C-10 EX (IT-40L) CFE HEPA

The marking II 1/3D specifies two separate zone ratings: category 1D internally (Zone 20 — explosive dust atmosphere present continuously) and category 3D externally (Zone 22 — explosive atmosphere present only rarely and briefly). This split reflects the design of wet mix inerting: the inside of the collection container is always in contact with reactive metal powder and must meet the most stringent dust protection level, while the surrounding workspace typically presents a lower risk. This is the correct classification for a wet mix immersion separator where the tank interior itself is the primary hazardous zone.

IECEx is relevant when equipment is used at production facilities outside the EU, when products manufactured on the equipment are exported to markets that require IECEx documentation, or when parent companies or quality systems require internationally recognised certification alongside the ATEX mark. For purely domestic Nordic operations, ATEX is sufficient. The C-10 EX is the only model in this range that carries IECEx as standard — making it the natural choice for pharmaceutical and advanced manufacturing companies with international compliance requirements.

The standard bypass motor (1.2 kW) is suited to regular cleaning cycles with rest periods. The brushless motor option extends operational life significantly by eliminating the carbon brushes that wear in standard motors; it also runs quieter and with less heat generation. The brushless version always ships with four HEPA H14 filters instead of two, as the additional motor cooling path requires extra filtration coverage. For high-frequency or shift-based production, the brushless option is the better long-term investment.

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 immersion must not be used for the most pyrophoric metals that react with water — typically sodium, potassium and certain lithium alloys. 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, switch off the machine and allow it 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 C-10 EX filters three independent air streams. The coalescing HEPA filter (CFE) cleans working air upstream of the motor and removes moisture droplets and particles from the immersion bath. One HEPA H14 filter cleans the motor cooling air intake, and a further H14 filter cleans the cooling air exhaust. The result is that no air stream — whether working air or motor ventilation — leaves the machine unfiltered. With the brushless motor, four H14 filters are fitted as the motor design has an additional ventilation path.

Choose the C-10 EX when: (1) the customer or authorities require Zone 20 protection inside the collection container, (2) there are international supply relationships that make IECEx certification necessary, or (3) production exports to markets that do not accept ATEX alone. The EXP1-10 is ATEX II 2GD certified, covers Zone 21 externally and is sufficient for most Nordic 3D printing environments — but does not carry IECEx and does not provide Zone 20 internal protection.

The C-10 EX is designed for metal powder from additive manufacturing and is not classified as medical equipment or GMP-certified. It is relevant in pharmaceutical production environments where metal implants or medical titanium are produced via 3D printing in locations that are ATEX-classified and require Zone 20 protection inside the collection equipment. For pharmaceutical cleanrooms with GMP requirements, our cleanroom and white line models are more appropriate.