Buyers Guide 2021

O perating equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres comes with a certain amount of responsibility, not least to use correctly designed components that have the features necessary for the environment. When maintenance and repairs are required, it is important that operators understand what is expected of them to ensure continued safety and reliability. Potentially explosive atmospheres are commonly encountered in many industrial sectors including oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, water treatment, mining as well as the food and beverage industry. Specific areas that may be affected are zoned according to the potential risks and any electrical equipment in these areas must be designed and manufactured to specific standards. International standards Any business that has identified zoned areas within its processes is expected to adhere to a number of international and regional standards including BS EN IEC 60079-19:2019. This states the responsibilities of operators, managers and repairers to ensure that all equipment is properly maintained and fit for continued service. Equipment that is designed for Ex zoned areas uses a variety of protection concepts to ensure safe operation. Different concepts can be used in similarly zoned areas, and it is important that site maintenance engineers understand these concepts so that they do not compromise the equipment. For example, periodic inspections and maintenance checks that involve the removal of a terminal box lid from an Ex d machine may discover corrosion has occurred. At this point, it may be necessary to check the flamepath gaps and establish if they are still sufficient for the zoned area in which the equipment is operating. Repair essentials When the time comes for a repair or overhaul, Ex equipment needs to be sent to a repairer that is qualified to complete the work. The international standard emphasises that it is the responsibility of the operator to ensure Process, Controls & Plant Focus on: Drives, Motors & Controls 28 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk Annual Buyers’ Guide 2021 Taking responsibility for repairs to Ex-rated motors Karl Metcalfe, technical support for the AEMT, looks at the knowledge and responsibilities that are expected when it comes to managing electric motors in zoned areas. AEMT looks at the knowledge and responsibilities that are expected when it comes to managing electric motors in zoned areas.