Lidering is pleased to announce that we have recently obtained ATEX T4 certification for the manufacture of our mechanical seals and solutions for the pumping and fluid transfer industry.
This certification marks an important step forward in our commitment to the quality and safety of our products, as ATEX T4 is an indispensable standard in demanding and critical applications where highly flammable gases are used.
In this article, we will tell you about the main feature of ATEX T4, the different material categories, and the ATEX regulation classification, so you can understand what the ATEX T4 certification means for us. Let’s go!
What is ATEX classification and what is the main feature of ATEX T4?
The first thing to know is the meaning of ATEX. This concept is an abbreviation of “ATmosphère EXplosible” and its definition appears in Royal Decree 681/2003 of 12 June 2003 on the protection of the health and safety of workers exposed to the risks arising from explosive atmospheres in the workplace and, since then, applies to the putting into circulation of all explosion-protected electrical and mechanical equipment, components and protective systems.
Thus, when we talk about the equipment ATEX classification, we refer to the level of classification required for the equipment used in potentially explosive areas.
What does it mean that Lidering can manufacture its seals with ATEX T4 certificate?
ATEX regulations classify materials into different categories according to the likelihood of an explosive atmosphere forming in the working area. It is crucial that mechanical seals do not generate temperatures that can trigger the explosion of flammable gases and therefore the ignition temperature of the gas to be sealed will determine the type of seal that can be used in the application. The lower the maximum temperature the seal can generate, the greater its ability to work with potentially explosive fluids.
The main feature of the ATEX T4 certificate is to ensure that the surface temperature of the mechanical seal does not exceed 135°C, even in dry running conditions. Lidering’s achievement of this certification reflects our commitment to excellence and innovation in the industry, as it attests that our mechanical seals meet the highest standards of safety and performance in critical environments.
Material categories in ATEX certification
Here is an example of the classification of mechanical seal material according to whether the working area may be an explosive atmosphere:
- Category 1 mechanical seals are required for work in areas where there is a very high probability of the formation of an explosive atmosphere.
- Category 2 mechanical seals are required in areas with a medium probability of explosive atmospheres.
- ategory 3 mechanical seals are used in areas with a low probability of the formation of an explosive atmosphere.
It is very important that mechanical seals do not generate temperatures that can cause flammable gases to explode, so the ignition temperature of the gas to be sealed will determine the type of seal that can be used in the application.
Classification of ATEX regulations
As can be seen in the above table, depending on the maximum surface temperature and the types of gases, one mechanical seal or another will be required to meet these requirements.
New marking for ATEX-certified material from Lidering
The models offered by Lidering that meet the requirements of ATEX T4 certification are LMS23, LMS27 and LMS28, especially designed for agitators and reactors. Also the LDC40 double cartridge, very versatile, as it can be used both in agitators and reactors as well as in pumps of different natures and designs.
This certification is in addition to the Lidering’s other technical certifications and represents a significant achievement for the company, positioning us as a provider of safe sealing solutions, while enabling us to more effectively serve manufacturers of agitators, reactors and critical machinery in the Chemical, Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical industries.
Looking for more information about the manufacturing of ATEX T4 certified mechanical seals? Contact Lidering’s technical team!
