Safety Equipment: Nortech ATEX Vacuums

Nortech Vacuum Products, a division of Guardair Corporation, announces a new line of ATEX Approved Pneumatic Vacuums for hazardous locations. The new vacuums eliminate the threat of static electricity by combining static conductive design with inherently safe pneumatic vacuum technology.

They are approved for hazardous environments; meeting the requirements for use in Class I, Group A, B, C & D, and Class II, Groups E, F, and G; and is ATEX-approved (EX) for zones 1, 2, 21, and 22.

Regular vacuums can unintentionally create static electricity that can be dangerous in locations with perilous vapors or combustible dust. Currently there are no standards that exist to certify pneumatic vacuums for safe use in hazardous locations within the United States; however Europe has developed standards known as ATEX Directives.

That said, Nortech recently engaged a UK-based and nationally recognized testing laboratory to certify their ATEX Approved Pneumatic Vacuums against the ATEX Directives.

The pneumatic vacuums run entirely off compressed air and are available in 30 and 55 gallon drum units. They come complete with three grounding options, 1 ½” or 2” vac hose, static conductive air supply hose and fittings, and all metal pick-up tools. The static conductive attachments, electrically bonded internal components, and multiple grounded options eliminate static electricity at the source. Given their safety and power, the Nortech ATEX Approved Pneumatic Vacuums are perfect for any wet or dry industrial cleaning applications where vacuum technology is used.

They are certified to the ATEX Standards as follows: ATEX II2 GD c IIC T6, which is equivalent to National Fire Protection Association 70: NEC Rating:

• Class I Division 1** Groups A, B, C, D T6 (** Zone 1 only)
• Class II Division 1 Groups E, F, G T6
• Class III

For more information call (800) 482-7324 or visit www.guardaircorp.com.