ATEX Explosion Proof Pumps | Safe & Reliable Drum Pumps

Ex-approved barrel and IBC pumps

Flux ATEX barrel pumps comprise stainless steel 316 tubes with conductive bearings and impellers. All Flux ATEX pump tubes include zone separation safety features and have earth bonding points. For low viscosity applications, the following F 400 Ex pump models are available:

FP 424 Ex: This seal-less pump is ideal for transferring pure, flammable liquids such as fuels and solvents, that do not contain any solid or abrasive particles. Available with a choice of standard FKM, or optional FEP vapour seals. Select FEP for liquids such as Xylene, Toluene, or MEK, when improved chemical resistance is necessary. Additionally, the pump can tolerate dry running for limited periods.
F 425 Ex: This pump with hand operated back-flow valve is designed for use with high-value or particularly dangerous liquids, where spills and waste are undesirable. When using the back-flow valve, up to 99.9% of the container contents can be emptied. Therefore, this pump is ideal for use with perfumes and fragrances, as well as highly flammable or carcinogenic substances that pose a danger to operator safety.
F 426 Ex: The F 426 mixing pump is ideal for use with alcohols, solvents, paints and beverage products. Distilleries commonly use them for mixing ethanol and flavourings. The manually selectable mixing function allows the F 426 to mix, pump, or run both functions simultaneously.

F 430 Ex: The F 430 S with mechanical seal is ideal for transferring flammable liquids that contain solid or abrasive particles. Plus, it’s reduced wetted surface area (compared to FP 424) minimises cross-contamination when pumping different liquids. Available with standard FKM or optional FFKM o-rings, for improved chemical resistance.
F 430 Ex Miniflux: Miniflux is our compact, portable transfer pump that connects directly to an low-level IBC outlet valve. The Miniflux is essentially a shortened F 430 pump with a threaded S 60 x 6 female union nut on the inlet. However, performance is the same as the larger F 430 pump. With stainless steel 316 construction and standard ATEX certification, Miniflux is suitable for use in Zone 1 / 2 explosion hazard areas.
F 430 Ex TR IBC Pump: This pump is specifically designed for dry installation, either connected to an IBC outlet via flexible hose, directly mounted in a pipeline, or fitted under a tank. Furthermore, the F 430 Ex TR is available the same o-ring options as the standard F 430 model and uses the same F 400 series ATEX motors.
F 430 S FOOD: This model meets FDA and EC 1935 / 2004 standards, making it suitable for sanitary applications, including transferring fragrances, flavours, food products and also alcohols.

F 500 Viscopower Ex: For high-viscosity fluids up to 100,000 cP, Viscopower provides powerful and efficient pumping, with delivery pressure up to 15 Bar and flow rates up to 70 LPM.

Ex-approved barrel & IBC pump motors

All F 400 and F 500 Ex series barrel pumps use detachable Flux ATEX motors. Both compressed air and electric models are available. A brief overview of our range of ATEX explosion proof motors is outlined below:

Compressed air motors:

Compact, powerful 900 W rotary vane motor, available in three configurations and suitable for operation without lubricating oil. Lightweight and highly portable. Max air inlet pressure 6 Bar. Suitable for F 400 and F 570 series pumps and explosion-proof classified to II 2 G cp IIC T6. The motor body is cast aluminium with corrosion resistant paint. The housing is cast with a male thread, required to connect to the female union nut on the pump.

High power compressed air motors for use with Viscopower F 580 series high viscosity pumps. Three models available: 0.8, 1.2 or 1.8 kW output. Motor selection depends on viscosity and rheology of the pumped media. Max air inlet pressure 7 Bar, explosion-proof classified to II 2 G D c T4. Again, these motors are cast aluminium. Connection to the pump is via a bolted 160 mm flange.

Electric motors:

Double-walled, IP 55, 460 W electric commutator motors with optional variable speed control. Ex-approved to II 2 G Ex d e IIC T6 Gb. Aluminium housing with corrosion-resistant paint. Suitable for use in environments with corrosive fumes. 230 V, 110 V, 12 V DC and also 24 V DC models available. Supplied with 5 m power cable as standard.

High-power, 700 W version of model F 460 Ex.

600 W, double-walled, IP55 brushless electric motor for heavy-duty applications, including continuous running. Fitted with variable speed control as standard. Ex-approved to II 2 G Ex d e IIC T5 Gb.

Heavy-duty, three-phase electric induction motors with 90 frame, 160 mm flange connection. Suitable for continuous duty. For use with Viscopower F 580 Ex series models. Quiet running. 750 and 1000 RPM versions available, depending on media type.

Heavy-duty, quiet running three-phase electric induction motors, suitable for continuous duty. For use with Viscopower F 570 Ex series models with i7 low-ratio gearbox. 1450 RPM and 2850 RPM versions available, depending on media viscosity.

Please call us on 01202 823304 or email sales@flux-pumps.co.uk for assistance

ATEX explosion proof pumps: air-operated diaphragm pumps

Flux manufactures our RFML series diaphragm pumps in conductive PP and PTFE materials, for pumping flammable liquids in hazardous ATEX zoned areas. These extremely robust ATEX explosion proof pumps are available with a range of diaphragm, ball, and seat materials, for optimal chemical compatibility. In addition, we offer Ex-approved Ingersoll-Rand ARO and Flux FDM series air operated diaphragm pumps, in a range of sizes. Housing materials include stainless steel, aluminium and conductive acetal, for pumping a range of fuels, solvents and other flammable liquids.

Understanding the ATEX directive 2014/34/EU

The ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU establishes strict safety standards for equipment used in explosive atmospheres. An explosive atmosphere forms when a high concentration of flammable gas, vapour, mist, or dust mixes with air under normal atmospheric conditions. If ignited, these mixtures can cause dangerous explosions or fires. Therefore ATEX explosion proof pumps are rigorously tested by an independent organisation, before being approved and certified for use in potentially explosive environments.

The ATEX directive ensures that pumps, motors, rotating equipment and other machinery cannot themselves create an ignition source e.g. a spark, during normal operation, or if operated under a fault condition. Additionally, the equipment housings are designed to contain an explosion and any resulting fire, should accidental ignition occur, thereby eliminating risk of a fire spreading. This directive applies to both electrical components and mechanical devices used in hazardous environments.

The directive outlines specific technical measures for assessing and mitigating explosion risks. It also defines the design and certification process that manufacturers must follow. ATEX-compliant equipment bears the CE mark along with the red Ex symbol, ensuring suitability for use in hazardous areas. Additional classification codes indicate where, how and under what conditions eg. temperatures, the equipment can be safely used.

ATEX explosion proof pumps - FAQs

ATEX certified pumps meet the requirements set by the ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) directive for equipment used in explosive atmospheres. These ATEX explosion proof pumps are specifically designed and certified to safely operate in hazardous environments, where there is a risk of explosion due to flammable gases or vapours. The ATEX directive classifies equipment based on the level of risk and the type of hazardous environment in which they will be used. If you wish to pump flammable liquids, such as low flash-point solvents or fuels, you will need an ATEX-approved pump.

All Flux ATEX explosion proof pumps and motors feature Zone Separation features to contain a flash-fire or explosion, should an accident occur. In addition, Ex-approved pumps and motors use conductive materials and feature earth bonding points, to safely conduct static electrical charge away. Flux can also supply any accessories required, such as earth cables, conductive discharge hoses and swaged hose connections, to create a safe pumping system. Note that Flux pumps and motors are not certified for use in environments containing explosive dusts.

Yes, ATEX certification typically means that the equipment is explosion-proof. However, it’s important to understand the distinction between the two terms. ATEX refers to compliance with the ATEX directive, a set of safety standards that equipment designers follow to prevent ignition of flammable vapours. However, "explosion-proof" refers to the specific engineering of equipment that can withstand an internal explosion without igniting the surrounding atmosphere. ATEX pumps are not only explosion-proof but are also designed with protective features. For example, flame arresters, anti-static materials and explosion-containment barriers. Only ATEX certified equipment ensures safe operation in environments with potentially explosive gases, dust, or vapours.

An explosion-proof pump includes several key features to ensure safe use in hazardous areas. These features include:

Flameproof housing: Explosion-proof pumps have motor enclosures, gearboxes and other components designed to contain and redirect any internal explosion. Zone separation barriers prevent an explosion from spreading withing the equipment itself. This prevents further ignition of the surrounding atmosphere.
Sealed motors: To prevent sparks or heat from escaping, explosion-proof pumps are paired with sealed motors that can contain flames, or a localised explosion.
Anti-static, conductive components: Pumps used in explosive environments are constructed from conductive materials that prevent the accumulation of static electrical charge. This is to reduce the possibility of sudden static discharge causing a spark, which may in turn, ignite any flammable vapours.
Explosion-proof connections: Electrical connections and wiring are fully insulated and encased to prevent the risk of accidental sparks from igniting flammable gases or dust.
ATEX certification: All explosion-proof pumps are ATEX-certified to comply with the stringent safety standards required for use in explosive atmospheres. This ensures the pump is built and most importantly, extensively tested, to function safely in hazardous conditions.

ATEX certification label: Explosion-proof pumps should display the ATEX classification. This is the official rating for the environment and explosive atmosphere it is suitable for. This is shown a code, for example, II 2 G Ex d e IIC T5 Gb. Also look for the CE or UKCA mark, which indicates the equipment also complies with EU / UK electrical & mechanical standards.
Red Ex symbol: Explosion-proof equipment should also carry the red Ex symbol. This marking should be clearly visible and proves the equipment has been tested by an independent authority, not just the manufacturer.
Manufacturer specifications: Verify the pump’s technical datasheet or user manual, to ensure the pump is classified as explosion-proof and meets the relevant ATEX zone requirements. These specifications will detail the protection level, category and temperature class of the ATEX approval.
Pump design features: Explosion-proof pumps are designed with heavy-duty, sealed casings and special features, such as flameproof housings, anti-static materials and up-rated seals. This prevents the emission of sparks.
Model and serial number: If you are unsure whether your pump is explosion-proof, check the model number and serial number on the name plate with the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s website or customer service team can confirm whether the pump is ATEX-certified and more importantly, that is has the correct classification for the working environment.

DSEAR is the pseudonym for The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002. The regulations demand that employers assess and mitigate safety risks associated with fire, explosion and corrosive substances. Therefore, DSEAR risk assessments go hand in hand with Zoned Area Classification and ATEX equipment considerations.

Definition of Zoned Area Classification

Technical requirements for ATEX products partly depend on Zone Classification, which categorises areas near the hazard source according to the likelihood of (and duration of the presence of) an explosive atmosphere. The classifications are Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2 for gases and vapours, and Zone 20, Zone 21 and Zone 22 for dusts. The lower the Zone Classification, the higher the chance of an explosive atmosphere being present.

Contact Flux to discuss ATEX explosion-proof pumps

If you're looking for reliable, ATEX-certified explosion-proof pumps for hazardous environment applications, Flux Pumps UK has the solutions you need. Our expert team is ready to assist you in selecting the perfect pump for your specific requirements. Therefore, ensuring safety and compliance with the highest industry standards. Contact our sales team today to discuss your needs, request more information, or receive a customised quote. We’re here to help you find the ideal solution for your explosion-proof pump needs.

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