Advanced Fluoropolymer Devices GmbH
Hooghe Weg 16, 47906 Kempen, Germany
Email: sales@gft9.shop
Web: http://gft9.shop
Phone: +49 2152 9148591

Body identification:
The following are visible on the body according to DIN EN 19 and AD 2000 A4:

• Nominal size
• Rated pressure
• Body material
• Manufacturer's identification
• Melt number/Foundry identification
• Foundry date

The valves are intended for use in a potentially explosive area and are therefore subject to the conformity assessment procedure of the directive 2014/34/EC (ATEX).

As part of this conformity assessment, an ignition hazard analysis to EN 13463-1 to satisfy the fundamental safety and health requirements was conducted with the following result:

• The valves do not have any ignition source of their own and can be operated both manually as well as mechanically/electrically.
• The valves are not covered by the scope of application of the ATEX directive and therefore do not need to be identified accordingly.
• The valves may be used in a potentially explosive area.

Supplementary notes:

• Electric/mechanical actuators must be subjected to their own conformity assessment to ATEX.

It is imperative to observe the individual points of intended use for application in a potentially explosive are

Improper operation, even for brief periods, may result in serious damage to the valve. In connection with explosion protection, potential sources of ignition (overheating, electrostatic and induced charges, mechanical and electric sparks) may result from improper operation. Their occurrence can only be prevented by adhering to the intended use. Furthermore, reference is made to Directive 95/C332/06 (ATEX 118a), which contains the minimum regulations for improving the occupational health and safety of workers who may be at risk from an explosive atmosphere.
A distinction is made between two cases for the use of chargeable liquids (conductivity < 10⁻⁸ S/m):

Charges can occur on the lining surface, which may produce discharges inside and outside the valve.

1. Discharges inside the valve:
   These discharges cannot cause ignitions if the valve is completely filled with medium. If the valve is not completely filled, such as during evacuation and filling, the formation of an explosive atmosphere must be prevented, e.g., by superimposing a layer of nitrogen. It is recommended to wait one hour before removing the valve from the plant to allow for the elimination of static peak charges. To safely prevent ignitions, the valve must always be completely filled with medium, or an inert gas layer must be used to exclude a potentially explosive atmosphere.
2. Discharges outside the valve:
   Where the non-conductive lining protrudes on the sealing surfaces to the outside or comes into contact with the atmosphere, discharges may occur to nearby valves or attachments. To safely avoid explosion hazards and accidents, the atmosphere surrounding the valve must not be explosive.

No hazardous charges can occur because charges are discharged directly via the lining and shell (surface resistance < 10⁹ Ohm, leakage resistance < 10⁶ Ohm). However, if non-conductive versions of individual components are installed in the valve, they may restrict the permitted ATEX zone and explosion subgroup despite the conductive lining of the armor plating. In such cases, it is necessary to consult the manufacturer. According to the “Technical Rules for Hazardous Substances: Avoidance of Ignition Hazards Due to Electrostatic Charges” (TRGS 727), static discharges of non-conductive linings occur only through interaction with a non-conductive medium and are therefore the responsibility of the plant operator. Static discharges are not sources of ignition stemming from the valves themselves.
Additional safety measures include:

• The temperature of the medium must not exceed the temperature of the corresponding temperature class or the maximum permissible medium temperature as per the operating manual.
• If the valve is heated (e.g., heating jacket), the prescribed temperature classes in the Annex must be observed.
• To ensure safe and reliable operation, regular inspections must verify that the valve is properly maintained and kept in technically perfect condition.
• Increased wear to the valve can be expected when conveying liquids containing abrasive constituents, requiring shorter inspection intervals than usual.
• Actuators and electric peripherals, such as temperature, pressure, and flow sensors, must comply with valid safety requirements and explosion protection provisions.
• The valve must be grounded, which can be achieved using pipe screws with tooth lock washers. Otherwise, grounding must be ensured by other means, such as a cable link.
• Attachments such as actuators, position controllers, and limit switches must comply with relevant safety regulations concerning explosion protection and, if required, be designed in accordance with ATEX.
• Special attention must be paid to the appropriate safety and explosion protection notes in the respective operating manuals.
• Plastic-lined valves must not be operated with carbon disulfide.

The validity of the Certificate/Manufacturer Declaration depends on the operating instructions being read and observed.

• Carry out regular maintenance intervals and check the tightness of the screw connections, tightening them as necessary.

Handle the goods being transported with care. During transport protect the valve against impacts and collisions.

Directly after receipt of the goods, check the consignment for completeness and any in-transit damage.

Do not damage paint protection.

If the valve is not installed immediately after delivery, store them properly.
The valves be stored in a dry, vibration-free and well ventilated room at as constant a temperature as possible.
Protect elastomers against UV light.
In general, a storage period of 10 years should not be exceeded.

It is imperative to enclose a safety information sheet / general safety certificate on the field of application with the return consignment.
Contact the Manufacturer for more Information in that regard.
Safety precautions and decontamination measures are to be mentioned.

Parts of the valve may be contaminated with medium which is detrimental to health and the environment and therefore cleaning is not sufficient.

Wear protective clothing when work is performed on the valve.
Prior to the disposal of the valve:

• Collect any medium, etc. which has escaped and dispose of it in accordance with the local regulations.
• Neutralise any medium residues in the valve.
• Separate valve materials (plastics, metals, etc.) and dispose of them in accordance with the local regulations.