Testing for equipment that's designed to withstand the impact of explosion
In compliance with the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres must meet essential health and safety criteria before gaining access to the European Market. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of their capability to prevent ignition and their effectiveness in safeguarding against explosion-related consequences.
Gexcon, operating cutting-edge testing facilities in Norway, specialises in the execution of gas and dust explosion tests. These advanced facilities are frequently used for assessing equipment's resilience to gas and/or dust explosion effects and its potential to mitigate the impact of such explosions.
The primary objective of these tests is to satisfy the prerequisites necessary for obtaining ATEX certification.
ATEX, which stands for ATmosphere EXplosibles, comprises a set of European Union regulations devised to ensure employee safety in areas at risk of explosion due to the presence of explosive atmospheres.
Dust explosion testing related to ATEX conformity for explosion venting devices
Explosion mitigation testing FAQs
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1What type of equipment can be tested?
Examples of equipment used for the prevention and mitigation of explosions that can be tested at Gexcon’s facilities include:
- Explosion mitigation and suppression systems
- Explosion venting and flameless venting systems
- Water deluge and fog nozzles as an explosion mitigation system
- Flame arresters
- Fast-acting valves (as explosion isolation systems)
- Flap valves (as explosion isolation systems)
- Chemical barriers (as explosion isolation systems)
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2Why is it important to get equipment tested?
The primary goal of explosion mitigation systems is to protect human lives, property and the environment.
Testing ensures that these systems operate as designed and can effectively mitigate or suppress explosions, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities in industrial settings.
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3What are the benefits of having explosion mitigation testing?
There are several benefits to having explosion mitigation system testing.
First and foremost it assures safety by confirming that these systems can effectively protect human lives, property, and the environment whilst also ensuring that regulatory compliance is being adhered to.
In commercial and industrial settings explosions can disrupt operations, leading to downtime and financial losses. Tested mitigation systems help maintain business continuity and prevent costly disruptions.
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4Will my insurance provider require proof that my explosion mitigation systems have been tested?
Insurance providers often require proof that explosion mitigation systems have been tested and are effective. This can lead to more reasonable insurance premiums and ensure coverage in the event of an explosion.
