Simple Pressure Equipment (EC Directive 87/404/EEC)
The Simple Pressure Equipment (EC Directive 87/404/EEC) applies only to the construction of simple pressure vessels. It is mandatory and replaces all previous national regulations in the EU. However, for the operation of simple pressure equipment the national regulations are still applicable.
The scope of the directive does not include fire extinguishers, vessels for nuclear use and vessels used for the propulsion of ships or aircrafts.
What is a "Simple Pressure Vessel" ?
The directive applies to those pressure equipment that fulfil all of the requirements listed below:
| General |
the vessels must be welded and produced in a series (minimum two vessels) and must not be intended for firing air or nitrogen |
| Medium |
air or nitrogen |
| Design |
Simple shape (only cylindrical shells with outwardly dished and/or flat ends) |
| Material |
Pressurized parts must be made of non-alloy steel (EN 10207), non-alloy aluminum or non-age-hardening aluminum alloys |
| Pressure |
0.5 bar < PS ≦ 30 bar |
| Energy content |
50 bar x L < PS x V ≦10.000 bar x L |
| Temperature |
≧-50℃
≦300℃ (steel)
≦100℃ (aluminum) |
| Stress |
e.g. dynamic loading has to be stated in the operating manual (number of load cycles etc.) |
Testing and Certification Requirements
The requirements on testing and certification depend on the vessel's size:
Energy content
(bar x liter)
|
Action required |
Marking by |
| 50< PS x V≦200 |
EC Dedaration of Coniformity
(Notified Body performs initial inspection) |
manufacturer |
| 200< PS x V≦3000 |
EC Dedaration of Coniformity and EC-Surveillence(Notified Body performs initial and regular inspections) |
manufacturer |
| 3000< PS x V≦10000 |
EC verification (Notified Body performs initial verification and EC surveilance) |
Notified Body |
TÜV Rheinland is a Notified Body and ready to assist you to secure the vital CE Marking for your product. Soon, your product could bear this mark:
Related Topics:
Pressure Equipment Directive
ATEX 94/9/EC |
