TER Tecno Elettrica Ravasi’s FOX, TOP and 7551-7552 limit switch series are now available with ATEX certification, ensuring maximum reliability and safety even in potentially explosive atmospheres.
In the industrial automation sector, control and safety devices play a crucial role, especially in environments classified as explosion-risk areas. Among these, TER Tecno Elettrica Ravasi limit switches represent a reliable and versatile solution for monitoring the position and movement of machinery with rotating parts, lifting systems and other industrial equipment.
When used in hazardous environments, these devices must comply with strict regulations such as the ATEX Directive 2004/34/EU.
What is a limit switch?
A limit switch is an electromechanical device designed to detect the position of moving components by activating or deactivating electrical contacts when predefined positions are reached. This makes it ideal for applications such as:
- slowing-down, stopping and end-of-travel control functions,
- position and speed monitoring,
- automatic management of industrial cycles.
ATEX Certification: Safety in Hazardous Areas
The ATEX certification obtained by TER for the FOX, TOP and 7551-7552 products confirms their suitability for operation in potentially explosive atmospheres caused by the presence of combustible gases or dusts.
ATEX Zones for Gas, Dust and Mining Applications
- Zone 2 (Gas): area where the presence of an explosive atmosphere is unlikely and, if it occurs, persists only for a short period.
- Zone 22 (Dust): area where the presence of combustible dust in hazardous concentrations is rare and temporary.
- Mining applications: IM2 category equipment intended for underground mines where firedamp (methane) and combustible dust may be present.
In addition to standard industrial environments, ATEX limit switches are also used in the mining sector, where operating conditions are even more critical.
The IM2 classification identifies equipment intended for underground mining applications with the presence of firedamp (methane) and combustible dust.
Main Features of FOX, TOP and 7551-7552 ATEX limit switches
The ATEX-certified limit switch series for Zone 2, Zone 22 and IM2 applications generally includes the following features:
- robust housing made of metal alloy or reinforced technopolymer,
- high degree of protection,
- highly reliable electrical contacts,
- corrosion-resistant components,
- multiple certifications for gas, dust and mining applications.
Operational Advantages
The adoption of the ATEX-certified FOX, TOP and 7551-7552 series provides several benefits:
- Safety: prevention of explosion risks.
- Reliability: continuous operation even in harsh conditions.
- Versatility: suitability for different sectors including chemical, food processing, energy and mining.
- Reduced maintenance: thanks to robust and durable construction.
Fields of Application
These devices are used in:
- oil & gas plants,
- chemical and petrochemical plants,
- silos and grain processing facilities,
- cement plants,
- power generation plants,
- underground mines,
- material handling systems,
- lifting equipment,
- mobile power supply systems.
Conclusion
The ATEX certification issued to TER by ConformEX represents an important recognition of the quality, reliability and safety of its products intended for hazardous environments.
This achievement confirms the company’s continuous commitment to compliance with international standards (IEC EN) and to the development of technologically advanced solutions capable of ensuring high safety standards for operators and industrial plants.
Thanks to these certifications, the company further strengthens its market position as a competent and reliable partner for all industries where safety is an essential requirement.
