BOC Edwards iH600 - ATEX Directive Implications

1.2 ATEX directive implications
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This equipment is designed to meet the requirements of Group II Category 3 equipment in
accordance with Directive 94/9/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 23rd
March 1994 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States concerning equipment and
protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. (The ATEX
Directive).
The ATEX Category 3 applies in respect of potential ignition sources internal to the
equipment. An ATEX Category has not been assigned in respect of potential ignition sources
on the outside of the equipment as the equipment has not been designed for use where there
is an external potentially explosive atmosphere.
There is no potential source of ignition within the pump during normal operation but there
may be potential sources of ignition under conditions of predicted and rare malfunction as
defined in the Directive. Accordingly, although the pump is designed to pump flammable
materials and mixtures, operating procedures should ensure that under all normal and
reasonably predicted conditions, these materials and mixtures are not within explosive
limits. Category 3 is considered appropriate for the avoidance of ignition in the case of a rare
malfunction which allows flammable materials or mixtures to pass through the pump while
within their explosive limits.
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When flammable or pyrophoric materials are present within the equipment you must:
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Not allow air to enter the equipment.
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Ensure that the system is leak tight.
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Use an inert gas purge (for example, a nitrogen purge) to dilute any flammable gases or
vapours entering the pump inlet, and/or use an inert gas purge to reduce the
concentration of flammable gases or vapours in the pump and in the exhaust pipeline to
less than one quarter of the gases' published lower explosive limits (LEL).
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For further information, please contact BOC Edwards: refer to the Addresses page at the end of
this manual for details of your nearest BOC Edwards company.
iH Dry Pumping Systems 1-3