DONALDSON MEMBRANES FILTER MEDIA - FIRST CHOICE FOR ATEX STANDARD EQUIPMENT 1

The introduction of new ATEX Directives for electrical and mechanical equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres has forced suppliers and material handlers to give careful consideration to the properties of the goods they purchase.

The ATEX 137 Workplace Directive 1999/92/EC, implemented by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), and known as the ‘Use’ directive, came into force in July 2003, and became European Law, along with ATEX ‘Equipment’ Directive, 94/9/EC.

The Use directive enforces end users to assess their premises for the risk of explosions caused by dust or gas. They can then source and specify appropriate equipment according to directive 94/9/EC – which also provides manufacturers with guidance on supplying the right category of equipment to be used in specified zones.

As a manufacturer of Tetratex^® expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane these directives do not directly affect Donaldson Membranes since filter media is not classed as equipment.

However, in order to produce safe to use in potentially explosive atmospheres, filter manufacturers must ensure that filter media integrated into their products complies with terms of the directive.

With this in mind Donaldson Membranes has developed Tetratex^® anti-static filter media conforming to DIN 54345, which relates to the Testing of Textiles, Electrostatic Reaction, in order to determine electrostatic chargeability. This means that certain Tetratex^® anti-static filter materials that are certified to meet the requirements of electrostatic chargeability can be consulted in risk assessments for equipment that is subject to directive 94/9/EC.

Tetratex^® anti-static filter media is manufactured from a variety of substrates and is bonded with Tetratex^® membrane. The latter acts as a primary dustcake, requiring no pre-coat before or during operation. By limiting fine particle penetration Tetratex helps to preserve the filter substrate’s integrity whilst maintaining optimum airflow at a reduced pressure drop.

Donaldson Membranes products which confirm to DIN standards include: 8040 Tetratex Polyester/Stainless Steel Felt; 8041 Tetratex Polypropylene Stainless steel Felt; 8042 Tetratex Aramid/Stainless Steel Felt; 8043 Tetratex PPS/Stainless Steel Felt; and for Cartridge Media: 9011 Tetratex High Efficiency Anti Static Polyester Pleatable Media and 9010 Tetratex Anti Static Polyester Pleatable Media.

As a worldwide expert in the manufacture of expanded mircoporous PTFE membranes, films and laminates, Donaldson Membranes invests heavily in research to create products for a wide cross-section of markets.