In high-risk industrial environments such as refineries, mines, and chemical plants, worker safety is paramount. Radio communications play a crucial role in these situations, enabling timely and precise coordination that can mean the difference between life and death. However, to operate safely in potentially explosive atmospheres, radios and their accessories must also be designed to rigorous standards, known as ATEX.
What does ATEX mean?
ATEX, an acronym for ATmosphères EXplosibles (Explosive Atmospheres), identifies products designed and certified for operation in environments with a risk of explosion. Regulated by European Directives 2014/34/EU and 99/92/EC, this standard imposes stringent controls and certifications to ensure the safety of equipment used in industrial settings.
These directives define the methods for evaluating and certifying equipment, taking into account various critical factors such as flammability limits, ignition temperature, ignition energy, and autoignition temperature. Based on these parameters, equipment is classified into groups (for the atmosphere) and classes (for the ignition temperature). Correct identification of hazardous areas and selection of suitable equipment require specific on-site analyses.
Classification of Hazardous Zones
Hazardous zones are classified as follows:
- Zone 0: An area where an explosive atmosphere is continuously present for more than 1000 hours per year, consisting of a flammable mixture of air and gas, vapor, or mist.
- Zone 1: An area where an explosive atmosphere is likely to form during normal operations, with a flammable mixture of air and gas, vapor, or mist for an interval between 10 and 1000 hours per year.
- Zone 2: An area where an explosive atmosphere is unlikely to form during normal activities, with a flammable mixture of air and gas, vapor, or mist of short duration and less than 10 hours per year.
How ATEX Radios Work
ATEX radios are designed to ensure safe and reliable communications in potentially explosive environments. Key features of ATEX radios include:
- Intrinsically Safe: Designed to prevent sparks or overheating that could cause an explosion.
- Environmental Resistance: ATEX radios are often certified with an IP68 rating, making them waterproof and dust-protected.
- Battery Life: Lithium-ion batteries, as in the case of Entel radios, provide up to 18 hours of battery life, offering reliable performance for the entire workday.
- Communication Options: Models like the Entel DT952EX and DT953EX have both digital and analog channels, with DMR options and MIL-STD-810 military certifications for robustness.
The Best-Selling Atex Radios: Entel DT952EX and DT953EX
When it comes to ATEX radios, the Entel brand is one of the most renowned worldwide. For over 30 years, Entel has produced professional two-way radios, with models like the DT952EX and DT953EX representing excellence in the industry.
The major advantage of these radios, which makes them particularly sought after, is that they are the only professional ATEX PMR446 two-way radios. These radios operate in the license-free UHF 446 MHz frequency band, meaning they are license-free radios. Consequently, they do not require any annual fees or the submission of a project to the Ministry, thus offering a practical and economical solution for companies operating in hazardous environments.
These models offer:
- ATEX Certification: Guarantee of safety and compliance with European regulations.
- Lithium Battery with 18-Hour Life: Reliable performance for the entire workday.
- IP68 Protection Rating: Dustproof and submersible.
- 16 Digital and 8 Analog Channels: Versatility in communications.
- DMR Radio: High-quality digital communications.
- MIL-STD-810 Military Certification: Robustness and shock resistance.
- Large Push-to-Talk Button: Easy to use even with gloves.
- Voice Channel Readout: Increased convenience.
- License-Free Radio: Use of PMR446 frequencies without the need for specific permits.
Which ATEX Radios to Buy
When choosing an ATEX radio in 2024, it is essential to consider not only compliance with ATEX regulations but also practicality and features that enhance safety and efficiency in the workplace. The Entel DT952EX and DT953EX models represent the top of the range for those seeking reliability, durability, and ease of use in critical environments. Furthermore, a fundamental aspect of these radios is that they are license-free radios, operating in the license-free UHF 446 MHz frequency band. This means that they do not require any annual fees or the submission of a project to the Ministry, thus offering a practical and economical solution.
You can purchase these two Entel radio models on shop.bpg.it, with shipping in 48 hours.
Entel DT953EX
Entel DT952EX
Which Atex Accessories to Choose
An extremely durable and robust submersible lapel speaker microphone for DTEx 800 and 900 series portable radios.
The CMP/DT9 features a swivel clip allowing the radio user to wear the radio on their belt and make and receive calls without having to remove it. This keeps the radio secure and ensures calls are not missed, especially in noisy environments.
DT953 and DT952 ATEX are certified for use with the COM CONTROL C-C550/DT Savox. Through this special microphone with a large PTT, it is possible to interface with a complete range of professional cranial audio accessories, throat microphones, and microphone headsets to operate in any condition.
COM CONTROL C-C550/DT Savox is a remote microphone with an in-body stainless PTT. It is robust and has been tested (MIL-STD-810G) to ensure robust and reliable communications for professionals working in harsh conditions. The C-C550 is submersible in water up to one meter (IP67) and dust resistant.
3. HELMET- COM Cranial Savox HC1 KIT + C-C550/DT Speaker Microphone
COM CONTROL C-C550/DT Savox is a remote microphone with an in-body stainless PTT. It is robust and has been tested (MIL-STD-810G) to ensure robust and reliable communications for professionals working in harsh conditions. The C-C550 is submersible in water up to one meter (IP67) and dust resistant.
HELMET COM HC-1 ATEX is a cranial microphone with a compact speaker for professionals working in dangerous conditions in ATEX environments. It easily mounts in most helmets and provides clear, hands-free communication.
HC-1 ATEX is a compact helmet communication system designed for professionals working in dangerous conditions. It easily mounts on almost all types of helmets and offers clear, hands-free communication. The SAVOX HC-1 has been field-tested for over 20 years by firefighters and emergency services personnel.
Rely on BPG Radiocomunicazioni for your professional two-way radio purchases
With over 40 years of experience in the professional radio communication sector, BPG Radiocomunicazioni Srl is a leader in the Italian professional radio market. Our extensive experience and expertise allow us to offer tailor-made solutions for every type of need, always guaranteeing maximum quality and reliability.
At BPG Radiocomunicazioni Srl, you will find a complete range of professional radios, from traditional analog radios to modern digital radios compliant with DMR and dPMR standards. We collaborate with the best brands in the industry, including Hytera, Entel, and Icom, to offer our customers only the highest quality and performance products.
In addition to sales, we offer a complete technical consulting service thanks to our specialized team. We are committed to providing high-quality technical assistance both before and after purchase, ensuring maximum customer satisfaction. Contact us now at the email address shop@bpg.it to find out how we can meet your professional radio communication needs.
