Pressure Equipment Directive (PED)
Minimise risk and gain a competitive edgeWhat is the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED)?
The European Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) 2014/68/EU provides mandatory requirements for the design, manufacture, and conformity assessment of pressure equipment with a maximum allowable pressure above 0.5 bar (7.25 psig). Compliance with this Directive is essential for designers and manufacturers who intend to place their equipment on the EU market. The PED covers a wide range of pressure equipment, including pressure vessels, piping, pressure accessories, steam boilers, safety accessories, and assemblies.
How to achieve PED compliance and enter the EU market?
To achieve compliance with PED 2014/68/EU, pressure equipment must be certified by a Notified Body, which will guide through the accreditation process and help meet production deadlines.
TÜV SÜD Industry Service is an accredited Notified Body for the Pressure Equipment Directive 2014/68/EU, offering comprehensive support to help navigate requirements and smoothly enter the European market.
Our PED service include:
- Testing and Certification (EU Directive): As a Notified Body, TÜV SÜD provides tests and certificates in line with European Directives.
- Design Review and Verification: TÜV SÜD's Industry Service can assist you in designs in compliance with pressure vessel codes and regulations to avoid equipment failure and irreversible damage.
- Personnel Training: Our training arm provides a range of courses (EU PED, the Machinery Directive, etc. for your staff).
- Supply Chain Services: TÜV SÜD’s end-to-end portfolio supports you and covers the entire supply chain.
- Knowledge Services: TÜV SÜD’s Industry Service is familiar with the international design code and regulations and provides technical assistance for investment projects.
- Quality System (QS) Approval: As an EU Notified Body, TÜV SÜD can perform QS approval for manufacturers.
PED 2014/68/EU Conformity Assessment
The conformity assessment procedure provides inspection and quality assessments depending on the environmental impact and level of risk if equipment failure should occur.
The steps include:
- Evaluate Fluid Type and Hazards: Assess the state of the fluids involved, distinguishing between hazardous fluids such as explosive, toxic, and highly flammable fluids (Group 1) and benign fluids (Group 2).
- Assess Stored Energy and Pressure: Examine the stored energy in pressure vessels or evaluate the pressure and nominal diameter of pipes and pipework to determine risk levels.
- Determine Classification Category: Classify the equipment into one of the four PED categories (I-IV) based on its complexity and risk assessment.
- Select the Appropriate Conformity Module: Choose the conformity assessment module (A/A2, D1, E1, B+C2, B+D, B+E, B+F, G, H/H1) that is most appropriate to meet the requirements of the situation and equipment
Benefits of Pressure Equipment Directive
Increase Market Access
Enables expansion into the European market
Assured Safety and Reliability
Demonstrates product safety and dependability to end users and regulators
Official Recognition
Confirms conformity with harmonised European standards
Enhanced Market Competitiveness
Shows commitment to quality and regulatory compliance
CE Marking and required documentation
CE marking shows PED compliance and must be affixed before placing equipment on the EU market.
Documentation includes:
- Declaration of Conformity
- Technical documentation
- Risk assessment records
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What types of equipment are covered by PED?
Equipment covered under the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) includes pressure vessels, pressure accessories, piping, steam boilers, safety accessories, and assemblies that operate above 0.5 bar gauge pressure.
Who must comply with PED?
The manufacturer is responsible for PED compliance. They must ensure the equipment meets all essential safety requirements, perform or coordinate conformity assessments, and provide the required technical documentation and CE marking before placing the product on the market.
How long does the certification process take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the equipment and the conformity assessment procedure required. Factors such as design documentation, manufacturing stage, and notified body availability can influence the total timeline.
What documents are required for PED compliance?
PED certification requires documents such as declaration of conformity, technical documentation and Risk assessment records. These documents verify compliance with pressure, safety, and quality standards set by the directive.