


Tiger-Vac EXP1-15 to 55 (TC) TE SERIES 2GD
Explosion proof fuel and solvent recovery vacuum for Zone 1/21 (2GD) – stainless steel, ESD safe and developed for aircraft defueling/depuddling
The Tiger-Vac EXP1-15 to 55 (TC) TE series are explosion proof industrial vacuum cleaners made of AISI 304 stainless steel for the safe recovery of flammable and non-flammable liquids, vapors and solids in ATEX Zone 1 (gas) and Zone 21 (dust). All components are electrically bonded and fully conductive (resistivity < 10 Ω).
These vacuum cleaners were developed and refined in close cooperation with the U.S. Air Force during practical evaluations at Eglin Air Force Base (MEEP Program) and were officially recommended for Air Force use. They are used for removing the last residues of fuel from tanks and wings of F-16, F-35 and other aircraft types – and can equally be used safely in civil aviation or industrial applications where jet fuel or solvents are present.
All models feature a tilting cart and stainless steel drain valve for controlled emptying. An activated carbon filter is available as an option for adsorption of vapors and solvents.
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Technical note
ATEX 2GD, third-party certified: II 2GD Ex d IIA T3 Gb / Ex t IIIC T200°C Db IP6X. Tested according to EN 17348 (LC – Liquids Collection) for the recovery of flammable and non-flammable liquids. Built from AISI 304 stainless steel, ESD safe (<10 Ω), with wet recovery as standard and optional activated carbon filtration. Designed for defueling, depuddling and safe draining operations.
FAQ
Were these vacuums developed with and approved by the U.S. Air Force?
Yes. The Tiger-Vac EXP series was tested under the U.S. Air Force MEEP Program (Eglin AFB) and later officially recommended for Air Force use. The design and accessories are based directly on these field evaluations.
Can they be used for both F-16/F-35 and civil aircraft?
Yes. Originally developed for military aircraft such as the F-16 and F-35, the units can also be safely used in civilian aviation and industrial environments handling jet fuel, gasoline, diesel or solvents.
Which standards apply?
Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX) with marking II 2GD Ex d IIA T3 Gb / Ex t IIIC T200°C Db IP6X and EN 17348 (LC – Liquids Collection). Third-party certification provided by LCIE (LCIE 03 ATEX 6297).
Is there a NATO Stock Number (NSN)?
Yes, for selected configurations. Available on request with documentation.
How long has the system been in service?
For over 25 years in military, aerospace and industrial environments involving flammable liquids.
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Technical specifications
| Specification | EXP1-15 (TC) TE | EXP1-25 (TC) TE | EXP1-55 (TC) TE |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATEX marking | II 2GD Ex d IIA T3 Gb / Ex t IIIC T200°C Db IP6X (–20 °C ≤ Ta ≤ +40 °C) | ||
| Zone classification (external) | ATEX Zone 1 (gas) and Zone 21 (dust) | ||
| EN standards | EN 60079-0/-1/-31, EN 17348 (LC – Liquids Collection) | ||
| Power supply | 230 V – 50 Hz (1~) | 230 V – 50 Hz (1~) | 230 V – 50 Hz (1~) |
| Power / Current | 1.0 kW / 4.5 A | 1.0 kW / 4.5 A | 1.0 kW / 4.5 A |
| Airflow | 224 m³/h | 224 m³/h | 224 m³/h |
| Vacuum pressure | 1,550 mm H₂O | 1,550 mm H₂O | 1,550 mm H₂O |
| Sound level | 78/85 dB(A) | 78/85 dB(A) | 78/85 dB(A) |
| Suction inlet / hose | Ø 38 mm (1.5" Camlock) | Ø 38 mm (1.5" Camlock) | Ø 50 mm (2" Camlock) |
| Collection tank | 38 L | 56.8 L | 151 L |
| Max liquid recovery | 47.3 L | 64.4 L | 170 L |
| Cord length | 15 m | 15 m | 15 m |
| Cart | Tilt cart (TC) with stainless steel drain valve | Tilt cart (TC) with stainless steel drain valve | Tilt cart (TC) with stainless steel drain valve |
| Material (body/tank) | AISI 304 stainless steel (except cart), fully ESD safe (resistivity < 10 Ω) | ||
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 76 × 69 × 99 cm | 76 × 69 × 109 cm | 102 × 76 × 127 cm |
| Weight (vacuum only) | 46.3 kg | 47 kg | 68 kg |
| Power outlet | Not included | Not included | Not included |
| Included filters | Stainless steel mesh strainer basket (model specific) | ||
| Included accessories | Nitrile suction hose 0.75" × 25' (7.5 m), multimeter | Nitrile suction hose 0.75" × 25' (7.5 m), multimeter | Nitrile suction hose 0.75" × 25' (7.5 m) for Ø 2" Camlock, multimeter |
| Optional accessories | Activated carbon cartridge/filter housing, grounding reel, manual or pneumatic pump kit, floor tool kit | ||




