistance, significantly improving cylinder life. Durability is also on display in new high-performance polyethylene seals that last longer than ever. 

Another part of the Trio bearing system is the Trio stop ring, which includes an additional wear band to absorb greater side load. The stop ring can take full cylinder extension force and, depending upon cylinder size, is manufactured in Nitrided Steel or High-Resistance Bronze, for increased durability. It also features a durable wiper to help prevent contamination from entering the cylinder during retract cycles.

Productivity
To enhance productivity, the RC-Trio features a new Trio spring system designed to reduce retraction time. This pre-tensioned return spring system provides up to 3X faster retraction (available on 50-, 75-, and 100-ton models). It uses high-strength steel wire to improve spring life. The spring retention design improves serviceability, while allowing higher pre-load during assembly. Additionally, the spring is easily removed without special tools.

Versatility
The RC-Trio is a general-purpose cylinder available in 41 models and is designed for use in all positions. Versatile features include collar and plunger threads and base mounting holes that enable easy fixturing (on most models), new base holes on 30- and 75-ton models, hardened plunger saddle that protects plunger end during all lifting operations, and optional tilt and smooth saddles as accessories. Plus, the RC-Trio maintains the same dimensions and connection threads, providing full compatibility with existing RC-Series units in the field.

To learn more about the Enerpac RC-Trio cylinder range, visit www.enerpac.com. 

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas can be fatal at high concentrations. But even low concentrations can cause health issues, particularly with prolonged exposure. So how can you best protect workers and minimise downtime? We answer your common questions about H2S.

What is H2S gas?

Hydrogen sulfide is a highly flammable, toxic and corrosive gas found in several industries including oil and gas, wastewater and chemical processing. It’s sometimes called ‘sour gas’, ‘sewer gas’ or ‘stink damp’ because of the way it smells like rotten eggs. However, H2S can’t reliably be detected by smell as it quickly deadens the sense of smell (a process known as ‘olfactory desensitisation or fatigue’).

How dangerous is H2S?

Exposure to high levels of H2S can be fatal, leading to loss of breathing, coma, seizures and death. It’s the second most common cause of fatal gas inhalation exposure in the workplace, second only to carbon monoxide[1].

But H2S can also be harmful at low concentration levels, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathing difficulties and a sore throat. These health impacts can become more serious with prolonged exposure.

Low concentration vs. high concentration H2S – exposure limits

The health impacts of H2S depend on how much is inhaled and for how long. The recommended exposure limit set by NIOSH (the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) for ten minutes is 10 ppm[2]. 

However, some U.S. states have developed ambient air standards for H2S well below OSHA and NIOSH standards due to concerns about health risks from chronic exposure[3].

For longer exposures to H2S, the recommended limits are a lot lower. For example, if you’re exposed for up to 24 hours, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a maximum exposure of 0.1 ppm.

In response to concerns about the risks of H2S to human health even at low concentration levels, some countries have introduced equally stringent guidelines requiring businesses to monitor H₂S at such concentrations. That’s why we’ve recently updated our ALTAIR io™ 4 Connected Gas Detector, offering the option of a low-concentration hydrogen sulfide sensor that can detect H2S at very low levels*.

H2S in industry – the different sector impacts

H2S creates safety challenges for many industries. But some industries are more likely to be affected. These include:

Oil, Gas & Petrochemical (OGP)

OGP facilities handle raw ‘sour’ gas and oil which are naturally high in H2S. Extraction and refining processes release H2S, which may accumulate in confined, poorly ventilated spaces like processing units, pipelines and storage tanks. Closed systems with high-pressure conditions amplify the risks for workers.

Balancing safety and operational efficiency is an ongoing challenge in the OGP industry. Some are tackling this challenge by integrating new technological solutions into their safety management practices.

Waste water management

Wastewater facilities such as closed pipelines and sludge tanks have low oxygen levels and so provide the ideal conditions for H2S buildup. This is because sulfate-reducing bacteria which break down organic material and produce H₂S as a byproduct thrive in anaerobic (low-oxygen) conditions.

One of the key risks for waste water workers is when they’re entering confined spaces like tanks and sewer lines. For many waste water management businesses, real-time monitoring of gas levels is considered a must-have.

Steel production

The steel industry’s use of high-temperature processes and sulfur-rich materials can lead to the release of H2S, creating hazards for workers. Confined, poorly ventilated spaces and desulfurisation units pose particular risks. 

[1] Guidotti TL, 2010. Hydrogen sulfide: Advances in understanding human toxicity. Int. J. Toxicol 29, 569–581. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar][Ref list]

[2] https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0337.html

[3] https://ohsonline.com/articles/2007/10/human-health-effects-from-exposure-to-lowlevel-concentrations-of-hydrogen-sulfide.aspx

Any industry that processes, uses, or manufactures materials that may give rise to a flammable atmosphere (gas, mist, liquid, dust or even small fibres) may have a potentially explosive atmosphere. Where fuel and oxygen (normally the oxygen in air) are present in the workplace, potential ignition sources must be rendered safe to an acceptable level for the risk. Industries that generate potentially explosive atmospheres classify the dangerous areas based on the likelihood and duration of the explosive atmospheres’ presence. This is referred to as a ‘Zone’ (Europe and NEC505) or ‘Division’ (NEC500).

When a Zone or Division has been established, the manufacturer must take special precautions to reduce the likelihood of an ignition being present to an acceptable level (and possibly to use mitigation measures to lower the consequence of an explosion). These special methods are normally achieved by applying defined ‘levels of protection’ (Referred to as ‘Category’ in ATEX and ‘Equipment Protection Levels’ in IEC). To technically achieve the defined level, we then apply protection concepts (pre-defined design and test methodologies) from published standards. In most cases, there is more than one way to achieve the level of protection; the designer must choose the most suitable to their equipment and manufacturing capability.

Definition of Categories /EPLs

Category 1 Equipment (Zone 0)  Ga, Da          
Must not have ignition sources that can become effective even in a rare malfunction. Equipment in this category is intended for use in areas in which explosive atmospheres caused by mixtures of air and gases, vapours or mists or by air/dust mixtures are present continuously for long periods or frequently.

Category 2 Equipment (Zone 1) Gb, Db          
May have effective ignition sources (with a malfunction applied) protected by a recognised concept. Equipment in this category is intended for use in areas in which explosive atmospheres caused by gases, vapours, mists or air/dust mixtures are likely to occur.

Category 3 Equipment (Zone 2) Gc, Dc           
Must also be protected by a concept when ignition capable (relative to the gas or dust) in normal operation. Equipment in this category is intended for use in areas in which explosive atmospheres caused by gases, vapours, mists or air/dust mixtures are not likely to occur.

The categories in normal practice are equated to the suitability for Zones. Apparatus will be marked with the grouping and category in addition to the marking required by the individual protection.

Given the onerous nature of an explosion, special certification schemes have been set up to control the design and certification of equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres.  Although the schemes differ globally (some are mandatory under law, some are simply procurement specifications), the basis for design and certification is similar, and the schemes normally rely on testing, constructional assessment and production (quality) control by a recognised Certification Body.

The Explosive Atmospheres market is both lucrative and expanding, but the level of certification requirements and checking (both by the buyer and the regulatory authorities) are undoubtedly increasing. To access this market, it is imperative that equipment manufacturers understand the design, manufacture and certification requirements of both discrete apparatus and assemblies to ensure that the products are designed and certified on time and correctly.

ExVeritas provides Product Certification, Management System Certification, Training and Site Safety Services. ExVeritas are an ATEX Notified Body and an IECEx Certification Bod with IECEX Test Laboratories in the UK and USA

www.exveritas.com

Resilience and innovation remain the cornerstones of the hazardous area industry. As the global landscape evolves, economic pressures, supply chain complexities, and the ever-growing demands for sustainability and compliance continue to shape the sector. Yet, these challenges also present opportunities for progress and leadership.
The hazardous area industry is advancing rapidly, fuelled by technological breakthroughs, stricter regulations, and a renewed commitment to safety. Across the globe, businesses are seeking smarter, more efficient ways to protect people, assets, and the environment. At Peppers Cable Glands, these shifts are seen not as hurdles but as catalysts for driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for a safer, more sustainable future.
In the face of mounting pressures, collaboration has emerged as the key to success. Peppers takes pride not only in delivering industry-leading products but also in being a trusted partner to their customers. Their innovative Quick Response Cell (QRC), strategic investments in advanced technology, and unwavering dedication to quality underscore their mission to make a tangible difference in the industry.
Looking ahead, Peppers is ready to help businesses navigate emerging challenges and capitalise on new opportunities. Whether addressing the demands of complex projects, upgrading aging systems, or meeting the latest regulatory standards, Peppers is committed to supporting their customers at every stage. With a comprehensive product portfolio — now including DNV marine approvals — and a dedicated team of experts, they provide solutions designed to exceed expectations.
The hazardous area industry thrives on adaptability, trust, and continuous innovation. These qualities are deeply embedded in Peppers’ approach to every project and partnership. As the industry moves forward, Peppers remains steadfast in their pledge to work collaboratively toward a safer, stronger, and more sustainable future.
Here’s to embracing the opportunities ahead and shaping a brighter tomorrow for the hazardous area industry.

www.cableglands.co.uk

Sometimes you need to clean up, and there is no convenient electrical outlet nearby. Accidental spillages need prompt rectification but using a conventional vacuum cleaner means trailing a lead across the floor which can hinder operations and potentially cause a trip hazard. Until now it has been difficult to find cordless vacuum cleaners with enough industrial power to handle bulk clean up in the manufacturing environment.

Quirepace have introduced the cordless IV60 eGX into the range of BVC Industrial Vacuum Cleaners to eliminate this risk. This is a powerful battery powered unit which, as standard, is provided with a 3-stage filtration dry product tank consisting of a paper sack collection, microfibre main filter and 3^rd stage HEPA filter. This configuration is suitable for most dry-product collection applications. The unit may be configured as both M-Class and H-Class rated units.

The unique Honda eGX electric engine is designed to replace petrol engines in the 2.5hp class and combined with the well-proven BVC YP3 turbine delivers powerful suction suitable for the toughest industrial cleaning jobs.

With a run-time of 1/2hr to 2 hrs depending on power setting, the new BVC IV60 eGX in either M-Class or H-Class specification, is ideal for spillages of potentially hazardous products, and the absence of any requirement to plug-in means BVC IV60 is immediately ready for use anywhere in the building.

In addition to the standard dry-product tank, BVC IV60 eGX is also available with wet tank, longopac®, and drop-tank options. It is also ideal for high-reach cleaning using lightweight carbon fibre cleaning poles. Like all BVC Industrial Vacuum Cleaners, a wide range of different hoses, tools and accessories are available from Quirepace’s Fareham factory and warehouse.

Contact Quirepace today and ask for a demonstration.

Quirepace Ltd

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www.quirepace.co.uk
www.bvc.co.uk

ADLER, Austria’s leading manufacturer of varnishes, paints, and wood preservatives, has introduced digital data acquisition for raw materials in its pre-commissioning area, marking a significant step in its digitalisation efforts. Employees in Ex-zone 1/21 now use mobile multifunctional sets from i.safe MOBILE, including the intrinsically safe IS530.1 smartphone and the IS-TH1xx.1 hand-held barcode scanner. These devices enable automatic raw material control during scanning, minimizing errors and reducing faulty batches. The collected data is stored in a database for full traceability, ensuring production transparency and process optimisation. Additionally, hazard warnings and work instructions are integrated into the mobile devices, improving both efficiency and safety.

Seamless Implementation and Increased Efficiency

The barcode scanning system was integrated into ADLER’s existing IT infrastructure with the help of i.safe MOBILE’s partner, ematric, who developed the necessary software. This integration allows for real-time order tracking and ensures accurate recording of each production step, minimizing the risk of overlooked tasks. Initially, there were concerns about workflow disruptions, but the system was implemented smoothly, leading to fewer incorrect batches and improved overall efficiency.

Enhanced Production Control and Quality Assurance

Material traceability is vital in ADLER's production process. The barcode scanning system helps employees quickly identify processed and remaining raw materials. In the pre-commissioning area, up to 1,200 raw materials and semi-finished products are compiled and weighed for each order. Digitalisation enhances quality assurance by preventing material mix-ups and costly mistakes. The IS530.1 smartphone also displays hazard warnings and work instructions, contributing to safety by providing clear visual information to employees for task completion.

Positive Employee Feedback and Future Plans

Employees have responded positively to the digitalisation initiative, resulting in increased job satisfaction. Following training, each worker was equipped with a multifunctional device. QR codes on raw material storage locations and production recipes facilitate quick material identification and help reduce errors. The system alerts employees in case of incorrect scans and shows expiry dates or special processing instructions. The implementation process took about six months from product selection to deployment.

Looking ahead, ADLER plans to extend digitalisation across the entire production process, enabling real-time monitoring. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to increase transparency and responsiveness to customer needs, while integrating insights from the project into future logistics planning. ADLER’s commitment to employee safety and satisfaction ensures that these digitalisation measures will contribute to long-term productivity and innovation.

“The scanners from i.safe MOBILE have truly made a difference,” says foreman Christoph Wolf from ADLER. “With their support, we’ve successfully sped up and simplified our work processes, reducing the error rate. We’ve made significant progress towards digitalisation.”

The Mobile Multifunction Set

With a large reading range of up to 18 metres, the devices are equipped with Zebra OEM imager scan engines for safe mobile data management. At ADLER, the i.safe MOBILE mobile multifunctional set ensures reliable data capture in hazardous areas. This represents a further step towards optimising processes, raising quality standards and ensuring the safety of employees.

www.isafe-mobile.com

It is generally well known that condition-based maintenance (CBM) of rotating equipment (pumps, fans, motors etc.) is the key to avoiding costly downtime. This is particularly the case in hazardous locations where routine or planned periodic maintenance is impractical or undesirable. However, any CBM equipment used in hazardous locations needs to be certified as intrinsically safe. But how do you decide if you have a hazardous location and at what level of hazard? The regulations put the responsibility for deciding on the plant operator and in many cases such as flour mills, petrochemical plants or fuel transfer facilities it can be fairly obvious. However, some less obvious hazardous locations include water treatment plants, tunnels and underground passageways or any location where a build-up of naturally occurring flammable material (such as methane or dust) could occur.

Wastewater pumping and treatment facilities, for example, emit flammable gases and vapours. These emissions come from substances that the wastewater could be carrying (e.g. oils, solvents or fuels from accidental spills) and from anaerobic digestion of organic matter (producing methane and hydrogen sulphide). According to the regulations, most pumping stations, spaces and buildings that make up a wastewater treatment plant must be considered hazardous locations.

But what level of intrinsic safety is required? Deciding the “likelihood” of an explosive atmosphere existing can be tricky to say the least! The simplest solution is to cover all eventualities by going for instruments certified for Zone 0 (hazard exists continuously). Normally, that would be much more expensive. Fortunately, Test Products International (TPI) has achieved a significant cost breakthrough with the very affordable TPI 9085Ex vibration analyser. With on-meter diagnostics and the all-important ability to TREND readings over time, the “go anywhere” TPI 9085Ex has WORLDWIDE certification for Zone 0, meaning it can be used in any atmosphere and anywhere.

The 9085Ex detects unbalance, misalignment and looseness in rotating equipment. It also measures “bearing noise” and displays it in bearing damage units (BDU) roughly equivalent to “percentage bearing wear”. In addition, the 9085Ex uniquely incorporates a directly contacting temperature sensor within its vibration probe. This gives a highly accurate, virtually instantaneous, surface temperature reading for the bearing, simultaneously as the vibration reading is taken. With a high BDU reading and high temperature, you know that what you are seeing really is a worn bearing and not some other source of vibration such as pump cavitation.

 The compact handheld TPI 9085Ex is extremely affordable and simple to use and should be included as standard in every maintenance tool kit. Using the FREE TPI Bridge App, “routes” and readings can be transferred to and from the 9085Ex anywhere in the world using mobile devices (e.g. smart phone or tablet PC) and then via Bluetooth to and from the 9085Ex. “Routes” are simply lists of machines showing exactly what readings need to be taken and where to take them. The readings are then automatically time and date stamped by the 9085Ex and saved back in the route for automatic transfer to computer-based trending software.

“Trending” is the very essence of condition-based maintenance. By looking at the trend of bearing noise and temperature readings, it is possible to determine well in advance when a bearing will likely need replacing. The TPI 9085Ex comes with powerful, yet simple to use, subscription free trending software, which includes automatic email notification of alarms and report generation, giving you everything you need for a full CBM strategy.

For more information please contact TPI Europe’s head office on +44 1293 530196 or take a look on the website at www.tpieurope.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.