ATEX certification by Wavecom #normalisation #product

In 2008, Wavecom added ATEX certification to both its product portfolio and its company quality processes for the benefit of customer who operate their products in potentially explosive atmospheres.

This Q&A is provided to explain ATEX and its application within Wavecom.

ATEX refers to a European directive that standardizes the certification of equipment that is intended to be used in potentially explosive atmospheres. Equipment covered: All electrical, electro-mechanical and /or mechanical equipment designed to be used in potentially explosive atmospheres.

However, ATEX doesn’t just cover the products but extends to encompass the quality systems of the company delivering ATEX certified products to the market. Several standards are applied to the ATEX directive; EN60079-0 (2004), EN60079-11 (2007), EN13980 (2002).

How can I be sure that I am purchasing an ATEX certified product?

There are three simple declarations of compliance that can be checked as follows:

1. The physical device shall carry the ATEX logo (shown here) and a substantial amount of supplementary information in relation to ATEX (refer to visual identification below).
2. The device is available with ATEX certificates.
3. The company providing ATEX certified products will be able to supply you with their company process audit certificate.

These documents can be found for each certified product in the Wavecom portfolio by visiting the product page, clicking on the download tab and opening the certification folder.

What are Zones in the context of ATEX?

The ATEX directives specify several Zones which are defined by the scale of risk of an explosion occurring due to the size of the area, temperature and the substances located within the area. For specific details of which zones are covered by Wavecom products, refer to the individual product page although Wavecom will normally apply for approvals in Zone 0 and Zone 2.

Which Wavecom products are ATEX certified?

As of July 2008, the WMP120 Wireless Microprocessor® has been ATEX certified. Visit the respective product page for more details of the product of interest:

WMP120 product page

How can I visually identify ATEX certified product?

The physical device has to be identified with a number of data relating to electrical component structure, temperature range, approval body, equipment categories and other information as shown below:



















Where can I find more information on ATEX?

The European directives ATEX95 and ATEX137 can be found on external web sites. Wavecom does not guarantee the continuous availability of such documents.

Directive 94/9/EC
Directive 1999/92/EC

Source: http://www.wavecom.com/