Explosion-proof elevator: safety in hazardous environments
21 September 2023
How the explosion-proof elevator is employed
The explosion-proof elevator is used to transport people but especially heavy and hazardous materials.
Its operation includes solutions such as automating the descent in case of power failure, fire or general emergency.
But that’s not all: an ordinary industrial elevator can become an ATEX system by simply adding the components that make it so.
Certifications that an explosion-proof elevator must have
The explosion-proof elevator, by its very nature, needs to strictly meet certain requirements.
In fact, these installations follow European, North American and non-European directives: the ATEX standards.
This certification involves regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that the elevators continue to meet the standards over time.
Specifically, the inherent legislation for explosion-proof elevators is Directive 94/9/EC, later supplemented by Directive 2014/34/EU.
Characteristics of an explosion-proof elevator
This type of elevator must obviously possess great resistance to heat and pressure in order to act as a barrier in the event of an accident.
It is in fact equipped with components such as explosion-proof wiring, motors and switches, which prevent electrical sparks and heat from igniting flammable substances.
ATEX elevators use materials such as copper and brass, which are resistant to sparks and static electricity, and gaskets.
Factors to consider when choosing an explosion-proof elevator
Several aspects must be considered when installing an explosion-proof elevator such as:
- In what environment it should be placed (e.g., exposed to corrosive substances, humidity, or low/high temperatures)
- What functions it should perform
- What weight capacity it should support (in relation to use)
- what size it should be (based on the amount of people and goods to be transported)
- what safety features it should have (such as emergency descent system, guardrails, and non-slip platforms).
What the partner providing the explosion-proof elevator must do
Since the explosion-proof elevator is a special type, those who install it must:
- Have a dedicated in-house technical department that constantly keeps abreast of technological innovations in this regard
- Have the best components on the market, with EX rating
- Follow the project through all its phases
- Raise awareness through training courses on this type of elevator and its respective regulations
- Ensuring a review service.
The explosion-proof elevator Maspero Elevatori
Maspero Elevatori is the ideal partner, able to meet the characteristics listed above. In addition to offering customized solutions, it strictly follows the standards that the explosion-proof elevator requires and subjects elevators to specific tests to obtain the CE mark and be sold in the European Union. Safety, efficiency and durability are guaranteed thanks to the high quality of the materials they are made of, such as aluminum and steel, which can withstand corrosion and harsh temperatures and environments. The Maspero Elevatori explosion-proof elevator is also easy to clean and operate: it has optional features (such as remote control, load sensors, and stop and emergency buttons). Finally, its energy efficiency allows it to keep operating costs low.
Need more information about ATEX elevators?
To learn more about our projects and to learn more about our company, please feel free to contact us.
