Nortech Vacuum Products, a division of Guardair Corporation, has announced a new line of ATEX-Approved Pneumatic Vacuums for hazardous locations. The new vacuums eliminate the threat of static electricity by combining static conductive design with inherently safe pneumatic vacuum technology. They are approved for hazardous environments; meeting the requirements for use in Class I, Group A, B, C and D, and Class II, Groups E, F and G; and is ATEX-approved (EX) for zones 1, 2, 21 and 22. 

Regular vacuums can unintentionally create static electricity that can be dangerous in locations with perilous vapors or combustible dust. Currently there are no standards that exist to certify pneumatic vacuums for safe use in hazardous locations within the United States; however, Europe has developed standards known as ATEX Directives. That said, Nortech recently engaged a UK-based and nationally recognized testing laboratory to certify their ATEX-Approved Pneumatic Vacuums against the ATEX Directives. 

“The number of fires due to combustible dust within industrial plants has been increasing, prompting an immediate need to create a safer work environment throughout all factories, plants and work sites,” said Eric Mills, vice president of sales and marketing at Guardair Corporation, a manufacturer of pneumatic equipment used for industrial cleaning and maintenance. “We have always taken pride in our focus on worker safety and the ATEX-Approved Pneumatic Vacuums are no exception.” 

The ATEX-Approved Pneumatic Vacuums run entirely off compressed air and are available in 30- and 55-gallon drum units. They come complete with three grounding options, 1 1/2- or 2-inch vacuum hose, static conductive air supply hose and fittings, and all metal pickup tools. The static conductive attachments, electrically bonded internal components, and multiple grounded options eliminate static electricity at the source. Given their safety and power, the Nortech ATEX-Approved Pneumatic Vacuums are perfect for any wet or dry industrial cleaning applications where vacuum technology is used. 

They are certified to the ATEX Standards as follows: ATEX II2 GD c IIC T6, which is equivalent to National Fire Protection Association 70: NEC Rating:

• Class I Division 1** Groups A, B, C, D T6 (** Zone 1 only)
• Class II Division 1 Groups E, F, G T6
• Class III 

For more information, visit www.guardaircorp.com. 

About Nortech Vacuum Products
Nortech Vacuum Products, a division of Guardair Corporation, has been a leader in industrial cleaning since 1959, when the first vacuum generating head for 55-gallon drums was introduced. Today, more than 20 models are offered in a variety of sizes, with a variety of accessories and options, such as Hazardous Location Pneumatic Vacuums. Additional features and options include static-grounded hoses and absolute (HEPA and ULPA) filters.