M28
The M28 pre-engaged hydraulic starter motor offers ATEX-approved safety and proven reliability in the toughest environments.
Certified for use in both gas and mining environments, the M28 meets strict ATEX safety standards and features a rugged cast iron casing to eliminate aluminium-related hazards. Designed to prevent sparks and deliver dependable starts in explosive applications.

The M28 pre-engaged hydraulic starter motor is ATEX-approved.
SOLUTION DETAILS
ATEX-approved for hazardous environments
Powerstart’s M28 and M22 hydraulic starter motors are uniquely certified for use in both gas and mining environments. Compliance with ATEX ensures they are safe for explosive and potentially explosive applications.
Cast iron casing
ATEX regulations strongly discourage aluminium in mining and other hazardous environments because it is a key ingredient in a thermite reaction—potentially catastrophic in explosive conditions. The M28’s cast iron outer casing removes this risk. Many aluminium-cased starters still enter mining markets despite ATEX guidance, compromising safety.
Pre-engaged starter design
Unlike traditional inertia starting, which can produce sparks as the pinion meets a stationary ring-gear, the M28 engages the pinion fully before rotation. This pre-engaged system complies with ATEX requirements.
Non-spark pinion option
For added protection, the M28 can be supplied with a beryllium-copper pinion to further minimise spark risk.
Marine class approval
The M28 can be certified to various marine standards, tailored to specific customer needs.
Flexible installation
The M28’s orientation can be adjusted by rotating the flange, or a custom flange can be manufactured for challenging engine configurations.
Simple maintenance
Reliable in sub-zero to high-temperature environments, the M28 requires only periodic filter replacement and gas/system pressure checks. Many components—including spacers, flanges, and pinions—are shared with Powerstarts’s air starter range, simplifying stockholding and improving interchangeability for remote or offshore sites.
Key Advantages
- ATEX-certified safety: Approved for both gas and mining environments, reducing risk in explosive areas.
- Pre-engaged design: Pinion fully engages before rotation to prevent sparks and meet ATEX standards.
- Non-spark pinion option: Beryllium-copper pinion available for maximum spark prevention.
- Rugged cast iron casing: Eliminates aluminium hazards and withstands harsh operating conditions.
- Flexible configuration: Adjustable flange orientation or custom flanges for complex layouts.
- Low maintenance: Minimal servicing and interchangeable parts with Powerstart’s air starters for easier logistics.
Optional Features and Configurations
Technical Specs
Performance
Max Torque
Max Working Pressure
Design Pressure
Viscosity Range
Speed Range
Duty Cycle
Volumetric Efficiency
Temperature Range
Physical
Displacement
Length
Diameter
Mass
Construction
Fluid media
Rotation
Inlet port
Outlet port
Power Curves

Compare Solutions
Model
Max Engine Size
Max Torque
M10
1-4 litres
30 Nm
M16
1-5 litres
40 Nm
M22
3-8 litres
66 Nm
M28
4-12 litres
84 Nm
M33
TBC
TBC
M38
TBC
124 Nm
M66
TBC
216 Nm
Find out more
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