ATEX and Piston Motor Assemblies
ATEX, an essential certification for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres, requires that the brake of a piston motor does not drag while the motor is in operation to prevent friction and heat build-up. The piston motor brakes are released with air pressure and have an adjustable holding torque. The release pressure of the brake is directly related to the holding torque. Normally, the brake is released with the same pressure as the motor is running on.
ATEX Compliance and Brake Control
To ensure compliance with ATEX regulations, GLOBE have redesigned the controls to release the brake, offering two options:
1. Brake Released with Motor Air Line Pressure:
- The brake is released with the same air line pressure as the motor.
- The motor must operate at the pre-set pressure or higher.
- This option restricts the regulation of the motor's output torque by changing air pressure.
2. Brake Released by an External Pressure Source:
- The brake is released by an external pressure source separate from the motor air line.
- The brake will be pre-set to the desired operation pressure.
- This allows independent regulation of the motor's output torque by varying the air line pressure.
To ensure ATEX compliance for your GLOBE Piston Motor with brake we need to know whether the brake will be released with the operating pressure of the motor or a separate control line, and the desired holding torque/opening pressure of the brake before delivery.
GLOBE will then set the brake to its maximum holding torque corresponding to the operating pressure provided and add the appropriate pneumatic circuit. The unit will include a label indicating the required operating pressure.
Note: It will not be possible to release the brake at a lower pressure after delivery than the customer-specified pressure. Any unauthorised alterations to the brake or the pneumatic circuit will invalidate the ATEX certification.
For more details and schematics, refer to our GLOBE Piston Motor manuals. If you have further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us, and we will provide all the support you need.
Conclusion
These changes have been implemented to ensure ATEX compliance for GLOBE Piston Motor assemblies with brakes. Understanding the options and knowing what circuit you are installing your motor into will help you navigate the changes seamlessly, ensuring the safety and reliability of your equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. Should you have any questions or need additional information, MacScott Bond is ready to assist you.
