ATEX-CERTIFIED DRILLS PROTECT WORKERS IN POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE ENVIRONMENTS

Potentially explosive atmospheres are caused by the presence of flammable gases, mists or vapors, or by combustible dusts. To protect employees working in hazardous environments, two European Union atmosphere explosible (ATEX) directives outline requirements for equipment and work space.

“If they know what ATEX risk zone they’re operating in, they can choose power tools that are certified for use in that zone,” says Chicago Pneumatic (Rock Hill, SC) Product Marketing Manager Harald Odenman. Equipped with chuck protection to lower the risk of sparks, four of the company’s drills have been

ATEX-certified to Group II Category 2G/D: They can be used where an explosive atmosphere is unlikely to occur during normal operation, but where flammable gases and dust may be present, in compliance with the requirements of ATEX 2014/34/EU and EN80079-36:206. Specifically, they can be used for jobs in Zone 2 (gas) and Zone 22 (dust).

Available in 500 rpm and 2600 rpm models, the new CP1114R reversible drill features an easy-to-operate forward and reverse switch and can run 800 hours before requiring maintenance. The drill’s long service life enables users to reduce their maintenance schedule, and associated costs, significantly.

Three CP1117 models deliver speeds of 500 rpm, 2600 rpm, and 3200 rpm for drilling different hole sizes. The CP1117 ATEX range is powerful and efficient, delivering 1 hp (750 W). A strong and precise gearbox ensures durability in hard-drilling applications.

All drills feature Jacobs Chuck industrial chucks. The motor is in line with the chuck and drill bit, so the tool is precise and gives low level runout (lower than 0.10 mm for the CP1114R and under 0.15 mm for the CP1117), the value of which is measured at 25 mm from the chuck, allowing perfectly aligned drilling and tapping.

Chicago Pneumatic, 1815 Clubhouse Road, Rock Hill, SC 29730, 803-817-9207, www.cp.com.