ATEX Product Certification Questions

[BTG]

1. For a product meeting ATEX 3, what are the basic requirements and what standards (number) apply?
2. Does ATEX 3 only require manufacture's declaration of conformity and if so, what part does TUV, for example, play?
3. Is Type n the protection method that best applies?
4. What is the difference between non incendive components (code letter C), non sparking apparatus (code letter A) and energy limited apparatus for Type n protection?
5. I have a product that is designed using only IC's and direct drive LCD's with approximately 2.2uF capacitance, no inductance and has no relays or power supply. Unit power (Vcc and circuit common) and serial communication are supplied to the device thru 13V zener barriers. Given this data, what Type n protection best applies.
6. Where does the additional code letter (C, A or L, whichever applies) go in the ATEX Marking? ex: EEx n IIC T4
7. Must the product also meet CE requirements and if so, what standards apply to the product?

 

[rbalex]

Within the scope of the National Electrical Code (NEC) the ATEX directive has no meaning and is irrelevant within the US domestic market.

 

[hazloc2002]

ATEX Product Certification Questions

BTG,
1.ATEX category 3 is related to equipment that can be installed in zone 2. Note: zone 2 has the same definition of Div 2;
2. Yes, ATEX category 3 equipment don't require third party certification (as T?V). Self-declaration is accepted, but the "self-declaration" needs to be based on tests. Many European companies are in fact requiring third party certification, even for category 3 equipment;
3. Type n equipment can only be installed in zone 2;
4. Subtle differences. See IEC 60079-15;
5. Firstly, it is necessary to verify if this circuit complies with IEC 60079-15 requirements;
6. Following the "n" - nA, nC or nL;
7. To be sold in Europe, the product needs to follow the EC requirements. One of them is the CE mark, that is a self-declaration that the product follows all European requirements.