ATEX elevator
The ATEX Elevator: For Explosion-Hazard Environments
An ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles) elevator is a lifting unit specially designed and certified for operation in areas where an explosive atmosphere may form due to the presence of flammable gases, vapors, mists, or dust. Such areas require specific electrical and mechanical equipment compliant with Directive 2014/34/EU to eliminate any risk of ignition.
SECA specializes in the design and manufacture of ATEX elevators and freight lifts for the most demanding industries: petrochemicals, fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, refineries, mining, and gas storage.
ATEX zones and classification
Gas and vapor zones
Explosion-hazardous areas are classified according to the frequency and duration of the presence of an explosive atmosphere: Zone 0 (permanent presence), Zone 1 (probable presence during normal operation), and Zone 2 (unlikely or brief presence). OCTÉ elevators are certified for Zones 1 and 2 (categories II 2G and II 3G).
Dust zones
For environments with combustible dust (food processing, pharmaceuticals, silos), Zones 20, 21, and 22 apply. SECA offers certified solutions for Zones 21 and 22 (categories II 2D and II 3D), featuring IP65 or IP66 sealing depending on requirements.
Technical specifications of SECA ATEX elevators
- Explosion-proof drive systems: motors certified Ex d or Ex e, depending on the zone
- ATEX-rated control panels and electrical cabinets with Ex certification
- Wiring and connections compliant with IEC/EN 60079 standards
- Optional integrated gas and explosive atmosphere detectors
- 316L stainless steel or non-sparking coatings for dusty areas
- Reinforced grounding of the entire structure
- IP65/IP66 ingress protection for wet areas or high-pressure cleaning environments
Sectors and applications
SECA ATEX elevators are deployed in sectors where the presence of explosive atmospheres is inherent to operations: refineries and oil platforms (gas zones), chemical and pharmaceutical plants, grain silos and malt houses (dust), distilleries and breweries, solvent warehouses, and gas distribution stations.
ATEX certification and compliance
Placing an ATEX elevator on the market requires a conformity assessment under Directive 2014/34/EU, conducted by an accredited notified body. SECA assists clients with compiling the technical file, assessing the Ex zone, selecting the protection category, and certifying the installation.
