ATEX check valves are safety devices used in industry to prevent gases and liquids from flowing back into pipes and ducts. They are designed for use in potentially explosive environments where the presence of flammable gases or dusts can cause explosions and endanger the safety of workers. The term ATEX refers to European Directive 2014/34/EU, which establishes requirements for equipment used in explosive environments.
ATEX check valves comply with this directive and are designed to meet the highest safety standards for explosion protection.
ATEX check valve operation
The operation of ATEX check valves is fairly straightforward. They are installed in pipes and channels to prevent fluids from flowing back in the opposite direction.
The operation of ATEX check valves is fairly straightforward. They consist of a housing, a disc and a spring. The housing is installed in the conduit or conveying pipe, and the disc is placed inside the housing. The spring is located on the disc and serves to maintain constant pressure on the valve. When the fluid flows in the right direction, the disc lifts, allowing the fluid to pass through the valve. When the fluid tries to flow back, the disc automatically closes, preventing the fluid from flowing back.
Why ATEX check valves?
ATEX check valves are used in a wide variety of industrial applications, including oil & gas, chemical, pharmaceutical, food & beverage and power generation. They are often used in piping systems to prevent explosions and fires, but can also be used in individual equipment, such as valves or pumps.
ATEX check valves are particularly important in industries where there is a risk of explosion or fire. If a non-return valve fails or malfunctions, flammable gases or liquids can flow back into the system, leading to pressure build-up and a possible explosion or fire. ATEX check valves are therefore essential to ensure the safety of workers, equipment and the environment in these industries.
In addition to their usefulness in preventing explosions and fires, ATEX non-return valves have other advantages for companies. For example, they can reduce maintenance costs by extending equipment life, reducing downtime and avoiding costly repairs. They can also help improve energy efficiency by reducing pressure losses and minimizing leakage of hazardous products.
Due to the potentially hazardous environment in which they are used, ATEX check valves are subject to strict regulations to guarantee their reliability and safety. Design and performance standards are set by bodies such as the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA).
Technical data
| Check valve | Characteristics |
| Operating temperature range | -20°C Max +40°C |
| Kst max | 200 bar m/s |
| Maximum air speed | 30 m/s |
| Pred max | 0.5 bar |
| Working pressure | 50,000 Pa |
| Protection level | St1 (organic and non-metallic) |
| Application area | 20 – 21 – 22 (inside) 21 – 22 (outside) |
The benefits
Advantages
- Eliminates the risk of an explosion spreading.
- Prevents dust backflow when the system is shut down.
- High pressure resistance
- No energy consumption
- Fully mechanical, maintenance-free.
Special features
- Certified protection system
- ATEX standards
Characteristics
- Equipment manufactured under production quality assurance
- Available in clamp or flange versions.
- Suitable for transporting class St1 explosive dusts.
Applications
Industries
