Liquid handling in chemical ATEX zones
Indhold
ATEX + Corrosive Liquids: When an ATEX Wet Vacuum Isn’t Enough
The problem
Many chemical manufacturing companies work daily with highly corrosive liquids – acids, bases, and organic solvents – as part of their processes. These substances are not only hazardous to health, but also emit flammable vapors that may form explosive atmospheres in the surrounding areas.
Most companies are aware that standard wet vacuums are not allowed in ATEX zones. Therefore, they often opt for an ATEX-certified vacuum for liquid collection – usually made of stainless steel and powered by compressed air.
But this only solves half the problem.
Stainless steel is not always resistant to strong acids and aggressive chemicals. Every use slowly breaks down internal components – and chemical vapors and aerosols can bypass seals, filters, and containers, as they lack proper vapor retention and chemical resistance.
Imagine a gasket being gradually degraded by acid. The machine becomes leaky – causing invisible and potentially dangerous emissions. This may violate your documentation obligations under EN 60335-2-69 Annex AA, ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, or EN 17348. And the compliance you thought was in place? Gone.
Even if the vacuum itself is ATEX-certified, all accessories (like hoses, pipes, wheels, and nozzles) must be equally resistant. A chemically degraded suction tube that crumbles during use is not just a nuisance – it’s a risk to both safety and productivity.
Consequences include: – Explosion hazard from flammable vapors (Zone 1/2, Gas group IIC) – Health risks from exposure to toxic fumes – Corrosion damage to production equipment – Contamination of sensitive products – Compliance failures during inspection and audits
This isn’t an either-or problem. It’s a both-and problem. And it requires a solution developed specifically for this challenge.
The solution
Option 1: Full vacuum unit – ARU-15 EX TC MRAC
For companies that haven’t yet invested in an ATEX vacuum system or are looking to replace their current setup, the complete solution is the Tiger-Vac ARU-15 EX TC MRAC.
This vacuum cleaner is: – Pneumatically operated – Fully ATEX certified by LCIE (Notified Body) – Designed in corrosion-resistant polyethylene with stainless steel motor top – Equipped with ULPA U15 filter and large activated carbon filter
It is the only known wet vacuum solution on the market that handles both explosive vapors and aggressive chemical environments. The design ensures vapor retention, chemical compatibility, and full documentation for audits.
We offer a range of activated carbon filters tailored to your application: – For acids – For solvents – For toxic or odorous vapors – For high-humidity environments
No product sheet is available – we recommend contacting us directly for technical details and use cases.
Option 2: Chemical-resistant separator
If you already own a certified ATEX vacuum cleaner, a standalone chemical separator may be sufficient.
Our Tiger-Vac Separator is: – Made from chemically resistant polyethylene – Compatible with pneumatic ATEX vacuums – Designed to isolate corrosive liquid collection before it reaches your vacuum unit – Fitted with safety valves and optional carbon filtration
A cost-efficient way to protect your current vacuum setup without compromising on safety or compliance.
External Links
Explains how carbon filters capture toxic, corrosive, and odorous vapors – even in humid or chemically aggressive settings.
Comparison of current ULPA and HEPA requirements for cleanroom filtration – including test methods and filter classifications.
Official guidelines on low-particle cleaning procedures in controlled environments – supporting proper handling.
Se our solutions
Option 1
Complete solution – SS-ARU-15 EX TC
The complete model SS-ARU-15 EX TC MRAC from Tiger-Vac is designed for Zone 1 environments and Zone 20 interiors. It is made of antistatic, acid-resistant plastic and features proven vapor retention. It comes with a dual filter combination:
ULPA U15 (standard)
Activated carbon filter for organic vapors (AC), and specialized carbon filters: acid vapors (ACID), ammonia (AMMO), formaldehyde (FORM), mercury vapors (MER), and broad-spectrum VOCs (UNI)
In addition, it has a large 37-liter container with a tipping trolley function and level control.
Option 2
Separator in front of your existing ATEX vacuum cleaner
If your company already has a suitable ATEX-approved vacuum cleaner, you can opt for a dedicated liquid separator from Tiger-Vac.
It connects directly in front of the vacuum cleaner and handles chemical liquids before they reach the motor.
The chemical-resistant separator is made from the same material as the main model and can be supplied with level control, drainage, and accessories tailored to the task.
This solution protects your existing vacuum cleaner and extends its lifespan – without compromising on safety.
Whether you already have an ATEX vacuum cleaner or are about to invest in a solution that covers both explosion hazards and aggressive liquids, Tiger-Vac is your specialist.
Not sure which solution fits your setup?
We help you assess the risk and choose the right level of protection – whether you need a complete vacuum system or a chemical separator.
Ready to solve the double challenge?
Call us for a professional assessment of your current solution
Or send us a brief description of your process – and we’ll find the equipment that solves the problem
We help you avoid half-measures
Because in a chemical ATEX zone, it’s not enough for the equipment to just look robust
It also needs to be documented – and built to last
