ATEX-compliant rotary vane pump

Edwards' EM range of ATEX-compliant rotary vane pumps for potentially explosive environments is compact and gives vacuum down to 10-4 mbar. It allows operators in the chemical industry to comply with the European ATEX directive.

Suitable for pumping gases in the gas group IIB, the pumps are available in four sizes with pumping speeds from 40 to 275 m3h-1, in both one- and two-stage designs. The smaller EM40 and EM80 pumps have an internal and external classification to T4. This means the pumps can operate safely in environments where the gas has an auto-ignition temperature greater than 135°C. The larger EM175 and EM275 pumps have an external rating to T160 (160°C) and an internal rating to T3 (200°C). Safety features include a surface temperature thermal snap switch, which is fitted to the body of the large EM175 and EM275 pumps. When this is connected to an intrinsically safe circuit suitable for the hazardous zone, if the temperature should rise, the snap switch activates and the pump will shut down. Plugs have also been fitted to prevent flammable atmospheres accidentally entering the pump.

The pumps are low maintenance, compact and operate with minimal vibration and low noise levels.