Filter housing for ATEX zones: the complete checklist for safe filtration in hazardous areas

Introduction ATEX

ATEX is the collective name for two European directives that regulate working in explosive environments. ATEX 114 (2014/34/EU) defines the safety requirements that equipment must meet, while ATEX 153 (formerly 137) describes how employers set up their workplaces safely. So anyone filtering liquids in an oil or gas plant not only needs a suitable filter element, but especially a filter housing that is ATEX-proof. That means material that dissipates static electricity, reliable seals and a solid grounding so that no arcing can occur.

Why oil & gas sites need to pay extra attention

Oil and gas sites combine flammable vapors, high pressures and large temperature fluctuations. A small spark in the filter housing can be enough to ignite an explosive atmosphere (Zone 0, 1 or 2). In addition, salt spray or H₂S accelerates the corrosion of standard housings, which can cause leaks or cracks. With the right filter housing prevents downtime, fines and personal injury.

ATEX checklist for a filter housing

Use these points when comparing quotes or evaluating an existing installation.

• 1. Zone classification: Is the filtration step in Zone 0, 1 or 2 (gas) or Zone 20, 21, 22 (dust)? The higher the risk, the more stringent the requirements.
  
• 2. Material & construction: Choose conductive metals such as stainless steel 316L or Duplex 2205; check wall thickness and pressure class (PED certificate).
  
• 3. Grounding: Provide both internal and external grounding points so that lid, basket and basket are electrically connected.
  
• 4. Sealing: Use antistatic O-rings (resistance < 1 MΩ) to avoid sparking due to friction.
  
• 5. Pressure and temperature rating: Match operating conditions; oversizing is cheaper than failure.
  
• 6. Documentation: Check for CE and EX markings (e.g. II 2 G c IIB T4 Gb) plus Explosion Protection Document.
  
• 7. Maintenance access: A quick release or swing-bolt lid with vent plug allows safe opening.
  

Which JMF filter housings comply?

Basket Type Strainer

• Why suitable? Rugged 316L or Duplex stainless steel with conductive PTFE seal and ground point on lid; optional Ex-certified differential pressure sensor.
  
• Typical applications: Protection of pump inlets, rinse water systems.
  

Simplex Filter Strainer

• Why suitable? Easy to operate; basket and housing are internally grounded; available up to PN40 and fully documentable according to ATEX 114.
  
• Typical applications: Bypass filtration, drainage systems, low-maintenance skids.
  

Hydrocyclone Filter

• Why suitable? No moving parts so less chance of sparking; all-metal housing; spool valve available in Ex-ia version.
  
• Typical applications: sand injection water, produced water, upstream separation.
  

Sand separator / Cyclone separator

• Why suitable? Self-cleaning design reduces maintenance risk; can be supplied with conductive coating and ground pin for Zone 1 locations.
  
• Typical applications: Protection of separators, cooling water systems, offshore modules.

How do you choose the right type?

• High solids load? Go for a Cyclone or Sand Separator: little downtime.
  
• Fine filtration (≥ 25 µm)? Simplex or Basket Strainer with matching basket.
  
• Variable flow rate? Basket Strainer with flip-up lid and quick replacement basket.
  
• Limited space? Take the compact Simplex version.
  

Feel free to send a photo or sketch; our engineers are happy to think along with you.

Help from our filter specialists

Do you doubt whether your current filter housing is ATEX-proof? The experts are happy to give advice and look at the best solution for you.