Our supplier GBE is now working with the international certification laboratory TÜV for certification of a product series that will meet all requirements for installation in zone 2, category 3 of the EU directives ATEX.
ATEX is the collective name for two EU Directives, which regulate equipment for use in hazardous explosive atmospheres. The term ATEX is derived from the words ATmosphere and EXplosive. The IEC 60079 standard defines the installation environments referred to based on the level of risk in relation to the content of flammable gases and dust. Depending on the probability of occurrence of explosive atmospheric environment, zones are indicated on a scale from zone 0 (high probability), zone 1 (medium probability) to zone 2 (low probability, less than 10 hours per year). For dusty environments, zones 20/21/22 are used in the same way. A distinction is also made between above and below ground zones. In addition, three categories are given for each of the different ATEX zones for which the products are adapted. The categories indicate the characteristics of the product under normal conditions (category 3), in case of common failures (category 2) and rare failures (category 1).
In most cases, transformers and reactors are installed in non-explosive environments and under normal operating conditions. Therefore, GBE is currently working, in collaboration with the international certification laboratory TÜV, on a series of products that will meet all the requirements for installation in zone 2, category 3. The product certification aims to produce a complete technical description of both products and accessories. A series of tests are carried out under the supervision of TÜV inspectors. The technical documentation consists of a description of the transformer, reference standards, drawings, data sheets for all components, use of materials and test protocols. Also included is a manual with references for standards 60079-14-17 and -19, for service intervals, information on maintenance and repairs, certificate of conformity and ATEX product certificate with risk analysis.
The tests are not limited to standard tests. A series of special tests are also necessary. For example, a heat test at 110% load is carried out for the measurement of hotspots, but also pressure and functional tests for hermetically sealed parts. In addition to the category, maximum allowable temperatures are defined for each specific zone (from T1 to T6), and the risk level for flammable gas (from IIA to IIC). The category is also defined by Ga (category 1) and Gc (category 3). GBE can hereby guarantee the following TÜV certifications for oil-filled transformers: Ex pzc ic oc d Gc and gas protection II 3G IIB T4.