Manufacturers exporting pressure equipment to the European Union must adhere to the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED), a legal framework governing the design, manufacture, and conformity assessment of pressure-related equipment. At S2 Engineering Industries, we ensure that all exported pressure vessels, reactors, and heat exchangers meet the exacting standards set out in this directive, enabling our clients to access the European market with full confidence.
The PED, formally known as Directive 2014/68/EU, applies to a broad range of pressurised systems, including steam boilers, autoclaves, process tanks, and piping assemblies. Any equipment with a maximum allowable pressure (PS) greater than 0.5 bar is subject to its provisions. It is mandatory for manufacturers placing pressure equipment on the European market to demonstrate compliance through CE Marking.
Conformity with the PED is not optional for exporters, it is a legal requirement that covers:
At S2 Engineering Industries, we develop pressure vessels and systems in strict accordance with the PED's Essential Safety Requirements (ESRs), ensuring that products meet the expectations of regulators, plant operators, and engineering consultants throughout the EU.
The CE Mark is more than a symbol, it is proof of conformity with all applicable European legislation, including the PED, and must be affixed before pressure equipment is placed on the European market.
For manufacturers, CE Marking ensures:
At S2 Engineering Industries, CE Marking is integrated into our manufacturing and quality processes. We manage the classification of equipment according to PED risk categories (I to IV), engage with Notified Bodies where required, and produce all necessary technical documentation to support the CE declaration.
The PED defines several risk categories based on fluid type, pressure, and volume. Each category determines the level of inspection and the conformity assessment procedure that must be followed.
PED CategoryApplication ExampleAssessment InvolvementILow-risk equipmentSelf-certificationIIMedium-risk vesselsInvolves Notified Body reviewIIILarger or hazardous equipmentDesign, production inspectionIVHighest risk, e.g. steam boilersFull quality assurance audit
S2 Engineering Industries supports clients across all PED categories, ensuring that the appropriate conformity module, ranging from Module A (Internal Control) to Module H (Full Quality Assurance), is selected and executed without errors or delays.
The PED mandates strict control over design calculations, material selection, and manufacturing processes. At S2 Engineering Industries, we use PED-approved design codes, such as EN 13445 and AD 2000, to meet European safety and design expectations.
Our team ensures that:
Our PED-compliant documentation includes detailed Design Dossiers, Operating Instructions, Declarations of Conformity, and Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS).
Compliance with the PED is often seen as a benchmark of quality in other regions as well. Many countries outside Europe recognise PED certification as a sign of manufacturing excellence. S2 Engineering Industries supports global clients who require dual certifications, such as ASME U Stamp and PED, to cater to both North American and European markets.
By aligning our engineering processes with international standards, we help manufacturers reduce certification lead times, avoid costly rework, and ensure seamless project execution.
At S2 Engineering Industries, we provide end-to-end PED compliance support for manufacturers looking to export pressure equipment to the EU. Our integrated service includes:
Our experience across chemical, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and food process equipment ensures that PED compliance is built into every stage of your project.
All equipment is delivered with:
With our support, clients can confidently place pressure equipment into European markets, knowing that all legal, technical, and safety obligations are met.
Looking to export pressure equipment to Europe? Contact the team at S2 Engineering Industries for expert support with PED classification, CE Marking, and complete documentation. Our engineers ensure that your equipment meets all EU requirements for a smooth and successful export process.
