ATEX EQUIPMENT FEATURE
code with a code saved in the evaluation unit, leaving it open to potential manipulation. There are other benefits to look for as well: ideally
you would want a hybrid switch that is less sensitive to surface dirt and less susceptible to vibration and shock, which in turn indicates it is good in a harsh environment. In contrast these types of switches can also be ideal for areas with increased hygiene demands such as within a pharmaceutical facility. Of course it is a given that you would want a switch with a housing that protects it against impacts and the ingress of a potentially explosive atmosphere. There is lots to consider. The HSE’s latest findings are very reassuring,
but there is no room for complacency – accidents still happen even as part of apparently benign processes. All technical equipment that is a potential ignition source can trigger an explosion - which is why it is so important to have an understanding of all the relevant aspects of the safety standard BS EN 60079 - Explosive Atmospheres. It is equally important not to lose sight of the need for process protection at the same time. Usually, it is about making a simple
judgment. Take a burglar alarm for instance – once it is triggered there is no need to wait for any dangerous gases or other substance to purge or dissipate, so you can get instant access to disarm it. In this case a simple non- contact switch would suffice. Standard type-1 safety switches apply when you need to detect
a mechanical movement such as a flap opening or a component in position. Contact or locking switches come into play as
the risk level increases. A worker on an aerosol line, for example, knows that they cannot just open the door in the event of an incident – the system has to complete a proper shutdown and full purge before access is allowed. So a locking switch will fit the bill, either with or without coding depending on the level of protection required. And, of course, such a line will almost certainly be subject to the ATEX directive too. There are very few safety equipment specialists
offering devices that meet the level of protection required and are suitable for use within industries operating with potentially explosive atmospheres including defence, pharma, chemicals and waste-water, among others. Protecting any kind of production environment from risk is stressful enough as it is, so do yourself a favour - next time the need for a hybrid switch arises, do not cut corners when the ideal solution is right there on a plate.
Euchner
www.euchner.co.uk
.
INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE | SUMMER 2021
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