When storing and dispensing fuel, safety is a critical consideration. Fuel dispensing equipment needs to operate reliably in demanding environments while taking account of the potential risks associated with flammable substances.
This is where ATEX certification comes into play.
Merridale pumps are ATEX certified, providing customers with assurance that our fuel dispensing equipment meets the relevant requirements for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
What is ATEX?
ATEX is the term used for European legislation covering equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
The name comes from the French words “ATmosphères EXplosibles” and relates to regulations designed to help prevent equipment becoming a source of ignition where flammable gases, vapours, liquids or dust may be present.
ATEX provides a framework for identifying and controlling potential ignition risks through the design, construction and use of equipment.
What does ATEX certification mean?
ATEX certification demonstrates that equipment has been assessed against the applicable requirements for its intended use in a potentially explosive atmosphere.
Depending on the equipment and application, these requirements can cover areas such as:
- Protection against potential ignition sources
- Electrical and mechanical safety
- Equipment design and construction
- Surface temperature considerations
- Protection against sparks and other potential ignition sources
For fuel dispensing equipment, this provides an important additional consideration when selecting equipment for a particular installation.
Why is ATEX important for fuel pumps?
Fuel dispensing equipment operates in environments where fuel and fuel vapours are present. Although diesel has a relatively high flash point, the wider installation and operating environment still need to be considered when assessing potential risks.
Choosing appropriately certified equipment can therefore form an important part of a safe fuel storage and dispensing installation.
For fleet operators, transport companies, construction businesses, agricultural operations and other organisations managing their own fuel supplies, choosing the right pump is about more than simply transferring fuel from a tank to a vehicle. Safety, reliability and suitability for the application all need to be considered.
ATEX certified fuel pumps from Merridale
Merridale has been designing and supplying fuel dispensing and fuel management equipment for many years.
Our range includes ATEX certified fuel pumps, giving customers confidence that their chosen equipment has been assessed against the relevant ATEX requirements.
Merridale pumps are suitable for a wide range of applications, including fleet depots, commercial yards, agricultural operations, construction sites and industrial environments.
Our fuel management systems can also help businesses control access to fuel, monitor usage and produce detailed reports, providing greater control over their fuel operations.
Choosing the right fuel dispensing equipment
ATEX certification is one of several factors businesses should consider when selecting a fuel pump. Other considerations include:
- The type of fuel being dispensed
- The intended application and environment
- Pump flow rate and power requirements
- Tank configuration
- Fuel management and access control requirements
- Reporting and monitoring requirements
The complete installation should also be considered, including the fuel tank, dispensing equipment, electrical equipment and surrounding environment.
Where there is uncertainty about the requirements for a particular installation, professional advice should be sought.
Safe, reliable fuel dispensing from Merridale
At Merridale, we understand that fuel dispensing is about more than simply moving fuel from a tank to a vehicle.
Our ATEX certified fuel pumps and fuel management systems are designed to provide dependable equipment and greater control over fuel operations across a range of commercial applications.
Whether you need a standalone diesel fuel pump or a complete fuel management solution, Merridale can help you find the right equipment for your requirements.