WHICH CE DIRECTIVES ARE APPLICABLE??

[KWOK007]

Hi All,

I am new here and currently seeking for helps on the application of CE directives.

Our products are valve controller and limit switch for explosive atmosphere. Right now they are subject to CE certification, but I don't know what directives are applicable to our products. If anybody know, please educate me a little bit and I would appreciate it very much.

Right now I just know that our product is subject to ATEX, EMC, and maybe LVD, but no idea if it is under MD machinery definition scope. I personally think it is not a machine, just switchgear, which unfortunately can be found under the MD harmonization standards section. So how can I choose the applicable standards for all those directives? I am so confusing.....

Anyway, thanks very much in advance.

-kwok

 

[PeterCharles]

I would suggest -
1) The Machinery Directive, since even though it's small it's still a machine.
2) The Low Voltage Directive, since it contains a limit switch.
3) The Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive, since it contains a limit switch.
4) The ATEX Directive, since the equipment is intended for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere.

 

[KWOK007]

Thanks very much Peter! Do you think I need to put them through some tests in internal / external labs? We did do that for ATEX directive, but as for others, I tend to think it won't fail since our product is rather simple, especially for EMC, there's no emission part at all. Thanks again!

 

[PeterCharles]

You need to read each directive, and any guidance notes, to see what, if any, tests are required and if these can be carried out in-house.
Start here

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/newapproach/standardization/harmstds/reflist.html

 

[KWOK007]

Thanks!!

 

[KaiserMech]

Hello,

Chances are the LVD won't apply because it is covered by ATEX per Annex II in the LVD Directive 2006/95/EC.

Once you read the directives (which are basic legal guidelines), then you have to apply the specific harmonized standards which apply to your application. The harmonized standards contain the "meat" of what you need to apply to your equipment.

The website PeterCharles mentioned is the best. It is the official location for all the EU info. The link below can get you to the harmonized standard lists for each directive.

http://www.newapproach.org/Directives/DirectiveList.asp

Willem Mast
wmd2