ATEX approval

Atmosphère explosible

The designation ATEX stands for the French abbreviation „Atmosphère explosible“.

Hydraulic cylinders are particularly well-suited for use in hazardous explosive atmospheres. Hydraulics can perform movements with great sensitivity, easy control, and great reliability because they use a fluid for pressure transmission. AHP Merkle's fixed linear damping plays an important role in the reliable prevention of sparking during deceleration of movements and masses. In addition, hydraulics are safer to use and more reliable than pneumatic drives due to the incompressible pressure carrier. Just imagine an explosive dust atmosphere in combination with a burst compressed air line - an incalculable risk.

According to the European directive 2014/34/EU, also referred to as the ATEX Directive, a risk assessment in line with this directive must be performed for all devices used in hazardous explosive atmospheres to ensure their safe operation in such environments. Hydraulic cylinders are considered 'non-electrical equipment' in this context. 

AHP Merkle plans, designs and supplies cylinders for all Ex zones. Equipment group II, explosive atmosphere caused by gas/air or dust/air mixtures, mists, or vapors. Equipment group II (above-ground applications) comprises the following equipment categories:

  • Equipment category 1 (zone 0 and zone 20)
  • Equipment category 2 (zone 1 and zone 21)
  • Equipment category 3 (zone 2 and zone 22)

Classification requires the relevant data on:

  • the combustible materials
  • the temperature class
  • the environmental conditions
  • the Ex zone
  • the hydraulic medium (consider that there are non-combustible hydraulic liquids that you could use in your installation's design)
  • other data relevant to your use case

We are happy to assist you

We would be pleased to provide you with a drive concept and an offer. AHP Merkle cylinders can also be deployed in explosion-protected areas and in explosives processing and production.

Sales Team