Edwards is launching a new range of Atex-compliant rotary vane vacuum pumps for use in potentially explosive environments.

The reliable and compact EM range, which gives a high ultimate vacuum down to 10-3 mbar, has been developed in response to customer demand and enables 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 40-275m3/h, in two-stage designs. The smaller E2M40 and E2M80 pumps have an internal and external temperature classification of T4, so they can operate safely in environments where the gas has an auto-ignition temperature greater than 135 degrees C. The larger E2M175 and E2M275 are rated to T160 (160 degrees C) and an internal rating of T3 (200 degrees C).

There are many safety features on the pumps, including a surface temperature thermal snap switch that is fitted to the body of the larger E2M175 and E2M275 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 shuts down. Plugs have also been fitted to prevent flammable atmospheres accidentally entering the pump.

Nick Giles, product marketing manager at Edwards, comments: “As a leading vacuum equipment manufacturer it is our responsibility to make sure that we have a reliable, cost-effective solution for our customers for any application. The new Atex-compliant EM range has been specially designed for use in hazardous environments and is a simple, easy-to-fit pump.”

The pumps are compact with minimal vibration and low noise levels. They offer excellent operator protection, feature a finger-proof fan and coupling housings, and a totally enclosed fan-cooled motor. They also require minimal maintenance. The advanced lubrication system enables the EM pumps to work with wide oil level tolerances, which reduces the need to top-up the oil and ensures reliable operation even at high gas loads. Larger pumps are designed so that all key components are easily accessible - the exhaust valve seals and oil distributor seals are exposed after the top cover is removed, and the shaft seal can be replaced quickly without stripping down the pump.

EM vacuum pumps