Anyone working in potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX zones 1 & 2) needs safe and certified tools. Many professionals are looking for an ATEX-certified cordless screwdriver, but such a device is not available on the market.
Why is that? What technical challenges are hindering development? And which alternatives are truly ATEX-compliant? This article tells you everything you need to know..
🚨 Why isn't there an ATEX cordless screwdriver?
Cordless screwdrivers are popular tools – cordless, powerful and flexible. But it is precisely these characteristics that make them problematic in ATEX zones.
1️⃣ Spark formation in the engine – an ignition source in Ex areas
Most standard cordless screwdrivers use brushed motors that generate sparks. These sparks pose a serious hazard in explosion-risk areas.
Possible solution:
- Brushless motors could minimize the risk, but even then, the electronic control unit remains a potential ignition source.
2️⃣ Temperature development – risk of ignition sources
A cordless screwdriver generates heat from the motor and battery.
ATEX regulations set precise limits for surface temperatures to prevent explosions caused by hot surfaces.
🔥 Why is that problematic?
- A cordless drill can get very hot under load.
- Explosive gases could be ignited at temperatures below 200°C.
Possible solution:
- Temperature sensors could shut the device down, but that would severely limit performance.
3️⃣ Lithium-ion batteries as a potential ignition source
Modern cordless screwdrivers use lithium-ion batteries, which have a high energy density – but also pose a significant risk.
🔋 Problem:
- A damaged or defective battery can overheat and catch fire.
- Excessive discharge or overload can result in a thermal reaction.
- The charging electronics could be a source of ignition.
Possible solution:
- ATEX-compliant batteries with special protection technology – however, there are currently no ATEX-certified lithium-ion batteries for such tools.
4️⃣ Flameproof enclosure – an ergonomic problem
For a cordless screwdriver to be ATEX-compliant, it would have to be in a pressure-resistant casing.
🔴 Consequences:
- Significantly heavier and larger than a standard screwdriver.
- Difficult handling, as the safety technology requires space.
- Reduced performance, as heat cannot be dissipated freely.
✅ What alternatives are there for ATEX areas?
Since an ATEX cordless screwdriver is currently not practical, there are some proven ATEX-compliant alternatives that can be safely used in explosion-prone areas.
1️⃣ Pneumatic Drill Screwdrivers (Compressed Air) – The Best Alternative
Pneumatic tools are the preferred choice in many ATEX zones because they operate without electrical components.
✅ Advantages:
✔ No risk from electrical sparks or batteries.
✔ High performance without heat generation.
✔ Durable and low-maintenance.
⚠ But beware! Not all pneumatic tools are automatically ATEX compliant!
🔹 Why does a pneumatic drill driver need ATEX certification?
Many assume that all pneumatic tools are safe for ATEX areas because they operate without electricity. However, this is a misconception!
A pneumatic drill can still be an ignition source if:
❌ The air discharge generates static charges.
❌ Metal parts spark upon impact.
❌ Moving parts become too hot due to friction.
Therefore, pneumatic tools must also have an ATEX certification!
How does a pneumatic screwdriver obtain ATEX certification?
✔ Constructive measures prevent spark formation (e.g., antistatic materials).
✔ ATEX testing by a notified body (e.g., TÜV, DEKRA).
✔ Deposit of a type examination certificate for ATEX zones.
⚠ Make sure to pay attention to the ATEX marking of the tool when purchasing!
2️⃣ Hydraulic Drill Screwdrivers – Another Solution
Hydraulic tools work with liquid instead of compressed air, making them another safe alternative.
✅ Advantages:
✔ No ignition source from electricity.
✔ High power transmission, ideal for industrial applications.
✔ Safe to use in ATEX Zones 1 & 2.
⚠ Disadvantages:
❌ Requires a hydraulic pump – not available everywhere.
❌ More expensive than pneumatic tools.
3️⃣ Mechanical Torque Wrenches – Safe & Explosion-Proof
Manual tools with ATEX certification are the safest solution for precise screw connections in explosive environments.
✅ Advantages:
✔ 100% safe – no electronics, no risk.
✔ High-precision torque adjustment possible.
✔ Ideal for maintenance work in ATEX zones.
⚠ Disadvantages:
❌ Not suitable for large quantities or fast work.
📌 Conclusion: Why You Won't Find an ATEX Cordless Drill – and What Alternatives Exist!
A cordless screwdriver with ATEX certification would be practical, but technically hardly feasible. The challenges:
❌ Spark generation by engine – A risk for explosions.
❌ Heat development - temperature limits in ATEX zones too low.
❌ Batteries as a ignition source – Lithium-ion batteries are difficult to make ATEX compliant.
❌ Pressure-resistant encapsulation – Makes the device unwieldy and heavy .
💡 But there are safe alternatives:
✅ ATEX-certified pneumatic screwdrivers – The best choice for Ex zones.
✅ Hydraulic Screwdrivers – Powerful and Explosion-Proof.
✅ Mechanical torque wrenches – Safe and precise.
🔥 Attention: Not all pneumatic screwdrivers are ATEX compliant! When purchasing, pay attention to an official ATEX certification that has been verified and recorded by a notified body.
🚀 If you are looking for a safe tool for your ATEX area, we are happy to help you find the right solution! 🔩💨