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Almost every solvent recovery machine vendor uses the phrase 'CE certified.' But very different realities can lie behind those two words. This article explains what CE and ATEX certifications mean, the critical difference between them, and how to verify these documents before purchasing.
What Is CE Certification?
The CE mark declares that a product meets EU safety, health and environmental standards. For solvent recovery machines, this covers electrical safety, mechanical integrity and low-voltage directive compliance. Operating an uncertified machine commercially can create legal issues and insurance claims may be denied.
⚠️ Important: Manufacturers can self-declare CE compliance — this does not mean independent lab testing. Ask which test reports back the declaration.
What Is ATEX Certification?
ATEX (ATmosphères EXplosibles) is the EU directive for equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres. Solvent vapours mixed with air at certain concentrations form explosive mixtures. Solvent recovery machines must therefore be ATEX compliant — meaning non-sparking motors, safe electrical connections and vapour pressure control.
The Difference Between CE and ATEX
CE is general product compliance; ATEX is specific to explosive atmosphere safety. A machine can be CE certified but not ATEX certified. For machines working with flammable liquids like solvents, both certificates are required. A CE-only machine may be insufficient for solvent environments.
- CE: General EU product safety
- ATEX: Explosive atmosphere safety
- Both are required for solvent recovery machines
How to Verify Certificates
Request the Declaration of Conformity and test reports from the supplier. The document should state which directives are complied with and which Notified Body reviewed it. ATEX certificates must also specify equipment category (Cat 2 or Cat 3) and gas group.
âś… ARMIN machines are delivered with CE and ATEX certificates, available on request.
Conclusion
Certification is not a paperwork formality — it is the foundation of your workers' safety and your legal protection. When buying a machine, don't ask 'Is there CE?' — ask 'Can I see both CE and ATEX documents?'