Masterflex AG, Gelsenkirchen - November 04, 2009
Masterflex AG has recently started offering a new "A" hose series in accordance with TRBS 2153. Some of Masterflex AG's standard hose types, which have been tried and tested over many years, have already been complying with the new TRBS 2153 guidelines now in force for years; other products in the new "A" hose series, such as the Master-PUR L-A or various other hoses for use in the food industry, round off the possible applications in accordance with TRBS 2153.
The previously valid BGR 132 has been replaced by TRBS 2153 since April 2009 and contains new criteria for the use of spiral hoses in the various hazard zones.
New in TRBS 2153 is in particular the aspect that bulk materials are now classified into two groups:
- Combustible bulk solids
- Non-combustible bulk materials
The statements and procedures for the transport of non-flammable bulk materials have essentially not changed. The situation is different for the transport of combustible bulk materials: Here, the new TRBS 2153 increases the requirements for material compositions with regard to electrostatic properties or discharge capability.
When using spiral hoses in zone 0/20, the user must carry out a specific hazard analysis. As before, electrically conductive hoses with a surface resistance < 10 to the power of 6 ohms are generally recommended here.
In Zone 1/21, the requirements have become more stringent: when transporting flammable bulk materials, antistatic hoses with a surface resistance < 10 to the 9th power of Ohm are now recommended.
In Zone 2, there are no significant changes compared to the old regulations.
It should also be noted here that the TRBS 2153 guideline is basically only a recommendation from which the user may deviate, provided he can prove the effectiveness of the solution he is using.