RLT-Guideline 02

Explosion protection requirements

for Air Handling Units

Issue August 2019

Including
ATEX- Directive 2014/34/EU
and DIN EN ISO 80079

Herstellerverband Raumlufttechnische Geräte e. V.

AHU Manufacturers Association
RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

Preface

This Guideline should provide a basis for the application of the Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX Directive) for central air handling units (AHUs).
In principle, it should be noted that the ATEX Directive is applicable only for devices that promote a potentially explosive atmosphere or
are installed in an explosive atmosphere.
The following statements are based on the text of the ATEX Directive and on the standards mentioned. Conclusions and product-
specific interpretations are the result of a discussion in the technical committee of the Manufacturers Association.
This Guideline reflects the accepted rules of technology at the time of creation.

Bietigheim-Bissingen, in August 2019

Herstellerverband Raumlufttechnische Geräte e. V.

This RLT-Guideline can be downloaded free of charge from the homepage of the Herstellerverband Raumlufttechnische Geräte e. V.
(www.rlt-geraete.de)

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 RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

Contents:

1. Introduction to the danger of explosion .................................................. 3

2. Application of Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX Directive) ............................. 3
3. Standards and Guidelines ........................................................................ 3
4. Specific requirements for AHUs ............................................................... 4
4.1. Unit housing ................................................................................... 4
4.2. Coatings ......................................................................................... 5
4.3. Air connections or air openings ..................................................... 5
4.4. Covers ............................................................................................ 5
4.5. Filter unit ....................................................................................... 5
4.6. Heat recovery unit ......................................................................... 5
4.7. Air heater and air cooler unit ........................................................ 5
4.8. Sound attenuators ......................................................................... 5
4.9. Humidifier unit ............................................................................... 5
4.10. Fan unit .......................................................................................... 5
4.11. Electrical components.................................................................... 6
4.12. Lightning protection....................................................................... 7
4.13. Rating plate and data sheets ......................................................... 7
4.14. Operating and maintenance instructions ...................................... 7
4.15. Servicing and repair ....................................................................... 7
4.16. Zone reduction............................................................................... 7
4.17. AHU equipment for the gas group IIC ............................................ 7
5. Evaluation of ignition sources .................................................................. 8
6. Marking ................................................................................................... 9
6.1. Temperature classes and explosion groups for gases .................... 9
6.2. Example of a device identification ............................................... 10
6.3. Variants of the device identification ............................................ 10
7. Conformity declaration...........................................................................11
8. Summary ................................................................................................12

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RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

3. Standards and Guidelines

1. Introduction to the danger of explosion
The following guidelines and standards shall be complied with:
AHU equipment must be designed and constructed that any risk of
explosion posed by the unit group itself or by gases, liquids, dust,
vapours or other substances produced or used, is avoided. For that Directives:
the manufacturer must take steps to: • EU Directive for equipment and protective systems
- avoid a dangerous concentration of the substances intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres
concerned, (2014/34/EU)
- avoid an ignition of explosive atmospheres, • EU Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC)
- if it should come to an explosion, to reduce its impact on the • Any other applicable Directives, e.g. EMC Directive
environment to a harmless level. (2014/30/EU)
The same precautions must be taken if the manufacturer proposes
to use a machine in hazardous atmospheres. The electrical Harmonized European standards:
operating equipment installed in the AHUs must comply with the • ISO 80079-36:2016 "Non-electrical equipment for use in
specific guidelines in force with regard to the risk of explosion potentially explosive atmospheres
(quote from the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC). -Basis and requirements”
• ISO 80079-37:2016 "Non-electrical equipment for use in
explosive areas - Protection by constructional safety "c",
control of ignition sources "b", liquid immersion "k"
2. Application of Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX Directive) • EN 1127-1:2011 "Potentially explosive atmospheres -
Explosion protection - Basic concepts and methodology - Part
In general AHU equipment is not subject to the ATEX Directive. 1"
• EN 60079-0:2011+ A11:2013 "Electrical equipment for
Only, AHUs which are placed in a potentially explosive atmosphere
hazardous areas, general requirements"
or promote a potentially explosive atmosphere, fall within the
• EN 14986:2017 - Design of fans working in potentially
scope of ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU. The customer who orders the explosive atmospheres
AHUs must provide the details of the presence of an explosive
atmosphere and consequently the necessity of using the ATEX
European standards:
Directive. The manufacturer of the AHUs must construct them in
accordance with the specifications of the system installer or • EN 1886:2009 "Ventilation for buildings - Central air-
planner and mark them according to their conformity assessment. conditioning and ventilation equipment - Mechanical
properties and methods of measurement"
The definition of the category(ies), gas group and temperature • EN 1751:2014 "Ventilation for buildings - Air terminal devices
class are done based on the requirements by the above-mentioned -Aerodynamic testing of dampers and valves"
criteria. The manufacturer of the AHU cannot afford a zone • EN 60079-14:2014 "Explosive atmospheres - Part 14:
definition in the context of an overall concept. Electrical installations design, selection and erection"
AHUs marked in accordance with the EU Directive 2014/34/EU
may only be used within the designated use limits (ambient National standards:
conditions, EX-zone, gas group and temperature class). The • VDE 0185-305-1 2011-10 Lightning protection - Part 1:
requirements of the respective device category shall be observed. “General principles”

National rules:

• TRBS 2152: "Technical rules for operation safety, Part

1 - 4"
• TRGS 727: "Prevention of ignition hazards as a result of
electro-static charge"

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 RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

The installer and/or planner of the plant must specify the

4. Specific requirements for AHUs
specifications of the required EX-zone, the gas group and the
AHUs with explosion protection requirements are generally required temperature class (max. surface temperature in the
arranged in accordance with the provisions of Directive AHU).
2014/34/EU (European Explosion Protection Directive) in the The AHU equipment manufacturer confirms the compliance with
corresponding category (EX-zone), which distinguishes between the the requirements of the basic unit category.
atmosphere in the inner area and the outer area. In principle, the In practice, the AHU manufacturer cannot achieve category 1, since
two categories (EX-zones) inside and outside may differ by a at least two independent protective units must be fitted. For
maximum of one level. It is necessary to look at both sides, as an example, this is ensured if the entire AHU in EX-protection version
AHU always has an unavoidable leak. This is why both zones are of category 2 is, in addition, designed pressure tight and an
defined, especially as an AHU also can be opened and then a zone explosion spread is prevented across the ventilation ducts by flame
entrainment may occur. arrestors and pressure relief valves or explosion vents. Since the
If no EX-zone has been defined for the outside area, the operator AHU manufacturer cannot afford this very high level of safety, in
must ensure that the installation area is adequately ventilated, so practice, generally AHUs of category 2 or 3 are used.
that when used as intended, no potentially explosive atmosphere To specify the explosion protection target, the gas groups IIA, IIB or
can occur due to leakage from the inside to the outside. In the case IIC must also be determined. All explosion protected units and
of an AHU set up outside a zone-freedom can be assumed if in at components used must be suitable for the requested media. A
least two directions along an axis an unobstructed free air flow is distinction in the declaration must be made between G (gas) and D
guaranteed, i.e. there are no walls or buildings nearby. (dust).
Experience shows that this value results in the case of a space The temperature class of each unit must also be taken into account.
installation with an air change rate in the room of 6 changes per The worst-case temperature class of all the devices used
hour or higher to a zone reduction of one level in an area of 0.5 determines the temperature class of the entire air conditioning
metres from the AHU on all sides. Any zone further from the unit. Usually, the temperature classes T1 to T3 are used, but the
device does not need to be considered. At a lower rate than 6 air temperature class T4 with a maximum surface temperature of
changes per hour, the complete installation area is assigned to the 135°C can be manufactured with the corresponding components.
corresponding zone. Higher temperature classes are hardly ever used in practice and
Normal AHUs on the market (EX-protection devices) correspond to economically difficult to achieve. For category 2 AHUs the surface
group II (above ground use). Units of Group I (underground temperature of all parts of the installed equipment in normal
operation), need to be considered separately. These are not operation, and in the event of foreseeable faults, must not exceed
mentioned in this Directive. the specified temperature limits of the temperature class as
specified in EN 80079-36 or EN 60079-0. For category 3 AHUs, the
limit temperature of the respective temperature class cannot be
There are the following 3 categories in group II:
exceeded during normal operation.
• Category 1/EPL Ga (corresponds to Zone 0 - Gas):
The requirements of this category can only be fulfilled with
4.1. Unit housing
great difficulty, since in the AHU there may be a continuous or
long lasting potentially explosive atmosphere. Safety must be ▪ Metallic components of AHUs which are to be operated in
ensured even in the event of rare incidents relating to hazardous areas must be included in the local equipotential
equipment (very high degree of safety). The necessary bonding arrangement (e.g. connection to foundation earth), in
completely pressure-tight version of the AHU with appropriate order to avoid an electrostatic charge. Exposed plastic parts in
safety devices to prevent the explosion propagation serves as an EX-zone must comply with the area restrictions as specified
an example. in EN 80079-36, Table 8, with a surface resistance < 109 Ω
• Category 2/EPL Gb (corresponds to Zone 1 - Gas): electrostatic discharge or a charge test as specified in EN
Temporarily or potentially explosive atmospheres may occur. 80079-36, Annex D should be conducted.
The necessary safety must be ensured during foreseeable ▪ In decoupled frameworks and parts of the construction, special
faults or defect conditions (high degree of safety). attention must be paid to the discharge capacity. Doors and
• Category 3/EPL Gc (corresponds to Zone 2 - Gas): Potentially covers should also be checked for electrical contact. It may be
explosive atmospheres can occur only rarely and briefly. Safety possible to use equipotential bonding conductors here.
must be ensured during normal operation (when used for the ▪ The fire load of an AHU shall be kept as low as possible to
purpose intended) (normal degree of safety). minimize fire hazards and their consequences in the event of
an explosion. For this purpose, EN 1886 Chapter 10 must be
observed.

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RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

▪ Electrical components, such as drives must have a suitable

4.2. Coatings
proof of conformity for the corresponding EX-zone.
▪ Coatings of metallic surfaces must be conductive with a surface ▪ Drive belts, such as for thermal wheels, shall be made so that
resistance < 109 Ω. Alternatively, with gas group IIC, the paint they are conductive.
layer thickness should be limited to a maximum of 0.2 mm and
▪ For more information, see Chapter 4.7.
with gas group IIB to a maximum of 2 mm.

4.7. Air heater and air cooler unit

4.3. Air connections or air openings
▪ Metallic parts of air heaters are included in the potential
▪ Canvas supports can be electro-statically charged. The surface
compensatory measure.
restrictions for non-conductive parts specified in EN 80079-36
must be observed. In an explosive gas-air atmosphere, within ▪ Non-conductive parts are subject to the surface restrictions
gas groups IIA and IIB, the maximum non-conductive total specified in EN 80079-36 or must be designed so they are not
surface area may not exceed 100 cm² and for IIC 20 cm2 or chargeable or conductive. In droplet separators plastic slats are
alternatively, a width of the nozzle of 3 cm for IIA and IIB, and 2 therefore to be avoided or the slats must comply with the
cm for IIC. In practice, these areas are often larger. In this case, requirements for non-metallic parts. It is recommended that
the nozzle must be made of conductive material with a surface the coil should be so designed, that the droplet separator
resistance < 109 Ω. The nozzle must be included in the should be completely avoided or metal slats should be used.
equipotential bonding. ▪ The maximum temperature (e.g. in a system that is at a
standstill) is to be taken into account in the selection of the
4.4. Covers temperature class.
▪ Electric air heaters without proof of conformity should be
▪ In order to avoid a static charge of the cover door of air control
avoided due to the increased surface temperature and the
or butterfly valves, the door leaves to the door frame must
possibility of formation of electrical sparks.
have a metallic contact with conductive connection elements,
such as, for example, by means of metal bushing, metal gears
or external linkage. 4.8. Sound attenuators

▪ For installation of actuators in potentially explosive ▪ Metallic parts of attenuators shall be included in the potential
atmospheres (inside or outside), the actuator must be suitable compensatory measure.
for the corresponding zone, comply with the requirement of ▪ Non-conductive surface parts are subject to the surface
the corresponding category and have a corresponding proof of restrictions specified in EN 80079-36 or must be designed so
conformity. they are not chargeable or conductive.
▪ For potentially explosive atmosphere zone 2 on the inside of
the AHU and mounted on the outside of the AHU standard 4.9. Humidifier unit
actuators may be used, if it is guaranteed that the enclosure
leakage under normal conditions of use does not allow a ▪ Metallic parts of air heaters shall be included in the
potentially explosive atmosphere to be carried over to the potential compensatory measure.
outside. ▪ Non-conductive parts such as droplet separators, rectifiers,
▪ When the outside is a potentially explosive atmosphere zone 2 evaporation bodies, etc. are subject to the surface restrictions
and installation is internally, standard actuators may also be specified in EN 80079-36, or must be designed so they are not
used. chargeable or conductive.
▪ Electrical components, such as pumps, valves, etc. must have
4.5. Filter unit a suitable proof of conformity for the corresponding zone.
▪ Steam humidifiers and steam generators without adequate
▪ Filters may not be dangerously electrostatically charged by the
proof of conformity are to be avoided due to the increased
required air flow. In one zone only filters may be used for which
temperatures and the possibility of electrical sparks.
a test report or a component certification is available as
specified in Directive 2014/34/EU and use is permitted in the
corresponding zone and gas group. The filter is properly 4.10. Fan unit
installed and electrostatically earthed. ▪ The fan must be fitted with appropriate identification. A
▪ In the documentation / operating instructions for the unit, the corresponding proof of conformity for use / the conveyance of
manufacturer must indicate that only filter media approved for hazardous atmospheres of zone 1 thus EX II 2G or zone 2 with
the respective application may be used. EX II 3G. To do this, the temperature class must be specified,
e.g. T3 = maximum 200°C surface temperature.
▪ Usually, the fan in EX-version is designed to run at only 80%
4.6. Heat recovery unit
of its maximum speed in order to reduce the vibration
▪ With heat recovery units it is important to ensure that all problems and the mechanical load on the wheel.
conductive metal parts are included in the equipotential
bonding measure.

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 RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

▪ To avoid the risk of ignition, fans are usually supplied with an ▪ Inverters are direct control and regulating units. If the Inverter
inlet nozzle, which offers an optimized material combination, is mounted outside a zone and controls a motor within a zone,
in order to minimize the risk of a sliding contact being a the manufacturer must confirm that the Inverter is fail-safe and
source of ignition. in case of incidents does not exceed the planned speed. Too
high frequency (= speed) can result in damage to the fan /
▪ EX-protected fans shall be protected against objects falling or
motor and thus to the formation of an active ignition source.
being sucked into them as specified in EN 14986. If the
function is required, upstream components, such as heat ▪ Non-metallic pipes up to 3 cm diameter can be processed in
exchangers, can be considered as intake protection. the EX zones 1 and 2, gas group IIB. For gas group IIC the
diameter is 2 cm. Larger pipes for cable routing shall be made
▪ In general, directly driven fans have advantages with EX-
of metal, that is conductive and grounded. The length of the
protection, because there is no need for belts which may be a
cable routing plays no role at all.
source of ignition. In the case of belt-driven fans there are
higher risks from the belt itself, because slipping can produce ▪ Cables and wires must comply with the requirements of
raised ignition temperatures, and thus, is a potential ignition Section 9 of EN 60079-14. They must be suitable for the
source in itself. If, nevertheless a belt-driven fan is used, the specified temperature and the intended purpose. In the event
fan belt must be electrically conductive, in order to avoid a of an aggressive atmosphere, special wires and cables shall be
static charge. used, for example, oil or fuel-resistant cables.

▪ The European standard EN 14986 specifies the structural ▪ In the case of electrical components within a zone, cable glands
requirements for fans of group II G (the explosion groups IIA, and plugs shall be used with the appropriate proof of
IIB and hydrogen) categories 1, 2 and 3 and Group II D conformity.
categories 2 and 3 for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. ▪ If no intrinsically safe circuit exists, all cables of an AHU should
be taken together to the control panel. A separation from
4.11. Electrical components other cables and systems is not necessary either in the supply
or in the control panel.
▪ All electrical components should be chosen in accordance with
▪ During the installation of intrinsically safe circuits, special
the target zone, the temperature class and the medium used
requirements need to be complied with (see, for example, EN
(gas group). Only equipment with the appropriate marking
60079-14). The principle of intrinsic safety is based on the fact
must be used. Here attention must be paid to the
that a hazardous environment cannot be ignited if the safe
documentation (CE manufacturer's declaration, etc.). Electrical
limiting energy values in the power circuit are not exceeded,
equipment without effective protection measures are a
even if there is an open circuit, short circuit or earth of the
possible ignition source, due to electrically generated sparks
electric circuit. Intrinsically safe circuits must be marked by blue
and potentially hot surfaces. This applies, for example, for
lines or equivalent and can be combined in the control panel. In
motors, switches, screwed joints, lamps, etc.
systems with intrinsically safe circuits for the Ex zones 1 or 2,
▪ Motors that cannot be controlled must be designed with the intrinsically safe equipment and parts of associated
"increased safety (EX e)” as specified in EN 60079-14. electrical equipment must at least comply with category "ib"
▪ Controllable motors must be designed with a suitable type of specified in EN 60079-11.
protection (e.g. EX d pressure tight encapsulation, EX e - ▪ Cables and wires, which contain intrinsically safe circuits, must
increased security or EX nA - Non-sparking [Cat 3]). The direct be marked to show they are part of an intrinsically safe circuit.
temperature monitoring must be done by an external motor If coatings or wrappings are marked by a colour, the colour
protection (e.g. PTC resistor) with the appropriate proof of light blue must be used. Where intrinsically safe circuits were
conformity or motor, inverter and protective equipment all marked by the use of light blue jacketed cables and wires, light
tested together. blue jacketed cables and wires must not be used for other
The appropriate protection of motors in EX areas must be purposes or used in a manner or at a point, which could lead
observed. For this purpose, appropriate overload relays or to confusion or have a negative effect on the marking of
sufficiently reliable temperature sensors must be installed. In intrinsically safe circuits. If all intrinsically safe or non-
the case of variable-speed motors, the monitoring devices must intrinsically safe cables and wires are reinforced, metal coated
be adjusted to the significantly extended work area. In the EX or screened, then the marking of intrinsically safe cables and
area certified Ex-d-motors are selected for the operation of the wires, as well as a separate laying, is not required.
motor on the Inverter allowing the motor to be combined with
any Inverter. The necessary monitoring is carried out with PTC
thermistors in the winding and a certified tripping device. The
certification of motors in other types of ignition protection is
narrower and more complicated; since it must be ensured that
the peculiarities of different inverters have no effect on the
temperature behaviour of the motors. In general, the motors
for the ignition protection types EX e and EX nA motor and
inverter are certified only as a unit, which makes a change
more difficult or ruled it out completely.

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RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

▪ When the system is shut down, the concentration of the

4.12. Lightning protection
atmosphere can change and thus increase the risk of
▪ EX-protected AHUs for outdoor installation must be equipped explosion. Therefore, during servicing all kinds of ignition
with a suitable lightning protection system, in which all the sources need to be avoided. It may be necessary prior to the
metal parts of the construction (ladders, platforms, etc.) are start of the work, and possibly also during the work, to make
connected with the earth conductors. AHUs can, however, be measurements with a gas measuring device.
considered as continuous metal constructions and should
therefore be treated as their own lightning protection system. 4.16. Zone reduction
▪ It is necessary to verify in each individual case which standards
Zone reduction between fresh air and room to be ventilated:
should be applied and what aspects must be observed for
lightning protection of AHUs. ▪ A reduction of the zones of the room to be ventilated with
▪ Since the use of metallic components with internal components fresh air of around one zone is possible if a current free closing
(ducts, pipes, etc.) are not allowed for the dissipation of airtight damper as specified in EN 1751 class C (3) is fitted at
lightning currents, the metal fixtures must be located in the the fresh air outlet. This must be closed when the fresh air fan
roof area to avoid direct strikes in the protection area of is switched off to prevent backflow. In order to avoid a carry-
arresting devices (lightening conductors, air terminal rods). To over from the exhaust air to the fresh air, the minimum
prevent flash-overs and proximetry between the metal fixtures distance between the fresh air intake and outlet from edge to
and the arresting devices of the lightning protection system, edge at all points must be at least 2 metres.
the installations should be bonded as specified in VDE 0185305
Part 1 in the lightning protection equipotential. Zone reduction by plates and rotary heat exchangers:
▪ If the fresh air fan is pressurising, the exhaust fan sucking and
4.13. Rating plate and data sheets the plate heat exchanger is in the direction of air flow behind
the fresh air fan and in front of the exhaust fan, then it is
▪ The project limits and specific limits of use (see also Chapter
possible to reduce the zone by one by complying with 5.6. In
7) shall be given on the data sheet and rating plate.
order to avoid a carry-over from the exhaust air to the fresh
air, the minimum distance between the fresh air intake and
4.14. Operating and servicing manual outlet of the unit from edge to edge at all points must be at
▪ The operating and servicing manual of the manufacturer must least 2 metres.
include suitable instructions and consider the necessary work ▪ For all other arrangements in conjunction with plate heat
required to set up and fit the AHUs. In particular, the expert exchangers, as well as generally for rotary heat exchangers, a
integration of the AHU into the protective conductor system, zone reduction is not possible.
the equipotential bonding, grounding and lightning protection
must be taken into account. The manual must describe the Zone reduction in recirculation mode:
servicing and operation from the explosion protection point of
▪ A zone reduction with recirculation operation is generally not
view.
possible.
▪ In addition, the general use limits (temperatures, differential
pressures, speeds, currents, voltages, etc.) must be given in ▪ The zone can be reduced by one, if the recirculation damper
the operating and servicing manual or referred to on product specified in EN 1751 is at least class C or 3 when EX-operation
rating plates and data sheets. function monitor is closed and remains closed as well as
current free. Recirculation mode is only permitted, if there is
▪ The operating and service manual must contain all the no danger of the occurrence of a potentially explosive
danger and safety information for servicing and for the atmosphere, i.e. in the case of zone freedom.
intended operation.
4.17. AHUs for the gas group IIC
4.15. Servicing and repair
▪ On AHUs for the gas group IIC special attention must be given
▪ Servicing and repair work may only be carried out by to ensure, that the requirements for plastic surfaces and paint
appropriately trained staff. thicknesses, as well as filters for gas group IIC as specified in
▪ Work may only be carried out in zone freedom or by avoidance EN 80079-36 are fulfilled and all electrical devices have an
of ignition sources. It is particularly important to make sure authorisation for gas group IIC. Since there are no fans
that all work equipment is approved for the corresponding available for the complete gas group IIC, in addition to the
zone (see EN 1127-1 Appendix A and TRBS 2152). exhaust and, if necessary, in the fresh air a BGRCI listed
explosion-proof gas warning device must be installed. At 20%
▪ Before opening the AHU, the plant must be put out of order
of the lower explosion limit or less an alarm must be triggered.
mechanically and electrically, secured against being switched Upon reaching 40% of the lower explosion limit or less the air
on again and marked. conditioning unit must be completely turned off automatically
▪ In addition, it may be necessary to flush the system with fresh and may not be turned on.
air in order to remove or dilute a potentially explosive
atmosphere.

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 RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

5. Evaluation of ignition sources

The individual ignition sources for AHUs must be evaluated. The following Table 1 gives an example of the assessment in a highly
condensed tabular evaluation.

Table 1: Example of a simplified analysis of ignition sources

The danger of ignition Applied protection measure to prevent the entry into force
No. Potential Cause, description, Description of the protective measure Verification
(Manufacturer-
ignition source occurrence specific)
1 Enclosure leakage Zone carry over Through the not preventable leakage differentiates, the inner and
(inside/outside) outer zones may differ by a maximum of one.
common
2 Recirculation Zone spread (intake Recirculation can only be used if the zoning of fresh air and exhaust
and exhaust) rare air is identical. Also applies to the assessment of leakage between the
fresh and exhaust air (e.g. heat recovery device).
3 Electrical Electrical spark ignition Use of the corresponding components for the zone.
components common
4 Drive motor Electrical spark ignition Use of the corresponding equipment and components for the zone.
common When operating with a frequency converter, the motor must be
enclosed in a pressure tight casing.
5 Fan Grinding of the nozzle, Use of the corresponding equipment and components of the zone:
foreign items drawn in - nozzle with slip ring
rare - intake protection to prevent foreign material being drawn in
- reduction of the maximum speed
- setting nozzle gap with note in the instructions
6 Inverter No explosion protection Will only be supplied loose and not used in a hazardous zone.
possible
common
7 Unit housing Electrostatic charge All metal parts of the construction will be included in the local
common potential equalisation measure. Use of electrically conducting
coatings. Adoption of the specification in the manual that the entire
device must be earthed, bonded into the protective conductor
system and connected to the equipotential bonding system.
8 All components Elevated temperature The use of the appropriate temperature classes and limiting the
rare maximum operating temperatures.
9 Air control and Electrostatic charge All metal parts of the construction are connected with the
locking dampers common protective conductor system (e.g. the use of a conductive rod).

10 Sound attenuator Electrostatic charge Cover the absorption surface with perforated sheet metal or a
common knitted metal (integration into the protective conductor system).
11 Lightning strike Ignition spark / charge If there is a roof central intake the default is to install a suitable
rare lightning protection system (particularly in the case of an
outdoor installation).
12 Electric air heater Resistance heating Electric air heaters can only be used if you have an appropriate
(increased temp., etc.) ATEX approval and all the prescribed monitoring functions are
Very rare present.
13 Droplet separator Static charge Using plastic plates is forbidden or using conductive plastic plates
rare and integration into device potential;
Use of metal plates; pay attention to speed limit.
14 Canvas support Static charge Use forbidden or appropriate STS conductive with proof / certificate
common Use of MPS nozzles.
15 Plastics in the zone Static charge Minimize use, for example, no empty plastic pipes or conductive
common plastics and inclusion in device bonding.
16 Belt-driven fans Static charge; electrical Minimize use, e.g. directly-driven fans.
isolation between motor
and fan
rare
17 Dusts Explosion hazard, degree of Use of filters in accordance with quality class (min. fine dust filter) in
dispersion the presence of explosive dusts.
common
18 Steam humidifier High temperature Avoid use or permitted only if manufacturers can present a marking
rare of the corresponding class.
19 Filter Static charge Use of EX protection filters with a surface resistivity of < 109 Ω and
common metallic frame, which is connected with the protective conductor
system.

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RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

6. Marking

AHUs with a special explosion protection may only be used in the declared category. The marking is located on the fan chamber of the AHU.
This distinguishes the marking required between the inside (conveyed atmosphere) and outside (installation area).

6.1. Temperature classes and explosion groups for gases

The hazard (ignition sensitivity) of gases and vapours increases from group IIA to IIC.

Table 2: Temperature classes for gases Table 3: Gas groups for gases
Temperature Maximum surface Notes Gas group Notes
class temperature
T (x) II(y)
T1 450°C IIA Commonly the case
T2 300°C IIB Rare
T3 200°C The common class IIC With gas measuring
T4 135°C High effort equipment
T5 100°C Practically insignificant
T6 85°C Practically insignificant

Table 4: Temperature classes and explosion groups (EN 60079-0) for gases

Temperature class T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
1)
Max. surface 450 300 200 135 100 85
temperature [°C] 2)
Group IIA Acetone ammonia cyclohexanon Gasoline acetaldehyde
benzene acetic-acid- diesel fuels
acetic acid anhydride aviation fuels
ethane n-butane heating fuels
ethyl acetate n-butyl alcohol n-hexane
carbon monoxide
methane
methanol
methyl chloride
naphthalene
phenol
propane
toluene

Group IIB town gas ethyl hydrogen ethyl ether

alcohol sulphide
ethylene ethylene glycol
Group IIC hydrogen acetylene carbon
disulphide

1) Air inlet temperature fan / motor max 60°C; ambient temperature up to 40°C
2) Values already contain a safety distance to the lowest ignition temperature of the explosive atmosphere

Use of AHUs is only possible in conjunction with other measures, e.g. special explosion-protected equipment, as well as gas
measuring equipment.
Use of AHUs of appropriate design possible.

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 RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

6.2. Example of an equipment identification

An AHU for use in an EX zone must be identified.
The temperature class and gas group assignment inside and outside are always the same.

Hereinafter following two examples:

II 2G IIB T4 Gb (inside) is:

= Ex mark to avoid explosions

II = device group (above ground use)
2 = protection category 2
G = gas / D = dust
IIB = explosion group II B of the substances transported (gas group IIB, see Table 3)
T 4 = temperature class = 135°C maximum surface temperature of all components
Gb = Equipment protection level Gb, control of potential ignition sources in normal
operation and in case of failure of the device

II 3G IIA T4 Gc (outside) is:

= Ex mark to avoid explosions

II = device group (above ground use)
3 = protection category 3
G = gas / D = dust
IIA = explosion group II A of the substances transported (gas group IIA, see Table 3)
T 4 = temperature class = 135°C maximum surface temperature of all components
Gc = equipment protection level Gc, control of potential ignition sources in normal
operation of the device

A warning message should be placed on the device, for example, this might read:
"The device can promote a potentially explosive atmosphere. Must only be opened by qualified staff with appropriate work equipment!”.

6.3. Versions of the equipment identification

The marking corresponds to the table below. A higher number increases the level of security. Version 1 offers the lowest EX protection
while version 6 offers the highest protection. It may be necessary to mark supply and exhaust air separately.

Table 5: Possible versions of the explosion protection equipment marking

Variant Interior External Notes
Variant 1 Ex II 3 G II(y) T (x) Gc ./. Internal EX-protected (normal degree of safety)
Variant 2 ./. Ex II 3 G II(y) T (x) Gc External EX-protected (normal degree of safety)
Variant 3 Ex II 3 G II(y) T (x) Gc Ex II 3 G II(y) T (x) Gc Internal and external EX-protected (normal degree of safety)
Variant 4 Ex II 2 G II(y) T (x) Gb Ex II 3 G II(y) T (x) Gc High degree of security inside / outside normal degree of safety
Variant 5 Ex II 3 G II(y) T (x) Gc Ex II 2 G II(y) T (x) Gb High degree of safety outside / inside normal degree of safety
Variant 6 Ex II 2 G II(y) T (x) Gb Ex II 2 G II(y) T (x) Gb A high degree of safety outside and inside

Table 6: Comparison of zone

Zone Explanation Category / equipment Explanation
Protection level
0 Potentially explosive atmosphere 1 / Ga Safety in normal operation, in the event of a failure, in the
permanently present rare event of a failure / on two independent failures
1 Potentially explosive atmosphere 2 / Gb Safety in normal operation and in case of failure
occasionally present
2 Potentially explosive atmosphere may 3 / Gc Safety in normal operation
only occur seldom and only for a short
period of time
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RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

7. Conformity declaration

In accordance with Directive 2014/34/EU, the assessment of the risk of explosion shall be done by the manufacturer of the AHU based on
a risk analysis. The manufacturer may, in addition, get a notified body to check the conformity of a representative sample by a conformity
test.
In this procedure for category 2 (AHU group II) a conformity test is done and after a positive conclusion a certificate issued in accordance
with Annex VIII. The manufacturer commits to build his product exactly according to the audited and certified documents.
Alternatively, the manufacturer can also ensure compliance with the directive by an internal control of production as specified in Annex VIII
(see Figure 1). In addition, the entire manufacturer's documentation must be filed with a notified body. In addition to the filing, the
notified body will produce a test certificate.

As specified in Directive 2014/34/EU the following documents must be filed:

• Risk analysis as specified in EN 1127-1 (for complicated devices)
• Tabular evaluation of the ignition hazards as specified in EN 80079-36
• A general description of the device / devices
• Conceptual designs and manufacturing drawings and diagrams of components, installation documents, etc.
• Descriptions and explanations necessary to understand the drawings and diagrams mentioned and the operation of the
devices are required
• A list of the standards applied in full or in part, as well as a description of the solutions adopted to meet the safety aspects of
the Directive where the standards have not been applied
• The results of the design calculations, tests, etc.
• Test reports
• Conformity declaration

Figure 1: Conformity assessment procedures

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 RLT-Guideline 02 – Explosion protection requirements for AHUs

8. Summary

An AHU alone cannot ensure the full and necessary explosion protection. The protection concept must always take into account the
entire plant and further circumstances.
The overall responsibility for the correct assembly, proper use, servicing and repair always lies with the system builder and operator of the
complete plant.
According to Directive 2014/34/EU Explosion protected AHUs must be marked. The minimum requirements of the marking are set out in
Annex II, Section 1.0.5 of the EU Directive. The product must only be used in accordance with the specified EX-marking inside and outside
in accordance with the instructions in the operating and maintenance instructions.

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