When chemical manufacturers need lift trucks to operate in potentially explosive atmospheres, most Hyster® VNA, pallet, picking, counterbalance and reach truck products can be explosion protected with full ATEX* 2014/34/EU compliance.
Whether the hazard is gas, vapour, powder or dust, the chemical industry can benefit from the performance and reliability of the Hyster® range.
But what about the lift truck drivers operating in hazardous areas?
The most common application is typically classified as a Zone 2 hazardous area where flammable liquids are stored in sealed drums, tins or IBCs.
According to the standards Zone 2 is “a place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only.”
In these Zone 2 areas, businesses need their drivers to be aware of the presence of a flammable atmosphere. Technology developed by safety company Pyroban® incorporates gas detection to continuously monitor the direct environment around a Hyster® truck.
Audible and visual warnings are given to the driver when a mixture of flammable gas or vapour in air is detected at 10% Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) propane in air. If and when it reaches 25% LEL, full equipment shut down occurs. The Pyroban conversion of the truck combines gas detection with various explosion protection methods such as restricted breathing enclosures and surface temperature cooling.
For Zone 1 applications, the driver is not alerted to the presence of a potentially explosive atmosphere. Passive protection technologies are used so they can operate through a potentially explosive atmosphere.
All Pyroban conversions are in line with the new EN1755:2015** standards giving operators, and business owners, peace of mind. In addition to systems that alert the driver, EN1755:2015 changes have affected tyre, seat, battery and other ancillary product requirements. More information here.
To find out more contact your local Hyster® dealership for or visit www.hyster.eu.
