ATEX Pneumatic Motors: A Safe Solution for Explosive Atmospheres

Challenge : 

Vent valves are used in the gas or petrol production industry when the pipe needs to be emptied. 

In this particular application, the stopcocks on the gas pipelines have to be opened and closed from a safe distance because it is a quite noisy operation and potentially an explosive atmosphere.

To cope with these constraints, we used a solution with 3 main components:

1. ATEX air motor

2. Remote control (SAT Box)

3. Torque retention system

In environments where the presence of explosive gases, vapors, or dust is unavoidable, ATEX-certified pneumatic motors provide a high level of safety.

These motors operate without electrical components, which eliminates the risk of sparks that could lead to explosions in air filled with flammable gases.

Reversible Air Motor

Our solution uses a reversible pneumatic motor MTZ08RV

with 600W of power, carefully selected to limit air consumption while still delivering enough torque to open and close the vent valves efficiently. 

This motor is equipped with a heavy-duty gearbox from our MT30 range, ensuring smooth open and close operation even in harsh conditions.

Remote control SAT Box

For safer operations, the pneumatic motor is controlled remotely using the ATEX SATbox. This Safety Air Treatment Box control device is crucial for allowing operators to manage the vent valves from a distance, away from the dangerous noise generated during the process.

The SATbox is equipped with a 4-way valve that controls the rotation of the motor, enabling precise adjustment of the valve’s position. It also incorporates critical safety features, such as:

➡️Emergency stop button for immediate shutdown.

➡️Automatic downstream air bleed for pressure drop.

➡️Automatic switch off when air pressure drop detected

➡️Key safety lock

Connected to the motor with 20-meter flexible pipes, the ATEX SATbox ensures that operators can work safely from a distance while maintaining complete control over the vent valve.

Key Features of the Torque Retention System

To fix and remove the motor easily, we used one of our PVA torque reaction system BP002, which ensures safe operation of the system. This system is part of our portable valve actuator range, designed for quick setup and maximum stability.

The telescopic bipod redirects torque reaction to the ground or nearby structures. With this setup, the torque reaction is managed efficiently, ensuring continuous operation even with high torque.

Custom Solutions to Meet Client Needs

Based on client feedback, we made several customizations to our pneumatic motor / actuator system to improve functionality:

Exhaust outflow limiter:

This feature allows operators to control the motor’s rotation speed, providing better regulation over the valve’s opening and closing processes.

Angle-position indicator:

Attached to the motor, this device enables operators to see the exact position of the stopcock (open or closed) from a distance.

Waterproof transport and storage suitcase:

For easy transportation and storage of the unit, ensuring that it remains protected and ready for use.

Our ATEX-certified pneumatic motor system, combined with the torque retention system, ATEX SATbox, has proven to be an essential solution for safe and efficient vent valve management in hazardous gas environments.

This solution ensures that operators can work safely and effectively, maintaining control over vent valves even under extreme conditions.

We’ve recently delivered the first set of this customized equipment, and after training the client’s team, we received positive feedback. The operators can now perform their tasks with confidence, knowing they have a safe, multi-functional solution that fits their unique operational needs.

Since then, other clients have requested the same system.