ATEX-10A (IT-40L) CFE HEPA

A venturi-driven machine has no electric motor, no brushes and no bearings that generate heat under load. It can therefore run continuously without cooling breaks or risk of overheating. In addition, a pneumatic machine eliminates all electrical ignition sources entirely, which simplifies compliance documentation in environments where gas and dust zones overlap. The trade-off is the requirement for a reliable compressed air supply of at least 15 HP compressor capacity at 5.5 bar.

The marking II 2GD reads as follows: Group II (surface industry, not mining), category 2 (suitable for Zone 1 gas and Zone 21 dust externally), G (gas) and D (dust). This dual certification covers both gas and dust hazards simultaneously. A machine rated only for dust zones (D) cannot legally be used in an environment also classified as a gas zone, even if the gas risk is considered secondary.

The ATEX-10A is the right choice when: (1) production runs continuously and requires a machine that never needs to stop, (2) the environment is classified as both a gas zone and a dust zone simultaneously, or (3) the objective is to eliminate all electrical ignition sources entirely. The EXP1-10 and C-10 EX are electric models covering higher dust zone categories but not gas zones, and are intermittent-duty. Where a reliable compressed air supply of sufficient capacity is available, the ATEX-10A is technically the most robust solution for intensive continuous use.

The ATEX-10A requires a compressor of at least 15 HP. The air line must be 1/2″ (12.7 mm) internal diameter, and the working pressure must be 5.5 bar — the factory setting on the included pressure regulator. The included air supply hose is 7.5 m with quick disconnect fittings at both ends. Note that actual performance — air flow and vacuum pressure — depends on the compressor's real capacity under load. An undersized compressor will noticeably reduce suction performance.

The ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU) defines several conformity assessment procedures. Annex VIII is the internal production control procedure, where the manufacturer takes responsibility for conformity — but with technical documentation submitted to and acknowledged by a notified body. For the ATEX-10A this is LCIE (Laboratoire Central des Industries Électriques, NB 0081), which acknowledged receipt of the documentation under reference LCIE 16 AR 077, valid until 2026. This differs from third-party type examination (Annex III/IV), where the notified body actively tests and approves the product. Annex VIII is the correct procedure for non-electrical ATEX equipment of this type.

Water immersion is suitable for the metals used in standard SLM, DMLS and MBJ processes, including aluminium, titanium, stainless steel, cobalt-chrome and magnesium. Water is an effective inerting medium for these materials, cutting off oxygen access without chemical reaction with the powder. Water immersion must not be used for the most pyrophoric metals that react with water — typically sodium, potassium and certain lithium alloys — as contact can release hydrogen gas and in the worst case amplify the fire risk. Always consult the supplier's safety data sheet (SDS) for the specific powder before use.

When the recovery bag is full or after completing a work session, shut off the compressed air supply and allow the machine to stand for a short period so any residual gases can escape through the degassing vent, which must remain open. Then open the container, seal the conductive recovery bag before removing it — this prevents dispersal of wet powder slurry. The bag contents — a wet metal slurry — must be disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with applicable waste regulations. Refill the container with clean water (12.3 L) and install a new conductive recovery bag before the next use.

The ATEX-10A is designed specifically for metal powder from additive manufacturing and is not classified as medical equipment or GMP-certified. It would not be the right choice for cleanrooms or production areas under pharmaceutical GMP regulation, unless ATEX explosion protection is the primary requirement — for example in the production of metal implants or medical titanium via 3D printing in ATEX-classified locations. For pharmaceutical cleanrooms without ATEX classification, our cleanroom and white line models are more relevant.