ATEX risks
Definition of the risk of explosion in ATEX zone
The risk of explosion
In the chemical, oil and food industries, many dangerous substances in the form of gases, fumes, liquids, powders or dusts are used or released during the manufacture, processing or storage of common products such as: gases, hydrocarbons, plastics, varnishes, paints, medicines, powders, cereals, cosmetics, glues, etc.
Conditions for an explosion to occur
An explosion can occur when 3 elements come together:
Minimum Ignition Energy (MIE)
This is the lowest energy that is required to initiate ignition of the most readily flammable explosive atmosphere under specified test conditions.
Source of ignition
There are many sources of ignition that can cause an explosion:
- hot surfaces
- flames and hot gases
- mechanically generated sparks
- electrical installations
- of the compensation electric current
- static electricity
- electromagnetic waves (high frequency)
- cathodic protection against corrosion
- static electricity
- lightning
- optical radiations
- ultrasound
- shock waves
- exothermic reactions…
They are divided into two main categories: flammable gases, vapors and liquids on the one hand, and dust layers or particle clouds on the other.
The table below gives a non-exhaustive overview of the most common substances:
