What are the EN European product norms?

They are technical specifications drafted and approved by the CEN (European Committee for Standardization). The product norms refer to uniquely technical characteristics and define the general delivery conditions and acceptance levels.

What criteria have been used to establish them?

They respond to market requisites in a specific field of application and correspond with possible European Directives which involve them. Examples of application: Structural, Mechanical, Pressure, Transport of Gas, Water…

What are the European Directives?

They are provisions issued by the European Commission for specific sectors of application that have to be absorbed by single Member States within their national legislative systems. The essential requisites are usually established with them without defining in detail specific technical elements. When the norms assimilate essential requisites of a Directive they are called Harmonized Norms and the details are published in the Official Journal of the European Community. The products directly affected can be placed on the market only if they correspond with the essential requirements.

Which Directives involves to norms for seamless tubes?

Directive 89/106/EC Construction Products (CPD) involves:
EN 10210-1 Steel Hollow Sections
EN 10255 Civil work and installations
EN 10224 Conveyance of aqueous liquids including water Directive 97/23/EC
Pressure Equipment (PED) involves:
EN 10216 series Pressure Equipment
EN 10305-4 Hydraulic and Pneumatic systems

When is a norm officially in force?

The National Standardization Bodies (UNI, DIN, AFNOR…) are obligated to assimilate the norms within 6 months from the date of approval by the CEN. The norms are published in the original or local language by the individual National Bodies as DIN Enxxx, UNI Enxxx etc. and substitute the previous norm, if in existence. The norms substituted are withdrawn.

Where can I buy a copy?

The National Standardization Bodies have the monopoly on sales of the national editions of the EN norms. CEN does not directly sell EN norms.

Why use the EN norm?

In the case of non-harmonized norms (consequently not tied to Directives) Because they represent the most up to date technical reference in the specific field of application. The preceding norms have been withdrawn. The material is the same in the Whole European Community. In the case of harmonized norms (therefore tied to European Directives) they guarantee conformity to the essential requisites necessary without further costly certification.

What happens to stock produced with the substituted norms?

Progressive implementation of the EN allows gradual replacement of stock. Assimilating the EN as soon as possible reduces the risk of obsolete stock.

From when will products be available according to this EN?

The European producers who are members of ESTA (European Steel Tube Association) have decided to produce from 1st January 2003 according to the new EN all products with norms already approved by the CEN. In particular EN 10297-1 Mechanical Applications and EN 10216 series for Pressure Equipment.