The new connectors are ideal for zones 1 and 2 explosive environments commonly found in oil and gas exploration, production and process plants. However, their features also offer benefits in explosive dust environments, or in harsh and hostile non-explosive applications.

In compliance with the ATEX Directive (94/9/EC), the new design retains many of the best features of Hawke's previous connector range, but in addition adds innovations based on user feedback. The heavy duty maintenance free stainless steel body construction is retained, as is the well accepted Acme mating thread for speed of use and freedom from thread binding or galling.

Hawke's new ATEX connector is not dependent on tagging to identify the correct mating halves; this removes the theoretical possibility of accidentally connecting adjacent circuits. Pin or socket inserts may be located in either half of the connector and locked into one of five individually keyed positions. This prevents accidental mis-coupling and gives up to ten unique connector combinations.

Another Hawke innovation enables terminations to fully comply with the strict heat cycling and explosive pressure tests imposed by the ATEX Directive. Using technology already proven in their ICG barrier cable glands, Hawke have included their revolutionary removable compound chamber concept into the connector design. This feature enables quick and easy inspection of the flameproof barrier seal, saving time and resources - important benefits given the ATEX demands for frequent inspection.

The connector is supplied as a piece of approved apparatus. It is therefore safe for immediate installation into other certified 'EExd Flameproof' or 'EExe Increased Safety' equipment without having to seek further third party approval.

The connectors are available in many sizes and configurations, varying from M16 to M63 and may have from 3 to 60 contacts. Each is deluge rated and offers IP66 and IP67 ingress protection. The ATEX certification enables these connectors to be safely used in dust environments, zones 21 and 22 as well as zones 1 and 2 gas environments. The connectors are tested and certified for a safe operating temperature range of -40 to +100 degrees C. The standard temperature classification of T6 at 40 degrees C ambient temperature is supplemented by optional higher ambient temperatures and T5 classification.

Uploaded: July 22, 2003

Hawke International
Oxford Street West
Ashton-under-Lyne
OL7 0NA, United Kingdom

Tel. (sales)
0870 0606 0105

Tel. (enquiries)
0870 0606 9356

Tel. (releases)
+44 (0)161 830 6698

Fax.
+44 (0)161 830 6648

sales@ehawke.com

www.ehawke.com

For more info please e-mail Ainsworth Maguire:
pr@ainsmag.co.uk

3583HA1A.TXT