STAHL, the leading manufacturer of ATEX zone hoists

ATEX zone

An ATEX zone is a space with an atmosphere at high risk of explosion. These areas were defined by a ministerial decree in 2003 and the regulation comes from two European directives (94/9/EC or ATEX 137 for equipment that is intended for use in hazardous areas, and 1999/92/EC or ATEX 100A for the safety of personnel working in hazardous areas).

All business heads must manage explosion risks in these atmospheres. This is imposed by the ATEX regulations and the French employment code. The same goes for professional risks.

You can visit the INRS (The French national research and safety institute for the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases) site for the definition of ATEX zones and the classification of explosive risks. ATEX standards are compulsory throughout Europe. All products must meet these standards in addition to the CE mark on the unit nameplate:

• : The No. of the organisation notified
  
  
• The specific label showing protection against explosions (ATEX Directive)
  
  
• : The equipment group => I: Mines II:  Other areas
  
  
• Equipment Category:

• Type of explosive atmosphere => G: Gas, mist, steam            D: Dust

The electric hoist, as with every piece of lifting equipment, must meet ATEX regulations and IECEx references when installed in explosion-risk zones. IECEx is the system assessing conformity of products in explosion-risk zones in accordance with IEC standards (Commonwealth of Independent States). It enables direct access, without local certification, to the following markets: Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. It facilitates the procurement of local and national certification in IECEx member countries: Russia, China, USA, Canada, Korea, Brazil...and also the European ATEX certification.

Two families of STAHL CraneSystem explosion-proof electric hoists

As specialist in areas of explosion-risk due to gas or dust, STAHL has become the world market leader for hoists working in this type of area.

STAHL CraneSystems ST ex explosion-proof chain hoists

These respond to the EC Directive on product compliance 94/9/EC (ATEX 95) as well as international IECEx regulations. Given their specific construction, they can be used in zone 1 or zone 21, but can also be used in area 2 or area 22.

This range of chain hoists, used for decades, is one of the most comprehensive and most remarkable in the world. Modernised and continuously optimised, they are powerful, reliable and simple in terms of maintenance and energy consumption.

The ST ex series covers load capacities ranging from 125 kg to 6300 kg. The ST anti-explosion chain hoist can be used as for the standard ST series, fixed with a hook or eyebolt, rigid fixation and an electric or manually pushed trolley. It is particularly suited for use in heavy industry.

Its innovative and avant-garde design provides significant economic benefits. Its super low height optimises the usable height of the hook while minimising wear on the chain. The ST anti-explosion electric chain hoist can be specially designed to meet the specific needs of each client, as a complement to the standard model range.

STAHL CraneSystems SH ex and AS7 ex anti-explosion wire rope hoists

These respond to the EC Directive on product compliance 94/9/EC (ATEX 95) as well as international IECEx regulations. They are built specifically for use in zone 1 and zone 2 as well as Zone 21 and Zone 22.

Modular construction wire rope hoists have been designed and sized to fit the majority of client needs and load capacities ranging from 1,000 kg to 160,000 kg. The SH series ex offers a range of 1,000 kg to 25,000 kg. It is available in five models with 15 load capacities. The AS7 ex and AS7 ex ZW series cover a range of up to 100,000 kg and the SHW ex and SW range of winches expands the area of application for heavy loads up to 160,000 kg.

In addition to its sleek design, the STAHL CraneSystems anti-explosion wire rope hoist boasts a compact and robust design, requiring little maintenance. High reliability, its top performance, its above-average lifespan as well as its soft starting and braking, make it a must-have lifting device.