How does the Pressure Equipment Directive affect product compliance?

Dutch term: Richtlijn drukapparatuur | Legal basis: Directive 2014/68/EU

The Pressure Equipment Directive (PED, Directive 2014/68/EU) governs the design, manufacture and conformity assessment of pressure equipment and assemblies with a maximum allowable pressure greater than 0.5 bar. It covers pressure vessels, piping, safety accessories and pressure accessories. Equipment is classified in categories I to IV based on hazard level, with increasing conformity assessment requirements.

Category III and IV equipment requires EU type-examination plus production quality assurance or product verification by a notified body. The PED sets essential safety requirements covering design, manufacturing, materials, testing and marking. The manufacturer must compile technical documentation, draw up the EU Declaration of Conformity, and affix the CE marking with the notified body's identification number.

Why it matters for international businesses

For manufacturers of boilers, pressure vessels, heat exchangers, piping systems and related equipment, PED compliance is a prerequisite for the EU market and requires early engagement with a notified body during the design phase.