Hey group

I'm trying to nail down the application of ATEX to mechanical seal so I would appreciate some thoughts.

Cartridge Seal on pump in Zone 1
Plan 53 Thermosyphon Seal system

Now, to comply with ATEX I have heard much conflicting information.

Source W says to monitor the fluid in the system (to ATEX) to determine the surface temp of the mech seal seal.
Level Switch
Pressure Switch
Temperature Switch


Source X says
2 methods from the 3 above


Source Y says
Pressure switch and Temperature switch
Level must be visible/measurable also so the pot has a Gauge


Source Z
Level and *FLOW* (measuring the flow of the Thermosyphon)

This is the one which has me questioning all the source data
and leads me to think ATEX can be interpretted many ways it seems.

...but FLOW? Surely if the mech seal was overheating and increasing the surface temp of the gland plate the flow would continue.
I think the theory is that is the seal fails the barrier fluid stops flowing? I dont understand!





Finally, all the instruments on the vessel such as LS and PS
these must all be 'ATEX' aswell I assume.
I am more familiar with EEx ia IIC T4 methods. I guess ATEX expands on this or does it simply convert the old 'method' to the new 'method'

Does EEx ia IIC T4 'convert' into ATEX form?

Thanks


M



 

-
Milkboy
 

i found this document that may assist you.  See section C that may answer your question.

hope this helps

• http://files.engineering.com/getfile.aspx?folder=915cd699-72c0-41b9-a4fe-5a