ATEX/ESD components

Dissipative components for the protection against electrostatic discharge and ATEX

Energy supplies for ESD componentsand potentially explosive places

Electrostatically discharging bearings

Special parts with ESD properties

Are all igus products ATEX certified?

Although the parts offered by igus are components according to the ATEX definition and hence ought to meet the ATEX guidelines, they themselves do not have to be certified. According to a TÜV Rheinland assessment, the ESD parts offered by igus do not fall under the guideline 2014/34/EU because they have no autonomous function and no ignition source of their own. Hence, they cannot be declared as being ATEX compliant. Nevertheless, components from ESD material prevent static loads and the resulting explosion hazard, which will help users acquire ATEX certification for the entire plant.  

Where are ESD components used?

A common application area for ESD components are machines with sensitive electronics, such as vending machines. Even a minor discharge can cause a lot of damage, which would lead to direct financial loss for the operator. Another field is the equipment of workplaces that require particular ESD protection - for example, where sensitive electronic components are manufactured and maintained. Laboratory devices in research institutions and machines in medical technology are also often susceptible to ESD components damage, which is why people often like to use electrostatically discharging materials, especially if they offer additional hygiene due to being lubrication-free. In the semiconductor industry, components made of dissipative material are used in the automation of the assembly of printed circuit boards.  

ESD parts play a significant part in machines used in explosion risk areas and in contact with easily flammable substances with high requirements regarding protection against explosion. For example, ESD parts by igus are found in tank wagons, deep drilling rigs and painting facilities. Especially when it comes to applications with easily flammable gases or a lot of dust, ESD products help protect plant and contribute to safety in the workplace.