Explosion-proof pumps from various manufacturers available from York Fluid Controls

York Fluid Controls distributes a selection of ATEX-compliant pumps by various manufacturers.

York Fluid Controls has been a major distributor of pumps for well over half a century, and its lineup includes ATEX-compliant explosion proof pumps. These fully groundable pumps meet the stringent “Atmosphères Explosibles” standard established by the European Union, which means they are usable under hazardous conditions.

York Fluid Controls supplies various ATEX-compliant pumps from different manufacturers, including Versa-Matic and Sandpiper.

Made of electrically conductive materials

These explosion proof pumps have been deemed suitable for use in potentially explosive work environments. ATEX-compliant pumps are recommended for applications like chemical transfer, mine dewatering, food processing, metal finishing, and ship cleaning. Another large market for ATEX-approved pumps is the manufacture of personal-care products, which sometimes include alcohols.

Pumps that meet the ATEX standard are necessary for some companies, because flammable gases, vapours, mist, and dust are potentially explosive when oxygen is present and ignited – even with particles as small as 0.3 millimetres. Explosion proof pumps are made of electrically conductive materials like aluminum, polypropylene, and stainless steel, with no isolated metallic hardware components. They work by dissipating electrostatic charges in continuous current paths through the pumps to natural ground, resulting in safe, spark-free operation.

Examples of ATEX-compliant pumps that York Fluid Controls offers include a selection by Versa-Matic, which makes them with a broad material range. Both metallic and non-metallic conductive materials are available, as are multiple pump configurations, including leak-free bolted and clamp designs. Sizes range from ¼ of an inch to three inches, and maximum flow ranges from 15 to 1,033 litres per minute.

In addition to these, Sandpiper manufactures an ATEX-compliant Liquid Level Control unit that automatically opens and closes air supply to pumps.

To denote ATEX compliance, these pumps include the “Ex” symbol, which marks official classification as a safe, explosion-free pump. Some of the requirements for meeting this standard include accompanying instructions and precise selection of conductive materials.

To learn more, contact York Fluid Controls.

• Tweet