ATEX Archives

ATEX

“ATEX” is an abbreviation used to describe the ATEX Directive. It is a set of European Union regulations that ensure products used in explosive environments are safe. Explosive atmospheres can be caused by flammable gases, mists or vapours or by combustible dusts. If there is enough of a substance mixed with air, all it needs is a source of ignition to cause an explosion.

Hibiscus

IPU has supplied a hydraulic start system for the emergency generator onboard the British Gas Hibiscus development. Located in 500 ft of water, the field is approximately 45km off the North coast of Trinidad. The start system was designed to provide extended cranking cycles, critical for the starting of gas engines; that is an excess of 30 seconds cranking from the three hydraulic accumulators. Each start attempt is actuated from an individual solenoid start valve and recharged with a motor driven pump. All electrical components are ATEX certified, for use in hazardous area Zone 2 specification. For environmental protection from the offshore surroundings, the whole hydraulic package was…

Underground Mining

Underground mines contain high levels of methane gas, which can cause potentially lethal explosions. It is this safety factor which governs the need for non-sparking air and hydraulic starting systems to be used in mines. IPU have a range of Hydraulic Start Systems suitable for a wide variety of engines including: Caterpillar, Deutz, ADE, John Deere and JCB. A hydraulic start system is an educated choice for many mining companies where hydraulic systems are already in use; making the start system an easy ‘add-on’, as it will not require additional pumps or oil reservoirs. The benefits of a Hydraulic Start System in this environment also extend far beyond safety and legislation; the life…